wildest dreams

You didn’t need a mate bond to feel it. 

The mate bond hadn’t set in for Azriel, but you had known. 

You had known when he couldn’t pined endlessly for Mor. You understood Mor - she wasn’t just a pretty face, and was a close friend to all of you. Mor was the life of the party, the object of many men and women’s desires. If you hadn’t known of the mate bond, you would’ve made a move on her as well. You had watched his scowling, helped calm him down from ripping apart Cassian after Mor gave him her virtue. You - his mate - kept him company at Rita’s while he glared night after night at the men and women who would take her home or dance provocatively. 

You had known he was your mate since the day he met your brother Cassian.

You felt the immediate tug on your chest, and looked to see Azriel - a beautiful boy surrounded in darkness. As you got to know him better, you vowed to make sure he would be happy. 

You didn’t realize you just wouldn’t be the one who would share his happiness. 

And now, Azriel was infatuated with Elaine. 

Elaine - Feyre’s sister - who appeared alongside Nesta, and kept quiet except for tending to the garden or kitchen. The sister who didn’t know Azriel’s past, who didn’t know the reasons for his scars or why he cried late into the night. 

Elaine didn’t know that he avoided talking about his family like the plague, unless he felt safe enough with his Inner Circle. Elaine didn’t know that he only bought from his clothes from a shopkeeper who had granted him kindness. She didn’t know the shame sometimes he felt about his heritage. She didn’t know that the foods he didn’t like, the places he loved, the spices that he avoided, the music he listened to….but you know she would soon. 

Because anyone could see she had fallen in love with Azriel too. 

Lucien - the poor man - who looked helplessly at the sight of the two of them. The man who pleaded for more time spent with her, but Elaine kept denying, wanting to toss her mate away for Azriel. She doesn’t realize how sacred mates are…

You watched as his hand clenched, trying to calm himself as Elaine gave a breathtaking smile to Azriel, who looked back at her with glimmer sparkling in his eyes. How Lucien’s full body tensed when Elaine gave Azriel a kiss on the cheek, which he moved to make a kiss on her lips.  

You wanted to reach out, help him in some way. Let him know he wasn’t alone in the suffering the couple caused.

“Lucien, I’m going into the city. I’ll be doing some dress shopping with Mor so it might not be so interesting, but would you like to join us?” You offered, surprising him as you took his attention away from the hopeless scene. He raised an eyebrow, before nodding.

“You in a dress? I don’t think I’ve ever seen you wear one, Y/N” He said, and you chuckled, shaking your head, but let him wrap your arm with yours and winnow to the city streets.

Tonight was Starfall, and although most everyone had picked out a dress - you had not. You had never worn a dress to Starfall, but this year, you decided to be different. When you were a child, dressing up meant being auctioned to a husband, but now, if there was any way a dress could help your chances in getting your mate to notice you

You weren’t soft enough - hell, you were basically Night Court’s Co-General. Where Cassian couldn’t be, you took care of it. You helped train warriors, had studied battle plans… you weren’t some damsel in distress.

Well for one night, you could look soft.

“Y/N! I’m so glad you are finally taking my offer of a makeover! Cassian will be furious but I’m thrilled!” Mor said excitedly as she hugged me tightly when we arrived at a store. “Hi Lucien?” 

“Hello Morrigan” Lucien said, awkwardly.

“Mor, Lucien was at the house and I figured he might be able to give some good advice as well” You said with a smile.

“You don’t have to lie, you know. I was looking rather pitiful staring at them. I won’t provide any good advice” Lucien said, with a sigh, but Mor looked to you with an intense stare, and you shot her a look.

Mor knew - Mor had known from the beginning as she had been fancying you, and realized your heartbroken glances at Azriel. One night, over more than a few bottles of wine, she had gotten the confession out of you. Luckily, you kept a tight lip after that, and Mor was the only one who knew of your mate bond.  

“Actually Lucien, I have to confess something…” You whispered in a low tone, guiding the two of them to a quiet corner where you knew no one else would overhear you.

“You weren’t the only one watching them. Azriel’s my mate” You whispered, watching the shock on his body. “I-I’ve never worn a dress before because of what dresses symbolized for women back at the camps, but I was hoping if I dressed softer, maybe he would look at me as more than a friend” 

“Well then, I think if you really want his attention, it wouldn’t hurt if he might feel some jealousy. Would you like to be my date to Starfall?” Lucien asked, reaching his hand out. Mor gasped, smiling widely and clapping her hands. You smiled, nodding your head.

“Wonderful! Now let’s go shopping!” Mor said, leading you through the store excitedly. You shared a look with Lucien, before giggling lightly and looking at dresses.

Hours later, you felt like you were looking at reflection of someone else.

After picking out a dress, Mor had taken over your apartment, bringing in some hair stylists she knew and both of you had a full afternoon of pampering. Lucien had even stayed, entertained with the two of you - feeling lighter than he had in weeks knowing he wasn’t as alone as he thought in the Night Court. 

However, Mor had pushed him out an hour ago, to get himself dressed and make sure your final look was still a grand surprise. You waited anxiously for Lucien to show up, eager to show him your new appearance as well as get the night started. 

“Thank you Mor” You said, looking to her with a wide smile. Tears were threatening to escape your eyes, as you brought your glass up to hers to clink in cheers.

“No! No crying. And you’ve always been like a sister to me. If Azriel doesn’t see you for the beautiful woman that you are tonight, he is an idiot and is undeserving of the mate bond” Mor said, the glasses ringing as you both drank the wine. 

“You are beautiful. I am so honored to be your date” Lucien said, when he arrived at your apartment, staring at you in awe before taking your hand and kissing it gently. Blushing slightly, you pulled him in and gave him a kiss on the cheek.

“Thank you Lucien. You look incredibly handsome as well” You said, holding onto him before you watched Mor winnow away to the party.

“Are you ready?” He asked, seriously, cupping your face in his hand. “If he recognizes you as his mate, and still doesn’t accept you, just know that I’m here and I’d be honored to court you. We can run away, together” Lucien said, seriously. You leaned your cheek more into his hand, gazing into his eyes.

“I’d be honored to run away with you too” You replied, kissing his palm lightly.

If you weren’t trying so hard to do this for Azriel, you might’ve just kissed his lips.

“Alright, then let’s go” Lucien said, smiling softly, before the two of you winnow.

Standing outside the door to the house increased your nerves tenfold, and you clenched Lucien’s arm a little tighter after he knocked on the door.

“Y/N! Cauldron! You look gorgeous! And Lucien, pleasure to see you too” Feyre said with a smile as she led us in.

“Is that Y/N? Are you trying to give your brother a heart attack? I can’t believe you’re wearing a dress” Rhys asked, as he took you in a glance. 

“I’m getting a heart attack from Y/N? Why - oh shit. Y/N! You… you’re wearing a dress” Cassian said, the last bit softly as he knew what dresses meant to you.

“I’m fine, Cassian. A dress every couple hundred years does no harm, and I’m safe with all of you. I’m not expecting to be auctioned off today, am I?” You quipped at him, and Cassian smiled wildly, bringing you into a hug.

“You look stunning. Absolutely stunning” Cassian said, before going back to Nesta’s side, who smiled warmly at you.

“You do. You look absolutely beautiful” Nesta complimented with a smile. Now that she had accepted being your brother’s mate, she was much more amicable with you. 

You looked over at Lucien, and went back to holding his arm. You could hear Elaine’s sweet voice from across the room, but didn’t dare to look over there.

“Oh! Hello Lucien, and Y/N! Oh wow…” She said, sweetly, noticing his presence but you hadn’t looked over yet. You could feel his arm tighten around yours, as you mimicked his. For if Elain had noticed you, then Azriel would be nearby. 

Finally you turned your head, seeing Elaine looking gorgeous as usual, and Azriel, in a handsome black tux. 

His eyes widened when they made eye contact with you.

Then, you jolted, feeling a pull on your ribs like someone was tugging on the other end of a string.

Finally.

“Get away from her!” Azriel shouted, walking quickly and angrily over to you and Lucien. Fury was building in his eyes, before Rhysand and Cassian went to hold him back, fearful of what might happen if Azriel reached you two. 

“What the hell is the matter with you? Y/N’s here as my date” Lucien said, a bit smugly as he took in Azriel’s reaction. You couldn’t help but blush a little bit, leaning closer into Lucien’s arms. 

Like a dog unhinged, Azriel was growling, shaking in Rhys’ and Cassian’s arms - both in unrelenting anger and trying to break free. His siphons were glowing brighter than anyone had ever seen before - brighter than when Mor had come back on the verge of death in Autumn, brighter than when he learned of Rhys’ protection of Velaris from Amarantha, more than… ever. They were glowing so brightly, most of them had to look away or shield part of their eyes from the light. 

“MATE” 

If you could see that I'm the one

Who understands you

Been here all along

So, why can't you see?

You belong with me

You belong with me

taglist:

They said the end is coming

Everyone’s up to something

I find myself running home to your sweet nothings

Outside, they’re pushing and shoving 

You’re in the kitchen humming

All that you ever wanted from me was sweet nothing

The door slammed when you arrived home from the “meeting” with the Night Court. You swear all of Summer Court could feel the wrath of your boiling rage. 

All you wanted was to go to spend time with Mor, but as soon as Rhysand heard that you were in town, he interrupted your gathering, along with the rest of the Inner Court. After being interrogating on the happenings of Summer Court and what actions your mate was taking to prevent Hybern’s attacks, you left shaking with anger. 

“Tell Tarquin to fortify his armies. I want to meet with him as soon as possible. I have plans and he should see them. Here, take them with you” Rhysand said, trying to hand you a document when you stood, glaring at him.

“I’m not his secretary and I’m not here on official business. If you want to discuss this, make a meeting with my mate. I’m not some pawn for you to use when you’ve burned with bridges with him after you destroyed your alliance” You stated, crossing your arms, glaring at every single member of the Inner Court except for Mor. 

“But you’re his mate! He’ll listen to you, Y/N. The war is coming and it’s imperative that we-” Rhysand stated, attempting to give you the documents, but you had turned your attention to Mor.

“It was good to see you Mor. Maybe another time, without them?” You said, giving her a soft smile, before giving another glare to Rhysand when you winnowed away.

Industry disruptors and soul deconstructors

And smooth-talking hucksters out glad-handing each other

And the voices that implore, "You should be doing more"

To you, I can admit that I'm just too soft for all of it

Fuming, you walked quickly through to your bathroom to change out of your clothes and settle into a bath. You couldn’t get there quick enough, and it seemed that the guards and maids knew to stay out of your way, as you all but stomped your way through.  

All you really wanted to be was to be held in Tarquin’s arms, but you knew he was in an important meeting, and for now, a bath would have to do to calm you until he was available. 

When you opened the door, you found that there was already two glasses of wine and your favorite biscuits on a small table next to the bath. You couldn’t help the smile on your face when you saw the arrangement.

Your bathroom - which was originally Tarquin’s - was surrounded with glass windows, overlooking the ocean, although no one could look inside to see you naked. The warm light, the sounds of the crashing waves, and the beautiful scenery always seemed to brighten your mood. You could see the boats pass by, the sounds of the markets softly in the background.

Tarquin knew you liked to come to his room most nights, especially after terrible meetings like today’s - and just sit in his bathtub, even if he wasn’t there. He wasn’t even here and he was making you smile. Tarquin was a High Lord, yet he spent so much time making you happy. 

Your mate knew you better than your self sometimes… most times.

“Sweetheart, you ok?” Tarquin asked softly, arriving a few minutes after you had sat in the bath, taking you in appearance - now relaxed with your hair down, glass of wine in hand. You looked up at him, showing him a soft smile.

“I love you” You said, reaching out and giving him a soft kiss on his lips when he bent down to your level. “Thank you”

“Anything for you, my darling” He said kissing you back, before getting undressed. You stared at him - his beautiful muscles on display before, with the glowing light illuminating him perfectly. It was your own private show.

“You like the view, my darling?” Tarquin asked, teasingly as he smirked smugly you. A faint blush appeared on your cheeks, although you couldn’t help but nod your head. He chuckled,   sliding behind you in the bathtub. His thick legs bent around you, allowing you to lean your back on his chest, your head resting on his shoulder. 

You let out a soft moan, feeling his hands on your shoulders, soothing your tense neck, rubbing in just the right spots to alleviate the knots. 

He reached over after a few minutes, bringing the table closer so you could reach without stretching, and poured the wine for both of you.

“How do you know exactly what I need?” You asked, resting your head back on his shoulder, adjusting yourself so you could see at least part of his face. He just kissed your cheek.

“It helps that we’re mates, but now this is also what I needed, You, a warm bath, wine, and our favorite treats” Tarquin said.

“How was your day?” You asked, and he sighed, shaking his head lightly.

“Not great. More demands and planning. How was Mor? What happened?” He asked.

“The Inner Circle crashed our plans” You just sighed, shaking your head, gulping another sip of wine. “Rhysand demanded I give you plans about the supposed incoming war and that you had to meet with him. I left before I did something regretful”

“I’m sorry, my darling. I know you’ve missed Mor” Tarquin said, and you nodded, nuzzling your head into his neck as you took his arms and wrapped them around you. 

“I love you, Tarquin” You said, kissing his jaw again. 

“I love you too, my darling” He said, kissing the top or your head.

Softly closing your eyes, a comfortable silence fell on both of you as you listened to the crashing waves, lulling you to a state of calm. 

You could stay here forever in this moment. 

They said the end is coming

Everyone’s up to something

I find myself running home to your sweet nothings

Outside, they’re pushing and shoving 

You’re in the kitchen humming

All that you ever wanted from me was sweet nothing

taglist:

Tore your banners down, took the battle underground

And maybe it was ego swinging

Maybe it was her

Flashes of the battle come back to me in a blur

“You shouldn’t have come with me. You should be back, back home, with everyone else” Rhysand stated, angrily, pacing once you arrived at his new room. You looked at Rhys, not just your High Lord but your brother’s best friend. You had followed him quickly back to his room after the welcoming ball, a bit more difficult in your large gown, but you weren’t a spy for nothing. 

“I’m not overjoyed to be here, especially with the likes of you, but we are here, Rhysand. I promised my brother to protect you” You said, walking closer to him. His eyes looked over at yours, fury swirling in them.

“Your brother… he’ll kill me. Why did you argue with me to go?” He asked, shaking his head.

“Because it didn’t feel right. You had to go, and if something went wrong, I’d never forgive myself if something happened to him.… Azriel won’t kill you, and you need all the help you can get here if we want to survive” You said, and although Rhys understood on some level your logic, he was furious at you. Well you were furious at him too, but that wasn’t necessarily new.

Despite being Azriel’s sister, you disliked Rhysand. You couldn’t say you hated him - which honestly, you probably did - because he had saved your brother from himself. Saved him from the daily torment of his mind, pulled him and yourself from the war camps, and gave him a fulfilling purpose. Azriel trusted him, formed a brotherhood bond with him and Cassian, yet you disliked for doing what you thought you should have been able to help with. 

“Why did you include yourself on the bargain with Amarantha? Huh? How was that protecting?” He asked, almost spitting at you, his temper rising. You kept your ground, firmly planting your feet as Rhys’s anger grew, his eyes swirling with fury.

“She wanted more than just you. She had been eyeing me all night as well, or did you not hear her words about the jewel of Illyria becoming her whore. She plays both teams, Rhysand. I don’t trust her, and Azriel would have done the same. We save home at all costs” You said, and he stared at you, and you felt the stroke on your mind’s walls. 

You shook your head, unwilling to let him in. Your mind was a place you never wanted him, nor anyone in. Luckily Rhysand was a good man deep in his core, despite your dislike of him for other reasons, and would never do anything without your consent. 

Rhys was the man who saved you and your brother from hell, and you could never repay him. You could never repay him for giving your brother all the courage and heart in the world, what you had tried to do but could never accomplish like he had. He was your brother’s knight in shining armor, and for that you would be forever grateful, and forever jealous. How could he save him from despair when you couldn’t?

“Thank you..” He uttered softly, looking at you with an emotion you couldn’t quite place.

“I’m not doing this for you” You said, looking away, trying to force down the emotions rising from memories of your family flooding your brain. You didn’t know when you’d see your brother again, your mother, the inner circle who had become your best friends...

“I know” He said, and you nodded, unable to look at him.

“When do you think we’ll be out of here?” You asked, trying to change topics. You heard his harsh exhale.

“I don’t know, but they’re safe. I was able to bubble them” Rhysand said, a bit sadly. 

“They’re safe” You reiterated, nodding. 

All that bloodshed, crimson clover,

The bombs were close and

My hand was the one you reached for 

All throughout the Great War

Always remember 

The burning embers

I vowed not to fight anymore

If we survived the Great War

Fifty years. Fifty years of torment, torture and hell was finally ending.

“Y/N” Your name pierced through your thoughts, as you turned your head away from the corpse of Amarantha to your High Lord. It felt like your body was stuck in place, the shock of the night overwhelming your body. 

Rhys approached you delicately, reaching out a hand for you to take. No words were spoken, as you stared into his eyes, and took his hand, clutching it tightly. He looked at you cautiously, before raising his other hand to your cheek, resting his forehead on yours as the two of you synced your thudding hearts to a normal rhythm. 

“Ready?” He asked, in a whisper, after a few moments. You nodded, as he wrapped his arms around you, holding you as tightly as he felt appropriate while winnowing.

“You’re back!” Mor screamed, as you and Rhysand had winnowed back. Your whole body tensed, unable to pull away from Rhysand’s arms despite the inner circle’s stares at the two of you, your grip on his tightening. He felt you shake your head on his chest, minimally, and Rhysand opened his wings, shielding you both from the stares of the group. 

You leaned a bit from his grip, looking directly at him as you opened your mind up to him, your heightened emotions and stress of seeing everyone again after so long. After everything.

I’ll let them know when you are ready, Rhys said in your mind, as leaned into you, kissing your forehead gently. Leaning back, you shared a look before you stepped out of his arms, and winnowed away.

The inner circle stared as you left, and Rhysand put away his wings, looking away finally from where you were standing, to address his family’s. A weak smile appeared on his lips, as he finally saw the faces of the people he - they - had fought so long to protect. 

“What-Where’d-“ Azriel stared, looking at the spot his sister once stood.

“A lot has happened. Y/N needs some time alone. If I have to, I will order you not to search for her” Rhys stated, looking directly at Azriel, before glancing at all of them to show the severity of his words.

“She’s my sister” Azriel growled, protectively. Rhys stared at him, posturing himself tall to full strength of High Lord as intimidation. The Inner circle was shocked by his display of protection for someone who - before going under the mountain - had all but hated Rhysand. Y/N would barely speak to him unless ordered and was forced by Azriel to spend time with him. 

Now, Rhysand was defending Y/N against her own brother. 

“And she will see you when she is ready” Rhys stated, the violet in his eyes spinning in fury.

“Alright, we’ll give her time. We’re just so happy you’re home” Cassian said, diffusing the situation, as the pair nodded, and the rest of the group sighed, hugging their best friend and High Lord. 

Broken and blue, so I called off the troops

That was the night I nearly lost you

I really thought I lost you.

We can plant a memory garden

Say a solemn prayer, place a poppy in my hair.

There’s no morning glory, it was war, it wasn’t fair.

And we will never go back

You had heard the wind shift, his steps coming closer to you after he closed the door. You smelled his distinct cologne - the scent you had previously hated, but now smelled like comfort. You didn’t look at him, as he made his way to sit next to you on the coach in front of the fireplace and took the additional wine glass you had left out for him. 

Time was another concept out here - only marked by the rising and setting of the sun around you, the cooler air breezing through the trees. The days were spent working out - climbing th mountains, training, or destroying the punching bag trees.

Every night since the first night, Rhysand had come out here after he felt your terror. Your mind was replaying on repeat all the torture and nightmares under the mountain you had faced. When he arrived, Rhysand didn’t hesitate to wrap you in his arms, wake you from your nightmares, and hold you tight against his chest.

Rhys himself hadn’t been able to sleep that night. The terrors keeping his mind active.

Both of you had sobbed, no words needed to be spoken of the horrors the two of you had lived.

The next night, you added the wine, hoping to calm yourself and forget, but it ended the same way without Rhysand. The memories too overwhelming to go to sleep safely alone. Now, days later, the two of you would drink wine before heading to bed together, knowing you were secure with the others’ arms wrapped around you.

You moved the blanket to allow him to move closer to you, snuggling in to his side as he wrapped his arms around you. You took a deep breath, inhaling more of his cologne, as he moved to make you both comfortable but surrounding you with his warmth. Your head nuzzled into the space by his neck, his arms wrapped around your waist with your legs over his.

“Azriel asked about you again today. He’s getting more demanding on seeing you” Rhys admitted. You let out a sigh.

“I told them you’ll be back on your own time and you’re safe” He added.

“Tomorrow. I’ll come tomorrow” You said, and you felt Rhys breathe deeply, before moving his body to look at you in your eyes.

“Are you sure?” He asked, softly, and you let the corners of your lips lift a bit into a smile, the first form of a smile you’ve displayed in fifty years. 

“As long as we can still continue our sleeping arrangements, I can handle our family” You quipped, and you could see his face morph with happiness. 

He leaned in, pressing his lips against yours, shooting tingles down your spine and fireworks along the softness of his lips.

“Anything you wish, mate”

I would always be yours

Since we survived the Great War

It was dinner with the Inner Court, and after a meeting with some of the other court High Lords, everyone was suspicious. Eris not taking Beron’s side was not something that happened, and after not hearing from the couple in so long, everyone was getting concerned. 

“You’re not serious? Azriel says his spies haven’t seen or heard from them since the war. Nothing!” Cassian said, angrily.

“What if they’re in trouble? Beron wouldn’t say anything and risk his court’s appearance” Feyre said logically, looking directly at her mate with worry evident in her eyes. Rhys sighed, looking to Azriel.

“Nothing?” Rhysand asked, confirming.

“They’ve been missing from Autumn celebrations, no appearances at Autumn markets. There’s been no activity outside of Eris’ house. No one in Autumn has seen the couple since the war” Azriel confirmed, which made everyone’s stomach drop.

The sisters all looked to each other, then Feyre and Rhysand stared at one another.

“We can’t all storm in to see them. It’ll cause suspicion that we’ve been spying on them” Rhysand said.

“Then why don’t we go. Just the two of us - we’ll say we hadn’t given the couple a wedding gift” Feyre said. 

“If Beron asks why it wasn’t sent earlier?” Rhysand asked, thinking this all through.

“Does she even know our father died?” Nesta asked, bringing up another topic that made everything more suspicious. 

“If she knew, she would’ve reached out” Feyre said.

“Or she’s not able to” Cassian said, suspiciously. 

“Okay, a wedding gift is respectful enough to not raise concerns about our spying. We could say we thought Eris would be at the meeting and was going to bring it then. Alright, we’ll go to Autumn then tomorrow” Rhysand said.

“Do you really think something has happened to them? Would Beron…?” Feyre whispered, pulling Rhysand into another room to discuss.

“No. Beron isn’t that stupid to try something. I don’t know, but the tattoo is there so it hasn’t been broken” Rhysand said, frustrated without more knowledge but brought Feyre into his arms to comfort her. “She’ll be okay. Y/N will be okay” 

“Azriel, stop pacing or else you’ll make a hole in the floor” Mor commented, watching him walk back and forth. He stopped, looking to her with swirls of darkness in his eyes, as he also took in the concerned looks of Cassian, Nesta, Amren, Varian, Elain and Lucien. “We’re all worried about her too”

“What if Beron found out about her powers? What if she’s getting tortured? Eris is good at lying and playing a part” Azriel said, thinking of all the horrible scenarios Y/N could be in. 

“It would be too obvious for them to just disappear like this. Beron’s smarter than that” Varian chimed in, from where he was sitting. 

“We will find out tomorrow when Feyre and Rhys go and see” Cassian added, seeing the anxiety creep up in his mate Nesta, as he wrapped an arm around her.

Azriel clenched his fists, remembering the moments of Y/N and him alone each night, cuddled together. Remembered her bright smile, always warming him up. 

———

Eris never let you out of his sight after you told him you were pregnant - which was both sweet and annoying. You didn’t hate all of the attention, but there were so many changes that happened so quickly in the time, you were beyond emotional. Everything had changed so quickly from when you found out you and Eris were mates, to getting married, to the war, and then pregnancy - you felt that things were finally settling, despite the rollercoaster of pregnancy you were dealing with. 

Eris had announced the pregnancy to the family that night at dinner, although that is where the spread of news ended.

“No one - and I repeat, no one - besides this family will know for the time being. We have just finished a war, and I will not be having Y/N and my heir in any dangerous situations for now” Eris all but snarled at his brothers, before looking to his parents. Everyone looked shocked - well besides Serah, staring at you, as you rested a hand gently on Eris’, calming him as best as he could. There didn’t need to be added family drama after a war. This was supposed to be good news.

“Congratulations! This is blessed news! Eris, you should be thrilled Y/N so quickly. Your mate has a very healthy womb. This is great news for Autumn Court. Of course, with how unstable everything currently is, we will wait to announce. There is no need to have Y/N and my grand-heirs in danger” Beron said, focusing on you and smiling, full set of teeth on display. You shifted a bit uncomfortably under his strong gaze, as well as hearing his comments, lowering yours to your belly. His smile was looking more sinister with each minute. Eris squeezed your hand, feeling your discomfort through the bond as he rubbed it gently.

“Thank you” Eris nodded, looking to some of the more gossipy of his brothers, staring them down with a fiery stare. 

“You two will move into the castle. The south wing has everything that you will need and I’ll get additional guards to station” Beron demanded, before looking at his other sons. “You all will keep your mouths shut, or you will all get 200 lashes any of you repeat anything. Y/N will be under all of your protection as well. If she needs anything - you boys will get it for her. Damian, you will be taking over Eris’ physical position when we have intercourt relations. Eris, you’ll do your position from here, but you will not need to leave Y/N. Y/N and this baby is our top priority. I don’t think I need to tell you how rare children are, and how blessed our family is. Eris, you did not disappoint on your duties as my heir” Beron stated, the closest thing to a compliment Eris would receive. 

That was eight months ago and still no one outside of the Vanserra family, guards and doctors knew. Beron had moved you and Eris into the castle, giving extra protection of guards wherever you went. This was the future of Autumn Court. Babies were rare, and Beron made sure that you were always protected. The hounds, who typically lived with Eris at his house, were also now living at the castle, as they would bark incessantly when away from you. 

It surprised the whole family how involved Beron had become with the pregnancy. He would linger around, making notes of things that could help with your symptoms, and seemed almost happy talking about the new generation of Vanserras. It was undoubtedly creepy when he’d touch your belly, stare at your body unabashedly, and ask about intimate details about you. No one knew what to say or do but everyone was uncomfortable.

Serah had explained during her years of being pregnant, it was the best time of their marriage. Beron was fixated on her belly, and she reasoned that it was just a pregnancy thing for him. Beron would be a grandfather, a very rare title now with the wars and scarcity of children being born. 

Despite being moved into the castle and having guards surround the two of you all the time, Eris was plagued with nightmares: images of you losing dying and being bled out, someone kidnapping you, kidnapping the babies, torturing you. You would wake up to his trembling and sweats, and you’d wake him up to get him out o this head.You’d do your best to get him to sleep peacefully, or stay up as long as you could to talk him through it, which would end up with more guards or further plans to add protection to your house.

In general, the pregnancy was not a breeze so far, with the nausea, drowsiness, swelling, heightened emotions and the cravings. You weren’t put on bedrest yet, but you knew it’d be coming soon, considering your size and how terrible some days felt. You craved typically fall and autumn foods, no surprise to anyone. 

“This baby is definitely Autumn Court” One of Eris’s brothers joked at family dinner, when the chef arrived with a special plate for you - macaroni and cheese with red pepper flakes and hot sauce coating the top, alongside apple slices with cinnamon. 

You blushed, looking at your food a tad embarrassed, before Eris reached a hand over to your knee, caressing it lightly. You were still getting used to the dynamic of the Vanserra family, but overall, everyone seemed to welcome you as Eris’ mate and wife. 

“Any normal person, all that spice would burn your mouth” Another commented, the usual stiff air of family dinner disappearing when everyone chuckled.

“It’s exactly what I ate when I was pregnant with all of you. The chef knows the recipe very well by now” Sarah commented, smiling at her children.

“I remember you loved all those covered apples from the market” Beron commented, looking to his wife, remembering the fond memories. Serah smiled softly - when she was pregnant, those were days he never abused her. Showering her with gifts and her cravings, it was some of the happiest moments of their relationship.

“Oh those sound good” Y/N said, looking at Eris with wide doe eyes.

“I’ll get them for you” Eris said, nodding as he smiled at her.

“They have them dipped in caramel, chocolate, cinnamon and some other toppings as well, I believe. Your mother loved the caramel and cinnamon ones” Beron added, and Eris nodded. 

It was surprising how well Beron and Eris were acting, but Beron was thrilled about Y/N’s pregnancy, and no one was going to start questioning now. 

“I want to tell my sisters before everyone else finds out” You stated, crossing your arms as you looked at Eris. Your belly was so large that you could rest your arms on your belly. 

“I don’t want you traveling to the night court, especially not in your condition” Eris replied back, trying not to argue but he was overly protective of you. You hadn’t been able to leave the castle or your home since you found out, and besides feeling stifled, you missed your sisters. You understood Eris’ dilemma but you weren’t budging. You had been surrounded by only Eris and his family for months, and you wanted your sisters. 

“Eris, I don’t care how but I’m seeing my sisters. What if they came here?” You asked. Sighing, Eris ran a hand through his hair, thinking of the possibilities. 

“We’d have to get it approved by my father” He said.

“Then I’ll ask him tonight at dinner” You replied.

“And then there’s Rhysand. Do you really think he’ll let his High Lady come here?” Eris asked.

“Eris, I swear to god I will walk there myself if I have to” You said stubbornly. Eris looked at you,  sighing, as he closed his eyes to think of the possibilities. “I haven’t seen my family since before the war. You know what? I’m sure Azriel or Cassian or Rhys would love to fly me there” You said, knowing how much that would push him over the edge. 

“You’re not going! We’ll ask Beron tonight” Eris said, sighing, pulling you in close to him. You tilted you head up to gaze at your husband.

Some days, you could just stare at Eris, in surprise of how you got here and how you managed to get such a wonderful husband, You knew no one really knew the real Eris like you did, but you couldn’t help but love him more.

“I love you” You said softly, as you watched his face soften and glow.

“I love you too, little flame” He said, cusping your face in his hand to give you a knee-weakening kiss. You all but melted into his arms.

Suddenly, there was a knock on your door. Eris sighed, reluctantly leaving you to open the door. Surprised, you saw one of Beron’s personal guards, Stanton, at the door, coming in looking a bit shocked.

“The High Lord and High Lady of Night Court are here to see you both” He said, and Eris turned to you, surprise evident on his face.

“To see us? Eris did you-?” You asked, confused. 

“No. Tell them we’ll be there in shortly” Eris said.

“Your High Lord wants me to escort you back. I’ll be waiting outside” Stanton stated, and you raised an eyebrow but Eris nodded. Stanton closed the door behind him when he stepped back outside. What Beron wanted, Beron would get.

“They’re here?” You asked surprised, although you couldn’t help but hide the excitement of seeing your sister again.

———-

What is taking them so long? Feyre thought to Rhys, as they waited for Eris and Y/N to appear. It seemed that Autumn had expected it to take a few minutes, so they were all currently sitting in one of the formal living rooms instead of the normal throne room. There were a few plush couches, and Rhys was surprised to be in that room, as he had never entered it before on his dealings with Autumn Court.

I don’t know, but Beron’s acting very different… Rhys replied honestly, as Beron waited with them, watching them with fixed eyes as he seemed to study them harsher than normal. If Rhysand wasn’t as powerful as he was, he’d be definitely threatened with how hostile Beron currently was. 

Suddenly, they could hear commotion outside of the room, the guards moving to the door, as everyone stood up in anticipation. Rhys noted that it was surprising they were using the doors instead of winnowing.

“My apologies on your wait, High Lord and High Lady. It takes a lot more time to do normal tasks as of late” you said, with a glowing smile as Rhysand and Feyre stared at you in shock, as you walked to them, with Eris directly at your side. Feyre’s face erupted into a wide smile, once the shock ran off.

“Oh sister! Congratulations!” She said, opening her arms to bring you into a tight hug, before both Beron and Eris stepped in front of you. 

You tried not be upset as, you put a hand on Eris’ arm, and looked to Beron, who glanced down at you.

“It’s alright, we understand. Males are very protective of their offspring and lineage” Rhysand said, giving both males quizzical looks, before sitting on the couch with Feyre. You and Eris sat on another couch, while Eris gave his father a look.

“I believe Damian had mentioned there were some heated arguments that could only be settled with the High Lord, father” Eris said, and Beron looked at you, the Night Court guests, and then back to Eris.

“Your brother can’t do anything right. You look beautiful as always, Y/N” Beron said, surprising the Night Court by rubbing your belly softly before winnowing away. Eris wrapped his arm around you belly, a physical layer of protection that he had been doing now out of habit. Rhysand and Feyre looked at you and Eris expectantly, confused by everything.

“My apologies on the wait, truly. You look stunning Feyre, and Rhysand, ever so handsome” You said, with a wide smile. Eris stiffened a bit, but he knew deep down he didn’t have anything to be jealous of.

“No, you look beautiful. Seriously, you look glowing! Congratulations sister” Feyre said.

“You look beautiful, Y/N. Congratulations, both of you. How far along are you?” Rhysand asked, looking to Eris. 

Your belly was the largest pregnancy belly he had ever seen, and you looked ready to pop, but that would have put the conception before the wedding.

“She’s eight months. Got pregnant right after the wedding” Eris said, with a smirk as he looked at you. You blushed, remembering those days before shaking your head at him.

“How’s it been? I’ve missed you so much” Feyre said, and you reached out a hand to hers, holding it tightly. 

“It’s been… fine” You said, as Eris snorted, shaking his head.

“Don’t lie to them, little flame” Eris teased, before looking at the others. “It’s been a rough pregnancy. She’s carrying twins”

Rhysand’s jaw dropped, as he looked to Y/N’s belly in awe, and Feyre looked at him confused.

“Are twins not common?” Feyre asked.

“I have never met a faerie set of twins or know of any. You two have certainly been blessed” Rhysand said. “My healer Madja is available for you if necessary, and if you need additional protection, Night Court is here for you. The babies will be family, after all” 

You smiled, then winced as you felt them move within you. Eris looked at you concerned, as well as Rhys and Feyre.

“They’re active ones. Here,” You said reaching for both of their hands, as Eris stiffened, doing his best to calm his protective nature. You looked at Eris, with a raised eyebrow daring him to do something. “They’re fine, Eris. This is their aunt and uncle. They will not hurt me or them” You said, and Eris sighed, with a nod, before you placed a hand of Feyre’s and Rhysand’s on your belly where the babies were kicking.

“Oh my gosh” Feyre commented, feeling the kick. Tears were lining your eyes, as well as hers. “You’re having a baby, babies” Feyre corrected, as more tears poured from your eyes.

“Tissues!” Eris shouted to a guard, who immediately handed you some to wipe your eyes.

“Sorry, double the babies, double the heightened emotions” You said, with a chuckle, as everyone looked at you.

“We brought you a wedding gift, but we were worried since no one has heard from you” Rhysand explained, and Eris nodded.

“We’ve been keeping this a secret. Beron moved us into the castle for extra protection, even before we knew about the twins, and no one else outside the family knows. Now, I’m surprised Beron let you to see us, but no one  can know” Eris said, with a glare that could kill. You put your hand on Eris’ arm, to calm him down, brushing warmly on your bond.

“I want my family to know. It is unreasonable to ask them to keep it to themselves and not tell my sisters that I am pregnant. That they will be aunts. I’ll accept bed rest if we have a dinner to tell them?” You bargained with Eris, knowing how desperately he wished you wouldn’t move around anymore. Eris sighed, looking to you. 

“You know it’s really not up to me” He said, and you smiled a half smile. 

“I’ll ask him” You said, rubbing Eris’ hand. “I’ll ask and hopefully we’ll have dinner tomorrow or the next day. Oh! The dresses! I almost forgot” You said, excitedly, looking to Feyre. “I can’t go outside, so I’ve made a few dresses for you, our sisters, Mor, Amren and Madja. Please take them” You said as you motioned to a staff member to get the dresses.

“Oh you didn’t have to” Feyre exclaimed, when he came back with a large box filled with dresses.

“It was a nice distraction from feeling like a whale” You said, with a smile, as Feyre peaked in the box, seeing the dark fabrics and sparkle.

“I thought I was a distraction” Eris teased, unable to keep his thoughts in around you. You chuckled, leaning over and giving him a kiss.

“You are the best distraction, but you are not available all day, my love” You said, before turning back to your sister and her mate.

“That is very kind of you. I will happily pay for these” Rhysand said to Eris, seeing how happy his wife and her sister were.

“No need, Rhysand” Eris said. “It makes her happy” He added, looking at you.

“This is a very different Eris. One I’m happy to know” Rhysand said.

“It’s Y/N, she makes me… she’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me” Eris said honestly, the love evident through his eyes.

“There’s no one I would’ve asked to be the father of my children, my love” Y/N said, tearing up again. 

“I swear, your hormones are going to kill me” Eris teased again, not wanting to cry in front of Rhysand - despite being his mate’s brother-in-law.

“How is everyone?” Y/N asked, switching topics.

“Everyone’s recovering. Nesta and Cassian are mates - they bonded after Nesta recovered from her difficulty processing our father’s death in the war” Feyre explained, watching Y/N’s face as it turned to shock.

“Father… father’s dead? In our war?” She asked confused. Eris raised an eyebrow at Rhysand, not remembering.

“Yes, father came in with his ships as help… Rhys, could you show her?” Feyre asked, before Eris got concerned.

“Do we - Do you want to see it? Do you want to see what Hybern did?” Eris asked, holding Y/N’s hands and looking at her. 

“I… no. I don’t. He’s dead. He came and helped in the war, and now he’s dead” Y/N stated, coldly. “Nesta struggled?” You asked, trying to not break out into more tears.

“Yes, but now she’s training” Rhysand said, delicately.

“Cassian’s always had a thing for her, yea? Two hot heads” You said, shaking your head, as you wiped off tears. “How’s Elain? Is she feeling better?” You asked.

“She’s much better. Lucien’s been helping” Feyre said, with a quick glance to Eris at the mention of his brother.

“I’m happy for them. I’ve missed you all so much” You said, emotionally.

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