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lalachat · 6 months

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"And there you were..."

Author's note: HI! This is my very first fan fiction, along with my first time writing. I do not expect anyone to read this, nor do i expect this to blow up. This is simply just a thought i had in my head that I wanted to write down. If you are reading this I will and fully apologize for any grammar issues or typos. Again, I have a lot of learning to do so if this lacks flow or has too much filler let me know... KINDLY!!! Emphasis on K I N D L Y! I love and appreciate anyone who is planning on reading this silly lil story i wrote. I do plan on writing more chapters for this... hopefully some smut later on if this gets enough attention👀 ANYWAYS, I will be quiet now :)

Summary: Your mating bond had snapped for you as soon as you saw the shadowsinger, but he was too busy pinning after the second eldest Archeron sister to notice the bond. After watching them pin for one another, you decided Az would be happier with Elain. However, Mor has an idea to get Az to notice you. A night at Rita's with a scheme made by Mor goes south when you catch the sight of someone you haven't seen in years.

This is for all my Lucien girlies❤️

Warnings: um none? basically filler bc i'm a newbie at writing:) use of some profanity, alludes to sexual theme

Word Count: around 3,200

Chapter 1: "DID YOU JUST BITE ME?"

Lucien POV:

And there you were... standing next to the High Lord of the Night Court, drink in hand as your head tilted back in laughter. You looked even more beautiful than the last time he saw you. The only difference now is that he had found his mate, but he could not help the bubbling of old feelings trying to resurface themselves. Cauldron burn him because he was damned, and he knew it. As soon as his gaze met yours, he knew he was ruined.

Y/N POV:

You were completely unaware he was here. You were too preoccupied with nursing your wine and talking with your favorite high lord to notice his lingering eyes on you. Mor had sent you on a secret mission tonight. It was your sole purpose while being here at Rita’s. The dress Mor gave you hugged your curves in all the right places, showing enough skin but keeping some left to the imagination for others. The plan was simple enough, try to get the attention of your mate and make him jealous. It sounds terrible, but it was the only way to get his attention on you. However, as soon as you got there, his gaze never met yours. You saw Az off in the corner, eyes strictly on Elain as she talked with him. Completely blinded by her beauty, Azriel's bond never snapped for him. This was your last ploy before letting him be happy with Elain. You knew Az would never see you in the light that he saw Elain in. You figured he would be much happier with a female like her anyways. Luckily, Rhysand had spotted you before you could turn away and called you over next to him at the bar.

“Ah well if it isn’t the lovely y/n showing up late as always,” Rhys said smirking handing you a glass of your favorite fae wine.

“For your information, Rhysand, Mor came to my room at the last minute with a complete wardrobe change. Where is she anyways?” you said as you glanced around the room taking the wine from Rhys’ hand with a smile.

“Well, I must say she has fabulous style. You look stunning y/n, but as of Mor’s location... I lost her to the dance floor as soon as we walked in. You know how she is.” Rhys rolled his eyes playfully as he sipped his own drink.

“I should have suspected that answer” you laughed. “I am assuming the rest of the group is somewhere on the floor too? Should we go join them and show them our horrendous dancing my high lord?” you teased with a smile and bow. Rhys gasped and placed a hand on his heart.

“Oh y/n, how you offend me! My dancing is quite fabulous if I say so myself!”

“Yes Rhysand, your white girl dance moves are fabulous. However, mine put yours to shame, and you know it!” you say as you down the rest of your wine and offer him your hand. Rhysand’s eyes twinkle as he finishes his drink and takes your hand before leading you to the dance floor. He spots Feyre with the rest of the inner circle on the floor, near the corner where Az was with Elain. Feyre’s face lights up as she sees you.

“Y/N!!!! There you are! We have been wondering when you would show up! Even got my mate out on the dance floor. I applaud you!” as she gives you the biggest hug. “You look exquisite!” Feyre says as she leaves to see her mate.

Mor hears Feyre say your name, and she instantly runs over to you. “Look at you!!! I knew that dress would be perfect for you! SO worth the last-minute change because you look fucking hot!” She spins you around and pulls you closer. She lowers her voice to where only you can hear. “He has been glued to her side all night, but it is nothing we cannot fix, hm?” she says with a hint of playfulness. You look behind her to see Nesta and Cassian dancing alongside Rhysand and Feyre. Your heart falters at the sight of both mates enjoying one another’s company with laughter and smiles. How you yearned for something like that. They were both cauldron blessed. Mor followed your gaze and sensed your uneasiness. She smiled at you.

“Do not falter y/n! We have a mission, and it is now on! Let us go be the badass babes we are and have some fun” as she takes you over to the rest of the group to dance. She positions you purposefully close to Az and Elain. You are both giggling as you twirl one another around to the music, tipsy off the amount of alcohol you both consumed. Everyone was getting lost in the music. You and Mor could not stop laughing at each other. Throats and bellies feeling warm from the alcohol. You both began to forget about the reason you came tonight. Until your gaze left Mor’s and connected with burning amber eyes and bright red hair pulled up in a bun. You stopped dead in your tracks and turned towards Mor.

“Is that Lucien?”

“Yes, he’s only here to keep his eyes on his mate, and well because Feyre had forced him to come,” Mor said while looking at you. “Why do you ask? Do you know him?”

“I do. I just have not seen him in years. Him and I used to... um.... This feels weird to say aloud knowing he found his mate, but we were friends with benefits a LONG time ago”

“YALL WERE WHAT?!” You decide to grab her hand and go to the bathroom for more privacy. You do not want the entire inner circle hearing about your previous sexual partners. As soon as you shut the bathroom door you turn to her to finish the conversation.

“Mor you act like I am a virgin.”

“Y/n I know you are not a virgin, but out of all the people to hear you have had sex with, I was not expecting him! I did not even know you two knew each other!”

“Yeah, it was when I stayed in the spring court for a while. We met at a popular bar in town, and we instantly clicked. One drink led to another, and I took him back to my apartment. We were so infatuated with each other that it quickly became friends-with-benefits.”

“OH MY GOD AND YOU NEVER TOLD ME? Y/N this is positively perfect!” You were shocked she took the information so well that you could practically see the gears grinding in her head as she paced back and forth.

“Mor whatever you are thinking stop it now. I am concerned that you are this deep in thought while being tipsy.”

“Y/n there has been a slight change of plans” Mor said with full confidence.

“Should I be concerned?”

“That my love is up to you to decide, but this is what you are going to do. You are going to talk to Lucien and...” before she could finish her sentence you stopped her with a finger to her mouth.

“MOR ARE YOU CRAZY?! I must have had too much to drink because I could have sworn you said that I should talk to--” before you could finish Mor bit your finger and you yelped. “DID YOU JUST BITE ME?!”

“Yes, but that is beside the point. Y/n, you are here to make Az jealous over you, are you not?”

“Yes, but--”

She smirks as she says, “And what better way to do it than to flirt with Elain’s mate?”

Your mouth goes slack. “Elain is Lucien’s mate? Why has no one told me this?!”

“It is because you are off in your own little world sulking over Az. Besides, none of us even knew you knew Lucien. They don’t even act like mates let alone talk to each other, so we forget half the time. But Y/n this is your chance! Not only could you make Azriel jealous of you, but you could also make Elain jealous of Lucien! Like I said, it is positively perfect!”

“Mor I can't... this is becoming too much. I do not think I can do this.”

“GIRL you are drop-dead gorgeous! Any male who does not see that can go die in a hole! You are worth so much more than a mate who refuses to look at you y/n. You can and you will do this! I will not let you sit here and do nothing. You must fight for him y/n, and if the only way to do it is to play dirty, then you must play dirty!”

“Fine! I will talk to him, but nothing more and nothing less.”

“Yes! Let us get this new and improved mission going! I cannot believe you and Lucien did it” Mor said as she linked her arm in yours and strutted out the bathroom back to your group.

“And I cannot believe you BIT me!” Mor giggles as you stick out your tongue and rub your finger to sooth it. You find Rhys, Feyre, Cassian, and Nesta at the bar getting more drinks.

Cassian boomed as he said, “There y’all are! We were beginning to think you both fell in!”

Nesta smacked his arm and said, “Not all of us thought that. Some of us have the mental capacity to know that it was for girl talk. And I must say, whatever it is I want in!” She smirks at the two of you.

“Oh, oh! Me too! Me too! I love gossip!” Cassian says as he swings an arm over Nesta to get closer to your conversation.

“Cas go be a busy body somewhere else!” Nesta said swatting away Cassian as you and Mor both giggle at their banter.

“We were just gossiping, it’s nothing important really,” you say hoping Nesta would catch that you really do not want to talk about you and Mor’s trip to the bathroom. Luckily, she seems to understand and gets up to lead Cass back to the dance floor. “Come on Cass, we can gossip with them later, I love this song!” as Cassian whisks her away to go dance. You can hear him faintly say “This is not over ladies; I have to know what it was!”

You laugh as Mor looks at you. “He's such a drama king. All right, the time is now! No better time than the present right?? Now go,” as she pushes you toward where Lucien was standing. You glare at her over your shoulder as you walk to Lucien. You can see her smirk before turning around to join Rhys and Feyre back at the bar.

“Mother above only you can save me now...” as you take a deep breath and finish walking over to Lucien. Your eyes meet, and for a brief second, all the memories come flooding back to you. You had forgotten how handsome he was. His fiery red hair, gorgeously tanned skin, and his burning stare that made you feel like the only girl in the world. You had to stop your mind from lingering too deep into the memories y’all shared because most of them were sexual. You would hate to finally talk with him again only for him to notice your scent.

“Well, well, well, who do we have here? It has been too long Lu!” you say, and you give him the most wholehearted smile that you could muster.

“Y/N! I was wondering when you would pop by. Always unable to resist me huh?” he says with a smirk, reaching to give your hand a chaste kiss. Your cheeks flush at the feeling of his lips on your skin. You can practically feel your skin burn from where his lips had just been.

“Still charming as always.” He chuckles at your comment, and it makes your heart flutter. You were treading extremely dangerous waters. You had not told Mor this, but your previous friends-with-benefits with Lucien had you harboring a secret crush on the male. If it were not for the fact you and he had mates, you were sure you both would not be sleeping alone tonight. “You look nice, Lu.”

“Thank you, as do you y/n. What are you even doing here at Rita’s? Last I remember you were still in the spring court.”

“I was, until I decided that I wanted to see the beauty of the other courts. I was nomadic for a while as I traveled, but that changed as soon as I saw the night court and met a certain High Lord everyone now knows and loves.” You giggle as you remember your first encounter with Rhysand. “I fell in love with Velaris and the inner court that I had decided to stay. The rest is history.” You gave Lucien a warm smile.

“If I had known you were here all this time, I would have come to see you! It's nice to have a friendly face around that’s not a part of the inner circle.” He says with a huff.

“I get a sense you don’t really like the inner circle all that much?”

“It’s not that I don’t like them, it’s more so that I don’t belong or fit into their group. Feyre tries to keep me in loop, and I love her to death for it, but it will not change the fact I am that group’s wall flower. The only reason I really stick along is for-” he catches himself. He doesn’t ever finish the sentence, but you knew what he was going to say. He was going to say, “for Elain.” You decided not to press the matter.

“Well Lucien, I think you are the prettiest wallflower!” you say with a smile and slightly push his shoulder. He smiles and dips his head as he says thank you. “Say, I could use some more wine and it looks like you could use another of what you were drinking, want to come with me to the bar?” as you batt your eyelashes at him. He smirks and you can see an emotion in his eyes, but you can't tell what it was.

“How could I say no to such a pretty lady offering me another drink.” He places his hand on your exposed lower back and guides you to the bar. His hand feels like fire on your skin. You almost sighed into his touch but remained stoic as you finally reached the bar. He removes his hand, and you find yourself missing the contact. He orders a refill of his drink along with another glass of wine for you. You were surprised when you took a sip of your wine, finding it to be the same as before. Funny, you don’t remember telling him the exact fae brand you were drinking.

“How did you know what to order for me? I don’t remember telling you what I was drinking.” you look mischievously at him as you take a sip.

“How you vex me! You think after all this time that I’ve known you that I can't tell that you’ve been drinking your favorite wine? Y/n I may not be the brightest flame in the world, but I sure as hell remember the smell of your favorite wine in your breath.” he says with a smirk, remembering all the heated kisses shared between you two. You try to hide the creeping blush from your cheeks, and you too remember those moments all too well. You put a hand to your mouth and breathe out. He was right, you can smell the wine you’ve been consuming.

“I didn’t think the smell would be that strong!” as your nose scrunches up at your breath.

He laughs at how silly you looked trying to smell your own breath. You could not help but laugh at this situation too. You had forgotten what it was like to be around Lucien. The warmth that radiated from him as he laughed had you weak at the knees. You can't help but think how lucky Elain was to have Lucien as her mate. You don’t understand what she doesn’t see in him, and that made you think about Az. He would never see you the way he sees Elain. Hell, he barely even looks at you. So how could you even compete against someone like her?Lucien could tell something was wrong as your face went from laughter to disappointment.

“Hey, what’s wrong? What’s that pretty little head thinking about?” Lucien had asked concerned, tilting his head to get a better look at you. Maybe it was the alcohol talking but you couldn’t help but to ask.

“Lucien, do- do you have a mate?”

“Do I have a mate? Y/n are you okay? Why are you asking this?”

“I- I don’t know. I’m sorry for even asking. I am overstepping my bounds. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said anything.” you take a big gulp of your wine. Lucien reaches out his hand and lowers your hand from your mouth.

“Hey! Don’t ever apologize to me for asking a simple question! I was just shocked by how random it was. One minute were laughing and now were on the subjects of mates. It was a very big jump, so I'm sorry for my reaction earlier. Yes, I have a mate, but she- she does not want me...”

“I am sorry Lu, she doesn’t know what she’s missing out on” you give him a faint smile.

“It’s alright. All this time I thought it would be someone else, but the mother had different plans, I guess. What about you? Surely the lovely y/n has found her mate.”

“I have, but it’s kind of complicated...” you look down at your glass as you start to twirl your wine.

“If you don’t mind me asking, how is it complicated?” he asks.

“He doesn’t know about the bond yet...”

“Y/n why doesn’t he know?” Lucien asks, and his eyes are so intense you have to look away. You catch yourself looking for Azriel among the crowd to see if he was looking your way and spy him in that same corner with Elain. Unlike the other times where they were talking, this time they were kissing. A gasp escapes your lips as your heart drops. Tears threaten to fall from your eyes as you nearly fall out of your seat. If it wasn’t for Lucien bracing you, you would have. He studies your face for a moment before following and focusing his gaze on where you had just been looking. His grip around you tightens as he watches his mate with Azriel. You can see the realization hit him as soon as he makes eye contact with you again. He now knows... “How about we get out of here, get us a sweet treat, grab a bottle of your favorite wine, and go back to my place to decompress?” He asks rubbing your back.

“That sounds perfect.”

You both get up from the bar and walk toward the door, Lucien’s hand is still on your back. You can feel a gentle caress of your mental shields and you know it’s Rhysand. You lower your shields to let him know that you were leaving, that you would be safe, and that you would be back tomorrow. He doesn’t pry and trusts your judgement. However, that doesn't stop him from turning to his cousin and bombarding her with questions about what the hell was going on.

If you’re interested in being on my taglist, please let me know!

Tags:

@thelov3lybookworm @justdreamstars @character---obsessed @stained-glass-eyes0708 @acourtofbooksandshadows

#lucien vanserra #lucien x reader #mor acotar #feyre acotar #rhys acotar #nesta archeron #cassian #azriel #elain archeron #acotar x reader #acotar

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aelingalathyniusrailme · 6 days

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fixing the acowar to acosf pipeline

(compilation of things ive seen and my own ideas)

first rhys does not come back to life

he either enters a coma or is deeply wounded in some life altering way

due to rhys’s incapacitation feyre will become the sole ruler of the night court

this will allow her to learn how to deal with politics and gain genuine trust of the IC of her abilities outside of her being rhys’s mate

simultaneously she will be looking for a way to cure him/wake him up

feyre and elain will come together and decide that nesta needs help and give her an intervention that comes from love and support and worry rather than from rhys and amren

she will still go to the house of wind and train and work with the priestesses etc etc to give her life some structure

very important: cassian will not sleep with nesta no matter what she does. he will choose her mental well-being and to be her friend instead

I want like a rowaelin style reluctant friendship where they end up sleeping in the same bed because they both crave physical touch and each others presence but cassian maintains that sexual boundary

I think it makes a lot more sense for feyre to suggest cassian plays courtier than it does for rhys

some sort of real exploration of nestas powers ideally in the court of nightmares where she realizes there are other dreamers that are suffering there too

nesta brings this up to feyre, and feyre being feyre wants to give them a chance. they bond over this and this is one aspect to them mending their relationship

I think the blood rite and the eris plot can stay

but the human queen (I forgot her name) that’s gotta be better

all 3 archerons have a real conversation about how they feel about each other and realize they do not have to be best friends to love and support each other

nessian gets together towards the end of nestas healing journey where they allow themselves to love each other

and because they haven’t had sex the sexual tension is off the fucking roof

finally nesta saves rhys’s life (somehow idk that’s up to sjm) so no stupid baby plot and she most definitely does not lose her powers

ok so that’s my thoughts!

#feyre archeron #nesta archeron #elain archeron #cassian #nessian #rhysand #feysand #acosf #acowar #gwynriel #elucien #eris vanserra

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crazy-ache · 28 days

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SJM is a Zutara Shipper? That sounds like Elucien....let me explain

It was recently brought to my attention that Sarah hinted in 2017 at being a Zuko/Katara shipper in the Avatar the Last Airbender series. This was exciting to hear as I was in the ATLA fandom over a decade ago and Zuko/Katara was my first OTP and introduction to fandom. I have loved them a long time and they will always hold a special place in my heart. I want to explore why Sarah shipping Zutara is really important when it comes to Elucien because there are a lot of great parallels.

Note: if you know anything about the ATLA shipping fandom/wars...you immediately know what she means by this. Zutara is a fanon ship that was often baited by the writers. Her disappointment is a shared, common reaction to the ship.

A very long, detailed analysis is below the cut. This NOT for ATLA discourse. This is intended to focus SOLELY on Elucien. Read below if you are a fan of Zutara/Elucien....

ATLA Characters vs ACOTAR Characters

Let's start with the characters themselves.

We have Prince Zuko, the exiled and scarred prince of the Fire Nation, who was banished after his evil, power-hungry father (the Fire Lord) horribly punished him for embarrassing him with his kindness (not wanting innocent soldiers to be used as bait in war), which he viewed as morally inferior and weak. It is implied his mother, a gentle-hearted woman, was abused in the marriage. She disappeared when he was young to maintain her husband's political power, only so that her children would live. The loss of his mother is his greatest trauma, along with his desire to go back home and gain his honor and father's acceptance.

Then we have Lucien Vanserra, exiled and scarred son of the Autumn Court, who had to flee after his evil, power-hungry father (the High Lord) horribly punished him for embarrassing him with his relationship with a lower-Fae female, which he viewed as repulsive and below their High Fae status. It is implied his mother, a gentle-hearted woman, was abused in the marriage. His lover was brutally murdered by the hands of his father/brothers and he had to flee, never having the chance to see his mother again. Losing Jesminda is his greatest trauma, likely along with losing his home, Court, and family.

Let's also not forget...they BOTH WEILD FIRE! I do think the Lucien/Zuko comparison is quite obvious and direct, where the Elain/Katara is a bit more symbolic.

For our ladies, we have Katara, master waterbender of the Southern Water Tribe. She is the youngest daughter of the Chief. She begins the journey as someone untrained and incapable of bending her own element, in a small, impoverished village due to the effects of war and destruction on their nation/culture by the Fire Nation. Her mother was tragically murdered by the Fire Nation in order to save her daughter's life. This is singularly her greatest trauma. Throughout the show, we see Katara become a powerful and master bender.

Finally, we have Elain Archeron, who was once human and is the middle sister in her family. She was the daughter of a once-successful merchant. She also loses her mother and is very close to her father, who she also tragically loses in the war. She loses her humanity and her fiance, Graysen, in one fell swoop when they put her in the Cauldron. This is singularly her greatest trauma, one that we see she has trouble letting go, even becoming practically comatose when it first happens. We later learn Elain possesses magic and is a seer.

A little less here, but I am not surprised. Katara and Elain, personality-wise, are very different. However, I will add that both Elain/Katara are often associated as symbols of HOPE in the narrative. But this brings me to my next point which is where I believe SJM was influenced by Zutara when writing Elucien....

Shared Grief as the Catalyst

Every Zuko/Katara shipper knows the crux of their relationship is from their shared trauma. Despite being on opposite ends of the war, they both carry an immense grief in losing their mothers to the war. It is the first thing they realize they have in common, the first moment they share a genuine, sincere connection, enough for them to reach out and open up to each other.

Elain and Lucien also have a shared trauma. They both lost their first loves/fiances. Lucien lost her tragically. Elain lost him in a brutal rejection. It broke both of their hearts, and they both carry grief and complicated emotions around it.

The hurt and pain brought Zutara together. As a result, they understand each other in ways others can't. I have no doubt that Elucien will spark from a similar place of understanding.

Complimentary Symbolism

One of the most beautiful parts of Zuko/Katara is the use of opposite/complimentary symbolism. Two halves of a whole. Balance and unity.

Zuko= Fire and Sun and Blue Spirit Katara= Water and Moon and Painted Lady

Lol can you believe we got the line below...I couldn't come up with a more romantic symbolic line if I tried and that's canon folks

Lucien = Day and Fox and Spring/Loss

Elain = Flowers and Fawns and Spring/Life

Elain, often associated with gardens and flowers and roses, was asked what she needed at her lowest point. She said "Sunshine." Enter Lucien, the secret heir to Day Court and Helion, whose name means Light. The Fox and the Fawn. Elain "Made for Spring" Archeron and Lucien "Spring Court Emissary and Courtier" Vanserra. I wrote Spring/Loss and Spring/Life because Lucien had to see Spring become ruined/flee the one place he called home. There is strong foreshadowing that Elain will help in some way to revive spring and possibly bring it back to life, hopefully with Lucien's help.

Let's also not forget that Elain was formerly human and now living as a High Fae in the Night Court. Lucien is a High Fae who looked down on humans and now lives in the mortal lands. It's an interesting dynamic!

Betrayal

Okay buckle up. This one is important. The feeling of betrayal is important to the development of both ships. Let me break this down.

Katara is a victim of the Fire Nation. Zuko is the prince of the Fire Nation who once hunted them down to retrieve the Avatar. She often conflated her feelings toward Zuko with her feelings regarding her mother's murder by the hands of the Fire Nation', as evidenced here.

Katara: I'm sorry I yelled at you before. Zuko: It doesn't matter. Katara: It's just that for so long now, whenever I would imagine the face of the enemy, it was your face.

We see these messy emotions come back when Zuko joins the team to teach Aang firebending.

Zuko: This isn't fair! Everyone else seems to trust me now! What is it with you? Katara: Oh, everyone trusts you now?! I was the first person to trust you! [Places her left hand on her heart.] Remember, back in Ba Sing Se. And you turned around and betrayed me, betrayed all of us! Zuko: What can I do to make it up to you? Katara: You really want to know? Hmm, maybe you could reconquer Ba Sing Se in the name of the Earth King. Or, I know! You could bring my mother back!

Now, at this point, we know she has not forgiven him for Ba Sing Se. Remember, this was the moment they shared their intimate connection over their shared Dead Mother trauma. (In an episode called The Crossroads of Destiny nonetheless). She offered to heal his scar, and later when given the chance to choose between what is right vs. what he wants....he chooses what he wants, which is to return home to his father for his acceptance. Katara took this as a personal betrayal and we see she still imagines his face as the enemy by demanding he bring her mother back (even though it isn't possible/he isn't responsible for it).

You know who else has mentioned betrayal?

For a long moment, Elain’s face did not shift, but those eyes seemed to focus a bit more. “Lucien,” she said at last, and he clenched his teacup to keep from shuddering at the sound of his name on her mouth. “From my sister’s stories. Her friend.” “Yes.” But Elain blinked slowly. “You were in Hybern.” “Yes.” It was all he could say. “You betrayed us.” He wished she’d shoved him out the window behind her. “It—it was a mistake.” Her eyes went frank and cold. “I was to be married in a few days.” He fought against the bristling rage, the irrational urge to find the male who’d claimed her and shred him apart. The words were a rasp as he instead said, “I know. I’m sorry.”

Elain associates Lucien's involvement with Ianthe/Hybern/The Cauldron as a personal betrayal. Lucien, much like Zuko, is sorry for his actions that have hurt her.

Both Zuko and Lucien don't argue about the anger/accusations of betrayal. They own it. They just want to make it right.

In the same episode of the snippet above ("You could bring my mother back!") Zuko and Katara go on their infamous "field trip" or journey together, just the two of them. Despite Katara's anger, the two of them are in perfect sync. They are the perfect team and pair, moving fluid in their elements, sneaking around enemy ships. Zuko defends her desire for closure (however dark it may be) against her friends and family wishes. He never questions her. He supports her emotionally. He yells at an enemy solider- "Don't lie! You look her in the eye and you tell me you don't remember what you did." (OH COME ON, what is hotter than that!?) In the end, she forgives him. Not because of what he did. But because he understands her and gives her space and places no expectations of who she is or what she should do. He accepts her. All the dark and pain and light inside.

Don't mind the romantic sunset in the background

Going on an adventure? Likely against the wishes of friends and family due to it being dangerous? Doing whatever is necessary to help the girl forgive you/trust you? Giving her the necessary space and support to do what she has set her mind to? Helping her find closure and healing along the way? Falling love? Sure sounds like an Elucien book......wonder where SJM got the inspiration?

Azriel vs Aang

I cannot write this post without mentioning Aang and Azriel. This is NOT an ATLA shipping discourse so please no comments regarding the Kataang/Zutara ship war. I am using this as a comparison to Elucien/E/riel.

I have a feeling that SJM has written Azriel (specifically in the Bonus Chapter) to serve as a foil to Aang's dynamic to Katara. Which is that both characters feel entitled to their crush.

Aang, the young hero and savior of the world, has a long-standing crush on Katara that is not really reciprocated romantically throughout the series.

When the group goes to watch a play based on themselves, there is scene where the actors on stage go:

Actor Zuko: Wait, I thought you were the Avatar's girl! [Aang in the audience nods in agreement.] Actress Katara: The Avatar? Why, he's like a little brother to me! I certainly don't think of him in a romantic way. [Aang in the audience grows concerned.] Besides, how could he ever find out about ... this? [Actress Katara and Actor Zuko embrace and hold hands while Actress Katara pops up one leg. Aang gets up from his seat to leave.]

It can be interpreted that his nodding and getting upset is attributed to feeling possessive of his crush on Katara. That she belongs to him, as he is the Hero and the Avatar, and should get the girl. He is jealous of something that didn't actually happen between the actors on stage (he is only 12 to be fair).

Further evidence here:

Aang: But it's true, isn't it? We kissed at the Invasion, and I thought we were gonna be together. But we're not. Katara: Aang, I don't know. Aang: Why don't you know? Katara: Because, we're in the middle of a war, and, we have other things to worry about. This isn't the right time.

...and then he kisses her, and she doesn't want it/isn't expecting it, and runs away back to the theater. We won't get into that here.

Hm, this story sounds familiar....

Azriel ignored the question. "The Cauldron chose three sisters. Tell me how it's possible that my two brothers are with two of those sisters, yet the third was given to another."

There is a similar sense of entitlement, that also ended with Elain running away from the scene, upset. The difference being he rejected her at the urging (and convincing) of Rhysand because he knew it was a mistake.

Tension & Healing & Growth (What's Next)

"There is a great deal of tension, growth, and healing to be found for both of them (together)." - from Sarah J Maas herself. If she was a Zutara shipper, I can totally see her inspiration in elements of Elucien.

In the end, many Zuko/Katara shippers really believed these two brought out the best in each other in the best possible ways. (I know I did). And I think that's a big reason a lot of Eluciens ship Elain/Lucien...the potential of how they'll complement each other is so huge.

Just as Katara and Zuko were once extremely tense in their relationship, they underwent an incredible and beautiful journey of healing and growth. One that ended in....Zuko sacrificing his life for her. Animated in slow motion with romantic/epic musical scores. For the girl who lost her mother (who sacrificed herself to save her daughter). An epic friendship but no romance....which Sarah herself agreed she wasn't a fan of....

So I imagine she is going to rectify that narrative for Elucien. I for one cannot wait to read their story in their book.

#elucien #pro elucien #elain x lucien #lucien vanserra #elain archeron #SJM is a zutara shipper #elucien meta #THIS IS NOT ATLA SHIPPING POST #DO NOT ENGAGE IN ATLA SHIPPING #this is purely elucien comparison #anti elriel #antielriel #elucien supremacy #i wrote this because i fucking love zutara and elucien #also these ship wars are so similar lmao

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thoughtfulshepherdmongerkid · 6 months

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Elain has a gap in between her front two teeth fight with your mama about it

#digital art #acotar #elain archeron #sole elain archeron campaign 2023 #sole elain archeron #elain acotar #pro elain #a lil sketchy sketch #as a treat #Rowan’s art

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solelyaboutelainarcheron · 6 months

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went into the tag just now, third and fourth post are solely about her! progress🥳🥳

#we’re making headway y’all #sole elain archeron posts campaign 2023 #drown the shippers #elain archeron #pro elain archeron

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wingedblooms · 3 months

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Three sisters witches

Thank you to @offtorivendell, @silverlinedeyes, and @psychologynerd for our discussions which inspired this theory. This is a Maasverse post, and as such, there may be spoilers for all Maas series. Please proceed with caution.

“All three sisters blessed by fate and gifted with powers…” (Amren, acosf)

The acotar series begins with three sisters: Feyre, Nesta, and Elain. Given their ironwood origins and the fact that Ironteeth witches in Erilea use it to carve their brooms, many of us suspect the sisters have witch heritage or are connected to witches in some way.

The room was large enough for a rickety dresser and the enormous ironwood bed we slept in. The sole remnant of our former wealth, it had been ordered as a wedding gift from my father to my mother. It was the bed in which we’d been born, and the bed in which my mother died. In all the painting I’d done to our house these past few years, I’d never touched it. (acotar)

In Midgard and Erilea, witches worship the Three-Faced Goddess, and she is sometimes conflated with Fate…

Again, Manon felt that ebb and flow in the world, that invisible current that some called Fate and some called the loom of the Three-Faced Goddess. (hof)

In this quote, Manon feels an invisible current that goes by different names. That current sounds a lot like Urd in Midgard, Wyrd in Erilea, and the divine trio (Mother, Cauldron, Fate/Forces That Be) in Prythian. All of which sound like different forms (usually three) of the same higher being. The Fae believe this being controls fate, including fated bonds. Bonds, like spells, are described in terms of threads. Does this being weave threads of fate together with her loom, like witches seem to believe? She (they?) appears to be inspired by the Norns of Norse mythology, one of which is named Urðr (Wyrd). Together, these wise women preside over fate. In some folklore and literature, they are considered witches, like the Three Witches or Wyrd (Weird) Sisters in Shakespeare’s Macbeth, who deliver a prophecy.

The Three-Faced Goddess is also known, albeit rarely, as the Three-Faced Mother:

Manon couldn’t look at them, couldn’t do anything but close her eyes and pray to the Darkness, to the Three-Faced Mother as she held her hands over the bleeding gashes. (koa)

I’ve talked about links between the Archerons, witches, Three-Faced Goddess, and divine trio (Mother, Cauldron, Fate) before, so this isn’t new, but something caught my attention when reviewing the text recently. Ironteeth witches believe that they return to the Three-Faced Goddess when they die, and they are reborn within her womb. It’s called the Mother’s Womb.

“We’ll collect the dead tomorrow,” Manon said, her voice low. “And burn them at moonrise.” As both Crochans and Ironteeth did. A full moon tomorrow—the Mother’s Womb. A good moon to be burned. To be returned to the Three-Faced Goddess, and reborn within that womb. (koa)

This belief reminded me of the three sisters’ rebirth, particularly Nesta and Elain. We gain insight into this experience in Nesta’s book:

In the beginning

And in the end

There was Darkness

And nothing more

She did not feel the cold as she sank into a sea that had no bottom, no horizon, no surface. But she felt the burning.

Immortality was not a serene youth.

[…]

They would pay. All of them.

Starting with this Cauldron.

Starting now.

She tore into the darkness with talons and teeth. Rent and cleaves and shredded.

And the dark eternity around her shuddered. Bucked. Thrashed.

She laughed as it recoiled. Laughed around the mouthful of raw power she ripped out and swallowed whole; laughed at the fistfuls of eternity she shoved into her heart, her veins.

[…]

Wrapped in black eternity, Nesta and the Cauldron twined, burning through the darkness like a newborn star. (acosf)

While Feyre is not reborn in the Cauldron, we do get insight into her experience. When telling the Bone Carver about what appeared to her after death, she said this:

But if he knew … I turned again to the boy-creature. “There was a choice—in Death,” I said.

[…]

“I knew,” I went on, “that I could drift away into the dark. And I chose to fight—to hold on for a bit longer. Yet I knew if I wanted, I could have faded. And maybe it would be a new world, a realm of rest and peace. But I wasn’t ready for it—not to go there alone. I knew there was something else waiting beyond that dark. Something good.”

[…]

“I knew there was no coming back from what I’d done,” I said, wondering if the blue flame in the Carver’s eyes might burn my ruined soul to ash. “And once I broke their curse, once I knew I’d saved them, I just wanted enough time to turn that dagger on myself. I only decided I wanted to live when she killed me, and I knew I had not finished whatever…whatever it was I’d been born to do.” (acomaf)

Feyre was broken, but she wasn’t finished with whatever it was she had been born to do. Nesta also chose to fight in the Cauldron like a warrior. When we finally get insight into Elain’s rebirth, I am willing to bet that she fought with her own brand of strength.

It’s clear the dark womb of the Three-Faced Goddess is the same divine trio (Mother, Cauldron, Fate) the Fae in Prythian worship. When discussing the sisters in acosf, Amren emphasizes, nothing is a fluke, and the Cauldron—like the invisible current Manon described—can influence others without their awareness, especially those it has reforged. The sisters are blessed by fate with immortality and rare gifts for a reason. What plans does it have for them, and who would it enlist to help them on their path?

“May the Immortal Light shine upon thee, sisters,” said the pale-robed young woman directly in our path. (acolyte, acotar)

From the beginning of the series, various religious influences have played a role in the sisters’ journey. Children of the Blessed are the first religious influence we see, and they are largely reviled as religious fanatics by humans. The acolyte who blesses the sisters wears pale blue robes like Fae priestesses, and it is this blessing that serves as foreshadowing for their immortal fate. The acolytes’ imitation of Fae priestesses also makes me wonder if they are part of the priestesses’ extensive spy network.

Like witches, Fae priestesses worship the divine trio, and in their full garb, they represent the Voice of the Cauldron:

Ianthe had shown me once what the panel looked like when down: only her nose and full, sensuous mouth visible. The Voice of the Cauldron. I’d found the image unsettling—that merely covering the upper part of her face had somehow turned the bright, cunning female into an effigy, into something Other. (acomaf)

Their powers stem from their rituals and they can be deadly, if desired:

Among the High Fae, the priestesses oversaw their ceremonies and rituals, recorded their histories and legends, and advised their lords and ladies in matters great and trivial. I hadn’t witnessed any magic from her, but when I’d asked Lucien, he’d frowned and said their magic was drawn from their ceremonies, and could be utterly lethal should they choose it. (acomaf)

It was a High Priestess who informed Hybern about Feyre’s sisters, leading to their eventual capture and rebirth. Hybern also possessed the Cauldron at the time—did it influence him and Ianthe, weave their actions like threads in a tapestry?

Lucien’s face had slackened. “She sold out—she sold out Feyre’s family. To you.”

I had told Ianthe everything about my sisters. She had asked. Asked who they were, where they lived. And I had been so stupid, so broken … I had fed her every detail.

“Sold out?” The king snorted. “Or saved from the shackles of mortal death? Ianthe suggested they were both strong-willed women, like their sister. No doubt they’ll survive. And prove to our queens it can be done. If one has the strength.” (acomaf)

According to the Bone Carver, dark makers created the Book of Breathings and used the Cauldron to make terrible things. The Book of Breathings can control or nullify the Cauldron, and because like calls to like, only someone who is Made can speak the spells and wield its power.

As three Made sisters with potential witch heritage, were the Archerons chosen to wield the divine trio's power, a Three-Faced Goddess in the flesh? Each sister is associated with a different kind of light, so could they be light makers? And is that ultimately what it means to be Starborn? Blessed by fate, their purpose written in the stars or woven into the Goddess's loom...

The weaver went on, "I have to create, or it was all for nothing. I have to create, or I will crumple with despair and never leave my bed. I have to create because I have no other way of voicing this." Her hand rested on her heart, and my eyes burned. "It is hard," the weaver said, her stare never leaving mine, "and it hurts, but if I were to stop, if I were to let this loom or spindle go silent..." She broke my gaze at last to look at her tapestry. "Then there would be no Hope shining in the Void." (acofas)

...to be threads of Hope shining in the Void.

In acosf, priestesses continue to remain directly in the sisters’ path. They help Nesta in various ways, including scrying and locating the Harp during their dusk ritual. It belongs to the Dread Trove and it is the Trove that Nesta uses to save Rhys, Feyre, and Nyx. Was the divine trio pulling the threads here as well, and if so, to what end? To help another world defeat an old enemy? Combat an ancient death-god and sorcerer? Bring peace and healing through a different sort of world?

Now that Nesta has tracked down three Trove objects, and we know the Cauldron can be used alongside them by those who are Made, it seems inevitable that we will see it again.

“Shall I tend to my little garden forever?” When Nesta flinched, Elain said, “You can’t have it both ways. You cannot resent my decision to lead a small, quiet life while also refusing to let me do anything greater.”

“Then go off on adventures,” Nesta said. “Go drink and fuck strangers. But stay away from the Cauldron.” (acosf)

In the original trilogy, we learn that the Cauldron gave Elain such powers and found her so lovely.

The Cauldron seemed to realize what she’d done, too, as his head thumped onto the mossy ground. That Elain … Elain had defended this thief. Elain, who it had gifted with such powers, found her so lovely it had wanted to give her something…It would not harm Elain, even in its hunt to reclaim what had been taken. (acowar)

Her story might bring us even closer to the divine trio, witches, and priestesses with her gift of Sight. Among the Ironteeth, Bluebloods were especially known for their connection to divine Sight and even had their own priestesses:

“I see now,” Manon said softly, “why my Blueblood sisters still worship you.”

“Do they, now?” The spider remained motionless, but the three behind her crept closer, silent and observing with their many dark eyes. “We can hardly recall the last time the Blueblood priestesses brought their sacrifices to our foothills. We do miss them.” (Manon to the valg spider, hof)

Like a Blueblood, Elain is different from her sisters. She has a different sort of strength. Manon comments that the Blueblood Matron, who represents the maiden aspect of the Three-Faced Goddess, is more priestess than warrior. Her heir, Petrah, is similar to Elain: she is gentle and caring and is rumored to have her head in the clouds. Their clan is full of oracles, mystics, zealots, and they supposedly require more iron to remain tethered to their world.

Elain’s connection to the Cauldron—marked by a mental, iron crown—mirrors her unique strengths and gifts.

She had no mental shields, no barriers. The gates to her mind … Solid iron, covered in vines of flowers—or it would have been. The blossoms were all sealed, sleeping buds tucked into tangles of leaves and thorns.

[…]

If Elain’s mental gates were those of a sleeping garden, Nesta’s…They belonged to an ancient fortress, sharp and brutal. The sort I imagined they once impaled people upon. (acowar)

Rather than a brutal ancient fortress (the Prison?), Elain’s iron crown is covered in vines and sleeping buds. It is peaceful and lovely and full of budding life. So, what might this mean for her role? With her oracular and mystic sight, Elain might be able to move and influence like the divine trio, a rose among the thorns. She could use her gifts, or the Cauldron itself (the flower of life), to weave threads of Hope through protection, healing, and creation. Both Feyre and Nesta have used raw magic to heal and create, weaving their own threads of Hope. Elain may also participate or learn a ritual in the dawn service to help her channel her powers. It’s no coincidence that we’re told about a dawn ritual called groundings before her story. Not when she is described like this:

But even the silence weighed too heavily, and though the shadows kept him company, as they always had, as they always would, he found himself leaving the room. Entering the foyer. Soft steps padded from under the stair archway, and there she was.

The Faelights gilded Elain’s unbound hair, making her glow like the sun at dawn. She halted, her breath catching in her throat. (Azriel’s bonus chapter)

And there she was, a vision of hope and healing, glowing like a new dawn during the longest night of the year.

If you’re interested in related posts about Elain, the divine trio, witches, and Archerons, here are some of my favorites:

Murky Realm of Dreams (Elain's connections to oracles and mystics)

Seer. Wise Woman. Witch. (Elain’s connections to witches, shifting, sight, herbs and healing, rituals, etc.)

Forbidden Secrets (Elriel mapping the secrets of the sister peaks and healing the land)

Sister-Glass Caverns (Prythian’s underground caves behave like sister-glass)

A Rose in the Thorns (Elain moves like the Cauldron)

Elain and the Flower of Life (The Cauldron is the flower of life and Elain is a gardener on a larger scale)

#Maasverse theories #the three Archeron sisters #three witches #Mother Cauldron Fate #Three-Faced Goddess #Hope shining through the Void

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lovemyromance · 1 month

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What people seem to be forgetting is that main characters need a plot line that solely depends on them. They can't just be the sidekicks on the mission, they are the leading force. They can't just tag along as someone's boyfriend/girlfriend. They need a reason to be there beyond love interest drama.

Lucien, despite being nonexistent from ACOWAR on- is a main character. I might not be his biggest fan recently, but even I can agree with that. He was in every single book, has been Feyre's friend from the start.

Gwyn? I don't see it, sorry. Her story was told. She trained, she healed, she fought, she went back to the library. The end. She was Nesta's friend in ACOSF, and that is her role in this series.

To say Gwyn will get an entire book is insane, and an entire book before Elain-a main character and the third Archeron sister-is absolutely off the rails.

Why would she get a book? Is she tied to any plot? Emerie, at least, is a Valkyrie who is Illyrian so if anyone is getting an Illyrian plotline, it's likely the Illyrian woman who had her wings clipped by a misogynistic society and lives in Illyria.

But people don't seem to be very vocal about Emerie getting a book. I wonder why that is - when she is more tied to the ACOTAR plotline (not that I think SJM will even explore Illyria, but just saying), when she is also a Valkyrie, when she is also Nesta's friend.

And I'm really not trying to elevate Emerie to diss Gwyn. I'm saying neither will get a book, because they're literally side characters in ACOTAR.

ACOTAR is not TOG or Crescent City. It is not multiple POVs of multiple characters we just met. We follow Feyre for 3 books, with occasional Rhys POV. We then get a fun little novella with Feysand, Mor, and Cassian POVs. Then we go back to the dual POV pattern with Nesta & Cassian. And one bonus chapter with Azriel POV.

People seem to be forgetting SJM herself said she started planting seeds for the spinoffs in ACOFAS.

Let's look at what ACOFAS set up:

Elain avoiding Lucien, Lucien avoiding Elain

Feysand bonus chapter about Elain

Cassian got a POV

Cassian & Nesta's current state of hostility

Nesta's struggle

So Cassian got a POV, and then Nesta, his love interest got a book.

In an interview about ACOFAS, SJM said she knew Nessian was next, and even started doing research for Elain's journey.

Elain's Journey.

And in recent interviews she's spoken about Azriel's journey.

In ACOSF, we see the first ever Azriel POV.

My bet is, the next book will be Elriel. It follows the pattern. We know Elain's book is next, but if she were to be paired with Lucien- why didn't Lucien get a POV?

Why did Azriel of all people get a POV?

It's because it follows the pattern. Cass/Az got POVs, so the next book is their love interest, Nesta/Elain.

SJM has only talked about Elain and Azriel's journey. She has not talked about Gwyn's journey. She has not talked about Lucien's journey. She's given us all the pieces to this puzzle,

Of course she thought it was obvious 🤷🏻‍♀️

#elriel #azriel #elain archeron #pro elain #acotar #elain x azriel #elain

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theweeklydiscourse · 8 months

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The dynamic and initial characterization of the Archeron family in ACOTAR is…frustrating.

Trying to make sense of the Archeron sister’s backstory in conjunction with their future character development is enough to drive a person to the brink of madness. It’s a straining experience to try to accept the story on Maas’s terms due to how jumbled the continuity becomes as the series progresses. Specifically, the dynamic of the Archeron sisters feels artificial and contrived. It’s a dynamic meant to evoke as much pity as possible from the reader and in doing so, it creates a clash between Maas’s first draft of these characters and their future developments. I find that it makes it difficult for one to immerse themselves in ACOTAR’s world building and characterization because it lacks harmony with the rest of the series. Furthermore, Maas writes a kind of suffering that is indulgent and gratuitous, not seeming to care about how doing so might create problems in her story later on. It makes analyzing the later developments in the story akin to fist fighting the narrative in a Walmart parking lot at 3am.

Example #1 : The Dissonance of Nesta and Elain

The initial characterizations of Nesta and Elain is shallow and although they develop farther along in the series, they can never quite escape the impression of their introductions. In the early chapters, Nesta is a haughty ingrate who staunchly refuses to help Feyre with running the household while Elain is clueless and unhelpful. They behave terribly towards Feyre, but in a manner that feels like something out of a stand-alone story for young children and not the first book of a trilogy.

“Nesta picked at her long, neat nails. “I hate chopping wood. I always get splinters.” She glanced up from beneath her dark lashes. (…) “Besides, Feyre,” she said with a pout, “you’re so much better at it! It takes you half the time it takes me. Your hands are suited for it—they’re already so rough.””

“Her brown eyes--my father's eyes remained pinned on the doe. "Will it take you long to clean it?" Me. Not her, not the others. I'd never once seen their hands sticky with blood and fur.”

They are the embodiments of the “evil stepsister” archetype but are written with no nuance or thought for how their future development might look. They are tools that exist solely to make Feyre’s life as hellish as possible and this is especially apparent with Nesta. Nesta’s initial one-note meanness confounds me, especially when her character is expanded upon later in the trilogy. But here, she acts cartoonishly cruel and spoiled like the sisters in Cinderella and her initial moments do not do enough to suggest her complexity that is eventually used in ACOSF. This dissonance in Nesta reflects the flaws of Maas’s characterization and follow-through. The story indulges in Feyre’s suffering and asks the reader to feel terrible for the plight of this poor and unfortunate soul… but it all feels so gratuitous.

I was never fully convinced by The Archeron family dynamic, how could I be when the characters are not characters but instead are torture devices for the main character? They are elements that converge to make Feyre’s life as miserable and pitiful as humanly possible, but does so in a way that feels utterly shallow and cliche. I can’t become invested in the way Feyre is mistreated because it reads as pain for the sake of pain, it’s shallow and uncompelling.

Example #2 : Feyre’s Non-Existent Relationship to her Unnamed Mother

“My mother. Imperious and cold with her children, joyous and dazzling among the peerage who frequented our former estate, doting on my father the one person whom she truly loved and respected.”

Another example of this relates to Feyre’s relationship to her deceased mother. Feyre is intent on honouring her vow to her mother and yet, it seems like she harbours no positive emotions towards her. Descriptions of her relationship with her Mother are scant and reveal very little about any potential closeness between them. From this passage, a read could surmise that Feyre’s Mother cared more for wealth and status than her children and had little affection for them as a result. It wasn’t as if Feyre and her mother were uniquely close or had a strong bond or something that might justify honouring that promise (especially when she comments on the unfairness of placing that burden on a child very early on in ACOTAR).

“There were times when I hated her for asking that vow of me. Perhaps, delirious with fever, she hadn't even known what she was demanding.”

So what is the narrative purpose of Feyre’s loyalty to a parent she was never that close with and breaking her back to fulfill a promise made in delirium? Her mother is a complete afterthought and yet Feyre for some reason puts herself through the wringer so that she honours that promise? Why? It isn’t compelling for the heroine to sacrifice that much of herself for a family that has no real emotional stakes in the relationship dynamic. THIS does not make a good story, it is so fixated on creating a tragic background for its heroine that it strips the supporting characters of all intrigue and ironically makes the mistreatment Feyre faces feel flimsy and almost comically exaggerated. HER MOTHER AND FATHER DONT EVEN HAVE NAMES!

Example #3 : Feyre’s Father

Feyre says that their family had been impoverished for 8 years, but I fail to grasp how a family of four could subsist on the income from an amateur huntress and her sales of animal pelts. Am I to believe that all of them spent those past 8 years twiddling their thumbs while Feyre did everything on her own? While I’m aware that this is a fantasy series, it seems unrealistic that Nesta nor Elain ever gave Feyre any substantial assistance when it came to running a household. The idea that their prissiness and spoiled attitude prevented them from lifting a finger makes no sense because a mindset like that would never allow them to survive in such an environment. None of them have jobs or bring in any income to support the family and somehow I’m meant to believe that Feyre’s earnings were enough to support all of them. Meanwhile, her father is too ashamed to even attempt to aid his daughters.

Feyre’s father is presented as feckless and an object of resentment for Feyre and Nesta. Although he is given slightly more depth than Nesta and Elain initially, he is never truly expanded upon as a character and is confined to a pathetic characterization.

“What I really wanted to say was: You don't even bother to attempt to leave the house most days.Were it not for me, we would starve. Were it not for me, we'd be dead.”

Oh look! Her father is useless too! Her only living parent who “hadn’t argued when I announced that I was going hunting.”. Although papa Archeron is kind to Feyre, this doesn’t culminate in a meaningful character arc later in the book and his inaction as a father is left to fester. Feyre’s relationship with him is similarly shallow with her relationship to her mother and does not offer the reader anything to latch onto when Feyre leave her family towards the end of the book. I just feel that the story would become so much more emotionally compelling if there were any reasons for Feyre to truly have a connection with her family and if it were not a barrage of misery.

So basically…

I just can’t become invested in Feyre’s plight when it is so indulgent in her suffering (at the expense of some potentially compelling characters). It feels manufactured, it doesn’t feel real (in the sense that it is extremely contrived) and I hate how Maas makes the family dynamic more emotionally nuanced later on in the series, but is constantly at odds with the initial impressions of these characters. The potential is there, but Maas seemed to care more about making the backstory as sad and tragic as possible rather than considering any potentially complex emotional realities the characters would have to grapple with later on.

#sjm critical #feyre archeron #elain archeron #nesta archeron #acotar #ACOMAF #anti sjm #feyre acotar #ACOTAR meta #fandom meta

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starsreminisce · 3 months

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SJM Romance Week

Day Three

Wedding

AN: has sex/adult language. I don’t typically post sexually explicit fanfic but how can there be a fae if no frenzy.

Hope you enjoy!

Lucien Vanserra had always prided himself on his strength and control, but in the presence of Elain Archeron, all semblance of restraint melted away like wax in a flame. She was his weakness, his greatest temptation, and he found himself utterly powerless to resist her allure.

As Elain slowly squeezed his cock, a wave of pleasure washed over him, and he could feel himself hardening beneath her small hand despite having thoroughly satisfied her moments before. Her screams of ecstasy still echoed in his ears, a testament to the intensity of their passion.

He watched, mesmerized, as she positioned herself on top of him, her movements slow and deliberate as she slid down his length, taking him deep inside her with each languid rock of her hips. The sight of her impaled on him, her body moving with a fluid grace that left her slickness coating him entirely, stirred something primal within him.

When she finally voiced her desire to accept the bond, Lucien's heart skipped a beat, his gaze locking with hers in a mixture of surprise and anticipation.

"I knew you wanted something," he murmured, his voice laced with lazy amusement as he kneaded her thigh.

Elain's gasp was music to his ears as she arched her back, urging him deeper inside her. "It's time, Lucien," she whispered, her eyes sparkling with determination. "Or should I say, my lord?"

Lucien's growl of approval rumbled through the room, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "I want to accept it, my lord," Elain continued, her voice filled with conviction. "I want this forever. I want you forever, my lord."

Despite his reservations, Lucien couldn't deny the overwhelming desire that surged within him at her words. "They don't know that you and I have... moved past our differences," he warned, his fingers tracing patterns on her skin.

"I don't care, my lord," Elain replied without hesitation, her movements growing more urgent as she sought to drive him to the edge.

“Frenzy. We can’t frenzy when you’re bound to return in two days,” Lucien reminded her, his voice tinged with regret.

Elain paused, her expression shifting from urgency to disappointment. “We can frenzy in two days, my lord,” she countered, though a hint of longing lingered in her eyes.

Lucien couldn't help but laugh at Elain's persistence, marveling at her ability to turn even the most serious of conversations into something playful and lighthearted. “I need a week. You need a month,” he joked, though his heart ached with the desire to be with her always.

But Elain paid his jest no mind, her focus solely on the intoxicating pleasure they shared. She continued to rock against him, her movements driving him to the brink of ecstasy. "Entirely your fault you feel so good," she teased, her voice husky with desire.

Lucien's desire burned like wildfire, consuming every thought as he surrendered to the primal urge coursing through him. With a low growl of need, he surged forward, his movements fueled by a hunger that only she could satisfy. His hands roamed her body with a desperate longing, igniting sparks of pleasure with every touch.

Elain's response was equally fervent, her gasps and moans echoing in the room as she arched against him, her nails digging into his skin in a deliciously painful grip. Their bodies moved together in a frantic dance, each movement driving them closer to the edge of ecstasy.

As they finally reached the peak of their passion, their cries mingled in the air, a symphony of pleasure that filled the room with its intensity. In that moment of pure abandon, there was only the two of them, lost in the ecstasy of their union.

"I love you, Elain," Lucien whispered, his voice husky with emotion as he held her close, their bodies still entwined in the aftermath of their lovemaking.

"I love you too, Lucien," Elain murmured, her voice soft and filled with tenderness as she nestled against him, her fingers tracing gentle patterns on his chest. And in that moment, as they sat together in the quiet intimacy of their shared love, the uncertainty melted away, replaced by a profound sense of peace and belonging.

"There is one more thing I need to do tomorrow before you can accept it," he admitted, his voice tinged with uncertainty.

Elain looked up at him, her eyes bright with curiosity. "Are we really doing this?" she asked, her smile playful yet filled with adoration.

Lucien chuckled softly, his heart swelling with love for her. "It was your idea," he replied, his tone gentle yet resolute. "Tomorrow," he agreed, a smile tugging at his lips. "We'll sort things out tomorrow."

As they settled back down together, Elain nestled into his embrace, her head resting against his chest. Lucien wrapped his arms around her, holding her close as they drifted off to sleep, the warmth of their love enveloping them in a cocoon of comfort and contentment. In that moment, he felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the female lying beside him, for the love they shared and the adventures that awaited them.

The next morning, Lucien awoke to find Elain already up and about, the tantalizing scent of bacon filling the air. With a smile, he made his way to the kitchen, where Elain greeted him with a bright smile and a plate of breakfast.

"I made you breakfast," she said brightly, her eyes shining with affection as she held out the plate to him.

“And my eating it means that you accept,” Lucien said cautiously, his brow furrowing with uncertainty.

“Isn't that the one more thing you need to do before I accept it?” Elain asked, a hint of confusion in her voice.

Lucien chuckled softly and tapped her nose. “No,” he replied, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

He glanced down at the plate and chuckled again. “You made everything into hearts,” he observed, a fond smile playing on his lips.

“Worked extra … heart to make those,” grumbled Elain playfully.

Lucien pulled her into a warm embrace, pressing a kiss to her forehead. “Don’t ask Mor to take you away somewhere, please. I promise I’m not resisting. There is just one more thing I want to do before you accept it, and it’s important to me.”

"Tell me?" Elain asked, settling down at the table as Lucien grabbed some bread and cheese.

Lucien joined her, taking a moment to savor the warmth of her presence. "Frenzy for starters," he said with a playful grin. "Though I suppose we could come up with an idea that keeps you and me here until it... surpasses."

Elain regarded him with amusement, a playful glint in her eyes. "You are absolutely miserable, hopelessly sick, and I sought pity on your poor, miserable soul to tend to you."

Lucien responded with a smirk, feigning a cough in response to her words. "How very kind of you," he remarked, his tone laced with playful sarcasm.

Elain chuckled, her smile widening. "Told you you were sick. Can't leave the bed, that's how sick you are, right?"

Lucien's smirk deepened. "But I'll be taking your temperature quite often," he teased.

Elain rolled her eyes, though there was a hint of laughter in her voice. "Lucien!"

With a thoughtful expression, Lucien nibbled on his bread. "That would work. You are tending to my poor, miserable, sick self, and I am on the brink of my death that you would need to stay here."

Elain nodded, determination shining in her eyes. "That settles it. They already know that you are."

Lucien snorted with laughter. "You've really thought this through," he said, admiration lacing his words. "Anything else, Lady Elain?"

Elain's expression turned solemn as she took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts before speaking. "Well, there is one more condition," she said, her voice soft but firm. "I, Elain Archeron, hereby present a bargain to Lucien Vanserra. Lucien Vanserra is banned from the kitchen now until he accepts and eats any and all food I offer him."

Her words hung in the air, carrying with them a weight of determination and resolve.

Lucien's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "You've really thought this through," he said again, this time with awe. "I accept your bargain."

Elain beamed at him, her eyes sparkling with mischief. She crawled into his lap, pressing a tender kiss to his lips. He could feel the warmth of her body against his, the promise of lazy lovemaking lingering in the air.

But he pulled away gently, a teasing glint in his eyes. "I need to save something for you for frenzy," he murmured, his voice low and husky.

As soon as the words left his lips, Lucien scented her arousal, and he couldn't resist the temptation any longer. He kissed her with fervor, his desire mounting as he pressed her down onto his aching cock. The thought of her being his wife in mere hours fueled his passion, and Elain sensed it too, her movements becoming more urgent as she sought to satisfy their mutual craving.

With a growl of frustration, he finally pulled away, his breath coming in ragged gasps. "I need to leave, or else I won't get to do what I wanted," he said, his voice strained with desire. He tore himself away from her embrace, his body still burning with longing as he forced himself to leave her side.

With every step he took towards the door, Lucien could feel Elain's gaze burning into his back, her longing evident in the air between them. He clenched his fists, willing himself to maintain control as he fought against the overwhelming urge to return to her embrace.

As he reached the threshold of the room, he turned back to look at her, his eyes dark with desire. "I promise," he murmured, his voice husky with emotion, "we'll have all the time in the world for that once I'm done with what I need to do."

Elain's eyes softened, a faint smile playing at the corners of her lips. "I'll be waiting," she whispered, her voice filled with anticipation.

With one last longing look, Lucien tore himself away and left the house, his heart heavy with the weight of desire and anticipation. He knew that once he had completed his task, he would return to her, and they would finally be able to indulge in the passion that burned between them.

***

Elain busied herself in the kitchen, grateful for the distraction that preparing their meal provided. She knew Lucien would likely forgo the breakfast she had made him that morning, but she couldn't blame herself for trying.

She hadn't expected to blurt out her desire to officially bind herself to him last night during their lovemaking. But the way he had reacted, the way he had looked at her with awe and worship as she pleasured him, filled her heart with a sense of joy and contentment that she had never known before.

She had hoped for something more romantic, a surprise for him when he returned home from overseeing the rebuilding efforts. She had meticulously planned the menu based on his favorite dishes, each one a tribute to the stories he had shared from his childhood.

Despite the temptation to indulge him with just half a piece of bacon and watch him surrender himself to her desires, Elain had opted for a three-course meal. She remembered Feyre's casual reheating of soup for Rhys, Nesta's offering of a stale biscuit, and Cassian's agreement to a ceremony. Her own wedding planning with Graysen had been a disaster, and if she could avoid the whole ordeal, she would.

As she worked in the kitchen, Elain couldn't shake the feeling of longing that settled in her chest. They hadn't made love that morning, nor had there been a lunchtime tryst to tie her over until his return. She could only imagine that Lucien would deny her advances when he came home, especially since he had instructed her to dress up for his return from wherever he was.

The clock continued to tick on, each passing minute bringing Elain closer to the moment when she would be reunited with Lucien. Soon, she thought, soon they would be an officially mated pair, bound together in love and devotion. As she put the finishing touches on their meal, a sense of excitement and anticipation bubbled within her.

She dressed herself in a pretty dress, choosing something appropriate for the Spring Court. With a sense of preparation, she made sure to pack some ready-to-go meals, anticipating the frenzy that would likely follow the acceptance. Containers filled with cut-up meat and cheese filled the icebox, ready for them to grab during moments of hunger between their instinctual urges.

As she covered her face with her hands, doubts began to creep in. Had she been too insatiable with him already? Would their newfound union only intensify their desires, making it impossible for them to live apart? Even after Lucien "recovered from his sickness," what would become of them then? The weight of uncertainty settled heavily on her shoulders, and she couldn't help but wonder if her decision had been a terrible mistake.

But then, as the clock dinged and she caught the familiar scent of Lucien at the door, all doubts faded away. With a rush of excitement, she hurried to greet him, her heart pounding with anticipation as she saw his kind, scarred face smiling back at her.

"Ready?" he asked, his voice warm with affection.

With all her doubts cast aside, Elain met his gaze with unwavering determination. "Yes," she replied, her voice filled with conviction.

Her heart skipped a beat when he smiled wider and took her hand in his, his touch sending shivers down her spine.

"I would ask you how your day was, but—" Lucien began.

"I would ask you why you aren't eating something I made you," Elain interrupted with a playful smile.

Lucien chuckled, his eyes sparkling with amusement as he leaned in to kiss her hand gently before leading her towards one of her favorite meadows in the Spring Court. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, and as twilight descended, the bioluminescent glands of the flora began to emit a soft, ethereal glow, casting the meadow in a magical light.

As they walked, memories flooded Elain's mind of the first time Lucien had brought her here, the day after Calanmai. It was then that they had finally given in to their desires, reigniting the magic within the dying court and bringing hope for its revival.

"If you wanted to eat here," Elain said with a soft smile, "I could have made us a picnic."

Lucien shook his head, a mysterious glint in his eyes as he reached into his pocket and procured a letter, her father's seal adorning the envelope.

Elain's heart swelled with emotion as she read the words of wisdom from her father, each sentence a tender reminder of his love and guidance. Tears welled in her eyes, spilling over as she absorbed every word, feeling her father's presence in every line of his familiar script. It was as if he was there with her, offering his support and encouragement for the journey ahead.

When she finally set the letter down, her heart skipped a beat at the sight of Lucien on one knee before her, a dazzling engagement ring held out in his hand—a jeweled lotus, a symbol of their love and the beauty that had blossomed between them.

"Elain Archeron," Lucien began, his voice filled with emotion as he looked up at her with adoration shining in his eyes. "From the first moment I laid eyes on you, I knew I was meant to be yours. And from the first moment I saw the depth of your soul, I knew that I was yours forever. Will you do me the honor of marrying me?"

Elain's breath caught in her throat as she gazed into his eyes, overwhelmed by the depth of his love for her. She felt tears of joy prickle at the corners of her eyes as she whispered, "We're mates, Lucien."

"Yes, as fae," Lucien replied, his smile soft and tender. "But our love transcends our fae nature. I want the whole world to know that you are mine and I am yours, in ways that even humans can understand. I want to stand before everyone we know and declare my love for you, to make a vow that will bind us together for eternity."

Tears streamed down Elain's cheeks as she reached out to cup Lucien's face in her hands, overwhelmed by the depth of his love and the sincerity in his words. "Yes, Lucien," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. "A thousand times yes."

Tears of joy continued to cascade as Lucien slipped the ring onto her finger, the sparkling diamond catching the light and shimmering with every movement. She admired it with awe, feeling the weight of its significance settle on her soul.

"Lucien," she breathed, her voice barely above a whisper. "Would you... do you want a ceremony?"

His response was filled with nothing but love and understanding. "I want whatever you want, Elain," he said softly, his eyes never leaving hers. "We can tell your human friends we eloped and throw a grand reception, or we can wait and have a disgustingly huge ceremony, or we can simply go down to the priestess to confirm our bond and let people figure it out for themselves. Whatever makes you happy, that's what I want."

Elain bit her lip, feeling overwhelmed by the depth of his devotion. Perching herself on his lap, she gazed into his eyes with all the love in her heart. "I already told you," she said with a playful smile. "There's a meal waiting for you that I want to eat with you, and I want to finish everything before you thank me in a way only a mated male can."

Lucien grinned mischievously. "Finish everything?" he teased. "Are you going to be able to control yourself?"

Elain let out a whimper, her cheeks flushing as desire coursed through her veins. She leaned in close, her lips brushing against his ear as she whispered, "I make no promises."

***

Lucien's heart raced as he felt her warm breath against his skin, sending shivers down his spine. With a swift motion, he winnowed them back to the house, carrying her effortlessly across the threshold. As they entered, he beheld the romantic table setting that Elain had prepared, a smile spreading across his face at the sight.

He took a seat, anticipation building as Elain approached with the first course—a sourdough bowl filled with lobster bisque. Lucien's eyes widened in surprise as he took a spoonful, the familiar taste instantly flooding his senses.

“You told me that Jesminda made this often for you,” Elain began, her voice soft with emotion. “Took me a while, but her sister shared her recipe. I don’t want to replace her memory, but—”

“It tastes just like hers,” Lucien interrupted, his eyes brimming with tears of gratitude.

Elain swallowed, relieved that she hadn't overstepped. She felt a surge of warmth as Lucien took her hand and squeezed it tenderly. “Thank you. I thought I’d never have it again, but thank you.”

As they savored the last spoonfuls of the lobster bisque, the ambiance seemed to hum with warmth and affection. Elain's heart swelled with joy at the sight of Lucien's contented smile, knowing that she had succeeded in bringing him a moment of happiness.

With a graceful flourish, Elain cleared away the empty bowls and returned with the next course—a mini beef wellington accompanied by sautéed green beans. The aroma of savory herbs and spices filled the air, wrapping around them like a comforting embrace.

Lucien's eyes lit up with delight as he took in the sight of the perfectly cooked dish before him. "Beef wellington," he murmured, a hint of nostalgia in his voice. "This reminds me of cozy evenings by the fire, with the leaves turning golden outside."

Elain smiled softly, her heart swelling with love for the man sitting across from her. "I wanted to capture that feeling," she confessed, her gaze meeting his. "To create a moment that we could cherish together, just like those cozy evenings you described."

Their fingers intertwined across the table, a silent exchange of love and gratitude passing between them. In that moment, surrounded by the warmth of their shared affection, they felt as though time stood still, allowing them to savor each other's company and the simple pleasures of a homemade meal made with love.

As the evening wore on and they finished the last bites of the savory beef wellington, the atmosphere between them seemed to crackle with anticipation. Elain's heart fluttered with nervous excitement as she prepared to unveil the final course—a decadent dessert that she had been saving for this special moment.

Moments later, Elain returned to the dining room, a platter in hand, but to Lucien's surprise, she was completely naked, save for a seductive smile playing on her lips. His breath caught in his throat at the sight of her, his heart racing with desire and adoration.

Elain sauntered towards him with slow, deliberate steps, the platter held out before her like a tantalizing offering. On it lay a decadent array of strawberries with a small bowl of warmed chocolate, each one a tempting invitation to indulge in the pleasures of the senses.

Lucien's breath caught in his throat as he took in the sight of her, his eyes tracing the curves of her body with hungry appreciation. The air between them crackled with tension as she approached, a coy smile playing on her lips as she held out a strawberry dipped in chocolate.

"Indulge me," she murmured, her voice a husky whisper as she offered him the sweet treat. "Let me feed you."

With a longing gaze, Lucien accepted the offering, his lips brushing against her fingers as he took a bite. A drop of chocolate dripped onto Elain's bare skin, leaving a glistening trail in its wake. With a playful glint in his eyes, Lucien leaned forward, capturing the chocolate with his tongue as he traced a path along her skin.

A shiver of pleasure ran through Elain at the sensation, her breath catching in her throat as he continued to lavish her with kisses, each one filled with a tender reverence that spoke of his love and desire for her.

“You need to finish the meal, my lord,” Elain said in between gasps.

With a teasing glint in his eyes, Lucien accepted a new strawberry from her fingers, his lips parting just enough to capture the juicy fruit. Elain's heart skipped a beat at the sight, her desire for him growing with each passing moment. As he savored the sweet taste, chocolate dripped down his chin, and without hesitation, she leaned in to capture the tempting morsel with her tongue, relishing the intimate exchange between them.

“Where does my beautiful mate want me to thank her first?” Lucien said, his voice husky with desire as he felt her tongue trace a path from his chin to his neck.

“Outside,” she said against his ear, her words sending a shiver down his spine. “Just like the first time.”

With a silent nod, Lucien lifted her into his arms, carrying her outside into the cool night air. As they gazed up at the twinkling stars above, Elain's fingers deftly worked at the fastenings of his clothing, anticipation building with each passing moment. The glow of the moon cast an ethereal light on his golden skin as she stripped him bare under the star-flecked sky.

Reaching for him, her touch sent shivers down his spine as her tongue traced the contours of his length. Her lips trailed down, savoring every inch of him with tantalizing strokes. Lucien's breath hitched in his throat, his desire mounting with each caress. But before she could take him fully into her mouth, he stopped her with a gentle hand on her shoulder.

“That’s not the way I want to thank you, my love,” he said hoarsely, his voice thick with desire.

She smirked, her eyes gleaming with mischief. “I wasn’t finished yet, my lord,” she teased, her fingers tracing patterns along his skin.

Lucien's breath grew shallow as he watched his cock disappear into Elain’s mouth. He was powerless, overwhelmed by the sensations coursing through him as she took him deeper, her moans vibrating against his cock. His fingers tangled in her hair, a silent plea for her to continue, to take him to the heights of ecstasy he knew only she could reach. With each movement, she squeezed and twisted the base, eliciting a symphony of pleasure that echoed in his mind. The sensation of her throat tightening around his tip sent waves of pleasure coursing through him, driving him ever closer to the edge of bliss.

She looked up at him, tears glistening in the corners of her eyes as she gagged, saliva dribbling from her lips. Her gaze was intense, filled with a mix of desire and devotion that stirred something deep within him. In that moment, he realized just how much he loved her, how much he needed her, and how grateful he was to have her as his mate. With a ragged breath, he surrendered to the pleasure, his release flooding over him in waves of pure ecstasy as Elain continued to worship him with her mouth.

In that moment, as their bodies merged in a dance of passion under the moonlit sky, he knew that in Elain’s arms, he had found his true home.

***

"Nesta," Feyre cautioned as they surveyed the newly revitalized Spring Court. "I don't think this is a good idea."

Nesta adjusted the basket on her arm with a sigh. "Look, I am trying, okay? It’s been two weeks, close to three weeks, since Lucien has been sick, and I'm sure Elain is sick and tired of having to play nurse."

Feyre sighed, her expression skeptical. "Let’s make it quick before Rhys and Tamlin catch on that we're here."

Nesta knocked on the door. Silence. She knocked again, but there was still no response.

"Are they out?" Nesta asked, turning to Feyre.

"They shouldn’t be," Feyre replied, her brow furrowed as she jiggled the doorknob. “Elain said that he’s been sick to the point that he can’t leave the bed.”

To their surprise, the door swung open easily.

"Then why is the door unlocked?" Nesta questioned, her concern growing.

Feyre's brow furrowed deeper as she pushed the door open cautiously. "I don't know, but we should be careful."

As they stepped inside, the air seemed charged with an unusual energy. The sound of soft murmurs reached their ears, and Nesta exchanged a puzzled glance with Feyre.

“It just smells of sex in here,” Nesta frowned. “Like it stained the house.”

“Part of his sickness maybe? She made it seem like he was dying, after all,” Feyre mused, her expression troubled.

Before they could contemplate further, Nesta and Feyre cautiously made their way through the house, their senses heightened with apprehension. They followed the soft murmurs, the tension in the air thickening with each step, until they reached the ajar bedroom door.

Nesta reached out and pushed it open slowly, her heart pounding in her chest. As they stepped inside, the sight that greeted them left them both speechless.

Nesta turned from Feyre, her eyes widening in shock. "Oh."

Both sisters paled at the unexpected scene unfolding before them. Elain hung suspended upside down, her ankles crossed as Lucien held her effortlessly, his expression a mix of concentration and determination as he adjusted her position, grunting about how tight she was. Meanwhile, Elain's face was a picture of pure bliss, completely lost in the moment and unaware of their presence.

They exchanged a stunned glance, unsure of what to do or say in such a situation. Nesta cleared her throat awkwardly, but neither of them made a move to interrupt the intimate moment unfolding before their eyes.

Elain's voice broke through the silence, her words filled with a mixture of desperation and pleasure as she uttered curses and pleaded with Lucien not to stop.

A stunned silence enveloped them as they took in the surreal sight before quickly retreating, their minds reeling with confusion and disbelief.

Without a word, the sisters quickly turned around and dropped the basket on the front door.

"Uh," Nesta stammered, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "Well."

"Elain is going to have to tell us how to do that," Feyre muttered, equally flustered as they made a hasty exit.

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