See parts 1-4 here

(Rhys POV)

Mor winnowed us directly into the downstairs living room of my… our townhouse. Reluctantly I raised my eyes to meet the stares of those in the room, whatever conversation they had been having forgotten at our arrival. Amren, met my gaze and nodded her head in welcome she was sitting on the couch conveniently separating Lucien from Nesta. Cassian raised his eyebrows at me, or at Mor I didn’t care enough to discern which.

The smell of my mate lingered in the room, but she wasn’t here. Panic pulsed, through me at her absence. My fear must have been visible on my face, because instantly Cassian whispered, “She’s fine Rhys, she is upstairs resting… but fine.” A breath that I hadn’t realized I had been holding shattered through my chest at his words. She was fine, my mate… my mate was okay, and upstairs. I was vaguely aware that Amren had started talking to Mor and I about what had happened in the Spring Court, but I couldn’t concentrate on the details, all of my thoughts were consumed by one thing… Feyre.

Without saying a word I turned my back on the room, heading towards the stairs. The desire to see my mate, compelling my feet forwards, pushing through my exhaustion with each step. I knew that I was walking at a normal pace, but it felt like it took much longer to reach the door to my… our bedroom than normal.

My hand shook as I reached for the door, cursing I balled my fingers into a tight fist forcing the shaking to stop, as I tried to pull myself together. Tried, and failed, I was too spent. I couldn’t even control my own body. I sighed, this is not how I wanted to look the first time I saw my mate again after months. I wanted to be the strong High Lord of the Night Court that she had fallen in love with, not the crumbling mess I was now. Cringing at the thought that my mate might not want the broken pieces of myself that I had become, I slowly pushed open the door.

Her scent hit me first, the smell of her this close almost bringing me to my knees. Pushing the door open farther, I finally saw her. Lying on her stomach, spread out across our bed, one hand clutching my pillow close. Her head was angled away from me towards the open balcony overlooking Velaris, but I could tell by the deep rhythmic rise and fall of her chest that she was asleep. She was still dressed in that ridiculous pink dress from the Spring Court, I snarled showing my teeth, as I smelled spring on her… smelled Tamlin. I would kill him.

I reached inside me searching for the bond, but still could not feel her. That’s when I saw the bands of silver around her ankles, I vaguely recalled Lucien saying something about it nullifying her powers. This time a growl, fierce and strong ripped through me. How dare they put those chains on my mate, my High Lady.

Tentatively I reached out a finger to stroke the silver metal, the coldness of it surprised me, but what didn’t surprise me was the feeling of repulsion that went through me. My magic screamed at me to move away from it, to stop touching it, so I did. My face grim, as I looked for the first time into the face of my mate.

This time my legs did give out, as I feel to my knees in front of her. How had she survived wearing those horrid chains for so long. A shudder went through me at the thought of what it must feel like to wear them all the time. I raised my gaze again to take in her face. She was beautiful, and she looked peaceful in this moment. My eyes scanned over the rest of her taking note of the bruise that was still prominent around her throat, and the fact that she had lost some weight, but she was alive and finally home.

Exhaustion pulsed through me as the drive to see my mate was fulfilled. I knew that I wouldn’t be able to stay conscious much longer, before my mind forced me into sleep so that it could restore the damage I had done earlier.

Carefully, so as to not disturb Feyre, I braced my arms on either side of her on the mattress, and slowly lowered myself beside her on the bed, my arms tightening around her to hold her close against me. The last thing I remembered before giving into the burnout was her warm breath caressing my neck.

(Feyre POV)

I was starting to wake up, my mind slowly catching up the events of day, when the scent of citrus and sea filled my senses. Slowly I remembered that I was in our room lying on our bed, but the scent seemed stronger. My eyes snapped open.

Rhys…

My mate, was sleeping beside me, his arms wrapped around me holding me tightly to his chest. Angling my head backwards slightly I looked up into his face. His hair was disheveled, and longer than I had ever seen it. The muscles of his face were relaxed in sleep, and one could have mistaken it to be peaceful if they didn’t know better. Dark circles lined his eyes that were not there months ago, his strong cheek bones more prominent. He looked as broken as I felt.

Wanting desperately to touch him, to prove that this was real and not a dream, I raised a finger tracing the outline of his face expecting him to stir at the sensation, but he remained asleep. Odd… Rhys would normally snap his eyes open at the slightest movement. In fact he normally could sense when I was awake.

I let my hands roam lower, grabbing the back of his neck, pulling my body closer to his as my fingers continued there descent, grabbing his shirt pulling it up so that I could feel his bare skin against me. Rhys still didn’t stir.

Now I was concerned, something had to be wrong. Bracing my hands against his chest I pushed away as far as I could trying to see him better, but his grip instinctively tightened around me, pulling me against him. Looking back up into his face, I frowned. Was he having a nightmare? Why wouldn’t he wake up?

“Rhys…” I whispered against his ear, my voice much weaker and raspier than I would have liked, but it still hurt to talk thanks to… I shuddered pushing the memories down inside me. “Rhys” I tried again with more volume. My hand cupped his cheek, as I said his name again.

When he still didn’t react, I became frantic, shaking his shoulders, but he remained motionless. The only sign that he was even alive, was the warm breath hitting my face.

“Mor! Amren!” My voice wasn’t loud enough to be considered a scream, but I knew that if they were still in the townhouse they would hear me.

Within seconds Mor was standing beside the bed. She quickly scanned the room looking for any threats, upon finding none her gazed rested back on the bed, where Rhys and I were laying. I noticed that her gaze lingered longer on Rhys, before her eyes found mine.

“Whats wrong Feyre?” She whispered.

I pointed a finger at Rhys, who was still sleeping like the dead beside me. “What’s wrong with him?” My voice cracked with emotion, and I didn’t care as tears sprang to my eyes. I just wanted to speak to my mate, needed to hear his voice, feel his touch, his caress, his lips…

“Oh Feyre…” Mor reached out and squeezed my hand, offering me a comforting smile. “He’s fine, well… mostly. Today, I don’t know… he slipped. He released almost all of his power in a short amount of time. It drained him… I hadn’t realized how much, but…” Mor paused as she glanced over at Rhys. “ It seems worse than I initially thought. He will probably sleep for a while, perhaps days.”

Days… he could be asleep for days. I frowned at the thought and Mor laughed. “Don’t worry Feyre, you will have him back soon enough.” I offered her a small smile, of course I was just happy to be here, happy to be home. Mor smiled back at me, as if she could read my thoughts. I dropped my gaze, readying myself for the question that I needed to ask.

“How was he?” Mor’s smile faltered, as her eyes darted again to Rhys.

“He, umm… He didn’t take being separated from you well. At first, I thought that with time it would get better, but it seemed to only get worse the further you were gone. It was like everyday more of him faded away, until all that was left was the mask of the High Lord of the Night Court.” Mor shook her head, as if trying to clear away memories. “He sent Elaine away with Azril, and it made sense and has been working well to our advantage, but I think he had an alternative motive for sending her away, she reminded him too much of you. He started drinking more, becoming more isolated… today was the most I’ve talked to him in months…” Pain and guilt ripped through my heart, as Mor talked. My fault… it was all my fault. Her hand tightened around mine, in reassurance as she said, “Nobody blames you Feyre.” I couldn’t respond without crying, so I just nodded my head, and looked back at Rhys.

“I do need to tell you something.” Mor continued, “In the morning members of the Summer, Dawn, and Winter courts will be here for a meeting at the House of Wind. We have been trying to persuade Winter and Dawn to join us for months, but have been mostly unsuccessful, especially with Winter. The news of Amarantha’s possible return has spread quickly, and Winter has agreed for a meeting.” Mor paused, apparently waiting for me to respond, when I didn’t she pressed further. “This is very important, their alliance will be the difference between winning and losing this war”

I knew that. I knew that Autumn and Day court had already aligned themselves with Tamlin and the King of Hybren, we needed all of the alliances we could get, and it still probably wouldn’t be enough.

“Why did they agree to the meeting now?” If they had been working on it for months, why now.

“Azril and Elaine were returning home to see you, and Dawn decided to come along. Winter it seems is interested in why Feyre Curse breaker, would associate with the monsters of the Night Court. Winter is mostly interested in speaking with you, and knowing what happened with Amarantha.”

I shuddered, the thought of having to speak about it to anyone. Rhys and I haven’t even talked about it yet, and to complete strangers. I couldn’t… I… I would worry about it latter.

“What about Rhys?” I asked glancing back at my mate who was still sleeping soundly. Mor shrugged her shoulders, as she appraised him from her spot on the bed.

“He might not fully recover in time for the meeting.” She finally said after moments of silence.

So I did a thing... This idea just popped into my head, and this spilled out. Enjoy!! 

(Feyre POV)

I glanced down at the outfit I was currently wearing, wondering if it would be suitable for whatever plans Mor had in mind for girls day. My sweater dress, should be warm enough if there were any outdoor activities, but also nice enough for anything more upscale. She wouldn’t even hint at what we were going to do today, so this was the best I could do under the circumstances.

Mor had been blabbering on and on about today for the past few weeks. She had decided that while Rhys, Cassian, and Az went on their annual drunken holiday, that us girls would have fun too. She had even gotten Amren to agree to attend, how I still didn’t know.

Rhys had left this morning with his brothers, and while I missed him already I knew that this time would be good for him, good for us. We had agreed not to communicate using the bond for this weekend, if we could help it. Being separated from my mate had me a little anxious, if I was honest with myself, and I was actually glad that Mor had invented girls day, if nothing else it would be a distraction.

It turned out that Mor had surprised us all. We spent the day on a boat cruising down the Sidra, it was absolutely perfect, that was until it came time for dinner. We had docked near the Rainbow, and the view was absolutely stunning, as we all sat down for dinner. It had been an absolutely beautiful day, full of laughter and just girl talk. My cheeks actually hurt from laughing so much, even Nesta and Amren looked like they were having fun, which was a rare feat to accomplish and I knew that Mor was proud of herself.

Just as my plate was sat in front of me, a feeling of nausea rolled through me so strong, that it was a wonder I managed to stay up right. Standing, suddenly I turned away from the table and ran to railing of the boat, just barely making it in time to empty the contents of my stomach into the pristine water of the Sidra bellow.

“Feyre! Feyre… are you okay?” Mor was instantly by my side, grabbing my hair out of my face. Nesta, grabbed my arm and guided me to a nearby chair, while Amren stood back and surveyed me with her piercing silver eyes.

“I’m fine. I feel better now.” It was the truth, the nausea had gone as quickly as it started. Mor nodded, “Good. Perhaps it was the rocking of the boat, or the wine.” I nodded my head in response, but knew that was not the cause. The boat was barely moving, and I hadn’t had any wine today.

“Well, if you’re feeling better, is it okay if we eat? Because I’m starving.” Nesta asked from beside me. I smiled at my sister,  as she stood and grabbed her plate from the table bringing it over to where we were sitting near the railing. As soon as the smell of her food wafted into the air around me, that feeling was back, quickly I turned again and vomited over the side of the boat.

Mor frowned at me. “Perhaps we should get you home Feyre, it doesn’t look like you’re getting better.” I nodded again, unable to speak as my brain focused on keeping the contents of my stomach inside me. Amren grabbed Nesta, and Mor took my hand as we winnowed to the townhouse. Winnowing made the nausea so much worse, as soon as we landed, I emptied my stomach all over the hardwood floors. Mor cursed beside, me as her hands grabbed at my face checking me for fever.

“You don’t feel warm. How do you feel? Does anything hurt?”

No nothing hurt… and now like before I felt fine. The feeling of sickness having passed once again.

“I feel fine.”

“Feyre… you don’t look fine.” As she finished talking Amren and Nesta walked in the front door. “Are you okay?” Nesta asked me concern lacing her voice.

“I… I think so. I feel fine now.” Amren narrowed her eyes at me, but remained silent. We spent the next few minutes lounging on the couches in the living room talking, when Mor disappeared into the the kitchen and reappeared with desserts and tea.

“Oh thank goodness, I’m so hung…” My voice cut off as nausea once again grabbed hold of me. Nesta grabbed a nearby vase, and handed it to me just in time. This was getting ridiculous, I felt tears form in my eyes, and quickly wiped them away.

“Perhaps we should call for a healer.” Nesta whispered to Mor. “No I’m all right, really” I insisted, though I knew they didn’t believe me, they remained silent on the issue, and continued to talk a amongst themselves.

Rhys….  I called down the bond.

Fey — re. He dragged out the syllables of my name, his mental voice slurred slightly, with a hint of surprise. Right, he had spent the entire day drinking, and we weren’t supposed to be communicating with the bond. When I didn’t respond I felt a wave of panic, before I heard him.

Is.. are… you hurt?

I’m fine Rhys, go back to your fun. I shouldn’t have bothered you.

You’re never a bother, Feyre darling. His mental voice purred. I smiled, but was suddenly hit by another wave of sickness. I could feel Rhys worry, and realized that he must have felt it through me.

I’ll be right there. Was all I heard before, the room was filled with the smell of alcohol and three drunk Illyrians.

Multiple things happened at once. Cassian and Az were lying on the ground cursing at Rhys, who from the scene in front of us, had apparently not informed his brothers of his choice in sudden departure. Mor, Amren, and Nesta had jumped up from were they were lounging in shock at their sudden appearance.

The noise… smell… and commotion caused me to once again feel queasy, and I grabbed for the vase, vomiting once more. When I was finished I looked up to into the Violet eyes of my mate that were studying me from across the room.

Rhys had not moved since arriving, he stood unnaturally still, his eyes were widened, pupils dilated. The once noisy room was now quiet, as everyone starred between the two of us.

“What the hell Rhys!” Cassian screamed as he pushed up from the ground. “You could warn us next time…” Azril drawled as he crossed the room, giving Mor a quick kiss on the cheek. “Yeah!” Cassian added as he glared at Rhys, who completely ignored all of them, his eyes still locked on mine, body unmoving.

Rhys… I timidly voiced through the bond, but was surprised to discover that his end of the bond had been sealed against me. Odd…

“Rhys?” This time I said his name out loud. It seemed to break him out of whatever trance he had been in, as he closed the distance between us stopping only a few feet away. His violet eyes never once leaving mine.

“Will someone please tell me what the” Cassian drawled rather loudly, abruptly being cut off as Amren shushed him, casting a look that promised violence if he didn’t shut his drunk mouth. It seemed that even in his current state Cassian knew better than to mess with our small friend, and promptly closed his gaping mouth, crossing his arms in front of his chest like a scorned child.

Suddenly Rhys turned taking a defensive stance in front of me and growled at the occupants of the room, his wings shooting out protectively hiding me from view. I noticed that the members of our inner circle instinctively flinched backwards, everyones face one of confusion except for Amren who looked amused.

“Rhys darling, what in the world are you doing?” I asked my voice lighthearted and playful. A snarl was the only response that I received, effectively telling me to stay quiet. “Okay, you need to calm down, I’m fine.” My voice displayed more annoyance this time, but Rhys still did not relax his stance in front of me.

Rhys what the hell are you doing? Calm down I’m not in danger, I’m just sick.

The slight tensing of the muscles of his jaw, was the only indication that he heard me. A sigh escaped my lips. Stupid territorial Fae males.  

Suddenly Rhys turned towards me, his wings spread out behind him blocking my view of our inner circle, who were no doubt gawking at their High Lord’s ridiculousness right now. His eyes scanned over me, assessing my condition. I’m fine Rhys. I sent down the bond while offering him a small smile.

His eyes locked on the porcelain vase in my lap. You are obviously not fine, darling. He shot back causing me to roll my eyes. Rhys please, I think I can handle a little stomach bug after everything we have been through. Just relax.

His nostrils flared as he responded. I can’t… His mental voice sounded strained.

What do you mean you can’t?

I just…

“Are you guys doing that mind talky talky talk right now? Because if not then this is just awkward.” Cassian bellowed into the dead silence of the room. I heard someone smack him across the arm, probably Mor or Nesta, most likely Nesta.

Wisps of darkness, started curling around my mate, as his facial features scrunched together. Feyre, I need to get you out of here. Rhys pleaded into my mind. I narrowed my eyes at him, my lips forming a hard line. No, you’re overreacting, you drunk ass, stop it.

I watched as his fingers curled into a tight fist, but he lowered his wings, stepping beside me as he turned and faced the room, his eyes still didn’t stop watching me as he addressed everyone.

“Sorry, I don’t know what came over me.” Amren’s smirk widened as she glanced between us, almost like she knew…

“Amren” Her eyes snapped to mine, the smirk still plastered across her face, as she raised an eyebrow in question. “Tell us” was all I said. She had the nerve to look confused by my question, but I only hardened my stare at her.

“Tell us what?” Cassian blurted. “I don’t think she meant us, us I think she meant them us” Az corrected pointing a finger between Rhys and I. “Ohh… I still don’t get it” Cassian slurred.

“Shut up you stupid drunks” Amren mumbled, “Isn’t it obvious what’s going on here.” She looked at me then at Rhys. “No” Rhys responded dryly. “Ugh, it really is very simple. Feyre is sick, Rhys is being an overprotective ass for no reason.” Amren paused waiting for us to say something, but she was met by a room full of blank stares, until Rhys suddenly took a step back so hard that he slammed into the wall behind us.

“No!”

Amren smiled at him, “Yes” she responded. I watched as my mate fell to his knees in front of me and started crying. Crying! What the hell was going on?

“Rhys, Amren! What?” I couldn’t form the words… Rhys what is it, what’s wrong. I sent down the bond as a I knelt down beside him grabbing his face. When his eyes locked onto mine I realized that they were bright, vibrant full of happiness as he smiled down at me.

You’re pregnant darling, were going to be parents. Rhys voice caressed the bond, along with an overwhelming sense of love, shock, and awe. Rhys lips were suddenly upon my cheek kissing away tears I hadn’t even realized were falling, as my mind replayed those words. Parents… a Mom, I was going to be a Mom. Are you happy darling? Rhys asked as he placed his forehead against mine, his smile never once leaving his face.

I smiled back at him, true and genuine I’m beyond happy Rhys. He pulled me into his arms then kissing me fiercely.

I Know that it has been weeks since this was last updated, but here is part 4!!  Part 1, Part 2, Part 3

(Rhys POV) 

I felt it before it happened. The shift in the air as Amren, Lucien…. and Feyre, my mate, slammed into the floor of the townhouse. Lucien rolled onto his stomach, mumbling under his breath. His shields were down and his mind was screaming her name… Amarantha. My claws instantly reached for his mind, but he must have felt it because he yanked up his shields while narrowing his eyes at me. Amren, grabbed Feyre, supporting her neck. My body took a step towards my mate, then froze.

Her neck was bruised and her breathing was forced. The sound of Feyre’s neck snapping under the mountain played too clearly in my ears. Blackness creeped at the edges of my vision, and I snapped. The last thread that was keeping me grounded, that was holding me together, shattered.

The hold that I normally so efficiently and carefully kept on my powers split open as darkness poured out of me, entwining with my rage. My senses dulled, the only thing I could feel was the utter darkness of my power as it consumed me.

“Rhysand…” The voice sounded far away, mumbled like I was underwater. Suddenly a face filled my vision. A male. An Illyrian male. The image blurred in and out, his face contorted as he screamed at me, but I didn’t hear what he said. I felt arms on my shoulders shaking me.

A growl built deep within my throat, and the face changed to one of shock. My instincts wanted to grab this man and hurl him as hard as I could against the wall, but something deep inside me fought against it causing me to hesitate. Another hand grabbed me, this time around my wrist. Before I could react they winnowed, taking me with them.

The first thing I registered was the drop in temperature. Outside, I was outside. The power that I had given free reign to my body and mind begged to be released. It was building underneath my skin, and I couldn’t contain it any longer. No, I didn’t want to contain it.  A roar erupted through me as I unleashed the full potential of my magic, causing the world to explode into darkness.

“Rhys… Rhysand… Cousin…” A familiar voice punctured through the darkness. Mor.

Raising my head I glanced around me, inky darkness thick as oil completely surrounded me. What happened. The hair on my arms raised up, I looked down. Feeling slightly dizzy from the motion. Snow. I was standing in the snow. Where am I?

“Rhys…” Mor called again.

I could tell that she was somewhere to my left, but didn’t know how far away, or if she was hurt. The darkness fell away at that thought. Standing 10 feet away was Mor. Her hair was blown around like she had been in a storm, shock plastered on her face as she blinked into the light. Seeing me she stumbled forward until she was beside me. I noticed how she cautiously reached out her arm towards me, the motion causing me to grimace. What had I done to her?

“I’m sorry.” I mumbled. She raised her eyebrows, “What? No, are you okay?”

“I’m fine.” It came out colder than I intended. and I caught Mor narrow her eyes at me, but she didn’t push me either out of fear or understanding. I hoped it was the later.

“I’ve never lost it like that before Mor.” My eyes raised to meet hers, and her stare softened.

“I know… why…” I cut her off before she could finish her question. “I don’t know what happened Mor. I just, I saw her lying there injured like that… and Lucien’s mind was screaming Amarantha, and all I could think about was when she died under the mountain.” Mor’s eyes widened at the mention of Amarantha, but just nodded her head her eyebrows scrunching together in thought.

I didn’t want to admit the truth to myself. That I had lost control over my powers for the first time since I was a child, not from shock or some crazy over protective mate instinct. Those were good excuses, but only that. No, I had lost control because I was broken from the inside. A groan escaped my lips as I thought about the large amount of alcohol I had consumed tonight, which probably hadn’t helped. It’s a good thing Mor brought me here, and didn’t trust me to regain control. I would have destroyed the townhouse and probably half of Velaris.  

“Did I, did I…. hurt…” Mor’s snort cut me off. “You came close to getting into it with Cassian, but what’s new there.” A half laugh escaped from me as I smiled at my cousin. “Are you ready to go back and see Feyre?” My smile faltered, and I know Mor noticed it. Taking a deep breath I nodded my head. She raised her arm towards me waiting for me to grab it and winnow us home.

So Here is Part 3... planning on wrapping it up with some Feysand fluff in the next part. Read part1 and part 2 

(Rhys POV)

The mere minutes that Amren had been gone felt like an eternity. Mor was standing in front of me yelling at me wanting to know what I had said to Amren, what happened, and on and on. I wanted to answer her. Wanted to talk to her, but I didn’t have the energy. So, I just stood there, with my hands in my pockets and waited. Waited for Amren to return with or without my mate.

I had momentarily lifted the ban on winnowing into the townhouse, allowing Amren direct access for her return should she need it. Every muscle in my body tensed with anxiety, my hands currently balled into fists, as I tried to push down the feeling of dread that threatened to overtake me.

Feyre is fine. She is strong, stronger than me. You would have felt something. She’s fine.

My thoughts tried and failed to comfort me. Cassian’s hand squeezed my shoulder, offering support, but I shook it off. I couldn’t stand to have anyone touching me right now.

I felt it before it happened. The shift in the air as Amren, Lucien…. and Feyre, my mate, slammed into the floor of the townhouse.

(Feyre POV)

Breathe, I… I couldn’t breathe. Panic shot through me, as I attempted to gulp down air. It burned, and wasn’t enough. Not enough… air.

A wooden floor, started to come into focus through the darkness, and I realized too late that I was falling onto it. We all landed hard in a pile of tangled limbs on the ground. There were voices shouting all around me, but my mind couldn’t register what they were saying… air not enough… air.

Small strong hands gripped the side of my face, pulling back my hair, as they stabilized my neck. “Shh…. Feyre it’s okay, take slow deep breaths.” Amren… tears filled my eyes. She had saved me. “Breathe slowly, In and out”

A shattering breath ripped through my chest as I tried to do as she asked, concentrating on each breath, forcing air in and out of my lungs. In and out.

Voices started to stand out from the noise around me, Lucien lying beside me mumbling No over and over. Cassian cursing violently nearby, and Nesta. I tried to move but Amren forced me back down. “Breathe Feyre, just breathe.”

“Why isn’t she healing?” Mor, it was Mor. I must have reached for her, because suddenly her hand was holding mine, her face barely in focus hovering above me. My vision blurred, as another gasping breath filled my lungs… not enough air, it wasn’t enough.

“I don’t know” Amren murmured from behind me, her small hands still supporting my neck. “She should have started to heal, especially with her Day court magic… Breathe Feyre.” It was becoming too hard, each breath burned, but I took another gasping breath my vision going in and out.

“The chains” Lucien mumbled.

“What?” Mor snapped at him. My grip tightened on her hand, I was trying to tell her that Lucien was my friend, but I don’t think she understood the gesture.

“The chains” he repeated, as he lifted up the bottom of my dress exposing the metal Hybren chains around my ankles. “They nullify her magic… I. I don’t know how to remove them.” More curses filled the room, as I took another gasping breath.

Darkness started to fill my vision. I was going to black-out…

“Rhysand…” Amren’s voice called out to my mate, in warning. My mate. Rhys. The darkness I saw was coming from him. Where is he… I can’t feel him. A gargled sob escaped my lips, as I tried to call out to him.

“Shh… Stay still, and focus on breathing. I’m not finished yet.” Amren mumbled to me. Each breath became less labored, as her magic continued healing me. The room was now so dark, that I had to blink my eyes to make sure that they were still open.

“Rhys…” Mor hissed “We need to be able to see over here.” I could picture her rolling her eyes as she said it, but the darkness only continued to increase as the room began to shake around us.

Above the creaking noises of the townhouse that was threatening to be be blown apart, I could hear Cassian struggling with Rhysand. My mate. My mate. Then Cassian’s voice rang out, “I can’t get through to him, I don’t think he can control it.” Mor cursed beside me.

“Get him out of here… Now!” Amren yelled at Mor. No… I needed him. I needed to see him. Mor dropped my hand, and must have grabbed Rhys and winnowed him away. It was like the calming effect after a storm, light started to penetrate through the darkness and the townhouse stopped shaking.

“What the hell was that about?” Lucien screamed. My vision was starting to become more defined and less of a blur of colors. From where I was lying on the floor I could only see a fraction of my surroundings.

The living room, we were in the living room. My head was in Amren’s lap her hands still bracing my neck as she continued working on me. Lucien was kneeling near me towards my feet, obviously too nervous to leave my side, and Cassian and Nesta were nearby judging by their voices, but I couldn’t see them.

It was Cassian that answered. “Rhys… Rhysand, hasn’t been himself lately…” His voice trailed off like he wasn’t sure how to proceed. Amren continued for him. “As I’m sure you can understand Lucien” she purred, “the mating bond can cause all of your senses and judgement to momentarily leave you. It seems that seeing his mate injured proved to be too much for him at the moment. Mor took him to go blow off some steam, and he will return.”

I knew she said that last part for my benefit, to calm me. It helped some, but Rhys. I had never seen him lose control like that, we been so close, and I didn’t even see him. Tears started to stream down face. All the tears that I had held in for months came rushing forward like an unstoppable flood.

“What happened?” I angled my head towards Nesta. I knew that she was asking me, but I couldn’t form the words, didn’t want to talk about what had happened, or who had done this to me. Amren released her hold on my neck, the pain barely present now as I took a deep breath. When I didn’t answer Nesta looked at Lucien, waiting for him to tell her, but he just shook his head his face draining of color.

“It was Amarantha” Amren whispered. Just the mention of her name caused me to shiver.

“What… How!” Cassian blurted. No… I wouldn’t talk about it not now, I didn’t care if it made me weak, I just didn’t care.

“I’m tired” I whispered in a voice that was barely audible. Everyone turned to look at me. Cassian’s mouth opened to say something, but quickly shut it.

Here it is Part 2!! I was struggling with it a little bit, but finally just decided to stop messing with it, and leave it alone. You can see part 1 here. Enjoy!! 

(Lucien POV)

This couldn’t be happening my mind screamed over and over, but it was. It was. Feyre’s screams filled the air around me, again I tried moving and found myself unable to do so. My body currently forced into a kneeling position, with my head angled downwards by some invisible forcefield. Again, I threw all of my strength and power against that shield, only to be met with resistance.

The clicking sound of her tongue caused me to freeze momentarily as her feet slid into view, stopping inches away from my knees.

“Come now, Lucien” She purred, dragging out the syllables of my name. “You’ll just tire yourself out with all of that wasted effort.”

My muscles burned in agony, as a I strained with all my might against that invisible force that was holding me in position, bowing in front of her. Laughter filled my ears, as a I saw a flash of red out of the corner of my eye. She had knelt down to my level, I could feel the warmth of her breath brushing against my ear as she whispered, “I have big plans for you Lucien.” Smiling she stood, and turned her attention once again towards Feyre.

I took the opportunity to scan what little of my surroundings I could see with my russet eye. Searching for anything that could save us. To my left Tamlin, was kneeling in a similar position as myself, only he wasn’t struggling against his restraints. I wanted to yell at him to fight, but now wasn’t the time. Feyre’s piercing screams drew my eyes attention over to my right. She was only a few inches away from me.

So close, I had been so close to grabbing her, and winnowing us to safety. All I could see of Feyre was her feet, hovering inches off the ground kicking violently as Amarantha stood in front of her, the magic holding her. No, squeezing her I realized, as Feyre gasped for breath.

This was not supposed to happen! None of this was supposed to happen. We had received word late last evening to expect a messenger from Hybren. As usual we had been waiting in the study when Amarantha had walked straight into the room. Feyre froze instantly, even when I yelled at her to run she didn’t move. Amarantha took care of Tamlin first, clearly seeing him as the biggest threat in the room, while she forced Tamlin into submission I lunged for Feyre, but came up short.

I should have gotten her out of here weeks ago, should have demanded that she left when Tamlin placed those damn Hybren chains to nullify her powers around her ankles. He claimed that it was for her safety, that she couldn’t control her powers yet and would keep Hybren from using her in the war. It was all a lie, I knew it the moment he uttered the words. So did Feyre. Tamlin wanted her to be unable to put up a fight. He wanted to make sure that he was the most powerful person in the Spring Court. I still don’t know why she let him do it.

Feyre’s gasping breaths filled my ears, her feet flailing more rapidly as she squirmed against the hold Amarantha had on her. Tears stung my eyes. Helpless, I was helpless. Amarantha laughed, as if she could hear my thoughts, a deep terrible sounding laugh that I knew would haunt my dreams for years.

“Well, Feyre Archeron” Amarantha whispered as she inched closer to Feyre. “You have been busy haven’t you in our few months apart. I hear that you are called Cursebreaker now.” She paused, evidently to tighten her grip on Feyre as a muffled whine escaped her lips. “But what of your other titles…”

Her voice dropped so low that I could barely make out what she said next. “Defender of the Rainbow, or my absolute favorite High Lady of the Night Court, Mate of Rhysand.” Feyre’s movements became frantic then, as Amarantha continued laughing.

“I can smell him on you. Yes, your inconstant heart, beats loudly in your new Fae body.” She paused, moving even closer. “But not for long, Feyre Darling.” I shuddered at the use of Rhysand’s pet name for Feyre.

“I shall enjoy breaking this new body of yours, bone by bone. Then I shall send your dead and mangled body to our dearest Rhysand…” Another whine filled the air, as Amarantha chuckled.

“Let’s begin, shall we?”

(Amren POV)

Taking a long sip of the spiced warm lambs blood, I turned my eyes to the next page of the book of breathings, a part of my mind continued decoding the text, looking for anything that could help us, or me. The rest of my mind was currently occupied by the conversation that surrounded me. Mor, Cassian, and Nesta were huddled together on the sofa in the corner casually sipping tea. Nesta was quietly, or at least more quiet for her, fussing at Cassian about not hearing from Azriel and Elain who had traveled to the Dawn Court over a month ago, in hopes of winning another ally. It was a never ending sore subject with Nesta. A small smile crossed my lips. Nesta, I liked, perhaps even more than Feyre at times. She was a fire storm, and it seemed only Cassian was able to keep her temper from exploding around us.

Mor, sat quietly beside them, occasionally interjecting to tell Nesta for probably the hundredth time, that Elaine was fine and she would likely hear from her soon. When Mor, wasn’t trying to console Nesta she was casting worried glances at our High Lord, who was standing alone on the balcony.

Rhysand, hadn’t been the same since Hybren. None, of them had, but especially him. Being separated from Feyre for so long was starting to take it’s toll. I had tried everyday for the the first month of her absence to convince him to let me go get her, for his sake. He had refused. It was hard to watch. Rhysand had been broken when he had returned to us from under the mountain, but not beyond repair. Now, I wasn’t sure. He only spoke when necessary, hardly slept, or ate. He didn’t leave the townhouse, except for attending meetings at the House of Wind. He was a shadow of himself. We had all tried talking to him, but were either ignored or met with unchecked rage, and so we were forced to watch as he slowly faded day by day.

A surprised gasp from Mor, had my full attention locked on her. It seemed, that a note had appeared in her lap.

Meeting my stare, she picked it up skimming its contents.

“Well?” I purred. “What does Azriel have to say today?” Truly, I wasn’t interested, but  Nesta’s head shot up at the mention of Azriel, her eyes intently watching Mor.

She looked at Nesta, then held my gaze, her pupils slightly dilated. This wasn’t good news.

“It’s about Elaine,” Before Mor could finish, Nesta snatched the paper out of her hand. “What does this mean!?” The paper in her hand bursting into flame. The flame finally dissipating, when Cassian placed a hand on her arm. Interesting.

“What did the note say?” Cassian asked Mor, but it was Nesta who answered. I really liked her.

“It said, that Elaine started getting feelings of panic, down the bond about 5 minutes ago. What does that even mean? What bond? Surely he isn’t talking about Lucien, because there is no connection between them!” I had stopped listening after the first few words, turning my attention to Rhysand. His demeanor hadn’t changed, no hint that he felt anything from Feyre.

Standing I crossed the length of the room, stepping out onto the balcony. Mor and Cassian followed close behind me. Nesta was still fuming, but followed as well. 

“HIgh Lord?” His eyes slowly turned their attention away from whatever he had been staring at and found my own. I had discovered over the past few months that when I needed Rhysand’s attention quickly that using his title typically did the trick, and thank the mother it worked now. I continued to address him very diplomatically, as I needed to hold his attention. “Mor, just recently received a note from Azriel, stating that Elaine has been feeling panic down the mating bond from Lucien for the past 5 minutes.”

A slight flaring of his nostrils, was the only indication that he had registered anything I said. When he didn’t speak, I prodded. “Do you feel anything?” His eyes drifted away from mine, back to the skyline. Rage flowed through me. Behind me, I could feel Mor taking a step closer. “Amren, calm down, we don’t know what it means.”

I swirled on her, shaking with anger. “Exactly! We don’t know what the hell it means!”

“What’s going on? Why is this so important?” Nesta whispered to Cassian, who briefly explained that it could mean Feyre was in danger. Her eyes widened, “But wouldn’t he know?” she asked gesturing to Rhysand.

I was perhaps the only one who knew the answer to that. One night after Feyre had been in the Spring Court for a few weeks, Rhysand had barged into my apartment half crazed claiming that he couldn’t feel her anymore. To my knowledge that hadn’t changed.

Go. 

(See other Fanfic here)

This is another Fanfic of Rhys while Feyre is back in the Spring Court. I just feel like he is going to have a hard time coping with Feyre being gone. Enjoy!! 

(Rhysand POV)

A clamor of noise jostled me awake. It took longer than normal to orient myself. I was in Feyre’s old room, sitting in the lounge chair near the balcony window. Sighing, I made to stand but quickly stopped as any movement caused my head to throb as if it would split in half. Grasping my head in my hands I leaned back into the softness of the plush chair and closed my eyes. Waiting for the pain to become manageable.  

Gently I stroked the bond that connected me to mate, trying to send a feeling that conveyed Good Morning, Feyre Darling. Every morning for the past 6 months when I awoke it was the first thing I would do. I didn’t know if Feyre received my good morning or understood what the feeling meant, as most mornings I felt nothing in return. Feyre it seems tried to communicate with me as little as possible, and had blocked off her side of the bond almost completely. The only way that we could communicate was through feelings. The bond was weaker after what happened in Hybren, but still there. Occasionally Feyre would send a note, but they always contained information about Tamlin’s movements and Hybren’s next steps. It had been months, months since I had been able to properly talk to my mate.

Although, on occasion I would get feelings from Feyre, feelings that I assumed she didn’t even know she was sending as they were mostly anger, pain, guilt, and longing. Feelings that drove me insane. To say that I was not taking being separated from my mate well, is an understatement at best. I was barely holding it together, if at all. My inner circle tries not to let their concern show, but I’ve caught the worried glances that they exchange between each other when they think I’m not paying attention. Each day it becomes harder. Harder to do simple things, like get out of bed, eat, sleep. The mask that I had created for myself was the only thing keeping me from completely shattering beyond repair. The mask of Rhysand the most powerful and feared High Lord. The Rhysand of the court of Nightmares, that everyone except my inner circle knew me to be. This is who I had become everyday for the past 6 months, just to be able to function.

A quiet knock at the door, interrupted my thoughts, and though the knock was quiet it caused stabbing sharp pain to radiate through my head. Groaning, I leaned forward still holding my head in my hands, as I mumbled something that hopefully sounded like come in. The door creaked open, a head full of golden curls peaking around the corner.

“What do you want Mor.” I spat out, still holding my head.

She walked inside closing the door as she did, crossing the room to pull back the curtains letting the sunlight spill into the room. The brightness of it only made the pain worse. Cursing I closed my eyes.

“Do you have any idea what time it is?”

All I could do was stare at her. Loud she was talking too loud.

Mor huffed an irritated sigh, and stomped across the room. Each step felt like a nail was being driven into my temples.

“Mor please”, I gasped out barley able to form the words. She halted and scanned the room. I knew that she was taking into consideration the fact that I was still wearing the clothes I had on yesterday, my disheveled hair, the stubble on my face, and the fact that there was an empty bottle of bourbon on the floor.

The irritated look in her eyes softened, as she pushed me over slightly making room so that she could sit beside me. I looked away from her stare not able to take the concern in her look any longer.

“Why don’t you just take the pain away?” She whispered. My face hardened, I could do it she knew I could. Take the pain of the hangover away, but I wouldn’t, because…

“You shouldn’t keep punishing yourself, like this Rhys.” I didn’t look at her, only nodded. Not that I had any intent of doing anything different. Mor gave me a scrutinizing look, before she asked, “Bad night?” I could only glare at her in return. She knew every night was a bad night for me since Feyre had been back in the Spring court. But last night was worse than others. I had been getting feelings of guilt and pain from Feyre most of the night, and having spent 50 years as Amarantha’s whore, I knew too well what those feelings meant.

Mor rolled her eyes as she stood, checking her watch. “Well, right now it’s almost noon, and Lord Tarquin is supposed to be here any time this afternoon to discuss possible alliances with Winter and Day courts.”

Curses escaped my lips, as I too stood, but too quickly the pain causing me to flinch. Mor grabbed my arm to steady me. That look of concern that I hated back in her eyes. “I’ll take a shower, and be at the house soon.” Mor narrowed her eyes at me, understanding that she was being dismissed and winnowed away.

Well here it is the last part of this little 3 part fanfic. Hope you enjoyed it!! Read part 1 and part 2 

(Aelin POV)

If felt good to laugh, even it it was only because the wine clouded her feelings. Feelings. Aelin looked down at the chocolate icing coating her fingers, and for an instant saw his blood instead.

“Why does everyone I love die?” She felt Dorian still beneath her at the question, but she didn’t care. Sitting up, he turned to look at her. His chest and back, covered in her chocolate icing art. Opening his mouth, only to quickly close it, he took her hands in his.

“Everyone will die someday, Aelin. It has nothing to do with who you love. Plus I’m pretty darn lovable and I’m still around.” He added with a wink. Aelin nudged him in the shoulder a small smile spreading across her face. She knew he was trying to make her feel better, draw her attention away from the issue, but it was true everyone she loved, truly loved had been taken from her too soon.

“First Sam, then…” She couldn’t will herself to say his name. She felt cool hands wiping away tears from her cheek, looking up she met his sapphire eyes. “I was unfair to you Dorian.” She watched as confusion showed across his face, and she wondered if they would even remember any of this in the morning.

“That is why I pushed you away. Because you were important, because I loved you and I wanted you to live. So I let you go.”

Dorian grabbed her face, smoothing her hair behind her ears. Leaving streaks of chocolate icing against her skin. “Aelin,” he breathed, “You had to let me go. We both had to let each other go. So that we could become who we are now.” She nodded as he leaned forward placing a quick kiss against hew forehead. The coolness of his lips against her warm skin sent a shiver down her spine.

“I know, I know. It’s just.” The words wouldn’t form properly in her alcohol induced mind. “It’s just that I didn’t want to.” Dorian was watching her cautiously as he laid back down on his back, giver her better access to finish the design she was currently working on that went across his chest. “Do you ever feel like in another world” her words trailed off, leaving her thought unfinished.

“Hmm?” Aelin shook her head, “Never mind it’s silly.” It was the wine she told herself the wine causing her to think such things. Turning her attention back to her human canvas, Aelin continued drawing designs on the King of Adarlan. They sat in silence for a long time, Dorian had long since closed his eyes, she would have thought him asleep if she didn’t catch the way the corners of his mouth would occasionally turn up when her fingers would graze against a ticklish spot, completely on accident of course.

“Do you believe that you can have more than one mate?”

“Of course.” His quick response caught her off guard. She hadn’t expected him to sound so sure. As if sensing her thoughts, he continued. “I’ve read stories where a character mated twice.” Aelin nodded, she had too. “Why do you ask?” Cracking his eyes open, Dorian looked at her out of the corner of his eyes.

Dipping her finger into the chocolate icing, she started tracing more chocolate swirls along the muscles of his arms. “I think Sam and I were mates” she whispered. Dorian remained quiet for a long time, before he said. “You loved him very much. You loved both of them equally.” Tears leaked down her cheeks, using the backside of her hand she dried her eyes. “Thank you” Somehow he had known exactly what she needed to hear, what had been bothering her. He always knew how to help her. Always.

Aelin smiled down at him. Raising her pointer finger to her chin she surveyed her handiwork. “Finished!” she exclaimed. Dorian sat up glancing down at all of her intricate designs that now covered all available space of his bare skin. Grabbing his arm, Aelin pulled him off the billiards table and dragged him into the bathing room, standing him in front of her full length mirror so that he could get a good look.

His eyes grew wide, as he turned surveying all of the different designs. “Wow” he whispered turning to face her. “I almost hate to have to wash it off.” Aelin laughed. “Well let me know how easy it was to wash off tomorrow.”

Dorian raised a perfect eyebrow at her, “Oh no my dear, there is no way I’m leaving this room covered in chocolate icing and walking all the way across this castle to my chambers.”

“You could just have the witch, lick it off for you.” Aelin purred, even though she knew Manon was miles away. Water started running in her iron claw tub, as she spoke a washcloth flew across the room hitting her in the face. Cursing Aelin turned around, while Dorian undressed listening to the splashing of water as he lowered himself into her tub.

This is my first ACOTAR fanfic, but had Feysand on my mind lately and had to write this fic of poor Rhys, trying and failing to deal with Feyre being gone. Set right after the end of ACOMAF

(Mor POV)

Azril and Cassian are going to be fine, I told myself again for the hundredth time. Amren had finally kicked me out of Azril’s room telling me to go get some rest, stating she would watch over the Illiarian for now. I walked aimlessly down the stairs, every muscle in my body ahed with exhaustion, but I knew that there would be no rest tonight. My feet stopped in the living room as I stared at the blood stains on the carpet, that nobody had bothered to clean up yet. Their blood, my family’s blood. Anger boiled through me. They would pay for this. They would all pay.

Pulling my eyes away from the rug I scanned the bottom floor of Rhys townhouse in Velaris. I had come looking for my cousin, after being kicked out of the rooms upstairs, but couldn’t find him anywhere. The last I had seen him was when he had left after the healers had attended to Cassian and Azril, that had been hours, or maybe even a whole day ago. Sighing I turned on my heel, and headed to the one place I suspected he would be.

As I approached the roof I could see him sitting in a chair, lazily holding a glass and bottle of whisky, his head bent low between his shoulders. Defeated, he was defeated. Never, I had never seen him like this. Rhys had always been strong. I forced down the terror that rose at the thought that he was broken forever, and closed the distance between us. He didn’t acknowledge my presence as I drew closer, only continued to refill and down his glass of whisky. When I was standing only a foot away from him I stopped, and cleared my throat.

“Amren kicked me out of Azril’s room, said that I should rest”, I scoffed. When Rhys didn’t respond I continued, “They are going to be fine, I know it. And then we are going to kill those Hybryn bastards.” Rhys downed another glass of whisky but didn’t look at me.

“Rhys?” I knelt down so that I was at eye level with him, but he lowered his gaze. “We will get her back Rhys, I promise.” Downing another glass of amber liquid, Rhys stood and walked to the railing leaning his back against the rail.

“I can’t stay in my… our” he corrected “room. Her scent it.” I stood and walked to him taking his hand, squeezing it tightly. “I know” I whispered, “I know.” “I came out here because it’s not as strong here.” He added as he took another swig of the amber liquid. Gently I grabbed the bottle and glass from his hands and sat them on the railing.

“How long have you been out here drinking?”

“Not long enough.” I knew my cousin well enough to know that he was trying to drink until he could no longer feel, until all senses were numb. He had only been this troubled a few times in the past centuries, once after his Mother and Sister died and after he returned from under the mountain.

I handed him back the bottle and glass, filling it as I did so. “Would you like company?” Rhys drained the glass, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand he rasped out a “no”. I poured myself a glass anyway and sat on the cool floor. We sat in silence drinking on the roof, until the world around me started to blur, leaning my head back I closed my eyes not to sleep, but to keep the world from spinning.

(Rhys POV)

My mind kept playing the same image over and over, the blinding flash of light, Feyre screaming grabbing at her head, and then her face the last time I saw her, my mate, before grabbing her sisters and winnowing here. Here, away from her, while she left, chose to leave with him. So strong my mate, stronger than me. I knew the moment we showed up in Velaris without her, it would be hard, but I hadn’t expected it to feel like this. I was drowning, the pain I felt at being separated from my mate, the anger that consumed me. I took another long sip of my drink, the alcohol burning my throat, waiting. Waiting for the moment when I wouldn’t feel or care to feel, but it hadn’t yet come. So I poured myself another glass.

The sound of glass clanking against the concrete floor, startled me out of my thoughts, and I looked down to see that Mor was sleeping or more like passed out on the ground beside me. Bending to pick her up, I placed her on the lawn chair and covered her with a blanket, before grabbing the bottle and walking back inside. I could hear Amren talking to the healers about Cassian, but not wanting to deal with that right now, I stumbled towards my, our room and leaned against the door frame for support, as I slowly pushed the door open.

You can see part 1 here 

(Dorian POV)

He gently lowered Aelin into the steaming warm water, still wearing her nightgown. The tub was adorned with an assortment of decorated glass vials containing all different scents and soaps. Grabbing the bottle marked lavender, Dorian made to start washing her hair, when small fingers wrapped around his wrists stopping him. Turning to glare at him out of the corner of her eyes, she spoke.

“I am perfectly capable of washing my own hair, Dorian.” Her voice was softer than normal, but he could see her there, buried beneath her grief.

“Of course, you are. I just enjoy the smell of lavender.” Winking he handed the little bottle of soap to her. Suddenly very aware of how see through her silk nightgown had become in the warm water, Dorian abruptly stood to take his leave.

“Um, I’ll be right outside if you need anything.” He said as he nearly sprinted out the door.

While Aelin bathed Dorian took it upon himself to send for two Chocolate cakes, candy, and many bottles of wine. He had just finished setting up a small picnic of sorts on the floor in front of the fireplace, near Aelin’s reading couch when he heard the bedroom door creak open. The Queen of Terrasen was standing in the doorway wearing a robe with her wet hair down, and tossed loosely over her shoulder.

She was up, she was walking around and moving. Dorian let himself have that one small victory. He had half expected to have to pull her out of the bathtub himself, but here she was. He shouldn’t be surprised, she was always stronger than he thought.

Smiling, he gestured to the picnic beside him, “Don’t make me drink all this wine on my own.” Aelin crossed the floor slowly and sat down a good three feet away from him, leaning her back against the sofa. Dorian filled two glasses with wine and handed one to her, which she took and quickly drained. After refilling her second glass Dorian leaned back and sipped his own.

They sat together like that in silence drinking and eating cake. To some the silence might have been awkward or unbearable, but to them it was comfortable. It wasn’t until Dorian opened the third bottle of wine, that the peaceful silence was broken.

“So what is the witch up to these days?” Aelin slurred as she swirled her red wine around in her glass. The sudden question took him slightly off guard, he didn’t want to talk about his relationship while she was hurting. “She is in the wastes, helping the Crochans rebuild.” He mumbled while trying to think of another topic to steer the conversation to. “You know I stumbled across an old friend of yours the other day, he says hello.” Aelin looked at him confused, waiting for him to continue. “Well, maybe it wasn’t quite as kind as that, he was pretty upset at just being left behind in the mess… again. He loved me though, apparently I know the correct questions to ask, unlike a certain demanding imbecile ” Dorian added waiting for her to piece it together. Suddenly Aelin burst out laughing, “So you met Mort?” He nodded, and from there they talked and laughed and drank, they drank a lot.

Dorian knew he was a glass or two more away from being totally plastered, but the wine had brought color back to the face of his friend and he was just trying to keep up with her. Aelin suddenly jumped up and walked across the room opening one of the other adjoining doors disappearing inside. Dorian stared after her. Just as he was wondering if he was supposed to follow. “You coming?” rang out through the room. Groaning as he stood to his feet, Dorian wobbled towards the room she had disappeared into.

It was a game room, and in the middle of the room was  a billiards table. Dorian smiled as Aelin tossed him a cue stick. He caught it just before it smacked him in the face. Aelin gestured to the table, “My skills haven’t improved since we last played, but judging on how you can barely stand. I think I have a fair shot.” She added with a beautiful smile spreading across her face. Dorian straightened as best he could and sauntered over to the table. “Oh my dear, you forget I have had much experience playing billiards while inebriated, it is one of my great skills.” He slurred as he placed the cue ball in the middle of the table, and bent downwards to align his shot. Making eye contact with Aelin he struck the cue ball breaking the other balls apart, in the mess of the opening shot two stripe colored balls found their way into a side pocket. Dorian smiled, “I believe you’ll be solids then.” Aelin rolled her eyes, and shoved another glass of wine in his hand.

(Aedion POV)

It was almost midnight and Dorian freaking Havilliard had not yet exited Aelin’s room. Lysandra had lectured him about giving them space, and told him over and over that everything was alright, but he just couldn’t take it anymore. Storming down the hall towards the Queens chambers, he yanked open the door  stomping inside, only to come to a screeching halt at the sound that filled his ears. Laughter. Aelin’s laughter. That freaking idiot had done it, he had gotten her to laugh. A part of him wanted to cry for joy, while the other was filled with jealousy that the King of Adarlan was able to help her more than he could.

The laughter seemed to be coming from the game room, so he crossed the room to peak inside. Oh gods, the empty wine bottles on the floor, could be the only explanation for what he saw. Dorian was lying on the Billiards table shirtless. Aelin was kneeling beside him using chocolate icing to draw out swirls across his back, laughing as she did so.

Shaking his head, Aedion started backing out of the room, when Dorian caught his eye. “Aedion!” he boomed. “Would you like a non-permanent delicious tattoo?” He asked as he dipped a finger into one of the swirls going across his chest. Aelin slapped his hand, “Stop messing up my art, Havilliard!” Dorian continued to raise his finger to his mouth, “I can’t help it, It’s delicious.” Aelin giggled. She actually giggled, as she dipped her finger into the chocolate icing to continue tracing designs on Dorian’s skin.

“Aelin got tired of me beating her at billiards.” Dorian slurred, closing his eyes. Aelin laughed, “You could barely stand, better yet hit the cue ball.” Dorian shrugged. “Semantics”

This is something that I wrote pre EOS and finally decided to just go ahead and post it... Enjoy!

Aelin scanned the crowd looking for a familiar figure amongst the masked faces. This party was insane! The music was like nothing she had ever heard, people were dancing everywhere, and not the waltz. Aelin smiled. She had been to crazier parties as in Rifthold years ago. This party lacked only in that there were no scantly dressed women swinging from the ceiling, at least not yet.

Adjusting the mask on her face, so that she could see better, Aelin started her descent down the staircase into the wildness bellow. She was wearing a beautiful red dress that hugged tight to her body showing off every curve. The back of the dress was open revealing her scared and tattooed skin. On her face she wore a mask made of gold colored lace accented with rubies.

Lysandra walked next to her down the marble staircase. She was wearing a beautiful shade of yellow, with a black mask. As they approached the bottom of the staircase, two men made their way through the crowd. The shorter one offered her his arm. He was dressed in all black, with a silver mask covering most of his handsome face. Aelin starred into his eyes, his sapphire eyes. Smiling she took his arm as he wrapped his hand around her waist and handed her a glass of wine. As she raised the glass to her lips the King of Adarlan whispered in her ear, “You look stunning.” His breath was warm against her skin and sent a chill down her spine. Just being this close to him was intoxicating.

He lead her towards the dance floor the whole time his hand caressing the bare skin of her back. Aelin looked around, nobody paid them any attention. Tonight they were two masked faces in a crowd. Tonight they could be themselves. She spotted a hawk sitting on a window ledge of the upper level, and smiled.

When she had finished her first glass of wine, Dorian promptly handed her a new one as they joined the dancers. He wrapped his arms around her holding her tight as their hips swayed to the upbeat music. “Try to keep up”, she yelled at him above the music. “Oh, I will most definitely try”

==========

Chaol stood near the food table, slowly eating a piece of cake as he kept watch. The mask was starting to get on his nerves, and he fought the urge to take it off so he could wipe the sweat off his face. Rowan was still keeping watch from above. Sighing he turned his attention back to the dance floor. He couldn’t believe he had let Dorian talk him into this. It was too dangerous. The King was currently still dancing with Aelin. Near them Lysandra was dancing alone, having just as much fun. She had tried multiple times to get him to dance with her, but he needed to be on his guard.

Turning his attention back to Dorian and Aelin, Chaol couldn’t help but smile. They were having a blast. Chaol didn’t think they had stopped smiling for a second since they got here. They were also both extremely wasted. That fact, made him uneasy but nobody seemed to be paying any attention to them, they were just an ordinary couple enjoying the party.

==========

Aelin was so hot, sweat was running down her body as she closed her eyes letting the music consume her as she rolled her hips against Dorian’s body. She was lost in the moment. The coolness of Dorian’s lips against her neck, caused a groan to escape her mouth. It felt so good. Spinning so that she was facing him, Aelin grabbed his face pressing her lips firmly against his, as she kissed him deeply. She wanted more, she wanted him.

Dorian growled against her lips as he bit her, the taste of blood filled her mouth as he pulled her body closer to his. His hands inched up her inner thigh. Aelin gasped opening her eyes, the room spun around them. Remembering where they were she pulled away. She could see the twinkle in his sapphire eyes under the mask. Aelin smiled as she glanced around her, nobody seemed to notice or care how much or where they touched each other. Laughing she laced her fingers together behind Dorian’s head, touching her forehead to his. This was the best night of her life. Dorian stroked her lips with his thumb. Aelin met his wild stare, they were both so drunk. She couldn’t will her brain to think correctly anymore and she wondered if Dorian still could. His hand cupped her chin pulling her mouth to his.

==========

Somewhere a clock chimed 3 AM, and the party was still going strong. Chaol decided it was time to go as he walked over to Dorian and cleared his throat. The King glanced up from Aelin’s neck. “Chaol!” He bellowed the scent of wine hitting him in the face. Chaol glanced him over, it had been years since he had seen Dorian this intoxicated. Aelin stopped dancing and fell forward into his arms leaning against him for support. “When dids you get here?” She breathed in his face. Oh gods.

Aelin lauged as she fell back into Dorian’s arms. “Chaol! You know, that’s a funny name. Chaol, Chaol, Chaol.” Dorian chuckled.

“I think we should leave soon”

==========

“Leave? You just got here!” Aelin screamed at Chaol.

Dorian pulled away, to talk more with Chaol. Aelin studied him. She wanted to rip the mask off of his face, followed by his pants. Or perhaps the pants first.

Dorian pulled her close to whisper in her ear. “Do you want to leave?” “I want yous” Aelin slurred, her hands going to pull at his belt. “I’ll take that as a yes”. Dorian smiled placing a swift kiss on her lips.

Looking past her, he pointed at a woman in yellow who was dancing. “She’s beautiful” The words spilled out of her mouth before she could even process them. Dorian laughed. “Yes she is, can you go tell her were leaving.”

Aelin spun around, “Were leaving, why?” “Do you want to stay?” Dorian asked as he stepped closer kissing her, she opened her mouth slowly kissing him back. He tried to pull away but she didn’t let him as she kissed him deeper. Grabbing her hair he pulled her head back. “Aelin do you want to stay?” Her eyes were closed still thinking about kissing him, “Hmm?” Dorian laughed, “Go tell Lysandra were leaving.”

Aelin stumbled through the crowd of people willing her body to stay upright as she made her way to Lysandra. She saw her approaching and came to meet her, wrapping her arm through hers to steady her. “You’re drunk!!” Lysandra taunted. Aelin laughed as she leaned in closer to Lysandra, she loved her friend. “I love you” she yelled as she kissed her cheek. “I love you too, where’s Dorian?” Aelin looked up and pointed “There!” Sure enough Dorian was walking through the crowd followed by Chaol. Aelin made a move towards him, but almost fell, Dorian grabbed her arm to keep her from collapsing to the floor.

“Gods she’s sloshed.” Chaol grumbled. “Aren’t we all!” Lysandra beamed. Chaol just rolled his eyes, “Lets go.”

“Not until you dance with me Westfall” Lysandra hissed. “Very funny” “Oh I’m serous”. Lysandra started dancing. Chaol crossed his arms in front of his chest, turning his head towards Dorian. “Lets go” he barked. Aelin felt Dorian’s head nuzzle against her neck as his arms tightened around her waist.

“You heard the lady, Chaol” “Come on Chaol stop being such a stiff and dance with us!” Aelin slurred. Lysandra danced closer to Chaol, rubbing her body against his. Laughing Aelin pulled Dorian forward so that they too were dancing against Chaol. He didn’t move a muscle, just stood and glared.

At the end of the song Lysandra wrapped her arms around Chaol’s neck and kissed him on the lips. Chaol tried to pull away, Dorian laughed. Lysandra winked at him, “Loosen up and have some fun, Westfall!” She yelled as she backed away from him continuing to dance. Aelin deciding that she wanted to be with her friend, ran over to join her. Her head spun as she danced. Her thoughts traveled toward the party in Rifthold when she had danced for hours while Sam watched. Sam. Her Sam.

A waiter passed carrying a tray of wine glasses. Aelin grabbed two that she quickly downed to drown the memory.

==========

Dorian watched Aelin dance as the room spun around her. He felt like he was spinning. Sticking out his hand he grabbed Chaol’s shoulder to steady himself. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Chaol turn to look at him.

“You okay?” Dorian barely registered the question, but managed to shake his head. He was too hot. Chaol stopped him from grabbing his mask. “Hot”, he breathed. Chaol understood and yelled at Lysandra that they were leaving. He grabbed him by the the arm and started leading him toward an open window. Dorian tried walking behind him, but couldn’t will his legs forward, Chaol wrapped his arm around him and he leaned against him to stay upright.

==========

The music consumed her being, that’s all there was as she danced. Sweat pouring down her face. She didn’t know where she was just that she didn’t want to leave.

A hand grabbed at her shoulder, opening her eyes the image in front of her blurred. She couldn’t see straight. “Aelin we’re leaving. Dorian is with Chaol by the door”. Aelin yanked her shoulder out of the woman’s grip, sending her stumbling backwards slightly.

“Don’t touch me!” The woman just stared at her, “Aelin…” Did she know her? The woman reached for her arm again, but Aelin shoved her away.

“Is this woman bothering you?” A man asked from beside her. Was she? Aelin couldn’t remember. The woman stared at the guy yelling at him to buzz off. “I will when the lady let’s me know you not bothering her.” The woman swirled in front of her as Aelin tried to place her face.

Two men suddenly appeared beside her. “Leave the ladies alone,” the taller one said as the other reached for her. Aelin tried to yank her hand away, but his grip tightened around her wrist. “Aelin?” She looked up into his eyes, they were the color of sapphires so familiar like she had spent hours looking at them. Then she remembered, where she was, and started laughing.

*****DO NOT READ IF YOU ARE PRO ROWAELIN***** This follows current Cannon, set after EOS. This is my what would happen if Rowan were to die fic. It will be released in three parts. Here Dorian and Manon are still technically together....... Enjoy!

(Dorian’s POV)

Dorian ran his fingers through his hair, as he raised his hand to knock on the door in front of him. Losing courage he flattened his palm against the wood surface while resting his forehead against its cool rough surface. Behind him Aedion nudged his shoulder. Dorian raised his eyes to meet the defeated stare of his friends cousin, the Wolf of the North. Sighing Dorian straightened, took a deep breath and… knocked.

He waited ten seconds, nothing happened, so he knocked again. Still silence remained on the other side of the door. “Should I just go in?” Aedion shrugged, stepping forward. “Aelin, I have Dorian here with me. He arrived this afternoon.” Silence. Aedion gestured for him to say something. He starred back at the door. For the first time in his life he was utterly speechless. Aedion elbowed him in the ribs. “Uhh….” he coughed. “Hi Aelin” Really? Hi thats what he had to say right now…. stupid. He inhaled a deep breath and gathered his thoughts. He had to be strong. She would be strong for him. “Aelin, I’m coming in okay. I didn’t travel all this way to stare at your door. As beautiful as the Terrasen carpentry is.” There was still no answer, so he turned the knob and stepped inside.

The room was dark, and cold. Aelin’s heavy curtains pulled shut blocking any light from the sun. The only light in the room came from the dimly glowing embers in the fireplace. With half a thought Dorian set the embers into full blaze, and surveyed the Queen of Terrasen’s chambers. He was in the drawing room. In front of him near the fire was a plush couch with stacks of books scattered about it on the floor. Aelin’s reading spot. A smile formed at his lips, but quickly vanished as he remembered why he was here. There were three doors off this main room, one of which would be the Queens bedroom.

He called out her name, but again received no answer. Sighing he walked to the stack of books, and randomly picked up the one closest to him. Not bothering to read the title he walked towards the door that he guessed would be the bedroom, and paused just before opening the door. He still didn’t know what to say to her. What did you say to someone who had lost their mate? Dorian shook his head to clear his thoughts as he opened the door.

This room was just as dark, and cold as the last, but on the enormous bed was a ball shaped mass underneath a pile of blankets. Dorian crossed the room, and pulled back the curtains letting the sunlight spill into the room. The mass didn’t stir.

He stood there for what felt like eternity, trying to decide what to do. What could he say to her that others had not? His footsteps were the only sound as he made his way closer to the small mass in the middle of the bed.

(Aelin’s POV)

The bed dipped downwards behind her, and she could make out the sounds of shoes being untied and slipped off onto the plush carpet. Aelin pulled her knees closer to her face as the mattress groaned with the weight from her visiter as they made themselves comfortable on their bed. She didn’t care who it was. Didn’t care who had come to check on her this time. She knew who it wasn’t and that’s all that mattered.

A familiar voice filled the room, saying familiar words. Her mind supplied the source. It was one of her favorite books a story about revenge and love. She listened to the words, letting her mind form pictures to accompany them, and for the first time in months she thought of something other than his death.

(Dorian POV)

Glancing up from the book in his hands he surveyed the room. The sun was setting outside, the dim light making it harder to read. He knew this story by heart, he had read it at least a dozen times, but his voice was starting to become hoarse from hours spent reading aloud. Sighing Dorian closed the book and placed it on the nightstand near by.

The mass of blankets located a few feet to his left stirred. It was the first movement he had noticed out of the half day he had spent in here.

Reaching his hand across the mattress, he grabbed onto the pile of blankets tugging downward slightly so that they would fall back to reveal the occupant beneath. Lying just a few feet away from him was the Queen of Terrasen. She was deathly pale, skin and bones, her spine painfully visible through her silk night gown. Dark circles had taken root underneath her eyes,  her cheeks raw from the shedding of many tears.

Giving her his signature Dorian smile he squeezed her cool hand, and after what seemed like an eternity watched as her fingers tightened their grip around his.

“I’m here for you, Aelin. I want you to know that. But I’m not going to sit by and watch you throw yourself away. He wouldn’t have wanted that.” She flinched slightly at the mention of her mate, but she needed to hear this needed to know that he would not coddle her, but he was here to save her. To save her from herself.

Leaning closer to her face he sent a cool breeze to blow her hair out of her eyes, while simultaneously using his magic hands to yank all of the covers off the bed leaving her completely exposed. The only response he received was Aeiln pulling her knees closer to her chest. No fight. There was no fight left in her.

Using his magic he started drawing a bath in the adjoining bathing chamber. The sound of water seemed to startle her causing her to jump slightly, eyes raising to meet his gaze.

Dorian was trying his best to keep his face neutral so as to not cause alarm as he watched Aelin excuse herself from the meeting. She had left so suddenly that he knew something was wrong. Rowan had quickly followed her, and Dorian tried to let that thought comfort him. Beside him Chaol cleared his throat, “What do you think your Highness?” Dorian realized that they were all waiting on an answer from him. He turned to look at the Prince of Eyllwe, Nehemiah’s brother. “I’m sorry, will you please excuse me”. He felt the sharp inhale of every council member in the room. “Of course, we will resume when the Queen is well.” Dorian nodded his thanks as he left, Chaol not far behind him.

He followed the pull of his magic allowing it to lead him to her. “What was that all about?” Chaol asked as they walked side by side through the stone halls. “I don’t know” Dorian snapped. He was doing a horrible job at hiding his concern. Chaol reached out grabbing his arm to slow his stride, as he mumbled good afternoon to some court ladies who were huddled together in the hall.  Dorian sighed through his nose his fingers curling into a fist, as he slowed to a comfortable walking pace that wouldn’t draw attention. “I’m sure it’s nothing” Chaol whispered. Dorian nodded, but couldn’t find comfort in his friend’s words. “Do you feel anything, you know with the bond?” Dorian shook his head. “Well then that’s a good thing right?” Dorian didn’t answer as he turned opening a door to the servants pathway. It was the fastest route, plus he could walk or run as fast as he wanted. Chaol looked over his shoulder, when he was sure nobody was paying attention to them he sighed and followed him through the door.

Upon opening the door to their tower he found Rowan pacing across the floor. “Where is she?” He pointed towards the bathing room, Dorian crossed the room pushing the door open. He looked in and saw Aelin sitting on the floor her head bent over the toilet. A sigh escaped his lips, she was just sick. He stepped in closing the door behind him.

“Aelin..” Bending down to embrace her, he held her hair out of her face, as she once again vomited. When she had finished she leaned against him closing her eyes. He raised his hand to her forehead, she didn’t feel warm. Aelin grabbed his hand and turned to face him. She looked so weak and pale. “You should have stayed and finished the negotiations”. Dorian tightened his grip around her waist. “The Prince understood… I’ll send for a healer” “No, I’ll be okay” Aelin protested, but Dorian ignored her and called through the door for Chaol to get Yryene. Aelin rested her head on his shoulder as he lifted her into his arms carrying her out of the bathing room to the sofa.

“How is she?” Rowan asked. Aelin narrowed her eyes at them. “I’m fine! You overprotective ma….” She clasped her hand over her mouth as she bent forward holding her stomach. Dorian grabbed a water basin from nearby and held Aelin’s hair as she vomited once more. Rowan glared at her as Dorian pulled up a chair so that he could sit beside her and hold her hand.

Before Chaol returned Aelin had been sick three more times. Dorian continued holding her hand, his thumb softly stroking her skin. She was resting now, her eyes closed. She looked terrible. Yryene quickly walked over to her shoving Dorian out of the way stating that she needed space. Dorian was forced to release his hold of Aelin’s hand, as he did she called out for him tears streaming down her face. Anger pulsed through him. He went to take a step forward, but strong hands gripped his shoulders holding him back. “Let her do her job” Rowan retorted. Dorian crossed his arms briefly debating severing Rowan’s arm with a blade of ice. Sighing through his nose, he shrugged out of Rowan’s grasp and started pacing.

He watched as Yryene assessed her, then started pulling things out of her bag. She pricked Aelin’s finger, letting the blood drip into a bowel filled with powder. “What are you doing?” He demanded. “Just a harmless test your majesty”. He growled, Chaol grabbed his arm and hauled him across the room. “Calm down! You getting upset isn’t helping” Dorian glared at him and Chaol just rolled his eyes releasing his arm. He was over reacting, he knew it, but he didn’t care. Chaol didn’t understand what the mate bond does to you.

Dorian stalked back across the room, placing his hand on Aelin’s head as he glared at Yryene. “Well, what do you think is wrong with her?” He watched as Yryene hesitated glancing around the room at Rowan and Chaol. He understood. “We are all family here” he barked at her, instantly regretting his harsh tone he apologized. Dorian stared at Yryene waiting. “You might want to sit” Dorian remained standing.“Is it bad” Aelin asked her voice weak. Yryene shook her head and a smile formed on her lips. “Her majesty is with child” He couldn’t think, couldn’t process. Aelin was….. pregnant.

Sighing Aelin sat down at the table for breakfast. She felt the eyes of every member of her court on her, watching her. She had grown used to it over the past nine months, but with Dorian back in Adarlan they watched her like she might break any day. Aelin reached for the pitcher of Juice, her arms falling just short because her belly was in the way. “Allow me” Aedion said getting up to pour her juice. Aelin would have fought him in the past. She was pregnant not an invalid, but she had long since given up on that. Not to mention she was extremely tired. She hadn’t been sleeping well since Doiran left a few weeks ago. Come to think of it, she hadn’t really eaten much since then either. Aelin nodded her thanks to Aedion as she took a sip of her juice. She made a face. “Is there something wrong with the juice?” Lysandra asked as she sniffed her own glass. Aelin pushed her glass away, she felt nauseous as she shook her head.

Rowan reached out and squeezed her hand in his. “You should eat something Fireheart.” Of course Rowan had noticed her decline in food consumption. Sighing Aelin looked at her plate, the bread seemed like the safest option picking it up she brought it to her mouth cautiously taking a bite. A mistake. Aelin cupped her hand in front of her mouth as she ran to the nearest trash can and vomited. She stood wiping her mouth her hand going to rest absent-mindedly on her stomach. She felt the baby kick and smiled as she remembered how excited Dorian had been the first time he felt it.

“Are you okay?” Should I get Yryene?” Lysandra asked as she linked her arm through hers. “No I’m fine.” Lysandra nodded.

“There is a council meeting today, but I could take your place if you need to rest.” Aelin glared at Aedion. “It was just an idea.” he mumbled. The last thing Aelin wanted to do was to appear weak, she was most definitely going to the council meeting. She excused herself to get dressed, she was hoping for some alone time before the meeting but Lysandra walked with her.

“When was the last time you ate something?” Aelin knew she meant without being sick. “Last night I had a snack before bed” she lied. The truth was she didn’t know, the thought of food made her nauseous and anytime she did try to eat she immediately regretted it. It had been a few days probably, at least. Lysandra grabbed her arm causing her to stop suddenly the motion made her dizzy but she quickly regained her composure. “You would tell me if you needed something, right?” Aelin smiled “Of course”. Lysandra nodded before leaving to get ready herself.

Aelin walked beside Rowan as they made their way to the throne room. She was so tired, her head felt a little dizzy, and her feet hurt and they still had a ways to go. Aelin pushed those feelings aside as she kept walking. She saw Rowan glance down at her from the corner of his eye, “Fireheart, is everything okay?” What was with everyone asking her that today?! No, everything was not okay she was nine months pregnant she couldn’t sleep and her mate was gone. “Of course, Rowan” she said as she smiled at him, but she knew he didn’t buy it. He nodded his head anyways, they continued walking in silence. Suddenly Aelin felt like she was going to be sick again, sweat coated her body while blackness creeped at the edges of her vision. She was going to faint. Reaching out she grabbed Rowan’s arm the last thing she saw was his face full of concern then darkness.

“What happened?” Lysandara demanded. “I don’t know she was fine, and then she just fainted.” Rowan answered his voice laced with concern as he held Aelin’s limp body. “I found Yryene!” Aedion shouted as he ran down the hall. “Step back, give her some room!” Yryene shouted shoving through the crowd of people who had gathered concerned about their Queen, and possible heir.

“We need to move her, somewhere more private.” Yryene whispered in Rowan’s ear. Nodding Rowan stood scooping Aelin into his arms as he followed Yryene back to Aelin’s quarters. Rowan placed her gently on the bed. Yryene sat beside her pulling an amplifier out of her bag, she lifted Aelin’s dress so that her stomach was exposed placing it against her belly.

“Is the baby, is it…” Rowan stumbled over his words. “The baby is fine, I can hear a strong heart beat.” Lysandra let out a loud sigh of relief as she bent forward stroking Aelin’s hair. “Why did she faint?” Yryene shrugged her shoulders. “Her body appears to be in a weakened state right now, I’ll need to watch her closely.” Lysandra nodded.

Rowan grabbed her hand squeezing it. “She will be fine, but when she awakes I would like to assess her.” “Thank you” Rowan said, as he tightened the grip on his Queens hand. Yryene made to leave, but stopped as Aelin’s eyes flew open.

Her vision was fuzzy but she could see Rowan, Yryene, Lysandra and Aedion all huddled around her. She shook her head trying to clear her vision, instead it made her nauseous. Aelin leaned onto her side and vomited all over Aedion, it was mostly blood. “Oh Gross!” Aedion screamed as he backed away from the bed. She felt cool hands around her face, pulling her hair out of the way. “That can’t be good, right?” A woman asked from beside her, Lysandra. Yryene shook her head as she scrummaged through her medical bag looking for something. Tears streamed down Aelin’s face, as she started to cry uncontrollably. Worry flooded Rowan’s normally controlled features. “Fireheart, it’s okay”. Aelin glanced around the room, “Dorian” she whispered her throat dry. Rowan squeezed her hand again, she looked at him. “Dorian is in Adarlan right now, Fireheart.” No, Aelin tried to sit up but was met with resistance as Yreyne and Rowan held her down. “You need rest”

“Dorian, I need Dorian, I need him!” Aelin cried as she thrashed against them. Rowan grabbed her pulling her into his strong arms, as he tried to comfort her. Lysandra and Aedion stood gaping not knowing what to do as Aelin screamed Dorian’s name over and over into Rowan’s chest. “We will have to sedate her, she is putting the baby into distress.” She felt Rowan nod followed by a needle in her arm then the darkness consumed her again.

Aelin moved she felt sheets against her body, she was in bed. She reached her arm across the bed looking for her mate. Her arm brushed against someone, but it wasn’t Dorian. Her eyes flew open. Lysandra was laying in bed beside her asleep. Aelin rolled to sit up, her pregnant belly making it difficult to move. Glancing around the room she saw Rowan sleeping in an armchair nearby. She reached out to touch his hand. His eyes flew open. She smiled at him but his face remained full of concern as he stood. “I’m going to get Yryene” he mumbled as he left the room.

Aelin stretched, swinging her legs off the bed she stood and walked across the room to Dorian’s bookcase. Her fingers ran along the spine of the leather books, as she read the titles. She grabbed his favorite book, deciding that perhaps reading it would make missing him a little less painful. Pain surged through her. She screamed dropping the book. Lysandra sprang up and ran over to her. “Aelin what’s wrong? You shouldn’t be out of bed!” Lysandra helped her over to the bed as the pain pulsed through her again. Labor pains, she was in labor. She laid down on the bed, Lysandra propped her feet up on pillows after handing her a glass of water.

Rowan and Yryene entered the room soon after, and Rowan narrowed his eyes at her. “You were supposed to stay in bed” “I didn’t know”. HIs eyes softened as he held her hand. Yryene assessed her, the pain subsided coming further apart. “You were definitely having contractions, but resting seemed to stop the progression of labor for now. You will need to be on bed rest for the next few days, or until the baby comes. It will be soon.” Aelin let out a breath she didn’t know she had been holding. “Dorian, we should send word” “He should be on his way here right now from Adarlan.” Aelin looked at him confused. Lysandra stepped forward sitting on the bed next to her.

“Aelin, we had to sedate you because you were screaming for him, Aedion left right away with Astrin that was a few days ago so he should be here any minute” Aelin stared at her shocked, she didn’t remember any of that.

“You should eat something.” Yryene said from across the room. Aelin’s stomach tossed at the thought of food. She shook her head, she was not hungry. “Try to get her to eat something” she said to Rowan, “I’ll be back in an hour to check on her”.

Rowan started fussing at her about eating, apparently she had been out of it for the past two days. She lamented and said that she could maybe eat some soup, and he had left to go get her some. Aelin leaned her head back against the pillow, she still felt dizzy and tired she was so tired. She closed her eyes. “Aelin, do you want to drink this ginger tonic?” Lysandra asked from beside her. “Hmm” “Aelin…” She tried to will herself to stay awake, but her mind wondered and dreamed.

Her eyes flew open, the room was dark except for the firelight. Her hand rested on top of her stomach and the baby kicked it. She could hear voices talking in the next room they were mumbled she couldn’t make out what they were saying, but she knew who it was. Rowan, Aedion, Chaol and Dorian. She sat up. “Dorian” she whispered, her voice raspy and weak. She called his name again louder this time. The door to the common room opened as Dorian entered his face full of worry as he walked over to her wrapping his arms around her he kissed the top of her head. She couldn’t hold it together anymore she cried into his chest. He sat there holding her mumbling words of comfort as she soaked his shirt with her tears.

After a few minutes Aelin looked into his face, his eyes asking what was wrong. She was so weak, her head felt dizzy again. Closing her eyes, she leaned her head against his shoulder. “Aelin..” she tried to respond, but couldn’t will her mouth to work. Nausea hit her again, a groan escaped her lips as a blood tinged liquid poured out of her mouth all over herself and Dorian. His grip tightened as he mumbled a slew of curses. “Chaol! Rowan! Someone get Yryene now!”  

Chaol burst into the room followed by Rowan as Aedion ran for the healer. Rowan surveyed the scene, ran into the bathing room to grab  a water basin and towel. Chaol stayed in the back near the door looking like he was going to be sick any minute.

Rowan offered Dorian a towel, but he shook his head. “I’m okay” Rowan nodded. “This happened a few days ago, Yryene thinks the blood color is because she hasn’t eaten anything in days. She has a ginger tonic to give her but we haven’t had a chance yet, because she well you know went into hysterics and then back to sleep…” His voice trailed off as Yryene and Aedion came bursting through the door.

“Your Majesty, I’ll need your help in getting her to drink this” she commanded as she pulled a tonic out of her bag and handed it to him. Dorian nodded pulling away from Aelin enough that he could see her face. Her eyes were closed, but tears continued to stream down her cheeks. “Aelin…” She didn’t move. “Aelin… love, can you open your eyes for me?” Her eyes flickered open slightly, he kissed her forehead. “This is some medicine that will help, it’s important that you drink it.” Aelin shook her head, the thought of drinking anything made her sick.

Dorian sighed, “Aelin, please sweetheart” She caught the hint of desperation in his voice, and looked up into his sapphire eyes that were filled with concern, then at the little vial of medicine in his hand. She reached her hand out to grab the vial, but her arm fell like a dead weight, she didn’t have the strength. Dorian placed the vial in her hand, as he helped her raise it to her mouth. It tasted terrible, that was the last thing she remembered.

Aelin took another sip of wine as she stood listing to some Lord from Melisande ramble on about something that she didn’t particularly care about, trying her best to sound interested. She looked past him at the ballroom filled with people laughing and dancing, wishing she could join them. Sighing she took another sip of wine. Tonight’s ball was to celebrate Dorian’s official coronation as King of Adarlan. She had been looking forward to it all week, but now wondered at what time it would be acceptable for her to leave. The entire night had been spent cornered by different Lords and Ladies all eager to chat with the mysterious new Queen of Terrasan. In fact she had been standing in the same spot for the past three hours.

She fiddled with the cloth of her gown that had been specially ordered just for this occasion, it was a beautiful shade of red accented with gold lace that hugged her body modestly, but enough to draw attention. It now seemed like an enormous waste, though it had been worth it to see Dorian’s eyes light up as she walked down the stairs. Her gaze traveled over to where the King of Adarlan stood across the room also suffocated by Lords, at least he was as miserable as she was. Beside her Rowan cleared his throat, Aelin turned her attention back to the conversation at hand, the Lord having finished whatever he was talking about was now saying his goodbyes. Thank goodness, Aelin thought as she nodded her head and smiled.

Once her and Rowan where alone she let out a groan as she rolled her neck, allowing her posture to slump slightly. “They look happy don’t they?” Rowan followed her stare to Aedion and Lysandra who had spent the evening dancing together. He smiled, “Yes they do.” “Hmm” Aelin tapped her foot, “I want to dance.” Rowan looked at her, “Queens don’t dance.” Aelin rolled her eyes, “Well perhaps they should!” Rowan just glared at her, she sighed as she finished her glass of wine. He was right it was improper for a Queen to dance at a Royal ball, especially if she wasn’t hosting it.

Handing Rowan her empty glass she signaled she would like another. She could tell he was about to lecture her on how much wine a Queen should consume so she growled at him. Rowan smiled, shaking his head as he retrieved her another glass.

Another hour passed like this. Talking to more people who’s names she wouldn’t remember and drinking wine. Aelin became aware that her words were starting to slur together slightly so she took to just nodding and smiling. No one seemed to mind. She was about to declare to Rowan that they were going to call it a night when she noticed the King of Adarlan approaching. Gods he was so handsome.

She bit her lip as he took her hand and kissed it. A gesture of friendship to anyone who was watching, but his cold lips brushing her skin sent a pulse of electricity through her entire body. Dorian lifted his sapphire eyes to hers, “How is the Queen of Terrasen enjoying the ball?” “The Queen of Terrasen shall die of boredom.” Aelin answered as she crossed her arms in front of her. Dorian raised his eyebrows at Rowan, obviously picking up on her slightly slurred speech, but she didn’t care. “Well we can’t have that, hmm perhaps the Queen would like to dance?” Dorian offered her his arm. “Queens don’t dance.” Aelin mumbled as she took another sip of wine. Dorian took the glass out of her hand, giving it to Rowan as he shrugged his shoulders. “Neither do Kings.” Aelin smiled truly for the first time tonight linking her arm through his as he led her onto the dance floor.

People moved out of their way stopping to stare and whisper as Dorian pulled her into his arms. Her feet felt extremely light beneath her as he guided her around the ballroom floor. He laughed as she moved her body just slightly closer to him, his hand tightening it’s grip on her waist. It could have been the wine, but she didn’t care what the people who starred at them thought. She could feel Aedion and Rowan’s eyes watching her cautiously. Aedion especially was against her making her relationship with the King of Adarlan public knowledge for now anyways, but right now she didn’t care about all the stupid politics. She was lost in the sapphire eyes of her mate as he twirled her around the floor song after song.

Her eyes were growing heavy and she found herself leaning into Dorian’s arms resting her head on his shoulder. He shook her hand, and she jumped righting herself, keeping her eyes closed the wine draining her energy. “We should get you to bed”. Dorian whispered in her ear. “Hmm”. Aelin shook her head she wasn’t ready for bed yet, “A walk” He smiled, “Okay, a walk. I’ll meet you in the gardens.”

Aelin walked through the gardens with the King of Adarlan, they were not entirely alone though. Chaol followed about fifty feet behind them, he was trying to give them some privacy, but it wasn’t enough. “Let’s ditch Chaol” she breathed into Dorian’s shoulder. Without giving him a chance to reply Aelin kicked off her heels, lifted her dress and took off running. She looked over her shoulder to see shock plastered over Dorian’s face as he ran after her, and Chaol cursing in the distance.

Aelin rounded a corner and hid behind a tall hedge grabbing the collar of Dorian’s shirt as he ran by shoving him into the hedge she clamped her hand over his mouth motioning for him to stay quiet as Chaol sprinted past just seconds later. Aelin smiled now they were alone. A part of her wanted to rip the King’s clothes off right here in the gardens and show him just how much she had missed him, but that was too risky. So was either of them visiting the others rooms. With so many visitors it was bound to be noticed by somebody.

Dorian interrupted her thoughts as his lips brushed against her neck, Aelin shivered. His lips moved up her neck along her jawline his teeth grazing against her ear, as he breathed “I missed you.” Aelin grabbed his head pressing his lips firmly against hers. His cool breath filled her lungs as she kissed him deeply. She wanted more, she wanted him. Dorian growled against her lips as bit her the taste of blood filled her mouth as he pulled her body closer. His hands running up and down her body. Footsteps sounded near by, with great effort Aelin pulled her lips away from Dorian’s. He continued to leave a trail of frozen kisses against her neck, still holding her close. “Someone’s coming” Aelin breathed. Dorian’s teeth grazed against her skin, “I don’t care”. Aelin pulled away, Dorian narrowed his eyes at her, it was one of the few things that they ever fought about. The footsteps grew louder, Aelin sighed as Chaol came into view. One look at his face let her know that he was not amused by her little game.

“Very impressive Chaol, I was only out of sight for a few minutes. I’ve never felt safer than when you’re around.” Dorian joked as he punched Chaol in the shoulder. Chaol rolled his eyes, “Yeah, well I didn’t particularly enjoy that cardio I ate too much cake.” Chaol held out her golden heels, Aelin yanked them out of his hand, “Thanks” she mumbled as she slipped them back on. “Shall we continue our walk?” Dorian asked rather coldly, as he offered her his arm. She nodded linking her arm through his offering him a smile which he didn’t return. Aelin sighed through her nose, “Can we not do this tonight” she whispered as they continued walking through the gardens, Chaol just a few paces behind them this time. Dorian’s fingers curled into a fist. “Aelin.. I love you. I will always love you, and I love you right now. There are already rumors, everyone in Adarlan pretty much knows how I feel about you, I don’t hide my affections.” he stopped walking letting go of her arm, his arms spread out wide. “What more do you want from me Aelin? I know that this is what you and your court have decided, but I can’t keep pretending like you don’t mean the world to me. When you mean everything.” He was practically shouting now. She reached out to grab his arm, but he pulled away shaking his head. “Dorian…” The coldness in his sapphire eyes melted slightly as he sighed. “I’m sorry” she mumbled, his hand grazed her cheek wiping away a tear that she hadn’t even realized was there. He pulled her into his arms holding her tight. “I’m going to go talk with Aedion and Rowan now, and then I expect to see you tonight” he whispered in her ear. She raised her eyebrows at him as he kissed her forehead and walked towards the castle. Leaving her and Chaol staring after him. “Chaol would you mind escorting me back to my room?” “Um… sure… of course” he stuttered.

Aelin laid in bed starring at the ceiling. Somewhere a clock chimed twice, the noise echoing through the vast darkness of her bedroom. Two o’clock in the morning. Today she would officially be crowned Queen of Terrasan. Groaning she rolled on to her side closing her eyes willing her mind to stop thinking so that she could get some sleep, but it didn’t work. She was nervous. Why was she nervous? She had been acting Queen of Terrasan for over a year now. Had freed her people, resorted magic and defeated the Valg King. So why was the thought of a little ceremony keeping her awake at night. Suddenly she wished that Dorian had stayed the night with her. He had asked, but it wouldn’t have been appropriate because the people of Terrasan were unaware of their relationship and it could be interpreted as a threat.

Sighing she sat up throwing the covers off of her as she swung her feet onto the floor. She stood crossing the room to grab a robe to cover her exposed body in the short silky nightgown she was wearing. Quietly she slipped out of her bedroom and into the hallway. The guards posted outside made to follow her, but she ordered them to remain at their post, stating that she needed a walk to clear her mind. They had obeyed, but she knew that as soon as she was out of sight that one of them would go wake up Rowan.

Aelin walked absent-mindedly allowing her feet to lead her through the marble halls, the floor cool against her bare skin. Her feet stopped before a wooden door and Aelin raised her eyes, realizing where she was. Two more guards were posted outside this door, and they mumbled a greeting. Aelin nodded her head, as she opened the door slipping inside. She didn’t care what they thought anymore she needed to see him.

“Chaol, I don’t care!” Aelin leaned against the wall letting the shadows conceal her. They hadn’t noticed her come in. “You have to care Dorian! Don’t you care about the fate of your country, of your people?” She inched forward, as much as she dared, she could see Dorian standing inches away from Chaol. He was furious. What were they fighting about at two in the morning?

Dorian lowered his voice, “We will not have this conversation anymore. Do you understand?” “It’s not something that you can just sweep under the rug, and hope it never becomes a problem Dorian! You must have an heir or leave the fate of Adarlan to Hollin!.” Aelin’s eyes widened, as a knot formed in her stomach. Chaol leaned back crossing his arms. Dorian looked like he was going to rip Chaol’s head off.

Chaol sighed. “Dorian, I understand that you love her, I do. And if you were anybody else, but you’re not.” “Chaol..” Dorian warned. “No, Dorian listen. You yourself have said that she will never marry you, she won’t link the two countries.” “Chaol…” Aelin could feel the temperature dropping. “You can’t spend the rest of your life being the Queen of Terrasan’s whore!” Dorian swung and punched Chaol square in the face, sending Chaol stumbling backwards. Chaol straightened his fingers curled into a fist. “Get out”

Chaol turned and headed towards the door. As he walked closer Aelin could see the red mark on his cheek, it would bruise. He paused for a split second sending a glance in her direction before opening the door and leaving. As the door closed, Aelin stepped out of the shadows and walked silently across the room. Dorian was sitting on the sofa with his back to her, holding his head in his hands.

Without a word she bent over the back of the sofa wrapping her arms around his neck as she kissed his cheek. Dorian placed his hand on her arm. They stayed like that in silence for a little over a minute before he grabbed her hand, pulling her around to sit in his lap. Aelin smiled as he wrapped his strong arms around her, his head nuzzling into her hair. “What brings the future Crowned Queen of Terrasan to the bed chambers of the Crowned King of Adarlan?” He breathed into her ear. “I couldn’t sleep.” Dorian nodded. Aelin turned to look at him, her fingers tracing the features of his handsome face. “And… I missed you.” His sapphire eyes lit up as he leaned closer. “Oh really?What did you miss?” The corners of Dorian’s mouth lifted as she leaned her body into him pushing him on to the sofa. “This” she whispered against his lips as she kissed him.

Three chimes echoed through the room. Aelin was laying next to Dorian on the sofa her head resting on his chest. She was trying to sleep, but her mind was racing. It was filled with anxiety of becoming Queen, but mostly she heard Chaol’s voice over and over saying; You must  have an heir. He was right, she held her breath trying to keep herself from crying. It didn't work. “Aelin?”

Dorian placed a finger under her chin, tilting her head up ward so that he could see her. Tears were running down her cheeks. Alarm flooded his face as he squeezed her tighter his lips brushing her face, kissing away her tears. “What’s wrong?” he stroked her hair as she buried her face into his chest and sobbed. “Aelin?” “I never wanted to be queen” She finally whispered. “Even when I was little I used to argue with my father about it” she smiled at the memory. Lifting her head she met Dorian’s eyes. They were full of concern. “There was only one time, I truly thought I could be happy as Queen, and it was a dream that would never come true…  A dream in which the Crown Prince married an assassin.” Dorian exhaled, pulling her closer to him. Tears were streaming down her face now. “Chaol was right” Dorian sat up abruptly forcing her to look at him. “You need an heir, and I…” Her voice trailed off she couldn't speak. “Forget what Chaol said” Aelin shook her head through ragged breaths she sobbed. “No, he was right. He was right…”

Dorian held her face in his hands. She could barely see him through the tears. “Aelin, you will be a wonderful leader of your people. The strong, powerful Queen that Terrasan needs now… and I….. I will continue to love you. Even when the world is a forgotten whisper of dust between the stars, I will love you. I don’t need you to be my Queen… Aelin.”