Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Part 1: From a single spark, the mightiest flames are born.

The water was pulling her down, down, down. It invaded her lungs, her mind, her soul. Nesta tried to fight against the waves, but with each move, they shoved her back to the large black mass at the bottom.

The Cauldron was laughing at her, in her mother’s voice. The cruel sound pounded against her head. The water kept pulling her closer to it, burning her, as if it was enacting a grudge held for centuries.

Sweet Nesta, Her mother spoke. Beautiful Nesta, come back home. 

Nesta tried to yell, but no sound came out. The Cauldron simply hummed. Her body was hot and cold at the same time, her eyes were stinging. She felt hollow inside.

Sweet Nesta. It crooned. The water grew more agitated, gripping her hair. Her veins burned as if molten lava were churning through her. 

Nesta tried to scream as the opening of the cauldron came closer, a bit more and she would be trapped, like she always had been.

Was this to be her life? Always fighting against a bigger threat, always trying to defend herself while being helpless? It was the same with Tomas, it was the same with the Cauldron and it was the same with Hybern. How much more will they take from her?

Give up, the Cauldron hummed, the very same way her mother did when her anger touched the surface. Why bother with a world that would only bring you pain?

Nesta stopped for a second and the Cauldron continued, They care not for you. Come back little thief.

The water kept pulling her down, down, down.

It’s my life, she thought, mine. 

Is it?

Scenes flashed before her eyes.

Feyre sitting on the rolled arm of a couch, looking at Nesta with her head held high, “You're done, the apartment, the behaviour, all of it… As of this meeting you're moving into the House of wind.” Cassian was nearby, his face still.

“You are going, even if you have to be tied up and hauled there.”

The scene changed and Nesta was looking at herself perched on a rock as Cassian glared at her.

“You could try for once,” The gaze seemed to say.

More scenes came through and each one showed a broken down Nesta, one with nothing to live for.

She could see herself crawling up stairs, her body bruised as Cassian smiled at her from above.

She could see her carry a large bag with no life in her eyes.

See what’s in store for you? Her mother said. Come home. The Cauldron was at arm's length. She could feel the heat rolling off it, the sounds of screams, her screams.

“No.” She managed to say, and the water went into her lungs. She bucked her hips, trying to escape when another picture came through, and Nesta stopped.

She was at a table with two other girls: an Illyrian woman with bent wings and a soft smile and a pale-faced redhead who laughed as she weaved beads in her hands. The Nesta in that picture looked happy, she looked content.

She looked free.

The picture was as foreign as the Continent but Nesta wanted that, that friendship, care, love.

The Cauldron was showing her a path into her future, but it wasn't the only path. She could forge her own path, one with happiness, one where she was in charge. One where she finds peace.

And what of these friends? What makes you sure that you’ll find them? Her mother said, but her voice wavered. What makes you sure they’ll still love you?

“That’s for me to find out.” The water stilled and she broke free, swimming to the surface. The Cauldron behind her, screaming at her, the sound causing Nesta’s ears to ring.

She could find her one way in life, she could burn the path that led to such a broken down version of herself.

She broke free of the water and her eyes shot open.

The room was dark, the only light coming from the window above her, the moon’s rays bathing her room. Nesta sat up and placed a hand on her head, it was damp.

She was dreaming. She had been having the same dream for five nights in a row, and in each one she barely escaped the Cauldron.

But she had never dreamt a dream like this. She was half tempted to brush it off and go back to bed like she had done the other four nights she had received the same dream.

But her dreams were never like this, never did they show her visions. And the visions were ones she had no way of making, things out of her imagination.

A different path, a new way.

She had a chance, for a life where she seemed happy, she could be happy. She sat up and looked to her side. A male was in her bed, no her mattress, the old lump was anything but a bed. The male’s brown hair was covering the side of his face, his chest rising and falling. He was… she had no clue. Quietly rising to her feet, she looked down at him. 

In this angle, he looked normal, he looked human. She could pretend that she was normal. She could imagine that she had left her town and found a nice man to lie with.

She raised her left foot and nudged him with it. His eyes opened and he smiled up at her.

“Waking me up for a 2nd round?” He stretched his arms and brushed the hair from his face, and Nesta couldn't draw her attention away from his face, more specifically his ears. The way the tip of his ears grew longer and more slim, the way the top part stuck out.

And the little dream she made within her mind came tumbling at the seams. She wasn’t human, not anymore.

“Get out.” Her voice was rough, her throat scratchy. She couldn't bear to look at him. His eyes stopped looking at her breast and scowled. She wanted to rip his eyes out.

“What for? It's the dead of night.”

“I don’t care, get out.” The male looked at her and scoffed once more, getting up. As he grabbed his clothes he mumbled under his breath calling her names, but Nesta didn’t care.

Once he left, she headed out of her room and grabbed the small orb with the golden bottom and shook it. A soft yellow glow came out of it, lighting the room up. She pressed her head against the glass, letting her tears slip freely. 

She was fae. She was fae. She could never be human again.

Nesta looked at the dates on her wall, the paper peeling at the edges. It was the 8th month of the year, and when Cassian was carrying her over the roofs, it was Autumn. So that gave her about 4 weeks before her sister took her by force to the House of Wind.

She had to do something, anything. She couldn’t let herself be in that wretched house again. Feel everything all over again. 

4 weeks to fix up and stop her sister and her husband from meddling with her life, 4 weeks to be a newer version of herself. 

She looked at her bare self and wore a shirt that smelt like beer. She dropped on her mattress and frowned. The apartment was bad, no proper furniture, and what she had was not nicely built. The paint was chipped and peeling, she’d hear the sounds of tint rodents running around. If only her human friends could see how far she had fallen.

Nesta picked at her fraying blanket, a new apartment was on her list. She should make a list. She reached for the edge of her mattress and grabbed a spare paper covered in coffee and a half empty pen.

She needed to change, she thought as she sat back down, but what?

Her drinking. Feyre always felt the need to comment on it and so did the others. But then that would mean she’d have to deal with everything.

But was drinking worth her freedom?

A job was next on the list. Taking Rhysands’s money would only tie her to them even more, and with a job she could get a nice place to stay and save enough up to leave the Night Court.

She looked at her list: Sober up, get a job, new house, leave. It was pretty short but it would suffice. She looked out the window and saw the dark sky. There were still a few hours till dawn, and right after that she’d find a job and take her life back in her hands.

She crawled into bed and closed her eyes, Sober up, get a job, new house, leave.

The sun woke her up, in her haze she had forgotten to close her blinds. Sunlight bathed her face, the soft caress a contrast to her nightmare.

“Ugh.” She sat up and looked out the window, people were moving about, the town waking up.

She wanted to go back to bed, changes be damned. 

“You are going, even if you have to be tied up and hauled there.”

She was out of her sheets instantly.

She tried to find a dress that was somewhat clean and pulled out a simple pale blue dress that was clean enough. She washed herself with the rough bar of soap she owned until her skin was raw. 

The hallway down to the front door was a mess, messier than she remembered. There were food wrappers, old clothes and a suspiciously shaped lump at the end of the hallway that stunk of… Nesta didn't even want to guess. The stairs were covered in a thick layer of dust that mingled in the air with every step.

The outside of her apartment was in a worse state. Dirt and grime covered the floors and half broken houses were scattered across the street. 

As the scenery changed into more beautiful houses, well built roads and sweet fragrances wafting through the air, Nesta couldn't help but wonder why there were slums at all.

She had chosen that area solely to get away from everything, from everybody pretending that the war hadn't happened and hadn't taken its toll on them all. And some part of it was spite. 

But looking around Nesta couldn't help but feel upset for the people around her. The people that had to live in this way because they didn't have the means of living any other.

The Fae were up and out, greeting one another, talking about their day. She couldn't help but feel spite coursing through her body. Thinking about how they got to sit behind and lounge through the war and suffering, and the only attack they had sustained was to their city months before the war had started. But deep down she knew she couldn't fault them.

The first store she saw that was hiring was a jewellery store. It was beautiful, gems sparkled in the light, emeralds catching her eyes. She walked in and was greeted by the smell of flowers.

The woman - Female at the front smiled at her. Her white hair was pulled back in a bun with 2 strands hanging out, her red eyes were on Nesta, a small smile on her face.

“Ah Kingslayer,” She dipped her head and gestured to her collection. “Do any of these catch your eye?”

Nesta looked down at the glass. Diamonds, rubies, emeralds and much more. They sparkled in the light and Nesta had to tear her gaze away from them. “They're beautiful but I was hoping for a job.” The words were blunt, she had seen men in the mortal lands do the same, walk to a booth, ask for a job and get one. How hard could it be?

“Oh,” The female let out a light laugh and placed a hand on her chest. “My lady there’s no need. You help us plenty with Hybern and all.”

Nesta tilted her head, “You aren’t hiring?”

“Well I am-”

“Then I'm here. I know my way around gems and can spot knockoffs.”

“I’m sure that you have a great set of skills,” The female said, hands up. “But I'm fine. You should rest.”

Nesta just stared at her and turned on her heel, the breeze greeted her.

What was the point of having a sign up but not taking the person asking for a job? Was she going about the wrong way? Maybe she should be more approachable. She tried to ease the muscles in her face, and tried for a smile. She thought of herself on a boat, somewhere near the Continent and with a sense of purpose.

She walked ahead, and took in the shops, the people around her. Not after long she found another store, a welding store near a cute cafe. She looked at the large store with beautiful metal engravings along the edges, and this time in bold letters were the words: No experience needed.

Great, this could be it for her. She pushed open the door and walked in. The male at the desk was weedy looking, his black hair pushed back with gel and his face gaunt. He looked up and placed the book he had on the desk and pointed out the window.

“I don’t do tiaras. The store in the Places Hoof and Leaf does so.”

“I’m actually not here for that.” Nesta tried to make her voice more neutral instead. She walked ahead and smiled at the yellow eyed male. “I’ve seen the sign out front, am I correct in assuming that you’re hiring staff?”

“I am.” The words were said slowly, as if they were being dragged out of the male's mouth.

“And that no experience is needed?”

“Yes.”

She smiled. “I would like to apply.”

The male laughed, his head back and his throat bobbing. But when Nesta didn’t budge and kept her eyes on him he stopped.

“Mother above, you’re being serious?”

“Yes.”

He dragged a hand down his face and tried for a smile. “Listen, I don't doubt that you must be a great worker, but I'm already in hot water with the High Lord and High Lady. I don't want to risk any harm coming to the Kingslayer whilst she works here.”

“I assure you, my sister has no hand in this, and any harm that comes to me is from my own accord.”

He sighed and raised his shoulders, “I’m sorry, I can't risk it. But you-”

Nesta didn’t let the male finish, she simply turned and walked out the door. She walked out and kept going till she found a bench to sit on.

Why the hell were people not hiring her? Was this Rhysand’s doing? Telling all the store owners not to hire her so his and Feyre’s plans to take her to the House of Wind were successful?

No, that would be crazy. They had no clue she knew of the plans they were making. 

“Why is finding a job so hard?” Nesta hummed to herself, maybe it was a sign, maybe she should just let them take her and work something out from there. Nesta watched as a female in a simple dress sat on the bench across from her. Her hair was down, her face carefree as she read a book. Her lips would curl up as she flipped through the pages.

Nesta watched her through her lashes, and she felt her heart constrict. She wanted that, the carefree smiles and ease. No fear of the world, no lingering pain. But if she stayed in her sister’s reach, could she find that? Or would she be their weapon, ready to bite at their command?

She had to keep going, she had only gone to 2 stores, she couldn’t quit now. She went to a store and used her last few coins for a hot meal, and as she ate, she let her mind wander like it usually did when she was sober. 

She wasn't fae, just a simple human girl, having a great lunch. The couple passing by here didn't have iridescent wings, they just had iridescent clocks that fluttered behind them, and the male that was using the winds to carry his bags was just dragging them with a cart. She was herself. Not fae, just Nesta.

But when she had to put away the make belief and come back to reality, something in her would break.

After her meal she tried her hand in a few more stores, and time and time again they all said no. Some were too shy to outright deny her, others were scared of the High lord's wrath. And every time they told her to rest, she had done what she could for them. 

The sun had reached its peak and slowly made its descent when a pounding headache hit her in the middle of the street. It spread down her face and became a bother to deal with.

Nesta walked till she found a small apothecary near the Sirda. The store was cute, a wooden sign at the front and flowers growing on the window sills. She pushed the door open and a small chime filled the shop. The walls were a soft shade of green and the smell of smoke wafted through the air. 

The desk spread from the 3 walls, a small wooden flap at the back to enter. The walls behind the shelf were filled with potions, plants, jars and more things she couldn’t name. And a small door was at the back wall, slightly ajar.

“One second!” A voice yelled from the back. After a while a female came out. She had pink hair wavy that fell to her shoulders and a large smile.

“Hello, what can I do you for?”

“Have you got anything for headaches?” The vibrations as she spoke made her wince.

“What kind of headache have you got?” The woman asked as she picked up a pad.

“Well it's all over my face.” Nesta leaned against a counter for support and focused her sights on a small vial, her head racing.

“Ah and have you had any alcohol in the past few days?”

“Yes, last night.”

The female smiled and looked up, “I’d say it's more likely you drank a lot, and decided to do a lot more strenuous activities than normal?”

“Yes.” Nesta looked at the female. She had a heart shaped face and bright blue eyes. The exact same as the lake she and Clare used to spend time in.

“Okay take this one, and probably this one.” She glided across the store, grabbing bottles then putting them back at a moment's notice.

She was moving so much that Nesta couldn't keep up and looked ahead again, focusing on the spot. A letter hanging above the shelf caught her eyes.

“Are you hiring?”

“And maybe this one - what?” The female stopped, 5 bottles in her hands.

“I was asking if you were hiring?”

“Oh yes I am!” She placed 2 bottles down on the desk and dropped to the floor. “Are you interested?”

“Yes!” The response came out louder than she wanted. The female stood up and smiled.

“Okay come in.” She opened the small door and beckoned Nesta in. She passed through the desk and into the back room. It was nice: a couch and table in the center of the room and heart with no fire in front, a station with a cauldron bubbling in a small corner, and another door that led to stairs.

“Take a seat.” The female dropped down with a plunk and Nesta followed suit, folding her hand in her lap.

“So I’m Enora, I own this store, well now I do. And you’re the Kingslayer.”

“Nesta, just Nesta. Who owned this store beforehand?”

The female’s face dropped. “Oh, my mate owned the store beforehand, he passed away 6 weeks ago.”

“Oh my apologies.” Nesta bit her tongue, of course she had to ask that.

“Eh,” Enora waved her hand and looked at Nesta. “Why do you want to work here Nesta?”

“Because I need money, and a new house.” Enora laughed and it was a loud sound, she laughed like she had no care whatsoever.

“Most people try and put their best foot forward. Do you have any experience?”

“I helped in the war.” Enora nodded and placed a finger on her chin, deep in thought. Nesta braced herself for disappointment, she was probably weighing out the pros and cons. What good would a new hire do if the High Lord and High Lady were about to break down your door for any grievances that came towards her? And working in an apothecary with potions, there were bound to be mistakes and mishaps.

“Okay you can start now probably? I'd have to teach you how to make potions and they're fairly simple. I even have a book about recipes on how you can make them.”

Nesta Archeron prided herself on her facial expressions, living under the same roof as Eliza Archeron, she had to be able to control her face and her feelings at the drop of a hat less she wanted a smack to the face. But it was safe to say that her jaw dropped in shock.

“Wait, you’re hiring me just like that?”

Enora looked around and nodded, “Well you have come to me and you have asked for work, this is how it usually goes? Isn't it? I'm sorry, I've never done this before.”

 “You don't care that I'm the KingSlayer?”

“Well you just said you'd like to be called Nesta, didn't you?”

“Yes I did.” She said, her brows furrowed. “And you don't care about the fact that I'm the High Lady's sister?”

“I mean if we went back far enough, anybody could relate to anyone.”

“This isn't a joke, you're actually hiring me?”

Enora nodded and stood up. “I am hiring you, you are hired, let's get to work!” 

She guided Nesta to the potion stand and waved her hand. A small flame appeared where the logs were.

The breath left Nesta’s lungs. Her father’s face. The love in the usually dead eyes, the small smile on his lips.

“I loved you from the first moment I held you in my arms. And I am… I am so sorry, Nesta–my Nesta. I am so sorry, for all of it.” 

The sound of his neck snapping before her. 

“Stop it, please. No.” Nesta whispered. Enora looked up from her stand and started at Nesta, but she couldn't take her gaze off the flames.

Snap, snap, snap.

“I am so sorry.” With a wave of her hand, the flames stopped making sound. Enora held out a hand but Nesta moved back.

“Im fine, im fine.” She pulled her hands closer to her body.

Get a fucking grip. She told herself. She needed this job, and jumping from a tiny fire would do her no good. 

“So this is a potions stand. Now there are three different bases when it comes to potions, and each one ranges in price. We have water, very common, very cheap to make, decent enough. We have oil. Oil tends to use twice the amount of products, but it is twice as potent as water based potions. Then we have blood. I usually take the blood a few days in advance to make the potion, but since blood potions are very heavily regulated I'd rather not make any. Sometimes I just make a starter base and tell the person to add the blood but that's between us.” She leaned in on the last part, and Nesta smiled at her. Enora spoke a mile a minute, Nesta felt dizzy, trying to catch on and wishing she took the headache potion earlier. But she found a sense of satisfaction that she was actually doing something, she had a job.

“I see. And how am I supposed to know which potion is which?”

“Oh it's fairly simple, water-based potions are more of a liquid based, Oil based potions are more sluggy and they usually tend to be a deeper color. So if a water based potion is blue, the oil version will be more of a deeper blue. Blood potions, well they look like blood. Now when it comes to payment: I think I do it every month?”

“How about every week?” This was the part that Nesta was good at. She was a menace when it came to bargaining. She had bargained many times back in their small village, trying to find cheaper pieces. It got to the point where most merchants denied her entry because they were afraid of being cheated out of money.

“Every week is too frequent. How about every two weeks and I pay you a week early since you've started? And I'll add in bonuses every now and then?”

Bonuses? The thought made Nesta giddy.

“Oh and I also don't work on weekends so you have those off. But I do go to people's houses and heal them because some people can't come into potions.”

“I'll tag along, I liked to watch the healers work.”

“Then there you have it Nesta.” Enora stuck out her hand, Nesta grabbed it. Enora’s grip was hard, and Nesta could feel the calacies under her hands.

“Now I think I should get some training in right now and just to make sure that you know what to do. You have to use a silver knife, and most of the time if there's water inside of an ingredient, just crush it out. So use the flat part of the blade, that brings out more juice and it makes the potion work better. I think right now I'll have you work on nerve relief potions because those ones are the easiest to make and I’m out of stock.”

“So it's for convenience?” Nesta said, testing the waters. Maybe Enora wasn't into jokes like this.

“Oh no, this is purely strictly educational, no other reason.” The pink headed female gave Nesta a wink and she let out a huff.

The rest of the day passed in a blur as Nesta made potion after potion and Enora had even brought her up to the front of the store and had her interact with customers. But then after a bad interaction with a male and after threatening to skin him, it was decided that Nesta was better suited for the back of the house.

Potion making was surprisingly relaxing to Nesta and she found herself thankful for something to do. It took her mind off of other things. 

“It didn't have to be like what she saw,” She told herself as she added crushed Irises, "I can make a new path.” She just hoped she was right.

Chapter Text

By the end of the day, Nesta’s hands were so sore, she couldn’t reach high enough to rub the tiredness out of her eyes. But oh Mother was it worth it. She had spent the rest of the day alone with a book of potions as she added in the ingredients to the pot. She had read half the book, making notes in the margins as she went along. She had made more potions afterwards, sight positions, potions to help with muscle pain, potions to help with phantom pain.

The heat was licking at her face and Nesta didn't care one bit. Her hands moved on their own, flying across the station. Enora had told her she was allowed breaks but Nesta was in the zone. She’d let her imagination loose, make up stories to occupy her mind. 

As she cleaned up the station, Enora came back leaning against the wall.

“I- um I saw you’re not a fan of fire, do you know how to silence it?”

“No.” Nesta felt her ears heat up, she bent down, trying to hide her face.

“I can show you.” Enora moved closer and lit the fire up again. Nesta wanted to jump out of her skin at the sound. “Just move your hand down, like so.” Nesta watched as the sound dimmed and she raised her hand. Enora lit the fire up again and Nesta slowly lowered her hand. The sound of the logs snapping became more muffled as she went lower. And at last, there was no sound.

“Thank you.” Was all Nesta could manage. 

Enora smiled and placed a hand on Nesta’s shoulder. “It’s no harm. And besides, you’ve done great today. I don't think I could make all those potions in a full day. Come by early tomorrow, about 6 am?”

“Yes, I can do that.” Nesta watched as Enora walked back out, and something bloomed inside her.

As Nesta walked out the store, she tilted her head up, letting the night breeze hit her. Her face was red from the steam and sweat, and the lack of food. She had a few gold marks on her and all she just wanted to drop in her bed.

Nesta dropped by a bakery, the smell of fresh bread causing her stomach to grumble. She grabbed a few slices of bread and a pastry for the morning. She lifted the fresh bread to her nose and let out a hum.

She was walking down the path near her home when she heard a female call out.

“Nesta!” She turned to see a small female walking to her. Her name was Talia? No, it was Tara. She wasn’t too sure. Nesta knew her from the bars, they’d gamble and drink together, no conversation, just company. She’d never question Nesta on her life, they just drank and danced.

The slender female reached her and smiled, her skin pale, “Come with me, I'm needing a pick me up.” she wiggled her brows.

“No, not anymore. Besides, I have work tomorrow.” Nesta forced the words out. She had to stick to her plan, no matter what.

Tara jerked back, her face screwed up, “Work? Why bother with that? Just fuck a willing male and gain a few more gold marks, that’s what I like to do”

“I’m rather tired of depending on males.” Nesta smiled. “You look horrid, take this.” She took out the warm bread she had bought and placed it in the female's small hands. Tara lifted it and smelt the bread, letting out a small moan.

“You’re a Mother sent. I’ll see you around it seems, Miss fancy.” She dropped low in a bow and walked off, teeth ripping into the loaf.

Nesta went to a store and bought herself some pre-made food, a small container of stew, she had no effort to make it, her hands would fail her. And alongside it, she bought a small bottle of alcohol.

The climb up the stairs to her apartment made her cry and by the time she went inside, she collapsed on the cold floor and laid there.

Her muscles were screaming and her head was pounding. 

“Think of the money.” She told herself as she pressed her head against the cool floor. “Think of the freedom.”

She sat up and walked to her small chair in the corner of her living room. The smell of her warm stew hit her nose and she bit back a groan.

The stew went down smoothly, the meat tender. Nesta looked out the window to the bars slowly coming to life. She could go out, find a nice enough male and let it all go.

But she had a job, she couldn’t show up there half drunk, it would do no good. And it would only be easier for Feyre to send her off if she was showing up to stores half drunk and incoherent. 

Enora was nice enough, bubbly and full of life. And she had given Nesta a job just like that. Nesta was not going to let her down.

She finished every last bit of the stew and then Nesta grabbed the small bottle and uncorked it. She waited a second, then swallowed half the thing in one gulp. She welcomed the burn and coughed. She dropped the bottle on the floor and sighed.

The rest of it was a siren call to her, tempting her with its charms, one drink could cause no harm. It would be great.

“No.” The words shook her out of the trap. She stood up on sore legs and waddled to her room.

The smell hit her first. Layers on layers of different males and their scents.  Some of it old, some of it new, and it was a slap to her face.

She was living like this? How the hell could she change her life around when she couldn't even change her sheets?

No more men made its way to her list, more chance for Feyre and Rhysand to hold her back. And if every day at work would be the same as today, she might not even find the time for it.

She grabbed the sheets in a fit of rage and all her clothes, gagging at the smell. She dropped them in the bathtub and started to scrub them till her hands were raw. And in a fit of rage, she grabbed all her clothes. The ones on the floor, untouched for months, the ones in the dusty trunk she took from the Riverhouse. 

The alcohol haze had worn off and she was disgusted with herself. The woman who tried her best to look presentable was gone, she was covered in steel bones and burning blood and the lingering smell of alcohol and sex.

Nesta kept scrubbing and hanging the damp clothes about her home, and as each article of clothing went up, she could find a flaw in the apartment: a hole in the wall, a mysterious stain on the wall. The sooner her paycheck she could get a new home and have some peace.

As she started her new load of clothes, she tried to expand her list and figure out just how much time she had. It was Autumn when Cassian carried her away in the afternoon.

No it was morning, or at night? Nesta dropped the dress she was holding and sat up. What time was that vision? Nesta tried to remember the other parts. Feyre was mad about her drinking, not her sleeping around, or was it her using their money?

Nesta closed her eyes and tried to remember her dream, but pieces were missing. She leapt up and ran to her room, grabbing her list. She had to have the important parts down, before they all vanished behind a haze of fog.

She knew Cassian would take her, Feyre would get mad at her, she would be trapped in the House of Wind and have her life drained out of her. But what else?

Her friends. Nesta closed her eyes, and thought of them. Emerie. She was the Illyrian, and Gwyn, the redheaded. She grabbed onto the vision. The soft light coming from the room as they made the beads, the way Emerie laughed with no restraints.

She went on a hike, and Cassian looked at her like she was lesser than the dirt they were walking on. But why was he so mad?

“I can’t remember it all. I shouldn't.” She said and looked at her notes. “If I did, Rhysand could see my mind, he could see it all and take me by force.” The thought had a shiver run through her. Maybe it was for the better.

But she held onto the faces of the females: Emerie and Gwyn. Her friends. She knew not much of proper love, but she knew the tightness in her chest as she recalled their faces was what she harboured for them. Love that was unyielding, as she was.

Nesta walked back to her bathroom and grabbed her clothes, scrubbing once more.

She could see Cassian’s face as he stood on a mountain, the disgust in his face was palpable.

She took off her clothes and washed them, Cassian was a bother, and she had very little want to be near him. There had been something there a few months back, underneath all the fighting and hate, the start of something better. But he had pulled back from her, and she had followed suit. Why would she fight for someone who made it clear where he stood?

She sat there naked as her clothes dried, looking at the murky water. Feyre and her “Inner Circle” would come for her, she knew of it. And what better than to beat them at their own game? She had agreed before, she had walked willingly to her prison, but this time they’d have to drag her there.

She’d find a way to escape, get a considerable amount of money and distance away from them, and live her life. The life she should have lived, the life she and Clare spoke of.

“The Continent first.” Clare had said, her soft golden hair against the green grass. Her blue eyes were full of hope as she looked up. “I want to see the city, see all the people, maybe the fae.”

“The fae are vile.” Nesta had laughed, flicking Clare’s nose. “They’d sooner steal your skin.”

“I know, silly.” She gently shoved Nesta, then rested her head on Nesta’s arm. “But don’t you ever wonder what that’s like? Immortality? Eternal youth?”

“No, that seems like a lonely life.” She moved closer to Clare and for a second, she didn't live in a vile home that took the life out of her as she cleaned. She was wealthy and normal.

“I think I'd like it.” Her mouth was slightly parted, and Nesta couldn't find it in herself to look away from Clare. The way the sun was hitting her made Clare look like an angel. 

“I think that’ll get you killed.” Nesta hummed.

And it had.

Nesta stood in the bath, using a bucket to wash herself, the cold water biting at her fingers. Fate was a humorous bitch. It had given Nesta the thing Clare had dreamed of, and stole Nesta’s chance at normal.

She grabbed a small towel and dried herself off. She wishes she knew where Clare was, a place where she could go and see her, be near her again.

She put on a shirt, still damp at the bottom and started to clean her room. She shoved the mattress in a corner of the room, where the sun wouldn't blind her. She pushed her trunk in front of the mattress and played the now dry clothes inside, neatly folding each one. She grabbed a broom and swept all the dust out of the room, and ran a wet mop over the floors.

Once she was satisfied, she grabbed 2 still damp sheets and placed one on her bed and one to cover herself with. She slid in between the covers and tried to stop the urge to drink herself to death. The cold was getting to her, but Nesta willed her body to stay warm. 

“A new start.” Nesta said as she looked at her ceiling. “A new path.”

Chapter Text

Nesta regretted the alcohol as soon as she woke up. The tiny little bell she had set up the night before was ringing so loud that Nesta thought she was back in the war for a second, hearing the clinking of metal and the screams of people dying around her.

Her head was pounding and her mind was foggy. She was about to question why she was waking up that early, when the night before came back to her.

She had a crazy dream and or vision and she got a job.

“It was just a dream.” She hummed as she lowered her head back into her pillow, but the sun wasn't in her face. Her feet were against a wall, and her sheets felt softer. Nesta looked around her room. It was cleaner and her trunk was full of fresh clothes.

So not a dream then. She stayed in bed a bit longer as she adjusted to the light and her ears stopped picking up so much sounds. She got out of bed and put on a nice blue dress, thinking of grabbing some food on her way out.

The store was open, even at 6 in the morning. The soft chime of the bell and the smells of potions greeted her.

“Ah you’re back!” Enora smiled but her eyes were tired. “I was half afraid I scared you away.” The rising sun was bathing her face in light, and she looked positively fae.

“Almost, for a split second I wonder if the pay was worth it,” Nesta gave her a small smile and she walked past the female and into the back room. That was a cauldron bubbling and some uncut ingredients next to it. Nesta peered inside the potion to see what was brewing and it was a headache potion. The red colour and the peppermint leaves nearby gave it away.

“I was wiped clean last night. Apparently there was a band playing and, well you know how it gets. People get rowdy and need quick relief.” she groaned as she walked into the room. “I'm telling you I do not like this part.”

“I do. I find it relaxing.” Nesta leaned forward and inhaled the smell, and the small throbbing in her head dimmed a bit.

“You have a very skewed sense of relaxation, but that's perfectly fine,” Enora said as she leaned against the couch and smiled at Nesta.

“How about this: you make the potions, I handle the front of the house?”

“I think that's a fair deal. You alright, you seem tired?”

“I could be better, but you know I'm here.” She smiled and picked up a cup of tea. “I did tell you last night that I usually work outside on weekends and tomorrow is one. And if you are still sure you do want to come along, do you mind coming early, around this time? It's a whole lot easier for me to do the things in the morning instead of the afternoon.”

“Of course I don't mind but what about the store?”

“Oh I closed it on weekends. Well now I do, beforehand my Mate used to run this part and I used to go outside and heal. But I am not going to heal people and then come back and deal with some more. I think I'll just have a nice nap.”

“I would think so too, now how about you go ahead and set up the front I will - I will crack on.” She gave the female a smile and watched as she walked out. She felt like slapping herself, she was never this socially awkward. What was the difference now? Was it the alcohol? Or the lack of it?

Trying to ignore her awkwardness, Nesta walked up to the potion that was simmering and she started to cut up the peppermint leaves. She made thin slices as she listened to the potion bubbling when a sound caught her attention.

It was a harp and another instrument she couldn't name, and as they played together Nesta started to sway on the spot. It was a feeling she couldn't go on but she loved it all the more the sounds would rise, rise and reach a peak and then slowly come down and it would happen again and again and again.

Nesta found herself swaying to the music and drifting across the floor. For a moment she wasn't in Prythian, she wasn't fae, she was nine and she was back in the piano room in her old home. On the rare days where her grandmother would sit and play the piano. Those days her grandmother wouldn't yell at her, she wouldn’t spew any hate, she would just smile and play. And Nesta would seize the opportunities and dance. Not those strict waltzes her grandmother taught her, she would just feel the music playing and sway along with it.

Was it weird to crave something that she hated? She hated how her grandmother treated her, how she spoke to her. But sometimes when she was sober enough, she’d reminisce about days that were never good to begin with.

The smell of peppermint pulled her out of her thoughts and she watched as the potion came dangerously close to bubbling over. She took it off the stove and added the moonflower in.

She couldn't dwell on the past, she couldn't think about things that were too far gone. She had to focus on the present, she had to focus on keeping her job, she had to focus on making sure that she was not left to the whims of her sister and her mate.

By the hour’s end she had about 30 potions completed. Nesta smiled at her work and looked ahead, carrying them out.

“Perfect, they look great, could you place them on that shelf please? It's a whole lot more easier for me to reach them.”

Nesta obliged and placed the potions down.

“Tell me if I'm invading but why would you need a job?”

“Pardon?” Nesta hummed as she arranged the bottles.

“I mean you're the Kingslayer, you must have gotten a hefty amount of money due to helping in the war and you know finishing it? And besides you're the High Lady’s sister, aren't they sitting on some vast pile of wealth in the new house they've made?”

Paid for her efforts and the war? That was something she hadn't heard before. She thought about telling the truth but she bit her tongue, “I just needed a change of pace, and a job seemed good enough.”

Enora groaned and dropped her head to the table, “I wish I had a job just for the sake of having one. Do you know how hard it is dealing with the drunk and the disorderly coming in and demanding potions for half the price?”

“I can't say I do. But enough about me, what about you? Where are you from?”

Enora smirked, “Is this your way of asking me out on a date? Because if so, I have to tell you I'm a morning female.”

Nesta scowled and threw a scrap piece of paper at her, “No but this is what people do, yes? And since we're going to be spending the foreseeable future with each other, I feel we should get to know each other. And you clearly know a lot about me.”

“Ah, you're right. Well, my father was born here but my mother was a refugee from the Day court. She had an affinity for healing magic and I just so happened to have an affinity for healing magic as well. Things were fine. I went to a decent school, I left and then I met my mate and then he died.”

“Surely there has to be more to that right? I mean aren't Mating bonds some whirl-winded romance where you look into the male's eyes and you just know it?”

The female laughed and waved her hand, “Well for some it is but for us it wasn't. Call me crazy if you want, but I'm kind of glad he's dead”

Nesta stopped placing the potions on the display shop and looked at the female. 

“Are you serious? Wait why would you-”

Enora sighed and glanced at her. “I know that mating bonds are rare, and I know it's been thought of as if it's this lovely thing where you love each other instantly and it's all sunshine and rainbows, but it's rarely the case. Most of the time it's the Cauldron thinking that you would have the best offspring. And it didn't help that my mate saw me as just that, a broodmare to have his children and not much more. The only reason we opened this store was because he thought about how much money we can make selling potions.”

Nesta didn't know what to think. The way Feyre had described a mating bond, the way everybody spoke of the mating bond was as if it was the sacred thing, that was the purest form of love imaginable, and she craved that. She craved having that one person who would know her in and out, that would love her no matter what.

 But then Nesta stopped and lowered her hand.“Wait a second did you say the Cauldron creates the mating bond? I thought it was the Mother?”

“Yes, some people say it's the Mother but realistically it’s the Cauldron, you know how we came from the cauldron.”

No, Nesta was born normally, she was a human. Was. 

“Ok but if the mating bond is as bad as you say it was, why didn't you just break it? You can do that right, you could just leave each other amicably and just put yourself out of the misery.”

“Oh heavens no!” Enora gasped as she stared at Nesta. “You can't, well you can break the mating bond, but it drives the male into a frenzy. He’ll slowly start to lose his mind and he becomes the shell of the person he once was.”

“But that means people are stuck in a mating bond that they don't want,” Nesta said, her eyes narrowed. “You truly mean even if the male doesn't want to be with her, he would still lose his mind?”

“Yep. Most of the time you just have to pray you get a good mate if you ever meet him, and if you do meet him and you hate him, well you just pray he dies quicker. It's an even worse case scenario if the male is part of a high ranking position, breaking the mating bond and the male subsequently losing his mind, you could be punished for that.”

The door chiming and a person walking in saved Nesta from a response, because in all honesty she was too shocked to speak. Mating bonds didn't seem as great as she thought they were. But one thought was lingering in her mind and she couldn't shake it off. If the cauldron was in charge of determining mating bond, Nesta was truly fucked.

The rest of the day passed reasonably well. Nesta made a few more potions and even tried a brand new headache potion that Enora had made and felt quite better, Enora had shown her how to duplicate labels for potions and how to ring up people. And Nesta had also tried food from a nearby bakery during her break and she was in love with the small cakes they made.

She bid the female farewell and she went back to her house and passed out instantly, the half bottle of alcohol long forgotten.

The next day Nesta had gotten herself up brighten early and had worn comfortable clothing as they were traveling around a whole lot. She had decided on a simple green dress and done her hair up and it's usual crown braid.

She walked down to the store and found Enora there already with a satchel around her. Her short hair was pulled back in a bun and she was wearing a flowery white skirt with a simple green shirt.

“My my look at us matching,” she gestured to her shirt. “You know, if I didn't know better, I would think you're trying to proposition me.”

Nesta smiled and looked around. The town was fairly quiet except for a few people walking about.

“How are we going to get there? By foot?”

“No we'll winnow, do you know how to?”Nesta shook her head.

Enora smiled and stepped closer to Nesta, grabbing her arm. For a split second, she looked like Clare. “Just hold on tight.

Nesta prepared herself for the feeling of discomfort and grabbed onto the female's hand and the world disappeared in the smoke.

They appeared in front of a small house with a perfectly done lawn. There were roses, carnations and small daisies peppered across the grass in front of a stone house. There were flowers and vines hanging down low from the windowsills, and a simple red door.

The surrounding area was quite barren. The nearest house was a faint blob in Nesta's vision.

Enora walked up to the front door and knocked. As they waited Nesta tried to gain her footing and step forward. The flowers were even more beautiful and they had a different look to them, they were more vibrant than they were in the mortal lands. But before she could look closer, the door opened.

The fae was pregnant. That's the first thing Nesta could see. She was wearing an apron over her large stomach and she had a tired smile. Her braid was starting to unravel and she had dark circles under her eyes.

“I am so glad you are here. Oh hello,” She smiled at Nesta.

“Nesta this is Olivia, Olivia this is Nesta, she's my new hire.”

“Oh that's wonderful, I do remember you saying you needed a hand, come in.”

They entered a narrow hallway and walked down into a small kitchen. The smell of berries reached Nesta as she looked around.

The kitchen was in one corner of the room and she could see pies sitting on the counter and on the other side were small couches pushed together and on one of them laid a small boy.

He looked to be no older than 3, and he was curled up, clutching his knees.

“He's been complaining of back pain for a week now and I don't know what to do. I tried to go to the Apocrathy nearby but it didn't help.” She sat next to the small boy.

“It's perfectly fine.” Enora said as she walked up to the small boy. She sat next to him and rubbed his back.

“MAMA, TELL SORIN TO STOP PULLING MY HAIR!” Nesta heard, Olivia sighed and walked out of the room, but 2 small figures stopped her.

“Mama!” A little girl snapped, her small pigtails messed up, “Look what he did!”

“Sorin apologize.” The boy smiled and shook his head.

“No, she tried to make me eat dirt.”

“Only because you made me fall!”

“That's because you said my face was ugly!”

“Because-”

“Stop,” Olivia held up her hand, and the pair fell silent. “If you stop this, I'll let you have pie for dinner.”

The 2 children stared at one another and nodded. The small girl ran but the boy looked at Nesta.

“Hello, why are your eyes that colour? And why did you do your hair like that? Did you know I can run around the house in 6 seconds?”

“I-” But before she could respond, he ran out of the room.

“I'm really sorry about him. Believe me, he's been very tame today.”

“That's him tame?” Enora laughed and helped the boy sit up.

“How are you feeling Sam?” She said softly as she pushed his red hair out of his face.

“It hurts real bad.” He whimpered. Enora let him rest his head on her arm as she used her free hand to become Nesta closer.

Enora laid Sam on his back and pulled up his shirt. She placed a hand on the small of his back and she closed her eyes.

Her breathing became shallow and she started furrowing her brows. Her hands started to light up, and a soft glow came out and wrapped itself around the boy's back. Nesta could see Sam relaxed and his eyes started to drop.

Enora removed her hand and let out an airy laugh.

“Right as rain! How are you feeling Sam?”

“Better, thank you Miss Enora.” He buried his head in her stomach and she smiled.

Just then, Sorin came barrelling in and smiled. “See! 6 seconds!”

“That was much more than 6.” said Nesta.

“Nu uh!” He looked at Sam and grinned. “Daddy told me that they're gonna rip your legs off.”

Sam’s eyes widened and his lips quivered. 

“Yeah, and then, Mommy's going to leave you on the road.”

“NOO!”

“Sorin stop this!” Olivia came forth and tapped his head. “You keep this up and I'll tell your father who really ate his chocolate! Now apologize.”

Sorin huffed and looked at Sam. “I'm sorry, now let's play knights!”

“Okay!” Sam jumped up and ran out of the room.

“His muscles were just inflamed. He's fine now and if he does get sick, make him take a teaspoon of this in the morning and at night.” She handed Olivia a vial with a purple liquid inside.

“If that will be all, we'll be on our way.” Oliva bid them farewell and Nesta grabbed Enora’s hand.

“She’s a nice lady.” Enora smiled as she dropped Nesta’s hand. The next stop was inside the city, dangerously close to Amren's apartment. “Too many kids though. She has an older boy that’s at university.”

“4 kids?”

“And counting. I’m glad John died before he got the idea about kids. They’re cute and all but they’re so messy.”

They walked till they reached a small home. An older gentlemale leaning on a cane greeted them at the front door and let them inside. Turns out a few years back, a house collapsed and people were trapped inside. He heard a cry come out from the rubble and went to find a male trapped in the rubble. He managed to help him out but his leg was crushed in the midst of it all

At a first glance, his leg looks perfectly fine. But his nerves were all messed up and it caused him pain when he walked on it. Enora had come to hand him his prescriptions 

As Enora attended to his leg, he told Nesta about how he used to work in a gallery.

He reminded Nesta of their old gardener. A kind and gentle man who would entertain Elain's pleas for stories and tell them about monsters and heroes. 

She sat with him as Enora fixed his leg, And she spoke of her own stories back in the Mortal Lands and how they perceived the fae. The older male found them hilarious and kept asking her for more stories, long after Enora was done.

Before the third house they stopped at a nearby restaurant to eat some food and then they were off afterwards.

But as the day went on, Nesta could see Enora start to grow more tired. After they had left the school teacher with the broken hand, Enora was stumbling around so much that Nesta took the bag off of her. By the fourth house the second after they winnowed she collapsed to the floor, and by the time the last house call was over, she was leaning onto Nesta.

It was a good thing that the last house was so close to the store because Nesta had no way of winnowing them back.

She had laid Enora on the couch and went out front to find a potion to help her. She came back with a teal looking potion that had the words ‘energy reviving’ on them and put a few drops into a cup of tea.

“You know, I'm starting to think you don't do this often.” Nesta said as she watched the female down the cup, adding a few spoons of sugar into her own tea.

Enora grinned and put her hands up, “You got me. My mate usually covered this part. I would stay behind and man the store.” She rubbed at her face. “The only sense of clarity I have is after you manage to figure out how to heal people, I can stay behind.”

Nesta went rigid and looked at her employer, “I have no clue what you mean.”

Enora wiped her brow, “Healing magic isn't that hard to learn, and I'll be showing you the whole time what to do.”

“I understand what you mean by that but I have no magic other than the basics.”

The room went quiet for a second then Enora burst out into laughter, she was laughing so hard she was clutching her stomach, her head buried into the pillow.

“This might work with other people, but I know you have magic.” Enora said after wiping away tears.

Nesta’s spine went still and her chin was up, “I lost the magic after the war with Hyburn. And I'm quite thankful for it.”

Enora stopped laughing and looked at Nesta, bewilderment etched on her face. “Are you actually being serious? I just thought, well it wouldn't- ignore me. I'm clearly tired and I need a good nap.” She smiled to herself but then her face dropped and she let out a sob.

“There's no point! I'd have to be up early anyway. I need to make all those potions!” She whined and mumbled something about crazed mates.

Then she sat up and looked at Nesta, “You like making potions?”

“I do.”

“Then it’s settled!” She beamed, “You’ll make the potions the night before!”

Nesta opened her mouth but Enora put a hand forward, “Now I know you live far away, but I have a spare bedroom in my flat upstairs, you could move in here! We could work together and everybody's happy!”

The word no was on her lips when she held herself back. The apartment was currently being paid for by Feyre and Rhysand, if she moved out of it they would have virtually nothing holding them to her. And it would be a win for her as well, her apartment is shitty and she'd be living in housing free of charge, except for what would come off her pay.

“You know what, why not? I'll head home right now, grab my stuff and move in today. How does that sound?”

Enora wrapped her arms around Nesta’s waist, “I know I've known you only for two days but you're my best friend.”

Nesta couldn't fight off the urge to hug her back.

Chapter Text

The sun had woken her up that day and she had no need for her bell. Nesta woke up in a soft bed with warm thick covers atop her. The small window that was overlooking the street let in soft rays of sunlight, illuminating her vanity stand where a few books about potion making and healing lay.

Nesta got up and stretched her hands, the tiredness already leaving. This had been her routine for the past three weeks, and by this point she was used to it.

Putting on a soft pair of shoes she got up and walked down to the bathroom. While there were many perks of living with Enora, her favourite one was that house had a shower. There was no need for her to get buckets of water and wash herself and there was no need for her to submit herself in water. She could stand underneath the water for as long as she needed and then move out when it got too much for her.

Some days were simple, she'd get into the shower and she'd be able to handle standing under it, letting it soak her all the way down. But some days she'd stand away from the stream and slowly inch her way in, always making sure the water didn't hit her face.

She put on her outfit of the day: A brand new gray cotton dress she had bought herself that had buttons starting from her neck to her waist. The material was nice and warm especially for this type of weather. Autumn had slowly started to bleed into the Night Court, leaving the mornings chillier than usual.

Her hair was in her usual coronet style, and today she decided to put on a small tint of red on her lips and cheeks. She put on her brand new boots that she had bought with her first wage and went downstairs.

Life was better for Nesta now, alcohol wasn't her crutch to help her get through the day but she wasn't off it completely. Sometimes when life became too hard, she allowed herself to have a glass. And having access to a bunch of headache relief potions was a plus. She had started eating her a lot more regularly and had gained a few pounds, her skin no longer stretching over her bones like a too tight shirt.

And internally Nesta felt better. She was a far cry from the woman a month ago who was drunk on the floor with nothing to live for. Right now Nesta had a future in mind and every day she woke up she was a step closer towards it.

She had a job, she had a house, she had a great friend and she had started to talk to the regulars around. All whilst avoiding her sister and her mate.

But it didn't stop the heavy feeling in her heart. All she had known was turned over, and she had to make anew. She was surviving, and that's all she could manage.

She had gone downstairs to where the cauldron was and lit a fire. The sounds of the fire cracking still caused her discomfort, but not as much as it did when the war first ended. She had managed to disassociate the sounds of her father's neck snapping from the flames by forcing herself to sit in front of the flames attack night long after Enora had gone to sleep, or work with the logs snapping.

Someday she could handle the sounds of the fire, but for some reason today wasn't one of those days. Concentrating with all her might, she slowly lowered her hand and the flame silenced.

Nesta had spent most of the night before making most of the batches of potions, but she decided to leave the headache potions to last. For some reason she felt making those potions in the morning led them to be potent.

Like clockwork, the music school across from them started to play and the sounds of music filled the air. The sad thing about that school was they didn't do any performance so Nesta couldn't spend her free time there and listen. But the hour they played in the morning was the most relaxful time for her.

The chime of the front door opening pulled Nesta away from the cauldron, she took it off the heat and walked to the desk only to find the sweet elderly lady next door at the desk.

“Hello Nesta, I was wondering if you had a potion for stomach aches.” She said as she brushed her brown hair out of her face.

“Good morning to you Lilith, and yes we do. Do you want it to last you the day or for half?”

“It doesn't feel like it's going to be long but what if it is?” She said the last part to herself and Nesta smiled.

“How about I put two half potions in there for you so you can have one and if the pain still continues you can take the second one?”

“Good idea. How is Enora doing? I haven't seen her in the mornings.”

“Oh she's doing perfectly fine. Here it is.” She handed the bag to Lilith. “I hope you have a good day.” 

Nesta headed back towards the cauldron and started to add in the last parts of the potion together. The music slowly started coming towards a halt, and Nesta wondered if she should start playing the piano again.

The only enjoyable part she had of her grandmother and mother's lessons was playing the piano. It had made all the yelling, the screaming, and the cursing a lot more tolerable. And if she did well on one of her lessons, her grandmother would let her spend an hour uninterrupted on the piano and sometimes she'd even join her.

And besides after the store closed she had virtually nothing to do other than learn about more potions and healing. It would be nice for her to pick up a spare hobby to keep her a bit more grounded.

She poured the red liquid into the clear vase and corked them up. The only extent of her magic that she managed to figure out in the past 4 weeks was duplication spells, how to silence a fire, and how to control how much she heard. Instead of hearing what happens for miles, she would be able to hear what happened in the store and a few steps outside it.

She duplicated the potions labeled and stuck them on, she walked up to the front of the house which had been reorganized and placed the potions on the lowest shelfs, both her and Enora being too short to reach the top one. 

Nesta was leaning against the desk studying up on what hibiscus flowers do when a familiar voice spoke her name.

“I never thought I'd see the day where Nesta Archeron gets herself a job.” 

“I would say it's lovely to see you, Kane, but we both know I'd be lying.” Kane was one of the regulars at the Wolf’s Den, a bar where Nesta used to frequent. His sharp facial features and his dirty blonde hair made him attractive to most people, Nesta had even taken in home a few times. But his brazen attitude was a quick turn off.

“Now Nesta, come on we both know you miss me, after all I was the only one who could give you a run for your money.”

“What do you want, Kane.” She sighed as she put her book down.

“I have some really bad tooth pain whenever I drink something cold and it starts to hurt, have you got anything for that?”

“Does it only hurt when you eat and drink cold stuff? Does it hurt any other time?”

Kane pondered the question for a few seconds “Let's say it's cold outside and I start to talk. then it starts to hurt.”

“It seems like the nerve in your tooth is damaged. I can give you a potion that can flush it out, but you won't be able to feel anything in that area.”

“That's better than I could hope for.” Nesta could feel his eyes on her as she reached forward to grab the potions.

“Say I think it's very fate that I ran into you, remember a couple of months ago right before solstice when that new band played and you liked them?”

“The group of four that play that lovely number, I do remember them, why?” The pink potion was on the lower shelf, and Nesta swirled it around.

“Well in two days time they're coming back to the Night Court, to the Wolf’s Den and they're going to play. You should swing by, let loose.”

Nesta packaged up his potions and gave him a nod. “That would be nice, I'll be there.”

Kane picked up the parcel and wink at her, “I'll save you a table, see you then.”

The town was starting to wake up now Nesta started to get a few more people coming into the store. Some were picking up potions that were specifically made for them and some others were coming in for medical advice. The books that Enora had given her came in handy and Nesta was able to correctly guess every single person who came in.

But then Enora came running down the stairs, her work satchel with her. Her hair was hastily pulled up and her shirt was wrinkled. 

“I'm so sorry but I've just caught word of an emergency. One of the elderly Fae I visit has had a really bad accident and they need a healer immediately. I just got their letter. I'm going to head out right now, you can manage the store right?”

“Of course you can go right now, I can handle this, go!” Enora ran out, the loose strands of her pink hair whipping in the wind.

The door chimed again and Nesta looked up expecting Enora to have run back in after she had forgotten something but a familiar face greeted her.

Azriel looked exactly the same as he did two months ago on the summer boat, his hair was still cropped and he was dressed in his illyrian leathers with the two siphons on his hand emitting a blue glow.

It seems he looked equally shocked to see Nesta here, he tilted his head but moved forward.

“Hello Nesta,” He said, his voice washing over her. “What are you doing here?”

For some reason that question irritated her more than she thought it would. She gripped the counter and looked at him.“What does it look like to you? I’m working.”

He raised a brow, “In this store?”

She rolled her eyes,“No, I've decided to just go behind a counter of a random store and decide to sell people potions just because I can. What can I do for you?” She tried to keep her tone neutral but inside she was screaming, and she assumed that he noticed because his shadows started to become reckless. Maybe Feyre had caught wind of what happened, maybe Rhysand had ordered him to come here and take her.

“I was wondering if the pain relief potions were in stock. The last time I came around, they were finished.”

Nesta opened her book of potions and saw that the Pain relief potions were stocked up. A quick glance at the shelf confirmed it.

“And how many bottles would you like?”

“Two should be enough.” She slowly walked towards the right side of the shelves and pulled down the yellow looking potion. Nesta was trying to figure out just why he needed the potion, was it his back? Or maybe his wings. But a text she had read came to mind.

“Burn victims are most likely to experience pain even after healing.” 

His hands, but they had been like so for some time now, years. Has there been no change in healing since?

“You know,” Azriel said, his voice low, taking her out of her thoughts. “The landlord of the place you rent sent back the check that Feyre gave him. He said that you had moved out a few weeks back.”

Nesta kept her gaze on the bottles. “Well it would be quite shitty of him to take money that he doesn't own. I don't live there anymore.”

“I can tell. How have you been?” 

“Fine, that will be 20 Gold marks.” She held out her hand. A shadow dropped the coins onto the counter and she placed them in the draw. She handed him the bag and picked up her healing book.

“I'm glad to see you look better.”

“Thank you, have a good day.” 

But he ignored her tone and leaned closer, his eyes scanning the book she had. “That’s a nice book, how-”

Nesta let out a groan and dropped her book, “Small talk doesn't suit you and neither does it to me. What exactly do you want Azriel? I served you, but yet you still linger.” She tried to go for a smile but it was more of a grimace.

“Feyre is worried about you, especially since the landlord returned the money. She thinks that you-”

“Died in a ditch somewhere after drinking too much, I pursue?” His face was tight and then she scoffed. “If my dear sister is so concerned about whether I live or die, then how come she hasn't come to visit?”

“She has been busy.” Busy decorating her new home it seemed.

Nesta stifled a scoff and looked at the male, “The next time you see her you can thank her for her concern, and as you see right now I am perfectly healthy as you've mentioned. Have a good day Azriel.”

Finally sensing the dismissal, he turned around and left. But as the rest of the day went on, Nesta felt like she could see the shadows moving in places they shouldn't be.

A group of ladies came in, each asking for a contraceptive potion and the stock had run out afterwards. Nesta made note of it so she could make some more in the evening. Nesta was counting down the minutes to the store closer so she could go into the back room and start making some more potions.

Just as Nesta was about to shelve the last batch of potions, Enora came running in. 

“Dear Mother, I’m tired.” She gasped and the pair walked to the backroom and Nesta got started on a batch of tea.

“I'm so sorry for leaving you alone at the store today. I meant to come back earlier but a few more residents caught wind of me arriving early and they all started to ask for help. The good news is I made quite a lot of money and we'll be able to sleep in come Sunday. How was work today?”

“Quite well, we've run out of contraceptive potions but I made a batch. And I also decided to add in a new ingredient into the nerve relief potions. I was thinking that moonshine does work well, but what if I added moonshine and hibiscus? I made three vials so we can test it out and if it works we can incorporate it.” she pointed at the table where 3 vials of potions laid, the pink had changed to a light shade of purple after adding in the hibiscus.

Enora smiled as she took off her shoes, “Look at you. I expected you not to do a great job when I first hired you but you've managed to change my mind.” Nesta sat down with the two cups of tea but Enora grinned, toying with the cup.

“Tonight I'm feeling something a bit stronger than tea, what do you think?”

“I'd think you'd be right.” Nesta walked to the small cabinet and grabbed a bottle of wine and poured them both a glass.

“I never got to do this much” Enora said after her second glass of wine, “Jonathan, my mate, he hated it when I hung out with other females. He said if I had so much free time I could spend it with him.” 

She looked inside the wine glass and scowled, “And you know the worst part is? Everybody's expecting me to mourn him and everybody keeps walking around me like, “oh poor girl look at her she lost her mate. She must be so upset.” when I couldn't be happier! I despise it when a woman gets a mate they make her whole entire personality like all her achievements beforehand don't matter.”

“I'm half hoping I never get a mate,” Nesta admitted, the words pooling out of her. “I mean I'm just afraid he's not going to live up to the expectations I've already created of him. I'm expecting him to be this knight in shining armor who's always there for me to protect me. But with the way things are sounding, it just kind of seems like it's not going to be.” Especially with how much the cauldron hates me, she thought.

“I just wish people would stop making it seem like I'm supposed to mourn him for the rest of my life, not everybody is blessed to have a perfect mating bond.”

“Then fuck what they think.” Nesta said. “I mean think about it, you're still young and do you really want to spend the rest of your short miserable life thinking about a man who didn't care about you?”

“Considering I have roughly about a thousand years until I die, I don't see that short.” Enora laughed but Nesta stopped. 

She was fae. Not human. She'd live forever, Clare wouldn't. Didn't. It should have been Clare living this life, eternal youth and all. 

“Wait Nesta, do you truly see a thousand years as short?”

“No.” The words were ash in her mouth. “I just forgot the fae live for that long.” 

A heavy silence filled the air and Nesta looked out the window. She didn't know whether she wanted to scream or she wanted to break everything in her path. She didn't want to be fae, she just wanted to be normal. Her life was ripped from her and now she was just expected to be okay with it. No it wasn't just expected for her to be okay, it was expected for her to be joyful. 

“If we're being honest, I forgot that you were human up until two years ago. The way you act, the way you move, it's like you were born fae.”

Nesta should have just accepted the compliment but she didn't, “I don't think I had a choice. We were thrown into a new world, our sister was nowhere to be found and we were surrounded by creatures who were going to kill us. And Elain…” The word tasted bitter in her mouth. “Elain was hurting, she wouldn't eat, she wouldn't talk, she would only cry. I had to be there for her. I couldn't afford to be weak. And then right after Elain started to speak again we were in the middle of a war. It was like I couldn't afford the grace or the courtesy to be me, to adjust to this new change. I was thrown into things one after the other, and when the war stopped and everything was normal, I couldn’t go back to being normal.”

Enora didn't speak and Nesta kept going. “And it's not like I did a lot during the war. I couldn't save the wall from collapsing even though I was given the powers to do so. Hybern and his army were able to slip into the Mortal realm and kill a bunch of people. And even when I tried, even when it was most important, I couldn't kill him.”

“Don't be too hard on yourself Nesta, you were useful during the war. You told me you helped out the healers there by carrying buckets of water all time and helping dress wounds.”

“Yes because that's such taxing work, that alone would have saved off the war efforts now wouldn't it?” She let the familiar bitterness come back, but Enora didn’t shy from it, she just carried on.

“I'm not saying that's the type of work that will win you the war, but that's the type of work to put soldiers back on the field. Think about it like this: if you hadn't been there, being an extra pair of arms to carry water, dressing and medical stuff, what would have happened to somebody who was injured? What if you weren’t there and they didn't have anybody else? A soldier could have lost an arm, a leg, maybe one of their wings?”

She placed her hand on Nesta, “Sometimes the smaller things add up to mean a lot more. I know things are hard and I'm not going to tell you that they're going to be better immediately, but you need to stop being so hard on yourself.”

She leaned into her touch and slowly spoke. “I do have to tell you that I will be leaving a bit earlier two days from now. There's a band playing that my friend has invited me to.”

Enora smiled, and for the first time Nesta didn't see Clare in those blue eyes. “That's good, just take it easy.”

The night was cool and the town was slowly clearing out. Groups of people dressed in fine clothing were prancing the street, laughing about nothing.

Nesta walked towards the Wolf’s Den in a simple black dress, it was more modest than the ones she usually came out in, with a simple bodice and a modest neckline. The place was packed with people listening to the live band. The singer’s voice was intoxicating, much more than any drink the bartender could offer. The soft beat of the drums and the strings of the guitar were a trance to Nesta and she found herself walking closer towards the band. 

The song they were singing wasn't one Nesta loved but she enjoyed that nonetheless. She walked to the bar and bought herself a drink rather than a bottle, and was quietly sipping on it while she watched the band play when a person approached her.

“You seem to be enjoying the music, care for a dance?” The male was her type; he wasn't lean but he wasn't bulging with muscles. His close crop black hair and his green eyes made him look human, and maybe that was what she was looking for.

She drank the rest of her glass and offered him her hand. He dragged her into the center of the room where a few people were dancing and started to dance. It was a slow waltz and Nesta enjoyed it. 

His hands were firmly on his waist and she let herself go, she danced across the small room and a few more people started to come, some alone, some with a partner and some as a group.

The music took a hold of all of them and Nesta felt content. No voices she needed to block out, no cries she needed to muffle. Just a girl dancing in a bar.

The song ended and the crowd cheered. Nesta turned to leave when the male pulled her closer.

“What do you say we go and find a quieter place?”

It would have been so easy to reflect back into her old habits, find a male, bed him and wallow in her self pity, but she wasn't feeling like that today. She hadn't felt that way in a very long time.

“I would rather not.” She left him and danced some more, she danced till she thought the soles of her shoes would become loose.

By the night's end, Nesta felt better than she did in months. She walked down the road, dancing as she moved and smiling. She was herself again. 

But a squawk stopped her. She looked around but found nothing. She kept moving till she heard the sound again. Nesta looked down and gasped.

A small black crow was lying on the ground, its dainty wing almost ripped clean. Nesta dropped to her knees and cradled the small creature.

“What happened?” She asked as if it could speak back. “Who would do this?” The crow let out a sad squawk and Nesta held it closer. She could take it home, but that would take her much more time, and by then it could be long gone.

Unless.

She looked around to see if anyone was watching when she placed the crow on the floor. She hovered a hand over the wing and closed her eyes.

She thought about the day in the small house with the little red door, she thought of the soft glow and how the air hummed. And then she let go.

Silver light came from her hands and she watched it wrap around the crow’s wing. She could see the muscles and flesh come back together and the cut mend. Not soon after she finished, the crow rose up and started to fly. It hovered near Nesta as if to thank her, and then it was flying far away, and Nesta wished she was right alongside it.

Chapter Text

A castle on top of a hill was in chaos.

There were sounds of people crying and blasts of power all around her. There was a tall slender lady looking out a window who would flinch every single time she heard a loud bang. Nesta stepped closer and looked out the window. The immediate view was the rest of the castle, tall buildings made out of a soft beige colour and the sparkling pool in the midst of it. Behind high towers was an army approaching them, leaving destruction and death in its wake.

“Where am I? What do you want?” Nesta snapped at the lady, but her words had no effect. The lady's attention was strictly focused on destruction happening outside. Nesta raised her hand and tried to touch the lady, but her hand fell through her.

Nesta had no clue where she was but she was already fed up with it. She had potions to make, and she didn’t need another crazy dream.

Nesta stepped back and looked around the room she was in. It was very tall and large. The first thing that caught her attention was a throne made out of a silver colour that shone with the light that hit it from the 3 large windows behind it.

There were 2 large statues of ladies in armour, with the hands pointed upwards, their hands casting shadows over the throne.

The 2nd floor was a U shape that had space to look down on the bottom floor and Nesta could imagine hundreds of people standing there, trying to catch a glimpse of the lady behind the throne, looking at the wreckage.

There was a large grey rug starting from the beginning of the room but falling short just before the steps of the dais, and right in front of the throne was an 8 pointed star that Nesta had never seen before. There were 4 large points and 4 smaller ones. They felt new and familiar at the same time.

The plants were softly swaying with the wind, the tranquillity of the room a stark contrast to the war raging outside those walls.

The woman's face was pale, a stark contrast to her silver eyes and dark black hair done up in a lavish bun, held together by an ornate pin.

She placed her hands together in a prayer, the flowy fabric sleeves brushing against her waist.

In the midst of her prayer, the doors to the throne room opened and a girl walked in. She had a gash down her chest and blood coated her lips. She staggered down the carpet, leaving blooded footprints behind.

But what intrigued Nesta was the clothing she was wearing, It was similar to the ones of the statue. It was a dress of sorts, a dress made of armour. There were black armor-like plates on the shoulders, and the outfit was navy blue at the top and black at the bottom. A silver belt was at the female's waist, and a sword hung from it. The outfit had a high collar, and at the base was the same 8 pointed star. The lady was wearing black boots that clank against the marble floor with every step she took. And in the middle of her chest was a large wound leaking blood.

“Elizabeth!” The lady cried as she ran towards the girl, grabbing her before she fell. Nesta heard metal clanking and she took a closer look. The clothing was the armour, it looked like a dress but Nesta could hear the rings the lady was wearing hit the dress.

“I'm so sorry I tried, I'm so sorry.”

“Fear not, fear not. My dear, tell me what is wrong?” She held the female tenderly, as a mother would.

“I've tried to stop them, me and the other tried to stop them, they aren't- he killed them all!” She screamed as she dragged her nails down her face, small cuts slowly dripping blood.

“He breached the wall we made, he’s arrived! He’s-” But Elizabeth made a choking sound, and she spoke no more, her blue eyes unmoving.

The lady buried her head in the girls' chest and let out a gut wrenching scream. Nesta could feel the mountains shaking in the distance. The sounds of battle stopped for a second, then started up again.

For what seemed like ages, the Lady held the girl close, whispering prayers after prayers and then she stood.

Her once pristine silver dress was covered in blood as she walked to her throne. She stopped at the base of the star and Nesta had never seen anything like it before.

The queen stood still, sucking in a breath and pulled out her hair in letting her dark hair fall down. She raised it high and slashed down her palm letting the blood drop into the centre of the floor. She then raised her blood soaked sleeve and squeezed, the blood hitting the star.

And then she dropped to her knees and started to chant in a language Nesta knew not of. Her eyes were closing, her hands were raised high and magic started in.The sheer material of her dress showed her back glowing in silver light.

Nesta could hear doors slam open not too far and the lady’s chanting grew louder and more feverless.The 8 pointed star started to glow in the center and made its way towards the tips. But the sounds of footsteps approaching got louder and louder.

The light had only just reached the tips of the star when the doors burst open and in walked a male.

He was unlike any Nesta had ever seen; he radiated power, he radiated strength. He wore armour so black it swallowed any light that got near to it. But that wasn't what Nesta was scared of. Nesta was scared of how he carried himself. He walked like the Earth was personally built for him, and could not care what damage he caused to it. Each step carried power. Each step had the room shaking. Nesta couldn't help but fear him. He was Power itself.

He took a look at the girl laying down on the floor, eyes still wide and he snapped his fingers. The body lifted upwards and started to unravel. Nesat screamed, she could see the skin fall apart, the muscle shrivelled up and turned to dust. What was left of the girl was nothing but mist, red mist floating through the window and into the clear sky.

Nesta choked out a sob and moved back. She heaved, but no blue came out. She looked through shaky hands, but the lady made no noise other than silent tears dripping down her face. They stared at each other, then he waved his hand forward. Four guards came towards her, covering the grey rug in blood and dirt, and grabbed her and she made no effort to stop them.

They dragged her towards him and forced her on her knees. The male got down to his knees and titled the Lady’s head up.

“Do you surrender?” She looked at him, hatred swirling in those silver eyes. She looked at the guard with his sword drawn. She shook her head.

The blade went down.

Nesta fell out of her bed and looked around. She wasn't in a castle with a dead girl, she was in her room. The sun was shining and Nesta rubbed the sleep from her eyes. 

What kind of dream was that? The lady seemed familiar in a way she couldn't put into words.

And what war was that? What castle was that? Nesta hadn't heard about any convicting wars in years but then again, her history on Prythian wasn’t all that up to date.

Nesta tried to ignore the questions in her mind and tried to focus on today's task. She thankfully had made all her potions last night as she waited for Enora to come home, so all that there was today was to set up the front of the house. She had ample time for her experiment potions. It would be a good day.

Nesta got ready and dressed herself in a simple blue dress that fell to her knees, she forewent the stain to her lips and cheeks and went down the stairs to the store, only to see Enora already up and ready.

“You look good. I couldn't get any more sleep. I decided to wake up and get this part ready. Did I wake you up?”

Nesta stifled a yawn and shook her head, “No I was up. What do you need me to do?”

“If you don't mind, can you make a brand new batch of the numbing potion? We have enough but I feel like we'll need a bit more.”

“Sure thing.” Nesta went to the back room and started on the potion but her mind was elsewhere. Not on the dream she just had but what she did the night before. She managed to use her magic and heal a crow. She wasn't imagining it, she wasn't dreaming, she actively managed to use her magic and heal something.

Nesta looked at her hands and expected something different but they were the same old hands they were, the cut near her thumb still there.

She finished the batch of potions quicker than she thought she would, and carried the finished products out to the front of the shop where Enora was smiling.

“Okay now tell me what happened last night?”

“The music was good. I danced for a bit, and I had a glass of wine. I felt very nice, you know.”

Enora smiled and clapped her hands together, “I'm so glad! And hey who knows, maybe next time me and you could go out together.”

“Maybe. And we might be able to find you a handsome male to help us run the store.” Enora let out snort and wiped down the shelves.

The door rang and Nesta and Enora looked out only to see Azriel walking in his face solemn.

“Hello Shadowsinger, do you need a new batch of pain relief oceans?”

“Thank you for the offer but no,” He looked directly at Nesta and the next words that came out his mouth made her knees weak. “The High Lady requests your presence at her house.”

Nesta was thinking about a lot of things she could say but the one she settled on was, “Which house? By my accounts she has five of those.”

Eyes wide, Enora glared at Nesta, a look clearly said: stop antagonizing that guy who could kill us. But Nesta didn't care; she knew they were going to come for her, she had counted down the days until they would. They had held up longer than she thought they would.

“The riverhouse. She has asked me to take you there.” Now that was a change. Of the images the Cauldron showed her, almost all of them had disappeared into a faint blob that she couldn't record but 4 of them were fairly clear: her, Gwyn, and Emerie making bracelets together, her sister telling her that she was done and she was sending her to the House of Wind, she and Cassian on a hike where he looked at her with disgust, and her in Cassian's arms as he flew her over the city. What had changed? 

“You can tell the High Lady that I am not heard to come and go as she pleases. As you can see I have a job and I need to work it. Tell her I can come to her another day.”

“It's mandatory, your immediate presence is requested.”

Nesta was to argue some more when Enora held out her hand and looked at her. “Listen it's going to be fine, you made the potions, I've managed the store on my own before and I'm going to be fine now. Just go okay? The sooner you go the sooner you can come back.”

Not wanting to start any more issues, Nesta nodded and walked up the stairs to her room.

The dress she was wearing was nice but it wasn't well suited for the weather outside. She dressed herself in the simple grey dress with the buttons that she liked and she decided to top it off with a shawl.

Her boots clunk on the way down the stairs and she felt like she was walking to her own execution. She faced Azriel and he nodded, holding out a hand to her. 

“I'll be back soon and remember, the new potions I labeled have a tick underneath them okay?” Enora nodded and Nesta grabbed Azriel 's hand as he led them out.

“Do you mind?” He asked and she shook her head. He grabbed her and the world disappeared into shadows.

A house came into view, a large castle-like building that overlooked the Sirda. The inside was even more lavish, the floor was wood, polished enough so that Nesta was able to see her face, the floor was covered with plush carpets that Nesta’s boots sank into. The walls were adorned with faelights, nest-shaped orb cast shimmering reflections on the polished pale wood floors, and copious pieces of artwork. 

Nesta looked closely at the art, (most of it done by Feyre of course.) portraits of herself and her mate, her friends, her family, but none of her. Their father even had a portrait done of him, he was next to Elain, smiling. Nesta wasn't surprised that their mother didn’t also have a portrait. It's easy to ignore a dead woman. It seemed silly, but she would be lying if it didn’t sting, was she so unworthy of a portrait? 

Azriel led her towards a room and opened the door. “She’s here.”

“You’re 5 minutes early.” She heard Feyre say. 

The study opened into a lush garden courtyard. The space was warm and rich, and she might have admitted she liked the floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, the sapphire velvet furniture before the black marble hearth, had she not seen who was sitting inside.

Feyre perched on the rolled arm of the couch, clad in a heavy white sweater and dark leggings.

Cassian next to Feyre with a bored smile on his face.

Rhys, in his usual black, leaned against the mantle, arms crossed. No wings today.

And Amren, in her preferred gray, sat cross-legged in the leather armchair by the roaring hearth, those muted silver eyes sweeping over Nesta with distaste.

“Take a seat,” Feyre waved to the space Next to Cassian but Nesta took the spare seat.

“It seems you can bother to clean up after all.” Amren smiled, but it was all teeth. Nesta ignored her.

“Is there a reason why you’ve called me in? I’ve had to miss work for this.” She said, staring at Feyre. Maybe it wouldn't be like what happened in the other reality. Maybe this time, Feyre just wants to talk to her. 

“We need to make some changes, Nesta, you do—and we do.” Feyre said as she looked at her mate, who nodded

Nesta raised a brow at that. She knew better than to hope things would be different.

“I’ll take the blame,” Feyre went on, “For allowing things to get this far, and this bad. After the war with Hybern, with everything else that was going on, it … You … I should have been there to help you, but I wasn’t, and I am ready to admit that this is partially my fault. But the drinking, the-”

Nesta bit her tongue, she was a fool for hoping Feyre would change. Instead of exploding into anger like they expected of her, she took in a deep breath and smiled at Feyre who seemed startled by the gesture. “It's fine, you know I came to a moment of clarity a month ago and I've stopped the excessive drinking, I've turned a new leaf.” the more agreeing she was, the more she hoped they’d fuck right off.

“So you didn't go to a bar last night?” Amren asked, with a shit eating grin. “And don’t bother lying, we know you were there.” Nesta looked at Azriel who was standing in a corner and she scoffed.

“I said I’ve stopped the excessive drinking, not drinking entirely. It seems like your spymaster missed the mark on that one. If he stayed long enough he would see me have one glass and one glass only. Is that now a crime in this court?”

Feyre looked at her and sighed. “It’s not, but-”

“Great, so now that that’s done can I leave? I have a job, you know?”

“It's a funny thing you finally decided to get a job. I thought you were content in draining my coffers.” Rhysand smiled from the corner of the room.

“I did want to speak about that,” She sat up straight and looked at Feyre and Rhysand. “I was wondering since I was the one to kill Hybern, where was the money for that? I'm pretty sure people get paid for their war efforts, so where's mine?”

“Excuse me?” Amren scoffed, looking as if Nesta had sprouted a 2nd head. “We took you in when you had nothing and now you harp about money for helping in the war. You couldn't even stop the wall from falling.”

The words stung, but Nesta carried on. “I didn’t ask for this, and I sure didn't ask to be bought here. If you want to talk about money, don’t get angry when I do. I am more than certain that the money I used during the last year is less than what I earned in the war? You can pay back the money from there and give me my remaining sum. And there’s another issue solved, can I leave?”

“Nesta,” Cassian started but Amren held up a hand.

“That still doesn't solve the issue of you being a hazard. None of us believe for a single second that your magic disappeared in the cauldron. And your refusal to cooperate has also led to this decision. You need to figure out a way to tame it.”

And there was the real reason they brought her here, and Nesta wasn't prepared for this part. In every single scenario she ran through her brain she saw herself either leaving the Night Court, or working out a way for her to stay and keep doing what she's doing now. But this was new. They thought her dangerous, and that was not on her cards.

“Oh,” was all she could manage at that moment.

“Amren!” Feyre chided, and she looked at Nesta. “We don't see you as a threat, we’re just worried for you Nesta. That type of power can only cause harm.”

“Has Elain been given the same conversation as I? Has she also been told that her magic from the cauldron was dangerous? Or is it because she's a seer and it benefits you, you're going to do whatever it takes to keep her happy? Or is it because her mate is your eyes and is outside of this court? And upsetting her will lead to him cutting ties?”

Azriel's shadows started to move about, licking at Nesta’s feet.

“Elain's powers weren't strong enough to cut through half of Hybern’s army.”

“And how are you so sure of that? You only know what she's told you.”

“Enough,” Rhysand said, power coming off him. But he was no match compared to the power the male in her dream had. “We've decided to give you two choices and the one you pick is up to you. You can either go to the House of Wind train with Cassian, Train your magic or you can go to the Mortal lands. There's no in between.”

The Mortal Lands, go back home. For a second, Nesta was tempted to say yes, to take all of her stuff and go back to the Mortal Lands. She could forget everything, she could forget Prythian, she could forget the war.

But then the rational part of her brain kicked in and she held her tongue. Nesta was fae now. There was no spell, nothing in the world that could undo it. She was fae and if she was brought back to the Mortal Lands, they'd kill her immediately. They'd make a spectacle out of it, all the people she used to know would watch and cheer as her body was burned.

This was a way for them to keep her in the Night Court. She could go to the Mortal Lands and die there, or stay in their perfectly cosy court and be their perfect little puppet.

“And what if I pick neither?” Nesta said softly.

“Then we’ll haul you up there, and you're free to leave if you make it down the 10,000 steps.” Amren said as she read her book.

“And what if I were to say I pick the Mortal lands?” The words hung over the group. Feyre’s eyes widened and she looked at Rhysand, whose face was still except for a single muscle ticking in his jaw.

“Then you’d be a fool.” Was all he said. “The humans despise the fae, as you know-”

“What makes you so sure I'd stay in the Mortal Lands? I might not be allowed back into the Night Court but there are six other courts I could go to. There's the Continent that I could go to. There would be nothing forcing me to stay in the Mortal lands. Maybe I ought to pick it.”

“As a citizen of this court you don't have a choice in the matter. My idea was to throw into Hewn city for a few days, but your sister so generously chose this option.”

So it wasn't a choice? Nesta looked at her sister but her gaze was elsewhere. 

“Oh really I'm a citizen of the court? I don’t remember asking for sanctuary when I was brought here, I don't remember signing any papers.” Her anger was on a thin leash and it was close to breaking.

“You really think paper is what ties you to a court?” Using the dregs of magic she had left after the cauldron had taken it, she hovered a book over to Nesta. “Page two hundred and thirty-six.”

Nesta opened the book and flipped to the page they were speaking about but she ran into an issue: It was in another language. Maybe this was part of the plan but Nesta was stubborn and she wasn't going to give up that easily. She lowered her gaze to the book and started at the first line. The wording was hard, it took her way too long to decipher the 1st word.

“Nesta, it’s there.” Cassian spoke softly, and the words made her keep reading, no way in hell would she believe that. As if she had water dumped on her head, the words came into focus and they became clearer. She lowered her head to the text, started to read it and laughed.

“Nice try but this clearly talks about how farmers are supposed to be taxed. This page mentioned nothing about keeping people inside courts.”

Armen frowned and took the book back. She looked around the room and felt them shiver, their leverage was gone.

“I'm no longer drinking and embarrassing your court, I'm no longer using your money. And any powers that I have left after the battle is up for me to disclose, not you.” 

“Nesta,” Cassian said, and she took a proper look at him. All of the emotions, all of the feelings she felt towards him had faded. She had clung to them, wished he would come and save her like the knights in her book. But she knew she’d never measure up to his expectations. So she stopped. Now all that was left was an empty void when she looked at him. “You need training, you need to learn how to defend yourself, and the House of Wind is your best bet.”

“Not every warrior needs to have a sword in their hands and that's not something I would like to do. Not all of us enjoy swinging around swords and yelling for bloodshed. You can't force me there.”

“Can’t I?” Rhysand said so softly Nesta barely picked up on it. She steadied her breathing, and spoke.

“You could try, but as you said you have no idea what extent of magic I have. What makes you sure I won't kill you before you get the chance?”

“Is that a threat, Nesta Archeron?” The urge to back down was too much, she should just sit down and listen. But she was done allowing them to walk all over her. 

She raised her chin and met his gaze. “No, it's a promise.”

Waves of power started to come off from Rhysand but Nesta would not back down. For too long her life was dictated by what other people think, how other people thought she should leave her life and Rhysand was no better than the one who came before him. She would not bow down to anyone.

Nesta bared her teeth and snarled, her hands tingling. Cassian moved back, his hands shielding Feyre.

“Stop! The both of you.” Feyre snapped and Rhysand relented. “Staying at the House of Wind is the best option for you. Please listen to us, to me.”

Nesta gritted her teeth, and she couldn't mask the bite in her next words

“For somebody who was so against her former lover looking her up, you sure do seem excited to do the same to me.”

Feyre sat back and looked at her, making the same face she did when she was about to cry. “Would living in the House of Wind be that bad? Would living with me be that bad?”

“It would be if I was stripped of all my choices. And where is Father’s inheritance?”

Feyre snapped her head up, “What?”

Nesta slowly let out a breath and spoke.“Father was a wealthy man after he died, and as much as I hate the man, I know he left us something. And since you were in charge of making sure everything was up to date, you know where the money is. I want my share.”

“I don't know where-”

“It’s somewhere safe.” Rhysand interrupted and Feyre glanced at him, a brown raised. “We weren't too comfortable letting you lose without that type of money.”

“But you were perfectly content with me using the coffers? That money rightfully belongs to me, give me my half.”

“Nesta, training would be great for you-” Nesta stood up, and she tried to ignore the fear on Cassian’s face.

“This conversation is getting very tiring. There is no reason for me to be staying in this court, and if you will not let me live the peaceful life I want, then I think I shall remove myself from the equation. I will not be going to the Mortal Lands, I will be going to the border and leaving, and then afterwards you can wash your hands clean of me. But no sooner than after you have handed the money to me.”

“As much as you like to claim that you can just leave this court, which other one would take you in?” Amren looked at her. 

“I doubt that’s your concern.” She had enough with this court, and what better than to leave them behind. Nesta stood up and walked out, only for Amren to speak.

“And where do you think you're going?”

Nesta snapped her head around and Amren faltered, so did Rhysand.

“I'm taking the stuff I have with me. I am not leaving with the clothes on my back.”

Rhysand nodded, “Azriel will take you to the border of Day, it's up to you what happens afterwards.”

“Wait-”

“Feyre darling, she doesn't want to stay, who are we to stop her?”

Nesta walked out without a second thought, Azriel hot on her tail. The pictures taunted her as she left, her absence palpable. 

Azriel grabbed her hand and winnowed them to the Apocrathy. She didn't wait for him. She ran into the store, scaring Enora.

“Nesta what-”

“They gave me an ultimatum: Get placed in a house with no proper way out to train or the Mortal Lands.”

Enora stared at her, her breathing slow. “And?”

“I picked neither, I'll be going to Day’s border and I'll find some place to stay. They won't let me stay in this court. Rhysands said so.”

Enora stared at her and she nodded, “Okay, I can pack up the store in about 5 hours, and then we can go to Dawn, I have a friend-”

“Enora no.” Her voice was thick with tears. “You can’t leave. Your life is here, i’ll be fine.”

“No-”

“Please.” Nesta pressed her eyes shut and when she opened them, she saw Enora’s tear-stricken face. She nodded, guiding Nesta up the stairs. Working together, Nesta and Enora managed to pack up all of Nesta's items; the room she had called home for the past 4 weeks was now barren.

“Is this truly it? I- I won’t see you again?”

“It seems like it.” Nesta grabbed her herb book and tried to stop the tears from falling. “Maybe you could come visit me in Day?” Enora nodded and pulled Nesta into a hug. Nesta buried her head into Enora’s neck, trying to remember her smell, to make sure she hadn't dreamed this all up.

“Write to me, write to me the minute you settle down okay? And try to get your head out of your ass and use the gift that the Mother gave you.”

“Enora, I don't-”

“For one stop with the bullshit and actually do something Nesta!” she cried out. “Make something of yourself in the court you end up in okay? I believe in you.”

Nesta nodded mutely and grabbed her bag. She walked down the stairs and looked out the window, at the potions stand, at the couch where she and Enora spent countless nights talking. And she bid it goodbye.

“Are you ready?” Azriel asked, she could only nod. The world disappeared and Nesta was at an empty patch of land. There was a difference in the land, the Day Court seemed much brighter, and the grass more green. The empty patch was surrounded by trees and bushes and a small path led away from the Night Court.

But there was something else that Nesta was feeling but she couldn't put her finger on it. The second she placed her feet on the floor, she felt a sense of calmness wash over her, the grass soft and plush. She felt as if this was what she had been waiting for, as if she had returned to her home she knew not of. And she couldn't shake the feeling off 

“The border of Night and Day. Take this.” He handed her a piece of paper. It was a check with a large number. “It's the inheritance that your father left you. You can just take it to any bank and they should open an account in your name.”

Nesta snatched the paper and tucked it into her dress. “I would thank you, but you seem content about lying. Is there a reason why you said that I was drinking around? I'm sure you stuck around to truly see what happened.”

Azriel simply looked at her and shrugged his shoulders, “I told them that you had a glass. I can't change the way people perceive the information I give them.”

“What a sad life that is.” He gave her a small smile, but Nesta had no more words for him, she was tired and the day had only begun. Turning on her heel she walked down the path, leaving the Night Court far behind her.

Chapter Text

Nesta ran into her first problem shortly after Azriel left, it being she had no proper idea where to go.

It wasn't exactly what direction to go, she knew she had to take the path down and find people nearby for instructions. It was that Nesta had no clue where she would permanently stay.

Sure she could just go to the Continent like she said, her father’s visits had intrigued her and maybe the Fae there were different. But there was an issue: the money she currently had in her hands was money used in Prythian, not in the Continent, and she remembered from her father's talks that the exchange rate was quite draining. Or maybe she could just stick into Prythian and go somewhere else, probably the Summer Court.

But some part of her was thinking that maybe she could just stay in the Day Court. She needed a proper place of staying, because what if the Night Court decided to just take her away from where she was? Would the people of the Continent really want to risk war with one of the High Lords of Prythian? However gaining sanctuary in an actual Court… that should deter them. And Helion seemed decent enough.

Making her decision, Netsa hitched up her skirts and walked down the path, but then it split into 2. Nesta tried to look ahead but there was no indication on which one led to the city.

“You good?” Nesta turned to see a male carrying a basket. His hair was short, the ends sticking out from under his hat.

“Do you know where the city is?”

He tilted his head up “Ostia? Yeah it's down that road.” He looked Nesta up and down and raised a brow. “You gonna walk it?”

“Yes. Thank you.” She tipped her head and walked off. 

The male laughed. “Good luck then.”

Nesta hitched her bag higher and walked ahead, her spirits high. She watched as the trees danced in the wind, how the fish would hope out of the small lakes. The clearing started to change after a while, the green turning into cobblestone, the trees less large. 

She walked till she couldn’t and she fell to her knees. The ground was rough and she scraped her hands.

Nesta was a High Fae, her health much better than a humans, but she was still underweight. Her bag laid next to her and she closed her eyes. The sun was now at its peak, hours had passed since the meeting. The males' shock at her determination to walk started to sink in.

“This can’t be it,” Nesta said aloud. “If only…” she stopped.

“And try to get your head out of your arse and use the gift that the Mother gave you.”

She could try and Winnow? I mean how hard could it be? Think of the place you want to be and be there.

She sat up and grabbed her bag, holding it close. She closed her eyes and thought of a city, a nice one. She tried to imagine a castle, tried to imagine people walking about and laughing.

And then the world changed. Nesta was no longer sitting on a rocky road, she was now standing in a bustling city.

She had done it, she had winnowed into the very heart of the Day Court, she walked down the street in awe. It was beautiful. 

It was a stark difference from the Night Court. The fashion was the first thing she noticed. People walked about in flowy clothes. The women wore dresses cinched at the waist with golden chords and their arms adorned in different golden bangles. Some men also wore the same stylish clothing, others opting out and wearing flowy shirts and pants.

And another thing that Nesta noticed was the building's. They were large and towering over the town, columns all over the town and in the buildings. There were arches in almost every building. The soft beige colour was decorated with the occasional gold accents. 

Nesta walked, her eyes drinking in all the buildings and people. She looked to see a building with no proper walls, just columns holding the ceiling up. There was a small gap in the middle of the wall where a large metal instrument was pointed upwards to the sky. Nesta could see a few males walking about with books in their hands.

Nesta kept walking until she found herself in front of one of the largest castles she had ever seen: It was a tall beauty, with hundreds of towers standing tall and dozens of balconies. There were specks of green that brought life to the castle. Nesta watched as people moved in and out, laughing as they spoke.

Nesta walked into the palace and walked straight down. She had no path in mind, she'd keep walking wherever her feet took her.

“Who are you?” A deep voice grumbled. Nesta looked up to see a beautiful male.

His deep bronze skin and those soft brown eyes made him look like a carving came to life. He was dressed in silver armour, and Nesta wondered how hot it got wearing that all day. He had a long spear with a silver tip in his hand. His arms were hard chiselled with muscles and his face was hard.

“Hello. I was hoping to meet with High Lord Helion.”

The guard rolled his eyes and lowered his spear. “If you have the need to meet with the High Lord, I suggest you make a meeting just like everybody else in this city, Madam. Now have a good day.”

“I'm quite certain the High Lord would like to see me. Tell him Nesta Archeron wants to speak to him.” She prayed that it would work, prayed that the infatuation he had was still there.

“Will you leave if I don't?”

“No.” The male sighed and walked off. Nesta looked at the large entrance. Multiple statuses of people were in the foyer. Some were naked, holding their lovers and some were busts of heads. There were paintings of different people and a large map of the Day Court in the center.

“I thought I had heard wrong,” Nesta turned at the sound of the voice. “Nesta Archeron, what brings you to my court?”

Helion was as stunning as ever. His deep skin and his glowing eyes were as she remembered. He was dressed in a white toga with gold lining. He had a book in hand and smiled at her.

“High Lord,” she dipped into a bow, her back straight. “I was hoping for a meeting.”

“Why don’t you come with me?” They walked down halls filled with artwork and statues, past fountains flowing with clear water. They went up marble staircases that looked to cost more than anything she'd seen. 

Helion's study was more of a library. The lower floor was his study, there was an oak wood desk that was piled up with books, Nesta looked to see a large shelf groaning under the weight of all the books, shelves looking as if they would burst if a gust of wind came their way.

Helion walked up a spiral staircase to a domed room, the walls and ceiling covered in cloths and charts filled with even more books and metal objects. Nesta moved closer to one that looked like a large stick.

“It's an instrument to see the sky,” Helion said as he looked over a book. 

“And you can't see the sky normally?”

He laughed, a joyous sound, “It gives us a closer look. These instruments are the reason why we can track stars and have accurate maps.”

“But we aren't here for that,” he looked at her. “Why are you here?”

“I'd like to ask for sanctuary.” Helion looked at her, as if to urge her to carry one.

“It seems that me and the Night Court have come to an impasse. I was living at an apothecary that I worked at, minding my business when they heard giving me an ultimatum: learning how to train and being stuck in a house where I had no way of getting out, or be banished to the Mortal Lands. And when I told them no, they threatened to drag me to the house anyway.”

She sighed, “So I told them that I would just leave and I have.”

Helion was silent, “And so now you're here? Lady Nesta, I would like you to know that High Lord Rhysand and I do have quite an applicable relationship. Wouldn't it cause you more issues to be here?”

“That's why I'm here. They wouldn't expect me to come to the Day Court. They would expect me to go somewhere like Dawn, Winter, or even the Continent. I just want to guarantee that I will not be taken from this land without my consent.”

She looked at Helion, and she held her breath. It was quite a gamble and Nesta was putting all her bets on it. If Helion agreed, she could be granted safety and Rhysand would not risk his alliance to pursue her. But then again what if Helion didn't want to risk his alliance and he sent her back to the Night Court anyway?

Would she have enough time between the two talking to get as far away as she could?

“My lady, I am not one to believe in fate, but if this is the court you choose to be in, then who am I to deny you? As the rightful high Lord of the Day Court, I give you sanctuary and until you have accepted citizenship.”

His body glowed and Nesta felt a calm descend on her. She looked at him and bowed.

“I thank you Lord Helion.”

“No worries. Things have been awfully quiet, yes? Maybe we needed some shaking up. As you are new to the court, I think the best course of action is to allow you to catch your footing in the castle.” 

“High Lord, it's not n-”

“It is. And please call me Helion.” He walked back down the stairs and flagged over a guard, telling him to escort Nesta to an empty room.

Nesta thanked him and followed the guard, her rooms were on the 4th floor and it was a sight to behold.

The room was large, there were intricate plaster moldings and patterns on the ceiling and it bleed to the top parts of the wall. There were large arched windows with white frames letting in plenty of natural light. The bed was right across the balcony, with a large white headboard and a soft cover. The bed was carved from a white tree, and the nightstands, and a vintage vanity table seemed to be carved from the same tree.

The thing Nesta was drawn to the most was a balcony, a beautiful view that overlooked the town. She could see people that looked as small as ants walking around, the smell of sweet food coming up to her face and she could also see the sky.

She would not be caged up, she would be free.

Setting her bags down she laid on the bed, and let out an undefined sound. She dug her fingers into the bed and let out a sigh.

But then the past 4 hours came crashing down on her. Feyre would rather Nesta conform to what she thought was right rather than let Nesta be free. She would have her locked up in a house with a male she didn't care for because she thought it was the best way. And Rhysand, Nesta was impartial to the male, so long as he kept away from her, she’d be fine.

She had managed to winnow as well. She had no clue if she was able to do so again, but she could winnow. She had a way out of Day if she was found. And the hefty inheritance she received would aid her.

Chirping pulled her out of her thoughts, she looked out to see a small bird on the balcony, its blue feathers shining.

Nesta slowly got up and walked to the creature, trying her best not to scare it away. She opened the door and pulled the bird inside.

She sat it down on the vanity table and stroked its head, the small thing leaning into her touch. She opened her bag and pulled out her potions knife. 

She grabbed the bird in her left hand and slowly dragged the blade with her right. The bird squawked and struggled in her grip but Nesta kept going till her knife had left a trail of blood.

She laid the birth down on the table and it could be nothing more than squawk and look at her with white eyes. She hovered her hand over the animal and closed her eyes. She tried to pull on the feelings that she had last night.

Nothing. Nesta looked at her hand in anger.

“Stop this. I mean it.” She felt silly talking to her hand and she tried again, and the events of the day swarmed to the front of her mind. How her sister wanted her to stay trapped in a house because she thought she was a dangerous tool. The nerve.

Her hand started to glow silver and she watched as the wings mended itself. Within seconds, the small creature was up and flying around her room. She let the bird out and smiled. She hadn’t dreamed the night before.

But it left Nesta with more questions than answers. Why did this part of her magic only come out now? What was up with the dream she had?

The library. The Day court was home to the largest library in Prythian. She could go to the one in the castle. 

Nesta left her room and walked down to the main floor as she waited to see where the most people were going. After a group of girls left a large pair of doors with books in their hands, Netsa knew where she should go.

The library was one of the largest places she had ever seen in her life. It seemed like the library was inside a collection of towers, because even though Nesta was straining her head to look up it seemed like the rows of floors would never end. There were paths between sections with people walking in and out of doors. The clear glass windows letting the light in made it seem like she was stepping into an alternative world. 

Focus, she told herself. She knew she wanted to find a book about healing powers and something about the cauldron. But by looking at the library, Nesta had to assume that there were at least tens and hundreds of thousands of books in this section alone.

“You look lost, are you new here?” A male said. He was tall and weedy with soft black hair with grey horns sticking out of them. He was in lavender robes with large sleeves.

“How do you find anything in this place? It's humongous. Beautiful, but humongous.”

“Is much easier than it seems. This is the second largest library in Prythian. The first one would be the library of Alexandria, it's down the city. But it's a whole lot more easier. I am Lain, the librarian on duty for this floor-”

“You're the librarian just for this floor alone?”

The male nodded, “Each floor alone houses around a thousand books, and just as many people come in asking for advice. Every single floor has its designated librarian and we change shifts regularly, come with me.”

He led her through rows of shelves and benches till they found themselves in front of a large book that had a glow to it.

“This is the Mater librorum, isn't she beautiful?” Lain sighed, leaning in closer. “The previous High Lord realised that there was an issue when it came to filing books and how to find them, so he poured a bit of his magic into a large empty book and here we have it. Using it is very simple, you just put your hand in the center like so,” He moved his hand to the book. “And then you state what you want, then remove your hand once you've said it. Try it out.”

Nesta placed a hand down and spoke. “Books on Healing magic.” As soon as she removed her hand the book's pages started to flip back and forth, golden words appearing on the page it stopped abruptly and Nesta could see writing. 8: 14: 10-17.

“So the 8 stands for the Eighth floor, the 14 stands for the 14th section, and the 10 to 17 means the 10th and the 17th shelves. Does this help?”

“Very much so, thank you Lain.” He dropped his head and Nesta climbed to the 8th floor.

The books were easy to find, Nesta found books on how magical traits are passed down when it comes to healing, how healing magic manifests, what type of limits there are when it comes to healing magic and so much more. But Nesta could find nothing about powers given from the cauldron. The more she read about healing magic the more she realized she didn't fit into those categories. Nesta didn't feel drained after using her magic; she felt energized. She didn't have to use herbs before she used her magic, and she sure as hell was not born with it.

Putting the books away and stretching out her stiff legs, Nesta started to head towards the 10th section. Maybe she'd find something else. But her book in the 9th section called her eyes. It was titled “The Courts of Prythian.”

It would do her some good to learn more about the world she currently lived in, especially since it seemed like she was staying here for the foreseeable future. Picking up the leather bound book, she held it close to her chest and headed down.

Lain was at the front, hitting books with a small stamp.

“Found what you needed?” he asked, not looking up from his book.

“Yes, I was hoping to take these books out.” She held out the books and he stamped it with the wooden stick. And when he removed it, there was a small golden symbol on the page.

“Please make sure you hand this book in a week's time in the condition it was given to you in. If not, you will have to compensate the library for the damages that have occurred. But other than that, I hope you have a great day here.” Nesta smiled at him and walked back up the stairs.

After grabbing herself a few more books, Nesta got back to her bedroom and turned her attention to the book about Prythian. There were pieces of information that she knew about, the 7 courts, the current rulers and the land layout. But the rest was a mystery.

A passage caught her eyes and Nesta leaned in closer.

“...And each court in Prythian has its designated trade. For the Spring Court it is harvest, as their land is the most lush and fertile. For the Summer Court it is their wealth, for their seas are filled to the brim with jewels unknown, For the Autumn Court, their spices are renown in Prythian, and lastly for the seasonal Courts, the cold weather of the Winter Court means that the clothing that they produced is one of the best in the lands.

Across the Middle lies the Dawn Court, which specialises in mechanics and Healers. The illustrious Day Court produces scholars like no one knows. And lastly the Night Court produces weapons unseen by the world."

But what caught her eye was the writing. When it came to the Dawn Court the words for Healers seemed different, as if somebody took a slightly different colored ink pen and added it at the last second. Maybe it was a mistake?

Knocking at her door startled her, she closed the book and sat up.

“Come in.” A lady with beautiful iridescent wings peeked her head in. Her face was a soft shade of pink, and her blonde hair was wound up

“My lady, Lord Helion requests your attendance for dinner.” Dinner? What for? 

“I'll be down in a bit.” The lady nodded her head and left. Nesta ran to her bag, trying to find something appropriate to wear. She didn't have anything fancy to wear, she'd have to fix that.

But then Nesta pulled out a simple blue dress. It was made of silk, the arms long and flowy. The neckline was a square one, and a bit too low for Nesta’s liking, but it was the only fancy dress she had. Nesta ran to the bathroom and had a quick shower, rubbing herself with a bar of soap that smelt like jasmines.

The dress fit Nesta like a glove, it being a dress from the days after the war, and she pulled her hair up.

“It needs something else.” She said, and grabbed her bag. “It should be here.”

Nesta pulled out a silver necklace, with a light blue teardrop gem. She had bought it in Velaris, after seeing it in a display case. It wasn't flashy or loud, it was simple. It reminded her of the fashion back home.

Putting on the necklace, Nesta looked in the mirror. She looked good, normal even. Smoothing her dress she left her room. The lady walked down the straps and passed the large dining room, and led Nesta to a simple door.

“In here my lady.” 

The room was simple. There was a table that sat 4 people and yet it was set for 3.

Helion was sitting at the head of the table and there was an open book next to him. He had an easy smile and was talking to the person right next to him which had Nesta halting in her tracks.

Lucien Vanserra was nodding as he spoke, but yet he trailed off when he caught sight of Nesta.

“Lady Nesta,” Helion stood up and pulled out the chair on his left. “Emissary Vanserra had come in a few hours ago, so I suggested he stay for dinner.”

She sat down and looked at Lucien. He looked the same way he did on Solstice, his hair was still long way past his shoulders, his skin was still tanned, and that mechanic eye was still trained on her.

Nesta wouldn't admit it to anybody else, but his eye unnerved her. All she could think about when she saw it move was that dark room, the cold feeling of the Cauldron, and his gazing lingering on Elain.

“That’s no issue. Thank you for the dinner invite. Though I am quite surprised.” She looked down at the dish in front of her.

“I just wanted to get to know my guest better.” He threw her a wink and Lucien frowned.

“What brings you here? Last I knew you were at the Night Court?” Lucien said. Nesta forced the urge to roll her eyes.

“As you can see, I'm no longer in the Night Court, and I could ask you the same thing?”

“Trying to find a cure for Vassa. She still allowed her freedom but we don't know when her time will be up.”

Vassa, the 6th human queen/firebird. Nesta briefly remembered her from the war. She had travelled with their father and gushed about how lovely he was. Funny how he put in effort for everyone but her.

“Ah. Your library is quite lovely, Lord Helion.” 

Helion smiled and leaned back, “It told you, just Helion. It is, isn't it. The perks of being a High Lord. but if you want some more books, I dare say my bed chamber has quite a lot.” He raised his eyebrows suggestively and Nesta snorted.

“I hope you didn’t offer me sanctuary for the chance to sleep with me.”

“Why of course not. I merely saw a damsel in need of saving.”

“Sanctuary?” Lucien said, “Why ask for Sanctuary?”

“Because I was in no mood for Rhyand and Feyre to lock me up in the House of Wind.” She sighed as she took a sip of water. Lucien frowned, turning back to his food, Nesta followed suit.

“Is Elain… is she safe?” Nesta stopped cutting up her fish. 

“Considering she does as they say, she’s perfectly safe. Is that where the Cauldron picked you two as mates? Two people who hide behind the coattails of the biggest baddest people around?”

“Don’t you dare.” Lucien snarled and his eyes flashed, but Nesta smiled. 

“Why? Hits close to home?” Lucien barred his teeth but Helion held up a hand.

“As much as seeing this would be riveting, I do want to ask, is healing something you’d like to pursue Lady Nesta?”

“If you're so instant on losing the titles, Nesta will be fine. And I've been working at an Apothecary, healing is quite intriguing, I was half tempted to go to Dawn.”

Helion nodded. “If you want, I could arrange a meeting with a healing school?” 

“I think I'll have to pass up on the offer.” The dinner ended shortly after, Lucien heading to the Library to find some more books, Helion heading out to a meeting with some lords.

Nesta found her way back to her room, grabbing a letter and writing out a letter to Enora. And when she was done she crawled into bed. And as she looked up North, she felt oddly at home.

Chapter Text

Nesta loved the Day Court.

The buildings, the fashion, the people, everything. Nesta had learnt more in 2 weeks than she ever had in her year in the Night Court. Though she did spend most of her time drinking in the Night Court, that was neither here nor there.

The Day Court really was the Court for scholars. On every single road, one would find a bookshop filled with books about the court, agriculture, the stars, anything you could want there was definitely a bookstore for it.

The 4 pillar buildings with the open roof that Nesta saw when she first came turned out to be viewing stations for the stars. Every night a group of scholars would gather together to track the Stars movements and the Sun. 

Having been intrigued by Helion's device, Nesta had paid to look up to the sky and she was astonished. There were tiny stars like jewellery littered all across the sky. She could see something move across the tiny scope. It made Nesta feel giddy inside. 

The fashion of the Day Court was also something that Nesta loved. The flowy fabrics meant that Nesta could dress as modestly as she wanted yet she would not overheat. Even though Nesta was partial to very high necklines, she had started to fall in love with the square ones. 

Nesta had used a portion of her money to buy some suitable clothes, and some simple jewelry. She had bought a pair of earrings to match her light blue neckline and wore them on the regular.

Helion was a great help, dinner became a common occurrence, with the male telling her tidbits about his youth and how much Prythian had changed. They'd spend time speaking courts and he helped her broaden her knowledge on Prythian. 

Nesta loved the Library the most. She spent most of her time there, reading all the books she could find. The romance section on the 4th floor was her favourite. 100s of rows filled with romance novels, of men who would yearn for their lovers.

Nesta was seated in her usual spot, reading a book when a shadow covered the page. She looked up and sucked in a breath.

“Nesta,” Elain breathed. She looked as she always did, hair down, soft dress, wide eyes.

“Elain.” Nesta clutched to her book, and lowered her head, glazing around the room. When she was sure they were alone she raised her head. “What brings you here?”

“I was looking for you, we all have.” She sat down, flatting her dress. “Could we talk? Somewhere else?”

Nesta looked around the Library, it wouldn't be an ideal place for a conversation. “Sure.” She stood up and offred Elain a smile.

Nesta guided her to a nearby restaurant and she ordered herself a drink. It was an oddly coloured drink. It was blue at the bottom, and purple at the top, the glass was a round one and it came with a little umbrella. Elain declined one.

Nesta took a sip as she watched Elain fidget, looking around. “It’s such a lovely place.”

“It is. Downtown is much livelier in my opinion. They had this fair a few days ago, it was like the one Mother took us to.”

Elain smiled, “The one where I climbed a tree and you had to drag me down?” She giggled and brushed her hair out of her face. 

“And you fell atop me and our dresses were a mess. And we told Mother some boys shoved us. And she had the carriage boy look for them.” Elain was laughing, her face brighter than the sun. 

“And - And how Father bought us that fluffy candy, and we convinced Feyre to wash it, and it vanished!”

Nesta laughed, putting her drink down, “I’d forgotten that.” The laughter died down and they sat in silence, watching the people move around. Nesta could stay like this forever.

 “Nesta, why did you leave?”

She toyed with her straw and spoke. “It's fairly simple, it was either leaving or being locked up in the House of Wind.”

“Nes, Feyre’s been upset ever since, she thinks that she's at fault and- “

“She is at fault. I was perfectly content working in my little store, but she had to go in and mind other people's businesses. If she's hurt by the consequences of her actions, then it's up to her.”

She watched as Elain pushed back her hair, her lips pursed. Whenever people look that Elain they always spoke about how she looked like their father, but when she was irritated or angry her face was just like their Mother’s.

“She’s our sister. I know it’s been hard, I know that -”

“You have no idea how hard it was for me. You were busy playing house.”

“Because you pushed me away. I tried to help, Feyre tried to help.”

“No, you wanted me to conform to your little group. You expected me to be happy after everything. I’m done with the Night Court, I have no need to be with them.”

“You don’t mean that, Feyre-”

“For the love of the Mother!” Nesta shoved her glass back. “Do you say anything other than that? Feyre, Feyre, Feyre! Was Feyre the one there when you weren’t speaking after the Cauldron? Was Feyre the one that secured the engagement with Grayson? Was Feyre the one that shielded you all this time? You're truly something Elain.” The laughter, the easiness had vanished, leaving a bitter taste in her mouth.

Her sister looked at her. “Nesta.”

“Leave Elain. Just leave.” She did. She stood up and walked out of the restaurant and Nesta watched her disappear in the crowds. She finished her drink, and left.

Elain had found another person to hide behind and she discarded Nesta in the process, and she was fine with it. She had always known her attitude and demeanor would lead to other people leaving, so what harm could something she already know cause? Her head was buzzing, and then she stopped in her traces.

How had Elain managed to get to the Day Court? As far as Nesta knew she had not mastered how to winnow yet, so how did she get here?

Azriel. It was most definitely him. She hadn't noticed any oddity, and Azriel was great at covering up his tracks, and she wasn't blind to how they acted around each other. Or maybe it was Rhysand, lurking in the shadows.

Her footsteps started to pick up, what if Elain was a ploy? What if they were waiting for her to slip up? Faster and faster she moved, weaving through the crowds. As long as she stayed in crowded areas, the harder it would be to find her.

She was running at this point. She ran until she couldn't know more and she looked up. There was a store in front of her. It was small, with silver windows and a wooden door. The store seemed to be a training store?

Maybe this was a sign? Maybe Nesta could learn how to defend herself, if the Night Court came running.

She bit her lip, and pushed the door open. The front part of the store was empty, a desk that had a few books was up front. She stepped in and saw a door slightly ajar, songs of laughter trickling out of it. Finding her nerves, she walked in.

The room had mats at the far back, and a wall of mirrors. The wooden floor was pristine and the soft pink curtains flowed as the wind entered.

There were 5 females in the room, all looking at her in shock. After a while a female with hair so black it was blue and sapphire eyes spoke.

“Hello?” 

“Hello, I saw a sign out front, do you teach how to defend oneself?” The female smiled and nodded. She moved closer and her white shirt swayed.

“Yes, this is a studio to help females learn to fight, or learn simple tactics to escape from people. I'm Zora, you are?”

“Nesta.” She looked around. One female was glaring at her, and Nesta had to do a double take. She looked similar to Nesta in a way that they could be distantly related. Her light brown hair was pulled back and her green eyes were slicing into Nesta. The blonde female next to her smiled and stepped forward.

“Hi, I’m Lupine. Have you ever trained before?”

“No I haven't. I just want to learn how to defend myself.”

“Sure.” The green eyed lady snorted and Lupine shot her a look.

“Well Nesta, Before we start teaching you how to defend yourself with a sword, how about we start learning how to defend ourselves with our hands?” Zora grabbed her hand and slowly guided her to the center of the room.

“All of us have finished learning how to ground ourselves properly and simple punches, how about we start with that?”

“That would be nice, yes.” She’d take anything, she wouldn’t let them take her.

“Octavia do you mind showing her how to-”

“Of course!” A short female with silver cropped hair smiled, “Your stance seems alright. You're not putting all your weight on one leg, but you are leaning to your right a bit. Let’s start with grounding ourselves.” Zora nodded and went back to the other 3 females, the green eyes one still giving Nesta dirty looks.

“Not this part is going to seem so boring and it's going to be long, but if you don't fix this right now, later on when you do learn how to fight it's going to be an issue. So I'm just gonna-” She put her hands on Nesta's shoulders and guided her to stand a certain way while positioning her knees. “Just like that and I'm going to need you to breathe.”

“I'm breathing right now.”

Octavia laughed, “I know you're breathing but there's a specific way to breathe. When you're fighting it helps you not feel out of breath. So breathe in for a count of six, hold for a count of three, and breathe out through your mouth in a count of six.”

It was discomforting and Octavia noticed. She placed a hand on Nesta’s stomach and shook her head.

“Don't breathe out until the point you feel like you're holding your breath,  take it slow, take it easy, we're not rushing, we're not trying to do something by a certain time. If you're off the count by a few seconds, it is perfectly fine, you just need to be comfortable and breathe.” 

Nesta closed her eyes and breathed, her pulse slowing down. She tried to clear out her mind and push the thoughts back. She stood still, letting the cool air hit her, her body still.

“Okay that’s great!” Octavia said, pulling Nesta out of her trance. She looked around to see the other females punching the air, their movements precise,

“We've been learning how to punch for the past week, keep up the breathing and you'll be right there with us.”

“Do you think we’ll have the chance to actually punch people?” The brown hair female asked, her face lighting up and Zora shook her head.

“No Seraphina, we’ve spoken about this. Let’s stop.” They dropped their hands and sat down on the mats. Lupine came back with a jug of water and 6 cups.

“Oh I haven't introduced myself, I’m Seraphina, and the grouch is called Aradia.” Aradia looked at Nesta, then turned around.

“It’s nice to meet you.”

“You know what, I'm quite glad other people are starting to come in,” Lupine said as she downed her second glass. “Sticking it to the males just like the Mother intended to.”

“What exactly are you sticking to the males?”

“That females are perfectly capable of joining the army. Our Zora here used to be part of it, but then after the male started to cause problems she thought it was best to leave.” Seraphine gestured to Zora, who turned to Nesta.

“They tend to do that a lot. Day is a progressive Court, but it isn’t that progressive, not like Summer. And if there are all these males that know how to fight and no females that do, then we have an issue on our hands.” Zora finished off. 

Nesta played with her glass. She hadn’t seen many Females in the war, most of them came from Prince Drakon’s army. 

“But enough of this. I think we still have enough time to fit in two more exercises. Up and on your feet.”

~

Once training was over, Nesta walked out to the sun setting. Promising Zora she’d come back the next day, she'd managed to leave the studio.

The females were nice, except for Adaria. Nesta's presence irritated her, and she had no clue why.

She passed by a group of Fae with large wings and even larger eyes. She turned her head to look at them, enamoured by their beauty when she spotted Lucien in a bar, nursing a drink.

Lucien had been dropping in and out of the Day Court, taking books for Vassa. He had been keeping his distance from Nesta, for good reason. She knew better than to hold resentment towards him and Tamlin, they weren't the ones to shove them in the cauldron. Bringing books back and forth, his irritation growing more and more. He had been keeping a large berth with Nesta after Helion had to stop another disagreement, for all the best reasons. She knew it was useless for her to keep such disdain towards Lucien, but she couldn't disassociate him and the king of Hybern. Tamlin as well. She knew he was to blame. All for his supposed love of his life, it was pathetic.

She wished she knew what was afoot. How much did Lucien know before his High Lord changed his mind? If he had given the information over.

She could find out. He was there, sitting alone with no sense of urgency. And the music drifting out to the street was quite lovely. Biting back the worries, she strode into the bar and sat in front of him.

He barely lifted his eyes from the glass, but Nesta could see the small smile grazing his lips.

“What brings you here?”

“The music,” Nesta deadpanned, but his attention was still on his glass.

“The music is quite lovely, especially this piece. You would know of course, after spending as much time as you did in bars back home.”

“Velaris is not my home.” Nesta gritted her teeth trying to ignore the taunt in his words.

“Oh?” He finally lifted his gaze and smiled. “I thought you heavily enjoyed Velaris, or more of the night life.”

“It was quite easy to enjoy the music, it tends to dull the reminders of the Cauldron.” She watched as he winced and lifted his head up to look at her.

“My apologies, I forgot.”

“How lucky of you. I have a question.”

“Of course you do.”

“How much did Hybren pay your High Lord to turn us in? A thousand marks? 10 thousand?”

Lucien wrinkled his nose, “Nothing. It wasn't Tamlin’s fault.”

“Pull the other one. Feyre said so, and so did her mate.”

Lucien pushed his glass away and smiled, and it was somewhat unnerving. “What is your opinion on Tamlin? Never mind, I know your opinion about him but what makes you so sure. Give me your opinion, not the one of a male that has been at odds against him, and wouldn't mind lying.”

“They had nothing to lose for lying about it, and your High Lord didn't deny it either.”

“He is not my High Lord, and for your information it was Ianthe who sold you out. With information she had only gotten in after Feyre told her where you lived.” He took in a deep sigh. “Tamlin is a lot of things, I'm aware of that. But he did not sell you out. And his alignment with Hybern was nothing more than a way to break them from the inside. But your sister interfered with that as well.”  

Nesta sat back, frowning. “So you truly-”

“We both found out the second everybody else did. Yes Ianthe was a meddling bitch, and yes Tamlin could have done something about her earlier on, but he was in love. And it seems love makes you do a lot of reckless things.”

“It seems more trouble than it's worth, don't you think?”

“Maybe you haven't found the person worth the risk, Lady Nesta.”

“And you think Elain is worth the risk? I do not mean to jab, but is a position in a court that does not care for you, and you do not care for it truly worth it? For somebody who does not spare you any glance or affection?”

Lucien looked in his glass, as if it held all the answers. “Your sister does not owe me her affections. I shall not have her forcefully.”

“How noble of you.”

“Not all of us lack basic mannerisms.” He smiled.

“Tell me, how's your search for a cure been?”

Lucien sighed and brushed his hair out of his face, “No. And we’ve been racing against the clock. Any day now Vassa could be turned back. And I am alone in my search. Jurian would help but he's been occupied by some other things.”

“Other things?”

Lucien leaned in closer and Nesta did too. “We've been hearing movement from Queen Briallyn, you know her? The one who entered the Cauldron right after you did. She's been moving suspiciously for the past few months.  Enough to cause worry.”

“It shouldn't be much of an issue. I mean the cauldron didn't work on her; she has no powers to be of note.”

“Yes but it's been assumed that she is working with a second person, longer than she had been working with Hybren. But let's stop this serious business. I'd like to know why you've left the Night Court.”

Nesta could have lied. She could have made up some elaborate story, but she was tired, and quite frankly she enjoyed this conversation.

“You know what? It was because I had finally decided to make a life for myself and my dear sister couldn't handle it.”  

Lucien simply tilted his head.

“Well maybe that's not all true, but I had decided to make a change. I was working at an apothecary, a very lovely one might I add. But they decided that my way of living was not suitable for them. They thought me a dangerous thing because they didn't know the extent of what the Cauldron gave me, and they didn't want it blowing up in their face.”

“They wanted to lock you up, so you didn't and you-”

“Blew a fuse.” Lucien laughed and waved down a server, who brought and topped off a glass for Nesta as well.

“Quite strong,” Nesta crooked as she put her glass down.

“Not as strong as when you're mortal. Feyre once drank it during the Summer Solstice and she was completely out of it.”

“She’s always been the daring one. I’d imagine the fear of not knowing what could cause a strong contender into not drinking.”

“I’d thought so too. But she seems to forgive Rhysand for his misgivings.”

“What misgivings?” Lucien looked at her, his metal eye spinning around.

“You don’t know?”

“It seems not.” Lucien sighed, and waved his hand. Nothing changed, but if Nesta tilted her head ever slightly, a shimmer would appear.

“Between the trails, Rhysand would parade Feyre in skimpy outfits.”

“And?”

“And force her to drink glass after glass of Faery Wine and have her dance for him. Again and again and again.”

Nesta looked at him in horror. “Could she say no?”

“I have no clue. All I know is she would be sick in her cell. And after Rhysand had called in his bargain, Tamlin was worried, I was worried. After we had set her back to the Mortal Realm, I thought she would stay there.” Lucien ran a hand through his hair. “When Rhysand had brought that girl in, the girl from your village, I thought that she'd be safe. I was glad that she was the one being tortured instead of Feyre. It meant she was safe.”

A girl? From their village?

“But she had come back, and died. And Tamlin was worried. He was- he was different. And then the bargain came. She’d disappear for a week and look different when she came back, she looked healthier but Tamlin didn't-”

“And Feyre, a female who didn't know how to read nor write ended up sending Tamlin a message saying that she wanted nothing to do with him. And you could see what dots Tamlin ended up connecting. I had been trying to dissuade him from his plans with Hybern. But with Ianthe’s pressure and his suspicions of Rhysand, it was quite easy. I know you dislike Tamlin, and believe me I do too. But he was also hurting.” 

Netsa looked off into the distance, she was afraid she would open her mouth and say something she'd regret. She felt bad for Feyre for enduring everything, but it seems like she wasn't the only one struggling.

“It seems like I was wrong. I was under the assumption that Tamlin was behind Elain and I …”

“He wasn’t.”

“You know, you’re much better company when you’re not mopping around the place.”

He laughed and let the shield drop. “And you too, when you’re not bearing your teeth. Do you think… do you think she'd ever-  she'd ever give it a chance?”

Nesta bit her lip. “I can't say I know Elain as well as I thought I did. But I know she mourns the life she had, and it might take her a lot more time to get used to the fact that she can't be human. Give it a bit more time.”

Lucien nodded, his eyes sad. “Do you ever see yourself returning? To Night?”

Nesta simply looked to the people dancing in the back, “I'd like to make a name for myself, be somebody other than the High Lady’s sister.”

“I should think so too.”

When Nesta had left the bar, she walked through the streets. Feyre hadn’t told her what happened, but why would she? They were never close, they tolerated each other. 

And the fact that she had an out, she could have stayed behind, and she didn’t-

Nesta stumbled, and caught herself on a bench. She sank down and her head was reeling. A few fae stopped and looked at her, but Nesta waved them off. She sat on the bench and her heart ached.

Someone had disappeared around the time Feyre came back, and her body was never found.

Clare.

Nesta covered her mouth, bile treating to come up. Clare was killed by the fae? Tormented. And Feyre didn't tell her?

She stood up, the world tilting as she ran back to the Castle, ignoring how the guards spoke to her. She had only made it to the bathroom when it all came tumbling out of her.

She was gripping the toilet as she sobbed. Clare was gone, and no one bothered telling her how. Her only friend was gone, her-

She dragged her body back to her bed, and let it all out.

~

“You’re lying!” Clare swatted at Nesta as they walked through the town. It had been 2 years since it had all fallen down. And Nesta was running out of relatives to ask for help. The market was livelier than usual, and Clare had dragged Nesta from stall to stall. 

“It’s the truth. Why bother running off to Neva, and plan to come back 9 months later. They had a child out of wedlock. And I bet you that when they come back, a babe will be with them.”

They passed by a vendor that was selling small trinkets. As Clare drew closer, she pointed at a pair of necklaces. They were simple, the silver chain clinting, and at the centre were gems encased in a silver backdrop. One was blue and one was green. Without a second thought, Clare paid for them and dragged Nesta back to the grove they frequented.

The summer sun was warming her up as they sat one on the plush grass. Nesta pulled out the small cakes that Clare had bought. She had turned Nesta down when she tried to pay, giving her a teasing look.

“Think of it as a payback for bringing Ethan my way.”

Clare pulled out the light blue necklaces and leaned closer to Nesta, she tied it around her neck and pulled back. 

“Perfect. Now me.” When they were done, Nesta laid down and intertwined their hands together, wishing time would freeze.

The dream was still on her mind after Nesta had awoken. She had to hide the fact that she sold the Necklace from Clare to pay for Feyre’s medicine the winter next, and Clare had never brought it up.

Nesta wanted to laugh. She used the money on Feyre, and yet she couldn't even tell her how Clare died.

Sleep was far from claiming her, and so she was left with her thoughts, and they were never kind.

~

Zora was shaking her head. “You’re still not doing it right.”

“Then how is it done?” Nesta snapped. Her hair was sticking to her face and her face was hot. The other ladies were in similar states of irritation, the weather getting to them.

“How is it this hot in the middle of winter?” Nesta asked.

“This is a solar court, but Day it's a lot warmer than the Night Court, isn't it?” Zora smiled. “Remember when you're throwing your punches you have to make sure you're not just moving your hand, you're moving your whole body into it. Remember: you twist your leg and you put your chest into it. That way the blow you deliver is much more firm and harder. One more try and then I'll let you off.”

“Try to imagine a male telling you something you already know, that works for me.” Seraphina said, her brown hair swaying with her.

“But it has to be a male telling you it in a snappy tone, where he thinks he’s much better than you.” Lupine smiled from the floor. Nesta had gotten used to the ladies. It had been 3 days since she joined and she got along with all of them. Almost all of them

Zora laughed with Seraphina, talking about how she hit a male below deck, Lupine just smiled, stretching her legs. Octavia was laughing along, and Adaria, well she was trying her best to kill Nesta with a glare.

All in all, she loved the training store. It helped her keep a clear mind, it helped her ignore what she knew.

Nesta took in the deep breath and steady herself. But before she could even think of swinging with the door opened.

And Nesta’s heart skipped a beat.

Kind brown eyes, glossy black hair in a plait, and large batlike wings. The female looked around, her hand gripping her leather bag.

It was Emerie.

Chapter Text

Nesta hadn't expected Emerie to come here. She hadn't expected to see either of the two females until later on.

Her original plan was to gain independence, slowly break off from the Night Court and then take an impromptu visit to Illyria, befriend Emerie, and that’s how far she had gotten.

She hadn't made any further plans because a part of her was worried about how she’d executed the plan, and another part was wondering what if her friends didn't like her now? What if they just saw her as a spoiled entitled woman who drunk her way across town?

But then on the other hand maybe this was a sign. Emerie had no business in the Day Court from what Nesta knew. All of her work was strictly based in Illyria.

“Um hello?” Emerie’s voice broke Nesta out of her thoughts. Her wings twitched and Nesta felt a pang of pain. She could recall from the book she read about the Night Court that Illyrian females usually had their wings clipped at her young age. It was a tradition based on nothing of worth, and it stopped the women from being able to experience flight. 

“Hello, is there something I could help you with?” Zora asked, moving forward. Nesta watched as Adaria scowled and shook her head.

“Yes. I'm new here and I've been told that there's a really good silk shop but I just can't seem to find it. Do you mind pointing me in the direction?”

“Of course it's seven stores down south. I hope you find what you’re looking for.” Zora smiled and turned back to Nesta.

Emerie tilted her head, eyes on Nesta. “You look familiar. Are you related to the High Lady?”

Nesta gritted her teeth and nodded. “Yes, she’s my sister.” Emerie smiled and looked around. “Is this a-”

“We've told you what you wanted to know so you can leave now.” Everybody turned to look at Adaria in shock. Her arms were folded and her green eyes were glaring daggers at Emerie.

“Adaria.” Lupine said, her lips tugged down.

“I’m sorry,” Emerie said, her shoulders raised. “Have I done something to offend you?”

“I’m not in the mood to speak with Night Court scum, so I think it’s best to be on your way.”

“Adaria, that's vile.” Octavia said, her eyes hard. “You're allowed to be angry about what happened, but you're not allowed to be bitchy to every single person who comes in.”

“I'm pretty sure I'm allowed to be mad at people who are the reason why my court is no longer standing.” Everything started to make sense now. Adaria was from the Spring Court, Feyre had destroyed the Spring Court, and Nesta looked an awful lot like Feyre.

Fuck.

“Last time I checked, I wasn't the High Lady of the Night Court, nor was I part of her armies. You don’t see me blaming your precious High Lord for keeping the High Lady hostage.” Emerie faced Zora. “Thank you for the help.” She turned on her heel and walked out of the store, the door slamming shut.

Nesta bit her lip, Emerie was right there, and her one chance of true friendship was out the window.

“Your sister,” Adaria spat out the word as she turned to Nesta. “Let her petty grievances with the High Lord destroy my court. Did you know that she broke into the sentries' minds and altered their thinking so they could turn on the High Lord? Did you know that the High Lord wasn't actually working with Hybern but spying on them? And did you know that after the sentries' abandoned their post, it made it a whole lot easier for Hybern to break through our homes, kill our young?”

“Adaria, that's enough.” Zora held up her hand.

“I’m sorry for what you went through, but I had no idea that happened.” Nesta spoke, but Adaria scoffed.

“Oh really? You had no clue?” She taunted.

“No, I was too busy trying to get to terms with being thrown in the Cauldron.” The room went quiet. Then Seraphina clapped her hands.

“I think we should do some stretches, it might help with all the… anger.” They all moved across the room, Nesta keeping a wide berth from Adaria. They stretched their bodies in silence. Nesta closed her eyes. She knew Feyre had broken down the Spring Court, but she never knew of the fate the people suffered. Did Feyre even know?

“So Nesta, what else is on your plan for your holiday?” Octavia asked as she stretched her right leg.

“I’m not on holiday, I live here now. But I'd love to see the School Of Romana.”

Octavia stopped, “I thought you lived in the Night Court?”

“I did.” Octavia looked at Lupine, who shrugged her shoulders.

“But you don’t any more?”

“No.”

“Why?” Nesta stood up, wincing at how stiff her leg was. 

“Because my sister was under the impression that she could lord over me, and she was wrong.”

“Oh.” Lupine said, and Nesta got back to her stretches.

“You might despise the Night Court, and you can. But you can’t take it out on innocent people who have no clue.” Adaria stopped and she looked at Nesta. Nesta didn’t break her gaze. She knew Adaria was hurting, putting up a shield, she had been doing the same.

“The reason why your legs are so stiff when you're standing up is because you're putting pressure on one leg instead of both equally. And your punches suck because you're putting too much force into your hand.” Was all she said. Nesta smiled and readjusted herself. She had to agree that Adaria was right, her balance was much better.

“Say Nesta, are you still looking for work?” Lupine asked as she packed her bag up. Zora had left with Octavia, promising to help her move into her new home.

“Yes, it seems like every apothecary I go to is full.” She pushed her hair away from her face, her eyes lingering where Emerie stood.

“I know of a female that works in a healing clinic that’s hiring. Would that work for you?”

“Are you speaking of Wren?” Adaria shook her head. “She’s a hard ass if there ever was one. You won’t last the day.”

Nesta gritted her teeth and smiled at Lupine. “I’d love to work there. Lead the way.”

They walked out, the sun beating down on them. The store was located on a road bursting with scholars, holding books and scrolls.

“There’s a university up ahead.” Lupine tugged at her blonde hair, a sign Nesta associated with nervousness. “Don’t mind Adaria. She’s just upset. She lost a lot in Spring.”

“It’s all good.”

The inside of the store was much different than the apothecary that Nesta worked at. Instead of the store being small and cozy, it was an open floor with many pillars. The cream walls with the gold trimming were different from the green walls she was used to.

At one station there were a group of small girls looking into a bowl of water, and right next to them was a male watching a teacher wrap a bandage around another person's hand.

Lupine kept leading her through rooms until they reached the last one. Nesta was drawn to the large glass stained window at the back, soft blue and gold light filtered through the window. The room smelled of lemons, a main ingredient in the calming potion. A female was standing over a pregnant lady with her hands over her stomach. Soft green light was emitting off of her, and the mother's face seemed to relax with each passing second.

The healer removed her hands and stood up, her long grey hair falling out of its bun and past her waist.

“I was right, stop the heavy lifting.”

“I wish I could, but I have 2 younglings-”

“And you have a husband do you not? Maybe tell him to get off his arse and try to help out. You keep lifting stuff and you’ll only have 2 children.” The pregnant lady blinked, then stood up, her mouth curved and walked out of the room.

“Hello, Wren,” Lupine smiled and nodded her head towards Nesta. “This is Nesta and she-”

“I know why she’s here,” Wren waved her hand and her hair started to rise up and wrap around itself, moving over and under till it was tightly spun at the base of her neck. She picked up a slim gold stick and passed it through the bun. “You’ve brought me a doe eyed girl who thinks she can handle this job because she’s seen a bit of what the world has to offer, I’m not interested.”

“You're the one who told me you needed a person to help with potions, an apprentice.” Lupine smiled, but her onyx eyes were weary.

“Yes I need an apprentice, I don't need a dim witted girl who gags at the sight of blood.”

“I don’t. And I've seen quite enough. You need a person to make potions, hire me.” Wren turned and her white eyes locked on to Nesta. Her face was beautiful, like a sculpture coming to life. But there was a large cut that ran from the tip of her hairline, through her left eye and down past her high neck collar.

“I got this in the war, the last one. They sliced my face in half and I had to stick it back up.” She moved closer and something inside her screamed to run, but her feet remained still. She stopped in front of Nesta and looked her up and down, her eyes showing no emotion.

“I no longer have a need for a potion maker, I filled that role yesterday. But I do need a 2nd healer. What can you do? Besides stare.”

“I can heal wounds.”

“What type? Old? New? Surface wounds?” Wren asked, but she just sighed at Nesta’s expression and walked through the door. Lupine looked at Nesta and tried for a smile.

“Well hurry along.” Wren snapped. She led them through the door and past some more scholars.

“I've been renting out the front two rooms to students who want to learn about healing magic. They think that because they have their books and their notes they're better than everybody. And it seems that they think that they can just ignore the rules I've set in place.” She yelled at a pair of boys who were touching potion bottles who immediately pulled back their hands, their faces flush crimson red. 

“Now, you’ll be healing the next person that comes in. That's your test.”

“Come now Wren, What if the next patient is missing a limb? Surely you don't want your business to be damaged by this.”

“I'm not expecting her to grow a new limb from the ground Lupine. I'm expecting her to properly treat it. Are you telling me you've brought me an incompetent person? If so, you can leave.” 

Lupine tried to reason with Wren some more, telling her that it was wrong, but Nesta stopped her. She could do this, and maybe the Mother would take pity on her for once and give her a patient with a headache.

For better or for worse, a young girl with large black eyes came in, a smaller girl trailing behind her. The girl had a stream of blood coming out of a cut on her temple, soaking her white dress.

“Could you help? Me and my friend were roughhousing and I threw her on the ground. Can you- can you please get rid of it and make sure it doesn't scar? She's an opera singer, she’ll get fired.” Her face was pale, the white wings behind her twitching.

Wren smiled and gestured at Nesta, “I'm sure our dear friend can help her. Get on the table, love.”

Nesta stood in front of the girl who was now seated and examined her head. The blood made the cut seam worse than it was. It was a thin one that started from her left brow and stopped in the middle of her right. She had seen Enora heal scars like this with ease. She could do it too.

After clearing away the blood that kept on coming, Nesta finally managed to clear the wound. Hovering her right hand over it, she closed her eyes and tried to steady herself.

After her breathing had steadied, she tried to think about things that angered her, it seemed that was the only way to get her powers working. She thought about how her father never helped out when they were in the cabin. She thought about how all her friends had taken their leave only showing face again when they're wealth had returned. She thought about Feyre bringing in the Fae into her life, and causing the death of her human one. She thought about Hybern for forcing her into the body she never wanted.

“Does she plan on standing there all day? Get a move on.” Wren said but her voice sounded far away. Nesta could feel that familiar feeling building in her gut so she kept on remembering.

She remembered how the people in the village looked at her in disgust. She remembered how it felt like wearing clothing that was always frayed, always damaged.

Her hand started to tingle and she opened her eyes. Silver light came to life, dancing across her hands. Taking a deep breath, she moved it over the female’s cut, and she could see the wound start to close up, but it wasn't going fast enough. She passed her hand over the cut again, and when she removed her hand, the skin was clear, not a single blemish in sight.

“Thank you. Truly thank you!” The girl grabbed her fingers and pressed a kiss to each knuckle.

“It’s fine. Don’t worry.” She watched as they paid Wren and walked out, after thanking Nesta 10 more times.

“So?” Nesta asked as Wren handed her a glass of water.

“You're decent, you understand the basics. Now do you mind explaining to me why healing a simple cut took you 5 minutes?”

“Summoning is hard.” Nesta felt like she had taken a swim in cold water, like she used to with Clare. She felt alive.

“It is with the way you're going about it. Tell me, do you go through life forcing people into doing what you want?”

“That's a stupid question, of course I don't.”

“Then why must your magic be forced into doing what you want? It is an extension of you, It should come to you as easily as breathing does. You are holding back. I don't know what makes you think that forcing magic through your body is a healthy thing but it is not. I want you back here in two days time. And when you come back, I want you to have dealt with whatever block you have and be ready to work, because I do not deal with people half arseing their job. Understood?” Without waiting for a reply, Wren walked through the curtains leaving Nesta behind. 

“Well, at least you have a job.” Lupine smiled. 

“Yeah.”

Nesta sat in her room, a stack of books next to her. The sun had begun its descent, but she was still seated, as she had been for the past hour. The healing book she held was growing heavier by the second. Any time she got to a passage mentioning how to wield magic, it just said to let it flow through.

As if it were that easy. She read the same passage for the 6th time, hoping she could find something she had missed. She looked at her stack of books near her, and pulled out the bottom one. 

She brushed a hand over the cover: Conquest and Fallen Rebellions of Prythian . She had taken the book out in her 2nd week at the Castle. Her dream of the dead lady had led her to find all she could on the land. But with every new book read, the lower Nesta’s hopes dropped. 

Nesta constantly had doubts about her dream, what if it wasn't real? What if it was some elaborate story she had made up in her drunken state? The meeting with Feyre had not gone as planned. And she wasn’t hauled to the House of Wind.

But she had never seen Emerie before in her life, and she was here. She was here and Nesta was hiding out in her room, worried what she might think of her.

It wasn’t a dream, it couldn't be. Nesta picked up the book and skimmed over it. She read of rebellions in the Winter Court that were squashed as soon as they started. She read about how a group west of the Dawn Court tried to rebel and how it failed. She read about how the Illyrians seemed close to rebelling, and how they would suffer little to no losses. She saw no such rebellion in the Autumn Court. But she couldn’t find anything about the castle on the side of a hill.

Dragged herself out of her bed, she put on a silk dress that shimmered in the candlelight, and headed down to dinner.

The table was decorated with golden plates and random vases, and it was also set for 3. Lucien was opposite her, as he normally was, laughing at something Helion said.

“You seem happy.” Nesta slid into her seat and Helion wiped his eyes.

“Lucien here was telling me a story but enough of that.” Helion leaned forward, his arms flexing as he rested his head on his intertwined hand. “I heard that you’ve gotten yourself a job? Am I right?”

“You would be. It's at a clinic near the Scholars Path. I’ll be sure to vacate my rooms soon enough.”

“Now why would you do that?” Helion placed his glass down after taking a sip, the wine glistening on his lips. As much as he was a flirt, Nesta could see the appeal. Helion was so effortlessly beautiful he made drinking wine sensual. “I quite like your company. Besides, who would listen to me ramble about the papers I'm writing?”

“I’m sure you could tell your future Lady that.” Lucien winked, but Helion only sighed.

“Have I missed something?” 

“The Lords of Day are pushing me to be married, they say a marriage could help cement my rule, not that it needs anymore. And they also say it’s high time I have an Heir.” He dragged a large hand down his face. “And the sad part is that they’re right. Day is in danger of conquest if I die before I sire an Heir. The magic could go to anyone. They’ve already sent me eligible ladies to choose from.” 

“Oh no, your only real issue is to wed, how terrible.” Lucien looked at his glass, a smile on his lips, but it vanished when he spoke. “Briallyn is on the move, and it doesn't look all that good.”

“Is it cause for concern?” Helion asked but Lucien shook his head.

“Not yet. But it’s enough of an issue that I have to cut this trip short. I have a meeting with the High Lord of the Night Court in 2 days time. And then-”

“And then you keep searching for more books to help with Vassa?” Nesta spoke. 

“With luck, things with Briallyn should be over and a cure found.” Helion stood up and walked to the door. “Now if you excuse me, I need to concur an excuse for bailing out on the outing I have tomorrow.” The door shut and Nesta looked at Lucien. He seemed more worn down than his last visit. He seemed more tense than usual, his mouth downturned.

“Official Emissary Business?” Lucien looked up and nodded. 

“It’s not about you, it seems that they’ve given up. It's about another thing.”

“If you need help…” It wasn't like Nesta to offer help, but with the way he looked…

“It’s fine, I’ll be heading out.” He gave her a small bow and left. And then it was just Nesta. Like it had always been.

Nesta walked back to her room, the soft sheets calling her name. But just as she was about to lay in them she remembered Wren’s last talk.

“Ugh.” Nesta walked to her balcony and sat down in front of the glass door, closing her eyes and started to even out her breathing.

“Find your magic, then look deep within.” Was what one of her books said. Nesta knew what lay within, she knew the hate and hurt as well as she did herself. She had no intent on finding what hid within, she just wanted to summon her power with ease, and then go back to normal.

She tried to look for her magic. She sat up straight in her chair and she focused on her toes, then to her legs, Nesta tried to find it.

And then, she felt it: her fingers tingling, mind clearing. Nesta slowly let out a breath. She envisioned a box, like the one her mother had. She imagined slowly opening it and letting a small sliver of magic out.

She raised her hand and slowly brought forth a flame, the silver light was dancing around her fingers.

“Yes.” She hummed as the flame moved up her hand, caressing her face. She dragged the flame back down to her hand and put it out, smiling to herself.

Nesta closed her eyes and tried to shove the feeling back down, she had gotten what she had needed, but it didn’t retreat back into where it came from quietly. It stayed stubbornly in her chest.

With way too much force, she shoved it back down into the box and claimed it shut. Nesta stood up and staggered to her bedside table, grabbing the jug of water and gulping it down. She sat down on the bed and placed the cold glass on her brow.

She wanted to stop, but all she could see was Amren’s taunting face, Feyre telling her that she was right, that Nesta was worthless.

Lying down on her bed, she dug her hands into the lush covers and closed her eyes. This time the box was clearer, she could make out the golden carvings, the soft brown wood.

Nesta dragged out a larger portion, and she raised her hand. The flames that came out were twice the size of the last ones. Nesta raised her spare hand, and twin flames appeared. She brought them together and they wrapped around each other, the light almost blinding her.

She wanted to try some form of healing, maybe she could burn herself? But she could feel her eyes grow heavy, and she didn't want to risk it.

Nesta extinguished the flames and tried to close the box, but the lid wouldn’t shut. She tried to center her breathing, but the magic crawled out the box and started to climb up.

Nesta gripped her sheets and squeezed her eyes shut, the feeling was still there, it was moving, she could feel it slowly creep up her spine, slowly reaching her mind.

She tried to stop it, but this time it fought. It thrashed, bearing its teeth, trying to find a way out.

Nesta clenched her teeth, her hands closing into fists. She tried to shove it back down, into the box and never open it again, but it was stronger than her.

She could only watch as it rummaged through her mind, as it pulled out every instant where she felt weak, like a child playing with toys.

She saw Tomas atop her, hands pawing at her, his eyes filled with a cruel sort of fascination. She saw Cassian holding her too thin hands with one, looking at her skirts. She saw the Soldiers of Hybern drag Elain out of bed, and she saw Feyre’s white face as they held her to the Cauldron.

The room felt like it was closing in, her dress too tight on her, suffocating her.

There was no use, she’d die worthless, another name lost to the wind. She was nothing.

But she thought about the small room where she sat with Enora, laughing about the smallest things, her heart shaped face glowing. She thought of the girls at the training store, how they welcomed her with open arms. She thought of Emerie, of Gwyn, of friends she knew she had to meet again. She thought of the life she could have.

She thought of Clare, and how she’d want her to live her life, how’d she want her to be more than a shell of a person.

She had a name.

Nesta Archeron, King Slayer, Cauldron Born. She was alive.

The world disappeared in a whirl of silver.

Chapter Text

She was dreaming of the castle on the hill again. The same Lady was looking out the same window, gnawing on her lower lip. 

Nesta took a step forward, her body weak. The view out the window was different from the last time. There were more buildings, but some were already burning, turning the once clear sky grey.

As they watched, a tower to the north crumbled, cobblestone falling like rain. Nesta could hear screams and cries coming from that direction. The Lady shook her head and walked out of the hallway, her gown fanning out from behind her.

Nesta followed her as they walked through an intricate hallway with paintings hanging from every wall. The floor turned from white marble to grey stone  but the Lady didn't stop.

The Lady kept walking, her feet slamming against the floor until she came across a female. The female was dressed in the same armour, the navy top, the black bottom. It was the same female Nesta had seen bleeding out in the Lady’s arms.

“General-”

“My lady, they've breached the city,” The general interrupted, ringing her hands. “We've tried our best to get most of the citizens out of the way but the death toll has already started.”

“I know. I'm going to need you to send more Valkyries out to the north where most of the army should be staying from the information we've gotten. They should thwart any more people from joining. I need your quadrant to stay back and protect.”

The world Valkyrie made Nesta feel all warm inside. The General walked off, her shoulders squared and the lady looked up, her eyes closed.

“You’ve never failed me, please don’t now.” She whispered to herself. But then the castle shook, a loud sound echoing throughout the city. The lady immediately started running ahead until she came across a window.

She looked outside and gasped, clutching her side. Nesta immediately stepped forward and looked out the window. A wall of black was what she could see hundreds if not thousands of people dressed in black walking side by side carrying fire and weapons, some airbound.

And at the front was a lone warrior on a horse carrying a flag, a plain black flag with three stars on top of a mountain. 

“Mother save us all.” Was the last thing Nesta heard.

The first thing she noticed when she opened her eyes was that all she saw was white. That was an exaggeration. She was surrounded by a lot of white things: white sheets, white pillows, and the curtains around her bed were white.

She sat up and noticed that the tension in her shoulders had left. Shoving open one side of her curtains she looked out to see rows of beds, and the air smelt faintly like citrus.

“Thank the Mother you're awake!” Nesta heard a voice say. A female walking up to her was dressed in a simple beige gown with a small white hat on top of her head.

“You're in the infirmary, you gave everyone quite a bit of a fright. Let me check your pulse.” Without warning she grabbed Nesta’s hand and rubbed her from over the inside of her wrist.

“Quite good. Now, any pain?”

“No, but what happened? What's-”

“Please try not to stress yourself. We don't want another incident to happen, especially not here.” The healer spoke as if she and Nesta had some inside joke going on but Nesta hadn’t the faintest notion. “I'll go call the High Lord,  I'm sure he has questions for you.” 

Left alone, Nesta tried to recall back to what she last did. She tried to use her powers, her magic fought back and made her relive the worst memories that she could possibly conjure, and then she had fought back. All she could remember was the room being bathed in silver light.

“Will burning down rooms be a common thing?” Nesta watched as Lucien walked in, his hair pulled back. The words only seemed to register after he reached her.

“I burnt down my room?” Panic gripped her heart. She had taken Helion’s hospitality and burnt down his palace. She'd definitely be hanged. Perhaps be sent back to the Night Court? 

“Not exactly. The room is on fire but it's contained to your room only. And by the looks of it, nothing's actually on fire.”

“I beg your pardon?”

He leaned back and smiled at her, “To be truthful, I have no idea what you did. All I can remember was hearing you scream and then -  then the castle started to shake. I got there before the High Lord did. I-”

“Manage to make a hole through the fire that not even the guards could.” It was like Helion had materialized in front of them, dressed in a simple linen toga smiling down at Nesta. “I don't think I've seen anybody do something on that power level. You've been holding out on us, Little Fox.” His golden eyes were sharp.

“Yes you could say so.” Lucien smiled but it didn't reach his eyes. He looked back down at Nesta. “Care to tell us what happened?”

Nesta raised her hand and touched her head. “I tried to figure out how to use my magic, it fought back, I fought back and then, well you've seen what happened.”

“Fascinating. You know I've never seen anybody wield silver flames before. I haven't traced back to any court that ever was or had fallen.” He sat down at the foot of her bed, his eyes hungry. “Tell me, is summoning magic easier than it was before? How do you feel now, do you notice anything different in the way you move? Is your skin hotter than usual?”

Lucien slowly pulled Helion away from Nesta. “She's just woken up, maybe we should give her some time.”

“Of course my apologies.” But before Helion could leave, Nesta lifted her right hand and instantly flames came to life. No struggling, no thinking about stuff to make her angry, it just obeyed.

Helion sat right back down and looked at the fire.“I have never seen anything like this. Do you think it could be a branch of Autumn Court magic?”

“No that I know off.” Lucien said. “The only different color when it comes to fire in Autumn is sometimes with yellow flames and that alone is rare, the only person who can wield it is the High Lord.”

Helion’s face somewhat tightened at the mention of the Autumn Lord. He slowly sat up and rubbed his chin. “Maybe I should go to my library, or maybe I should go down to the-” Nesta didn't catch the last of his words as the High Lord stood up and walked out the infirmary.

“He really takes his role as the Lord of the Court of Scholars seriously does he not?” Nesta teased, but Lucien wasn't even looking at her.

“Are you okay?”

He took a deep breath and faced her. “I haven't been very truthful, and I have to tell somebody or else I'll think I'm going mad.”

“And you think I'm the right fit?”

“You’re the closest person here.”

“I’m so honoured.” Nesta sat up. “Tell me.”

“I’ve been coming to the Day Court under false pretenses. Not really, I've come here to help find a cure for Vassa but, well the information I've been receiving hasn't changed since the first time I visited. And ever since the war a lot of things have started to make less sense, and things I haven't thought of started to make more sense.”

“Lucien, you're losing me. What are you talking about?” 

“My apologies I just-” He leaned in closer, his lips brushing against her ear. “I think Helion is my father.”

Nesta stopped, and looked at him. She could have laughed at the notion. She could have told him that he was thinking about things that didn't exist, but she didn't.

She could kind of see it. They had somewhat similar facial structures. Lucien was much tanner than his brothers. And even back in the King of Hybern's castle, he managed to break the king's shield. Lucien, the seventh son of the Autumn Court, managed to break a shield that not even Rhysand could.

“You think I'm insane don't you?”

“I don't think you're insane. I just think you're gonna have to be very careful about this.”

His metal eye focused on her, and something like hope shimmered in his amber one “You believe me?”

“Not a hundred percent, but it does make sense.”

Lucien let out a sigh and leaned his head against the wall. “That's good.” 

Lucien Vanserra, the Heir to the Day Court. That didn't sound half bad.

Nesta pulled back her covers and saw that she was wearing a plain white dressing gown. “Why are you telling me this now?”

“Because I'm certain Helion is suspecting something. There was no way I, an Autumn Court heir, was supposed to be able to create an entrance to your room, even the guards couldn’t tame the fire. He'll try and make a confrontation, a large one, and word could get back-”

To the Autumn Court. If Beron found out about his wife's infidelity, he would kill Lucien, he'd probably make a public event about the whole ordeal. And Nesta shuddered to think what could happen to the Lady of Autumn. 

“You have to tell him, and make sure that the Lords don’t find out. If word gets out-”

He nodded. Nesta bit her lip, and stood up. Lucien frowned and raised a hand.

“Where are you going?”

“I’m going to change into something more comfortable, and take a walk. I need some space.” Lucien dropped his hand.

“And look on the bright side, maybe Elain might enjoy how you look in Day Court attire.”

“Enough to actually speak to me?”

“Let’s not push it.”

Her room was on fire.

As soon as she opened her door, ignoring the guards, a wall of silver fire greeted her. It brushed her face and the feeling was cold and hot, like when her fingers used to get hot in winter, a biting pain. The hallway was sectioned off, 4 guards stood vigil, shooing away curious bystanders who wanted to see the room that was on fire.

“It’s been like this for a while, High Lord Helion says he’ll have another room ready for you Lady Nesta.” The closest guard spoke, holding his shield up as if it would hold back the flames.

“Could he not bring the fire down?” Nesta watched the flames as they moved slowly.

“No. He could only create a hole big enough so Lord Lucien could get you out.” Not even Helion could stop the fire. But maybe she could.

Nesta lifted her hand and touched the fire, it was cold to the touch. She slowly lifted her palm and imagined pulling the fire back in. And slowly, the silver flames lessened, the white light dimming down, till only an ember was left.

“Tell the High Lord that there’s no need for new rooms.” She didn’t bother to look at the guards as she closed her door.

Her bed was cold despite the raging inferno that was in the room moments ago, everything seemed the way it was the last time she was here. The book she was reading was open, the page about rebellions still intact.

Her dream came back to her. The castle tower falling and the Valkyrie in grey. But she was more drawn to the flag she saw. She had seen it multiple times when Enora would write to her, when Feyre used to send her letters, begging her to come and live with her, had seen it at Solstice, hanging above the fireplace mantle. It was the insignia of the Night Court.

It made sense, the Night Court was the biggest court in Prythian. They must have taken over other smaller courts and towns. That helped narrow down where the magic castle was from, it was a place that battled with the Night Court and lost. She’d just have to find books about it.

The sun was making its way down and Nesta placed her head on the table. She was so lost. She had no clue what her magic was, no clue what her dreams meant, and no clue what she should do.

Nesta looked at her hands, running a finger over the scar on her thumb. Her fingers started to tingle. She sighed, and placed her hand palm up, letting the flames out.

They danced across her hand and Nesta was captivated. The white bleeding into the silver was beautiful, and it cast a glow over her vanity.

“What are you?” She hummed. Through the mirror she watched as house after house turned on their faelights, dark rooms glowing in an instant as twilight approached.

The flames in Nesta’s hand started to grow bigger, not spilling out of her hand but growing large. The room started to grow brighter and brighter. Nesta sat up and watched in half amusement and half fear. But as soon as they started the flames died down, till only the small flame was left.

The day was getting too weird for her liking. She grabbed her bag and headed out her room.

As she walked to the Library, Nesta kept getting stares. People would point at her and whisper, some would openly gawk at her. It was a miracle that she made it to the 7th floor without being stopped.

Nesta spent a good portion of time looking over the Night Court’s history, reading book after book, scroll after scroll but it got her nowhere. After the 10th book and dozens of pages of how scary the Night Court was, she had given up. The books weren't shy in depicting the Night Court’s cruelty, but it talked nothing about its conquest over other places.

She should just go to bed and rest, try again tomorrow. Grabbing the romance novel she was reading, Nesta headed down the floors. 

She flipped the book back and forth, she could probably finish the book in one sitting, and it could be better for her to grab another book, just in case. 

The 4th floor was deserted, only a few people roamed around. Nesta stood at the romance section, scanning each book when her fingers hovered over.

It was a book about a war hero and their lover, but the illustration caught her attention. The lady in the book was dressed in a dramatic white outfit that looked more like costume armour than something one could actually fight in. She was leaning against her lover's arms, looking up at them with admiration, but the title was what caught Nesta's eye.

“A Valkyrie’s Return.”

Valkyrie. She had heard the name before her dream, something about a war? Nesta shoved the book back in place and walked to the Mater librorum.

“The Valkyries.” Nesta whispered and the numbers 6: 27: 3 appeared. The 27 section was at the far back, and only a handful of books were there, books with old bindings that looked like they would fall apart if someone so much as breathed on them.

Nesta grabbed the first one she could see: A history of the Valkyries.  

Right there, Nesta sat against the cold wood and opened the book. The Valkyries were a race of female only warriors that came from all walks of life that trained, fought and lived together. Sometimes it was hard to grasp the words on the page and Nesta found more often that the pages were stuck together but she drank in the information.

With each page she read the deeper and the more interested she was with the Valkyries. Females who work together who were strong enough that they could stand on par with any man. But unfortunately in the human war 500 years ago, almost all of them died and the ones who lived declined to claim the title out of shame.

By the time she was done with the book it was midnight. The library is practically deserted and the faelights were winking out. The Valkyries were going to be away from her to get a step closer into what her dreams were, but a part of her was interested. Who wouldn't want to learn how to fight in a female only legion?

Maybe, If she told the others are training maybe they'd be on board with it. Nesta placed the book back and left.

“So you set fire to your rooms, and nothing burnt down?” Zora asked as she took another bite out of her sandwich. Nesta had come back to the training store only to be jumped by everyone. Once training had finished, Nesta told them what had happened.

“Yes, and it was on fire for 2 whole days. Even the High Lord doesn’t know what to make of it.” Nesta let down her hair.

“I’m still confused on how you managed to have the flames hold up for 2 whole days.” Adaria said, pointing her fork at Nesta. The female was being nice to Nesta for once, no sideways looks, no snarky comments.

“Beats me.”

“Anyway,” Seraphina put down her bowl and clasped her hands. “I was thinking, since we’ve all managed the basics, we should try weapons-”

“No Sera.” Zora’s voice cut through. “That's an accident waiting to happen.”

“It’s a good thing we have a healer.” Lupine winked at Nesta, who was more interested with her drink. She was due at the clinic after training and she had no clue if her healing magic healed up. Between walking up and doing research, she had no time to try, and she wasn’t in the mood for cutting up birds.

“No. we should try kicking. A good kick can get you a good head start with a drunk male.”

“Why don’t we try Valkyrie training?” Nesta tried to sound casual. Octavia nodded, smiling so hard she looked like she was about to burst.

“Yes! Oh that would be great. You know I always wanted to be one. When I was 10-”

“So 200 years ago?” Adaria said, smirking behind her glass. Octavia dropped her hands and scowled.

“Lupine is older but you don't make those jokes. But anywho, I always wanted to be one. Shame they all died out.”

“Not really,” Seraphina spoke. “My Grandmother was a Valkyrie, she was the only one to survive her cohort. She never speaks of it.”

“Valkyrie.” Zora said, as if to get a taste of the word. “Why’d you ask Nes?”

“Oh, I read a romance novel with one on the cover, I thought it’d be a good idea.”

“Wait, a romance novel?” Octavia laughed. “I think I read one like that. Was the male lead insufferable?”

“Yes. And whiny. So should we give it a go?”

“I think that’ll be a good idea, and we can check out some books from Alexandria and make notes.” Zora stood up, tying back her dark curls. “And I think we should invite Emerie, the Illyrian.”

“Why?” Adaria snapped. “She’s just going to run back to Illyria anyway.”

“I thought she was gone?” Hope bloomed in Nesta’s chest as she looked at Zora.

“No, I ran into her last night, she’s staying for a while longer.”

“Why bother with her?”

“Addie stop. And from what I've heard, the females in Illyria don't have it that well. It would be nice for her to go back with some defense skills in case she needs them.”

“You know, since I have to leave, I'll track her down.” Nesta got up beaming, one step closer.

“Sure thing, she’s staying near the Scholar’s Pathway.” Lupine said as she tore into another wrap. Nesta all but ran out of the store, her heart beating fast. She'd find a way to that vision, that perfect tranquillity. Her shoes were slapping against the pavement, a grin taking over her face. It seemed like the road to the Scholar’s Pathway stretched on forever. But alas she made it.

Nesta ducked in and out of stores till she finally found Emerie in one of the cloth stores, holding green and teal rolls of cloth.

“Nice colors, what do you plan on making?” Emerie looked up and gave a half smile.

“I haven't really got anything in mind right now but they're very pretty.”

“I think so too. The green really matches your eyes.” Emerie laughed and put down the teal roll.

“I think so too. So what brings you here?”

“You know, clothes.” Nesta fiddled with the end of the nearest cloth. “You?”

“I heard Day was the best solar court when it came to clothes, and I wanted to bring some to my store, and maybe get some more sales.”

“If they look anything like what you’re wearing, I’m sure you’ll sell out. Anyone taking care of the store?”

“No. I have to be back soon, or my cousins will take the store. The High Lord’s favour only lasts so long.” Emerie walked to the store clerk and Nesta trailed behind.

“How long do you plan on staying?”

“About 8 more days.” She pulled out some coins and handed them to the male. Grabbing her bag she walked out, Nesta next to her.

“I would have gone to Winter and gotten some cloths but the journey is long and I’m not good with long sea travel.” She rolled her shoulders and Nesta glanced at Emerie's wings, one slightly more damaged than the other. If she only had them-

“Done staring?” Emerie snapped and Nesta bit her inner cheek.

“No I just- I was just thinking.”

“It’s whatever. I have to go.” She was about to slip through her hands again. Not this time.

“You know, if you come back to the training center maybe we can teach you some techniques to help with the pain.”

“And be eaten alive by the Spring Court female? No thank you.”

“She'll behave and think about it like this: if your cousins try to take your store, you can show them the techniques you learnt.”

Emerie rolled her eyes and looked at Nesta. “My cousins are currently training for the Blood Rite. I doubt any skills I learn are going to stop them. Thank you quite a lot Nesta, but I hope you have a good day.”

Was it this hard last time trying to get Emeire to befriend her? Nesta tried to rack her brain, trying to think about something that she could tell Emerie to get her to come to the store.

“I have romance novels.”

The Illyrian stopped in her tracks and looked at Nesta, a small glint in her eyes

“Are you talking about romance books where it's only 200 pages and it's all rubbish?”

“I'm talking about 500 pages, a lot of yearning and great sex scenes. I live in the High Lord's castle, and the library has quite the variety. You come to our next practice tomorrow and I'll bring one the next day.

 Emerie glanced down at her bags. “I-”

“Fine, I'll have a book ready for you by the time you come tomorrow. So come tomorrow and I'll have a book then, and the next day I'll bring you a new one.”

Emerie looked at Nesta, eyes wide and a small smile. “You’re insane. But fine, I'll come tomorrow. Bye Nesta.” As Emerie walked away, Nesta had to hold the urge to dance down the road.

The clinic was still filled with scholars poking around, and Wren was still irritated. And it didn’t dim when she saw Nesta.

“I said 2 days, not 3.”

“I was unconscious.” Nesta said as she placed her bag down.

“So I heard, after almost burning down the castle.” Wren looked at her and crossed her hands. “I hope this means you’ve figured out the issue?”

“We’ll see.” And before Wren could grill her, a frail male appeared. Wren’s face softerend and she pulled out a chair.

“Mister Leafin, how are you?”

“Well enough.” It was the oldest male Nesta had ever seen. Even at 500 years old fae males looked no older than a 30 year old human mind. But this male - his back was hunched, his face was paper-thin, Nesta had to guess he was a thousand or more. And she noticed how his left hand stopped at his wrist, his fingers gone.

“Still feeling pain?” 

“I always am.” Mister Leafin waved his fingerless hand.

“I lost it in the war, the older one.” He told Nesta as he got comfy. “I was 608 when the war started, not in my best shape. One of the Hybern soldiers cut it.” 

“I have the medication, but you’ll have to take only 2 at a time.” Wren glared at the Male, but it had a playful hint.

“1 isn’t enough to take the pain away. I need more.”

“The more you take, the worse you’ll feel.”

“Maybe I can help?” Nesta looked at Wren, and the female sighed, gesturing at the male.

She kneeled in front of him and tried for a gentle smile. “I’m going to try something out.”

She reached out for Mister Leafin, wrapping her hands around his wrist and took in a deep breath. She let the magic flow through her, like a river. She was calm and had nothing to fear.

A soft silver light came out of Nesta’s hands, threads of magic slowly climbed up Mister Leafin’s hand, intertwining and branching out. His hand looked like a web of veins. Nesta could see the issue, there was a nerve that seemed to be stuck, and it was brushing against the Unla when he moved. She could see the issue, she just had to fix it.

Nesta imagined the nerves were a knotted piece of rope, she just had to slowly pull it apart. She slowly pushed her magic into the nerve, straining it out, putting it back in its place. 

When she was done, the webs of magic sunk below Mister Leafin’s skin. The male lifted his hand and moved it around, looking at it from different angles.

“It doesn't hurt - how?” He looked at Nesta and smiled. “Thank you.”

Nesta simply nodded, afraid that if she opened her mouth she would scream with delight. She had done it. 

She watched as Wren led Mister Leafin out, and when she came back she looked Nesta up and down, the ghost of a smile on her face.

“I think I'm going to upgrade you to a healer instead of an apprentice, don't you think? I want you in by seven and you can leave by 3 in the evening. And you have to let me know two days in advance that you need a day off. Deal?”

“Deal.”

As soon as she made it through the castle doors, a beautiful guard told Nesta that she was expected in the High Lord’s private drawing room. After climbing up so many stairs Nesta felt dizzy, and she entered a small room. It was stunning, the floor was covered in plush carpets, the room was decorated in hues of red with gold accents. There was a beautiful smell wafting through the room that Nesta couldn't place, but all she could do was look and drink in the room. There were hundreds of pillows and about a dozen comfy chairs begging to be sat on. Helion occupied one of them, his face grim and Lucien had a tea cup in his hand, looking anywhere but at Helion.

“So he knows?” Nesta asked as she sat down and let out a sigh. She moved further up the couch and grabbed a pillow, digging her hands in the soft material.

“She knew?” Helion asked, looking at Lucien.

“He told me this morning. So is it true? Are you?”

“Yes.” The words hung in the air. Lucien placed his cup down.

“Helion did a test, where apparently only the Heirs and Lords of the Day Court can go into a certain room and I had no trouble going in. So now that's done-”

“300 years.” Helion said as he dragged his hands down his face. “300 years I missed all of that out. You were trapped there, with him.”

“What's done cannot be undone, we can only move forward.” There was a tick in Lucien’s jaw and Nesta had no clue what to do.

“Move forward? I don't think I can move forward after figuring out I had an heir-”

“We have spoken about this. Mother could not have told you. She still lives with Beron, everybody would be in danger, she would be in danger, would you really want that?”

“Lucien is right for what it's worth. If Beron had even an inkling, Lucien wouldn't be here today.”

“Yes, and I think we have more pressing matters to discuss.”

Nesta kicked off her shoes and dug her toes into the soft carpet and had to bite back a moan. “Like what?”

“Like getting Beron Vanserra off the throne.” Helion spoke so softly that Nesta almost missed it.

“What? No you can’t kill him.”

“Yes I can’t. But I have to declare Lucien my heir. It gets the Lords off my back with their suitors, and it helps me give protection to Lucien. But I can only do that when Sylvia is safe and far away from him. And that will only happen when Beron is dead and in the soil.”

“He's right Nesta. Beron is a piece of vermin. He doesn't deserve to live any longer; he needs to die.”

“So how will we do this? We have to be smart about this.”

“Yes, and we have to act fast.” Lucien took a sip of his tea. “We should make it a clean thing.”

“It won't be clean, you still work with the Night Court.” Nesta pointed out, but Lucien shook his head.

“I resigned, that was the Official Emissary Business I had to attend to.”

“So that leaves only one choice.” Helion sighed.

“Who?” Nesta looked at Helion, and his golden eyes were blazing.

“Who else? Eris Vanserra.”

Chapter Text

If Nesta had known that smutty books were the way to make friends, she would have tried that approach ages ago.

The night after she had talked to Emerie, she spent it tossing and turning, wide awake the whole time wondering if Emerie was going to come in. And that also was not including the effort of finding a good book to get her to come back again. After a while she settled on a book of a male who ran a bookstore who fell in love with the dancer in the store across from him, and prayed to whatever deities laid out there that Emerie would come the next day.

And she did, and she came the day after that, and the day after that. She kept coming even up to the day she was supposed to return back to Illyria. Emerie had left for 2 days, then came back to the studio mid session. Nesta had asked her if she had managed to contact Rhysand and ask him to push back her return, but Emerie simply brushed her off and told her to get in the right fighting position.

Two weeks had passed and Emerie had managed somewhat to win over Adaria. They weren't screaming at each other's faces like they did the first time Emerie came for training, they had gotten to a point where they would be amicable towards each other and that's what Nesta and Zora were hoping for.

Samhain, a festival to welcome winter, had passed 2 days ago and the bite of winter started to come through. And everyday that passed made Nesta more wary about the agreement she, Lucien and Helion had arrived at. 

“Absolutely not.” Lucien stood up from his chair, his cup rattling. “Beron is a despicable person who should be killed but Eris is practically his carbon copy. We are not asking him for help.”

“Lucien, he's the Heir. If anything he’s going to be High Lord anyway. Having us on his side to back his cause-”

“Nesta you don’t get it.” He stepped closer, his feet were practically atop hers. “You don't know how many tales of his cruelty I've heard, that I've witnessed. How many fae have had their wings ripped off of them, their horn snapped in half, their hooves burnt to a crisp because of his orders. The best thing for us to do is kill the entire family except for Alder, he's the only decent one there.”

“Do you really think your mother would appreciate it if you killed all her children? She's already lost two.” Helion placed a hand on Lucien's forearm, but the male shoved him off.

“You don’t understand. Eris is-”

“What seems to be our only way of getting rid of Beron. And let’s be reasonable-”

“I am.” Lucien snarled.

“How about we call Eris over we tell him our plan and-” Nesta held up a hand to stop Lucien’s response. “If he does go and say no we could just persuade him to keep his mouth shut. Simple as.”

“And what if Eris doesn't decide to keep his mouth shut?” Helion asked.

“Then we kill him.” Nesta said. It would be a piece of cake compared to Beron.

“The only person we want to kill is Beron, but I do appreciate your enthusiasm.” 

Lucien's mouth twisted. “This is a bad plan.”

“It is our only plan. Why don't you rest? You should too, Lady Nesta.” The dismissal was clear. As Nesta closed the door behind her she could see  Helion holding his glass of wine looking at the fire, his eyes cold.

“Nesta.” She looked at Emerie, who was holding out a hand. 

“Sorry, yes?”

Emerie dropped down and crossed her legs. Her face was flushed, and a soft red tinted her lips. “I was asking if your clinic did potions for muscle tension.”

“Yes, is it your wings?” Nesta murmured.

“No, it's the muscles. Only part of my wings I can feel are the top bits.” she rolled her back, the wings barely moving.

“Is it common? I mean I know it happens, but is it every part in Illyria?”

Emerie tilted her head before she answered. “Well in some areas I've heard that the males aren't so harsh on the females and they let them keep their wings, on the condition they don't fly away. But some others believe that wing clipping is a way to protect their women.”

“But surely they can see the irony in it, right? Them stripping away the things they take pride in, that gives them freedom from other people?” Octavia said as she used her hands, the movements growing faster.

“I never said that those males made sense.” Emerie rolled her eyes with a smile. “And besides, it came to a halt after the High Lord made a band on it.”

“But you said that some males still believe it. So it still happens?” Octavia responded.

“Yes. The High Lord has banned it, but it doesn't stop people from doing so. The law is there, it's just not heavily enforced.”

Zora put down the wooden sword she had in her hands, the only weapon allowed in the studio to Seraphina’s dismay. “You're telling me the High Lord knows that wing clipping is still happening, even though he's put out a law banning it, and it's not doing anything on top of it?”

“Things have been hard with rebuilding. Illyria was spared -”

“They have plenty of time on their hands. Last time I checked, they were in their fifth home.”

“Fifth home!” Lupine shrieked, her blonde hair slapping her face as she turned To Nesta. “I can barely find a place for me to stay on my own, and they have five of them?”

“I was hoping since the High Lady favors using Illyrian wings as I've heard, she would be more inclined to help but she isn't. And besides what’s done is done. It's not like her helping could fix them. All we can hope for is that all the other females have a chance at keeping them.” Emerie ducked her head and Nesta could see her wipe a few stray tears away. But what if she could be helped? What if healers in the Dawn Court could be sped and brought to Illyria to help the women? What if Nesta could help her?

That was a crazy idea, Nesta had only started to be able to heal wounds that had damaged nerves, rearranging bones and muscle would be a different thing. But maybe. 

“Anyway, I also came to ask if you had another book for me to read?”

“Yes. I have one by Selline Drake, the new one-”

“Oh give it to me!” Emerie wiggled her shoulders and they spent far too long on speaking about the mysterious author.

When training had finished, Seraphina walked with Nesta since her home was closer to the castle.

“Nesta.” Seraphina said all of a sudden. “I wanted to tell you first. I managed to squeeze some information out of my grandmother about the Valkyries and the only thing she would say is cutting ribbons. So I was thinking since you live in the castle why don't you try to do some searching up on it and I'll try to see if I can get a pass into the Alexandria library.”

“Cutting Ribbons?” Nesta mused. “I think I've heard of that before.” 

“I wanted to make sure it was real before telling the others. And Lupine’s birthday is in a few days. I was thinking of getting her something nice.”

“How about coffee beans? She’s been saying that the ones she got from Autumn have run out?”

Seraphina slowly nodded her head. “Ok, I can see that. But what will you get her?”

“I was thinking about a new coffee machine? I was going to ask a friend to bring me one from Dawn.”

“Great idea,” She dropped Nesta’s hand and pulled her into a hug. “See you tomorrow, Nes!” She walked off, a little bounce in her steps and Nesta headed to the castle. People would nod at her as she passed, especially when she drew near the center. After healing Mr Leafin, people had been coming in for healing a lot more. Nesta had only mastered cut healing and nerve healing, but the store was always packed. 

Wren would hold her head high as she and Nesta grabbed herbs from the market, showing off Nesta like a prized cow. 

“A gift from the mother herself.” Wren would say as the older ladies would watch her. And Nesta couldn't help but feel the same way she did when her mother would show her around, it made her feel like a toy.

The book she was reading was useful in her search. When a Valkyrie had completed her training, her last test would be to cut through a white ribbon perfectly with a sword and nothing else and when she managed to do that she would be known as a Valkyrie. All the text she read agreed on that one part, and Nesta couldn't help but laugh. Seraphina had been begging Zora to let them train on swords and it seemed like the time would be coming sooner than later. 

Other parts of information Nesta managed to scrape together were that the Valkyries worked in units, which did correlate with the dream she had and mostly they used shields and formations.

Maybe Seraphina was having a lot more luck when it came to the library of Alexandria, which held even more knowledge than the High Lord's library. But just before Nesta could reach for another book, a guard appeared at the walkway, walking towards her panting.

“My lady,” He gasped, and Nesta realised that he ran all the way up here. “The High Lord, he requests your presence in the drawing room. He says it’s urgent.”

For a second Nesta thought Helion was summoning her to have her listen to one of his papers, or preferably one of his sessions where he tells her about Prythian but then she remembered.

“Did the High Lord say anything about the guest?”

The Guard took off his helmet, he had beautiful blue eyes, and a jaw that had Nesta think of thoughts that her mother would beat her for. She was so distracted that she almost missed what he said.

“I'd assume so. The table in the dining room was set for 4.” 

“Lead the way.” Nesta followed the guard down and out the Library, and Nesta tried to think through what to say. If it was what she was thinking, they’d need a solid reason to ask someone to commit treason.

The guard bid her farewell as she approached the threshold of the High Lord’s chambers and Nesta walked the rest of the way, her heart in her throat.

As she approached, the door swung open and Lucien greeted her.

“My Lady.” He said, then dropped low so his lips were near her ear. “I’m going to kill him.” All she could muster was a pat on the shoulder and she walked in.

The room was the same as 2 weeks ago, but with a new addition. Lounging on one of the chairs was a male dressed in black pants, white tunic and an orange jacket embroidered with leaves that seemed to move when the light shone on them. The male however was a different story. His face was pale, as if he had never seen the light of day. His face was made of harsh lines that looked as if they could cut a person. His eyes looked like a forest, one where the leaves were different colours and they just started to fall. His lips were full, as it seemed with all males, and they stretched to show pointed teeth.

The male was holding a glass of wine, the burgundy liquid swirling around. Eris Vanserra looked at Nesta and smiled.

“Well this is a lovely surprise.” He took a swing of his drink and Nesta spared a glance towards Helion, who looked bored. He had brought his office with him it seemed, as there was a pile of paper stacked next to him.

Nesta slid into the same couch as Lucien, deciding to face Eris rather than be next to him.

“I can’t see what’s so surprising?”

Eris placed his cup down, and his tongue darted to catch a drop of wine that strayed. “What is surprising is that I was at the Night Court for Samahin two nights ago and the whole entire court was there. But when I asked the High Lady why you weren't present, she told me you were simply sick waiting back home. So yes Nesta Archeron, this is a lovely surprise. So why weren't you there?”

She felt her spine tighten. “That's not why you’re here.”

He smiled and Lucien placed his hand behind the couch, his hand protecting Nesta’s head. “I was called here for such an urgent matter. I think we can trust each other. And besides I have no intention of getting in between Night Court politics.”

“You seem deep enough, Eris. You are not here to harass somebody under sanctuary in my court.” The sun was hitting Helion, making him look ever bit the High Lord of Day. Nesta had to wonder if that was why he favoured that seat.

“Sanctuary?” Eris smiled even wider. “Why would Nesta Archeron need sanctuary in the Day Court? Her sister runs the Night Court, unless… family drama? Do tell.” He leaned in as if they were old friends conversing over tea.

“Eris.” Helion said, and the male pulled back, leaning against his chair as if he owned the room.

“You knew.” Was all Lucien said. 

Eris looked him up and down. “You’ve finally added two and two together. I’m impressed.”

“You fucking knew and you did nothing.” Lucien snarled as he leaned forward. “Why not do anything other than sit on your arse-”

Eris barked out a laugh, cutting off Lucien. “For once I implore you to use your brain brother, it can't be that hard. If Father had even an inkling that you weren't his, if he had an inkling that mother wasn't faithful he would not only kill you, he would kill her. He would kill everybody.” he scoffed. “Are you that selfish?”

“Don’t.” Lucien hissed. “If not for me, for her. You stood there as he killed innocents, you stood there as he killed her.”

“I don't know if your memory has gone any more duller than usual but I was not in that room. Do you know why? It's because I didn't want him to kill her. I tried to persuade him to send her to the Winter Border and let her slum it out there. But as we both know Father does not take it kindly in being questioned.” A look past between the brothers.

“What?”

“Did you think it's a miracle that the day you managed to run away, the High Lord of Spring was just coincidentally at his border? Do you think it was a miracle that he accepted you into his court as his emissary? No, it's because I warned him. I told him that you were coming and he needed to be granted sanctuary as a favor. Think of me as cruel as you want to, but do not pretend I did not do what was best for us.” 

Lucien was only looking at his brother, his shoulders slowly relaxing.

“Then we know what to do.” Helion sat up. “Beron has ruled for too long. I think it’s time we put him to rest.”

There it was. Nesta watched Eris. She watched as his eyes remained on Helion, his hand tapping methodically on his knee.

“Are you suggesting that my Father step down?” He said softly.

“Permanently.”

“Then we should act soon. The cities closest to the Summer border are close to rebelling. We need to act beforehand.”

“You know, I’ve read about rebellions-”

“Planning on overthrowing the Night Court?” 

Nesta glared at Eris. “I’ve never heard about Autumn rebellions.”

“It’s because Beron kills the traitors and their children as punishment. The fear of that alone is enough to squash any rebellions.”

“That’s vile.”

“That’s the way of Autumn.” Eris laced his hands together. “So we all have a common issue, and we want it removed permanently?” Helion nodded as he flipped through a page.

A smile broke out across Eris’s face. “Then let's do this now.”

Nesta almost laughed. “You’re insane. We need a plan, we need a way to make sure this works.”

“That will only let the chance slip. I want him gone today.”

“Then find others to help you. This would be suicide.” Nesta ignored Lucien’s words and looked at Eris. a small vein was pulsing at his temple.

“You want this to be done because this helps you get out of the deal with the Night Court. You made a deal with them, trading information for help in cementing your rule, but they're holding out on you.” He didn't speak.

“Let's say we do this today, let's say we take the chance and we end up managing to complete our goals, not only will we back your claim to the Autumn Court throne, you will also back Lucien’s claim as the Heir to the High lord of Day.”

“Nesta.” Helion spoke. “We can reach that agreement later. If we go now-”

“If we go now, we will find my father unguarded, all alone.” Eris poured himself another glass. “For the past two months, every third day of the week he ends up leaving his guards behind, walking towards the border of Spring and communicating with someone. He's alone, there's nobody there and he will be caught off guard if we go now. And by sunrise we can declare our news.”

“Do you know exactly who he's speaking to?” 

“If I knew, brother, do you think I'd be using all the secrecy? We are allies now are we not?” He winked at Nesta. “All I know is that it’s some lady that he’s meeting with and he's been pulling out sections of soldiers to do something.”

Nesta glanced at Lucien, the male already looking at her. 

“So we go now?” Lucien looked at Helion.

“This is our only chance. Who's to say the next time he goes he brings an armada of guards with him? I wouldn't be bringing this up if it wasn't important.”

Lucien looked at his father, then spoke.“Then we do this now.”

Sitting at the top of a tree as the sun set was not what she envisioned for her day.

The tree gave her a bird's eye view of a forest that seemed to stretch on for miles and just when she thought there couldn't be more the leaves changed into fresh green and they carried on even further.

Eris was right next to her, his hands around her waist steading her. Lucien was somewhere below them, somewhere even Nesta couldn't see. She wasn't dressed accordingly. She was still in her training outfit, her plain blue pants and her grey tunic offered little warmth as the wind howled around her. The bow and single arrow slung on her back rattling with each breeze, red leaves calling down.

“Why do we have to be up here?” Her teeth clattered as she spoke.

“It’s the best view, and besides, maybe I want some quality time with the infamous king-slayer.”

“Get in line.” He laughed and looked ahead. 

“It's good that you left the Night Court. You were wasting away there.”

“I know, that’s why I left.”

“They don’t seem to be happy. When I mentioned you, a certain general was irritated.” Cassian. She hadn’t thought about him in ages. She- she cared as she would any person. But then why did her chest hurt?

“Let him be irritated.”

“I was shocked he could feel anything for anyone except for Morrigan.” The comment had Nesta facing him.

“What exactly is your issue with Morrigan?”

“She has her truths, she just chooses not to tell them. I truly don’t care if the Night Court likes or dislikes me. I just want him gone.”

As if he summoned him, Beron Vanserra walked out to the clearing, and from the other side, a figure in a cloak stepped forward. He bowed to her, and she lifted a wrinkled hand. As they spoke, some words drifted upwards. Nesta looked around and then stopped.

In the tree across from her, was a small crow. It looked at her, right at her. Its body was stiff, and Nesta could only stare back at it.

By the time it flew away, Nesta had lost track of what little she could make out. Beron was more irritated and was pointing a finger at the female. Words were floating up to her: Female, weapon, and Trove.

As soon as the word was said, Lucien appeared. The figure froze, then blinked out of sight and Beron faced him.

“So you’ve decided to show your face here boy?” Beron stepped forward, a smile on his face. “I had no idea you craved death so badly.”

“You wouldn’t dream of laying a finger on me.” Lucien spoke.

“Go low.” And Eris winnowed to the Mother knows where.

“I can’t? You’re trespassing in my court, the laws say I should gut you where you stand.”

“You could try, but it wouldn’t end well for you.” The next time the wind blew, Nesta went down a few branches, her limbs screaming at her. She made sure her steps were quiet, no louder than the wind.

“Why?”

“Because you risk war with Day.” The words carried across the field. Beron stood still, then he laughed.

“That bitch made a chuckhold of me.”

“Don’t speak of my mother that way.” Lucien stepped forward, his hand on his dagger.

“I’m going to drag you back and kill you infront of her.” Beron advanced, But Eris came running in.

“Father do not!” He stepped between them.

“Move boy.”

“If he is being truthful about being the son of the Day Court, then we won't be facing only the wrath of Helion but that of the Night Court.” There was her que. She slipped off her bow and slowly pulled it back. She just needed Eris to move.

“Do you think I'm afraid of Rhysand and the whore he shows off?”

Eris tried to go for a smile, but his face was too tense. “No, but I think you should be concerned when they have two Made females on their side with Mother knows what magic. We should let him go back to Day and we can pretend that this interaction never happened.” Eris moved to the side and Nesta drew in a breath. She had never been good with a bow, but she had to be tonight.

But then Beron looked up, right at her and snarled. 

“You dare?” Nesta only had a split second to curse before the tree burst into flames, She fell down hard and went blind from the pain. When she looked up, tree bark was raining down on her.

“Don't worry,” Beron laughed. “You're worth more to me alive than dead, Nesta Archeron. And you,” He turned to Lucien. “I'm going to finish what I should have 200 years ago.”

Eris jumped back to Lucien's side raising his hands so a wall of red flames blocked out the yellow ones.

Beron halted, “You as well? Fine, then so be it.” Beron shot another flame but a shield seemed to grow from the ground. Lucien had his hands out, and a gold shield surrounded them.

“BASTARD!” Beron roared and then he advanced. Nesta could only watch as Eris and Lucien dueled the Autumn Lord, her body too sluggish to move. She could only watch as Eris hit him with flames and Lucien used shields around his brother. 

“I should have known something was wrong when the sun would follow you around, how the sky would shine down on you.” Beron snarled as Eris hit him in the chest.

“It's not my fault if you were blind by the facts staring you in the face.” Lucien taunted, shielding Eris from his father's flames.

The forest around them was burning, smoke drifting down.

But the fight started to dim down, Lucien could only defend for so long, and Eris was getting slower with his hits. Then Nesta watched as Eris screamed as his hand was burned, the skin dripping off and Nesta felt bile rise up. Eris was one the floor and Beron moved forward. The look on his face was something Nesta couldn't understand.

“I expected more from you. You’re a disappointment.”

Eris looked up, a small smile curling up, "So did I."

Beron only sighed and raise his hand, and the air shifted. It was as if the sun had come down, the light blinding them. Lucien was too far back and drained to help. So Nesta shoved herself up from the tree fragments, her vision blurred by rage.

She moved in front of Lucien, her hands out in front of her. The familiar tingle came back to her, but Beron shook his head.

“Move girl, I need you alive.” The words hit her. Another man wanted to take what she had. Trying to take her as he pleased.

But Nesta Archeron was no prisoner. She was the writer of her own fate. She moved forward and didn’t allow him the courtesy of conversation when she lifted a hand.

What came out was a blast of silver fire, and it hit Beron square in the chest. The fire didn’t just go to Beron, it made its way up Nesta, till she was nothing but flames. She kept pushing ahead, kept at it as Beron could only thrash around. He tried to fight back, but nothing would stick.

“NESTA NOW!” Eris screamed and she let go. She fell to the floor, gasping for air. Beron’s front was covered in black, and a dark liquid trailed out of him.

“You-” But he was cut off. A gasp and he looked down to the sword striking out of him, then at his heart that was still beating at the tip of the blade.

“Never speak of my family like that again.”

Beron’s eyes rolled back and the Autumn High Lord let out his last breath.

“Is it…” Nesta crooked as Lucien helped her up, his bicep red. The air was still, no trace of the winds that were there. Then, Eris dropped his hold on his father and blade and screamed.

The sound wasn’t normal. It made the hairs of Nesta’s neck stand up. She watched as Eris clawed at his next, his eyes leaking blood. He staggered back and yelled.

Nesta lunged forward, trying to heal Eris, but Lucien pulled her back and shook his head.

“That's the magic deeming him worthy, we can’t interfere.” Another scream and this time a wave of power pushed out of Eris, his eyes wide. The trees shook and Nesta watched as the crown on Beron’s head melted off him, the gold trickling down what remind of his face.

Eris had stopped the screaming, and small sparks formed around his head. A crown made of leaves and red and orange jewels came into existence. He looked at the pair and Nesta could see it, the way he stood taller, the way his eyes seemed to hold something else.

“High Lord.”

Chapter Text

Power was a dangerous thing. Power led to the rise and fall of empires. The building and breaking of Kings and Queens alike. Power was a cure and curse.

Nesta had seen power. She had seen her father send men through raging seas and storms with a few words just because he could. She had seen her mother torment several girls because they placed the silver the wrong way, she had seen her mother command a room with a look.

Nesta used to crave power. She used to crave for the power to live life the way she wanted. Having a lot of power meant that nobody would question you on how you decided to give your life. It meant that if she did something differently than the rest, it was normal.

But the power she saw now, it was dangerous. The male before her wasn't the male she had left Day with. This male… he had a look in his eyes. As if he had faced a battle and barely made it out in the blink of an eye. He held himself with a kind of power that developed over time, not like a man fresh out of university becoming a leader, but a type of power that cultivated over time, blood, sweat.

“It is done.” Eris had said, then he faced his brother, his father's blood still wet on his face. It made Nesta shiver.

Lucien didn't say anything, he simply dropped to his knees and smiled.

“High Lord.” The words seemed to satisfy Eris. He smiled and looked at Nesta. She half expected him to ask her to bow, but something passed through his eyes, and he looked away.

“That was… something.” He chuckled, dragging a hand down his face, smearing his father's blood and kicked Beron with his foot. “I'm surprised I don't hear birds chirping or children singing.”

“Perhaps it's because we're in the middle of nowhere and it's nighttime.”

“Perhaps.” Eris smiled at her, then his face dropped.

“We have to go. Now.” He looked to the forest, and Nesta heard a sound, it sounded like a howl.

“The beasts? I thought-”

“Father is no longer the Lord of Autumn, or alive. A new pact shall be made.” Eris grabbed Beron by the hair, the male's face still frozen in fear. Then Eris looked back.

“Oh and as High Lord of Autumn, I hereby allow Lucien Vanserra entry back into these lands. You know where to go brother.” Lucien looked at Eris, mouth slightly agape, then he grabbed Nesta's hand. 

But as Nesta looked back, she caught a glimpse of yellow eyes looking back at her through the trees. And maybe it was the world warping as she moved through time, because it seemed like the beast wasn't covered in a coat of fur, but it seemed like it was made of deaf leaves and wet tree bark.

But then the world tilted and Nesta was in front of a small castle. Nesta almost missed it. The house blended in with the scenery, the cream coloured walls barely peeking through the red leaves.

“I saw-” Nesta closed her mouth as soon as she opened it, bile threatening to slip past.

“You saw the Beasts of Autumn.” Lucien said as he stopped at the door. “All seasonal courts have one. Eris might be a while.” Lucien placed a hand on the door knob and pushed the doors open.

The inside of the house was elegant. It was as if she stepped into a different world when she entered. The chandeliers that were hanging from each ceiling, the chairs made off a material too soft to resist brushing her fingers against. But as grand as the house was, it seemed like that the stuff was there just to show off wealth, none of them meshed together.

It reminded her of the Kensworth's house. How their house was filled with stuff just to show they were wealthy. But wealth can't buy class after all. 

They walked through a small hallway, the walls lit by red glowing flames. The mare they walked, the less calm Nesta felt. It was as if eyes were watching her as she took each step, and she couldn't shake the feeling off.

“It feels weird.” She said as they took a turn, where the decor became even more horrendous. 

“It’s always been like this.” Lucien sounded detached, and Nesta slowly reached for his hand, giving it a small squeeze. Being back to his old home, where he lost his lover, that must have hurt.

After a while, Lucein squeezed her hand right back, letting it fall.

They walked towards a pair of gourds standing in front of ceiling high oak doors.

“You-” One of the guards said, his blue eyes wide. He looked at the other guard, and shook his head.

“I can't allow you in.”

“The High Lord had given his orders, who are you to question them?”

The male opened his mouth, but the other guard shook his head.

“Let him in.”

“But the High Lord…”

“Will deal with him.” He looked Lucien and Nesta up and down. The blue eyed guard looked at them with hesitation, they stepped aside.

The room was filled with red-headed people spread across chairs and couches, a fire crackling in the corner, and Nesta felt herself getting irritated by the sound. The second Lucien and Nesta walked in, one male was on his feet and had a sword drawn. A lady let out a sob and dropped her cup.

“Leave. Now.”

“Now why would I do that Lysander?” Lucien smiled and drooped into a seat, Nesta leaned against it, trying to focus on anything other than the sound of fire. The male holding the sword was similar in looks to Eris, his hair was longer and tied at the top of his head, a cut running down his neck. One male was speared across a couch with a book in his hand, but his eyes would move periodically toward them. The last brother was looking at Nesta, his hand near the lady that sat beside him, her eyes wide.

“Lucien?” The lady said, standing up. “It is not safe. Leave before-”

“I'm staying.” Lucien didn't take his gaze off his brother. “You look good Mother.”

His mother looked at him, her mouth moving with no sound.

“Go Lucien. Father will be back soon and-” A male with short hair said but then a howl ripped through the room, and Nesta felt the air shift. The closed doors slammed open and in walked Eris, his shirt covered in what looked to be tree sap and blood, his left hand was a fistful of his fathers hair, the body limp behind him.

“Holy Fuck!” The male next to their mother said, jumping to his feet. “What did you do?”

“Who, me?” Eris had a smug look on his face. “Not much. It seems that Father has decided to take a long retirement.” He tugged at the corpse, flinging it onto the table. The male with the book made a face and stood up, moving away.

“You killed him? How dare you!” The male with the sword, Lysander, moved to Eris, but he froze in his tracks. Eris’s hands were bathed in yellow flames, and they were getting dangerously close. Lysander’s face was twisted in both fear and anger. He kept looking back at his father’s corpse, trying to find answers that weren't there.

“Stand down.” Eris looked at the people in the room. “The magic has chosen me as the new High Lord of Autumn. Swear your fealty or leave.”

“That’s bullshit.” The male with the book stood up. “You? Why you?”

“Because I’m the one who stabbed his heart out, Callum. Do you swear fealty to me?”

Callum huffed something about crazy males, then he dropped to one knee, the brother near the Lady of Autumn did the same, Lysander being the last one, storming out the second it was over.

“Wake the high Priestess up, Alder. Tell her we have a coronation needed in a few hours.” The male looked at his mother who nodded, then he walked out. The room was silent as the Lady of Autumn walked to her husband's corpse. She sat down next to Beron and slowly reached out a hand. Her fingers were trembling as she touched him, her face screwed up in fear. But when the corpse didn’t budge, she pulled her fingers back and laughed. Nesta thought she had mistaken it for a sob, but the Lady of Autumn was laughing.

She laughed until her eyes were wet with tears, she laughed till her face was soaked with tears. She moved from the corpse and laughed.

“Mother?” Lucien asked, and then she turned to him, the laughter stopping. She took a step towards him, then another. Lucien closed the rest of the distance and wrapped his arms around her.

The Lady fell to her knees and sobbed, stoking Lucien’s hair. “You’re back. You're back. I’d pray for this. Thank the Mother.” Lucien was slowly rubbing her back, his face twisted in pain.

“This is sweet and all, but we all have things to do. Help me bury him, will you?” Eris looked at Lucien and Callum. The 3 males left the room, dragging Beron behind them.

As coronations went, it was lovely.

The hall had transformed overnight. It was packed with chairs made of velvet. There were candles hanging from the ceiling, flags with flames hung from the walls. The air smelled like spices and burning wood.

Nesta was in a red gown that clung to her figure, courtesy of Lady Sylvia, the Lady of Autumn. Her hair was in its usual style and she had sheer black gloves on. Nesta was at the front row, next to a lord who wouldn't shut up about how much land he owned. Lucien, Callum, Alder, and Lysander were standing at the base of the throne, dressed in the Autumn court military regalia. Lucien was tugging at his collar and Callum was talking to him, smiling.

“Have I told you about the land I own near the Winter Border?” The Lord asked.

“Yes. 12 times.” The lady next to Nesta said, tugging up her red gloves. Her blonde hair was done up in an elegant bun, her neck covered in jewels that sparkled like water. “Lord Callihan, I mean this with respect, no one cares. Now why don't you go to your wife or elsewhere.”

Lord Callihan’s mouth opened and closed for a bit, and with a theatrical huff he left.

“Thank you. I have no clue how much longer I would have lasted.” Nesta lifted a hand to the lady. “Nesta Archeron. And you are?”

“Lady Archeron, I’m Idonea Lita. My father is- was one of the High Lord’s advisors.” Idonea looked around, her lower lip caught between her teeth. “I’m not supposed to be here, My father wanted me to talk with some lord he wanted me to marry, but he’s old and his wife was only buried 2 nights ago. I mean what able wants to court right after his wife dies? People say that he hated her for giving him only one son and 4 girls, but just think it's because she was speaking to one of the stable boys. Sorry, I ramble.”

“No problem. You could always try and leave. The High Lord is dead, you can make a new start elsewhere.”

“Like you did?” Nesta looked at Idonea. “Word travels fast. Some people have seen you at Day, staying at the High Lord’s castle.” Idonea leaned in close. “Is he as stunning as they say? Is Day better than Night? Do they actually walk around in nothing but cloth?”

So many words, but she could only focus on one. “Helion is… stunning. And quite the smooth talker.”

Idonea sighed and leaned back. “I’ve always wanted to travel to the Solar Courts. Father does so every other month. I was hoping he’d take me with him. But anyway, were you there when Lord Beron died? I know Lucien was there.”

“I saw what happened.” She had to keep what happened last night simple. No telling others all the details. And even she was shocked at the magnitude of power. It was strong enough to damage a High Lord, one as old as Beron.

“I’m quite glad he died.” Idonea whispered, her lips brushing the top of Nesta’s ear. “Always angry, always skimping on giving proper wages to people. Let's hope Eris will be better.”

The doors opened and in walked Eris, dressed in his army uniform. The people stood as she passed each row, reaching out, wanting to touch him. He made his way to the dais, the sun hitting his face, and stood in front of the High Priestess.

The fae had given up on formality. With the wine flowing and the drums pounding, titles were thrown out of the window. The Fae were laughing, dancing and looked much more relaxed.

Eris stood aside with the new lords of the 3 territories he had picked out that day, his brows furrowed. Nesta hadn’t seen Idonea since she ran from her betrothed.

Nesta sipped from the glass she had. The wine was unlike any she had ever had before, it glided down her throat and felt like heaven.

“You seem happy.” Lucien appeared out of nowhere, a glass in hand. He looked much better up close. His eyes seemed more free and he was smiling.

“Of course. Eris is now High Lord and he’ll back your claim. I think a successful mission is a good reason to be happy.”

“A mission?” Lucien smiled, a hint of teasing. “So are we spies? I’ve read some novels that Jurian has lent me. Are we going to climb walls and dress in black?”

A laugh bubbled out of her. “Oh no, let’s leave that up to the mortals.” The crows were getting bigger, and even Eris had joined the fray, dancing with a bunch of ladies. “You happy to be home?”

“This place hasn’t been home for some time. And besides, it’s not where I belong. Not after-” It must have to do with the ‘her’ he had mentioned. 

“And Day? They seem to love you.”

“Yeah.” He swirled his liquor around. “Did you see who the person was last night?”

“No, why?”

“It was Briallyn. And she mentioned something about-”

“About a Trove? I heard her.” Nesta placed her glass down. She remembered the withered hand, the hunched back. “Are you sure it’s her?”

“Yes. And that means this is more than a bitter queen slothing around. She was working with Beron. He must have been giving her something, or vice versa.”

“So what now? We can’t tell the other lords, she hasn't done anything as of note. And she might have her claws depper in Prythian.” Not to mention why Beron wanted Nesta alive.

“I’ll go look up the Trove she was speaking about. And let's pray that it’s not the one I'm thinking of. I'll see you afterwards, ok?” Nesta nodded, and after a short hug, Lucien left.

She watched as Eris caught her gaze as he spoke to a lord. He said a few words and walked to her. 

“All alone? I thought Lucien knew better than to leave a pretty lady on her own.”

“Smooth. What is it like? Being High Lord?”

Eris toyed with his glass, running his fingers up and down the sides. “It feels different.”

“Oh really? I would have never thought so.”

“I mean,” He licked his lips. “It's been the aim for the past 500 years. Take the throne and get rid of Beron. Now that it’s done, it feels like I'm missing something, something to wake me up in the mornings.”

“Oh.”

“Maybe it’s the wine. But I do think it would be better if I had a lovely lady to rule with me?” Nesta wasn’t dense. She knew what he was asking of her. To be his wife, to rule the Autumn Court alongside him. 

“It would be a good idea, if I do say so myself. Rhysand and your sister can’t take you away and you’ll be in charge of your own fate.”

She hated that he was right. She would be safe and cared for, it was everything she wanted. And it was everything her mother wanted. A king for a husband, marrying because it's what would keep her the safest. 

But she didn’t want safe. Safe was out of the window now. If she wanted to be safe she would have married a lord when she was a human, if she wanted to be safe she just would have lied on her back and let her sister do whatever she wanted.

Nesta didn't want to be married. She didn't want to be with somebody she did not care for and do stuff to make him happy at the end of the day, pushing aside her own happiness.

Nesta rolled her tongue over her teeth, trying to find the right words. “That seems good. But no.”

“No?” Eris tilted his head, and it pissed Nesta off for some reason.

“Yes, no. I know you've been raised with a silver spoon in your mouth and the word no might seem unimaginable to you, but I don't want to marry you. I'm not ready to be married, I don't want to rule over a Court I know nothing about. And quite frankly, I don't love you.”

“Say what you're really feeling, will you?” Eris smiled and nudged her with his shoulder. “But it’s fine. I understand.”

“I’m glad. Now go and bother someone else.” Eris disappeared into the crowd, laughing and soon after Lucien came to her, hand out.

“Ready?”

“Of course. Let's go.” The Day Court was alive and running, people moving about, and the Castle was packed, something about a group of students coming to see the library.

Helion was in his study as usual, his desk covered in charts describing the sun’s movements. 

“Is it done?” He asked the second they came back, looking at their faces.

“Yes. Beron is dead. Eris has been crowned High Lord.” Lucien sat in one of the chairs, looking at his father. “You’re in the clear.”

“And Sylvia?”

“Happy. She’s packing her bags, she wants to see some family on the Continent. Now what?”

Helion shoved his papers aside. “Now we tell the world I have an heir, the lords get off my back, and the world is rid of a vile creature.”

“We have some news,” Nesta looked at Lucien, who nodded. “Beron had been meeting with Briallyn. Multiple times a week.”

“She was there last night and she mentioned a Trove.” At the words Trove, Helion’s face darkened.

“You can’t be thinking that?”

“I am. I could be wrong, but with her…” Lucien looked back at her. “Why don’t you rest up, you haven't slept at all.” Now that he was mentioning it, Nesta felt a bit dazed. She left the room as Lucien turned to his father, Helion’s eyes still on her.

After a much needed nap, Nesta headed down to the training store, where the girls were mid session.

“Have I missed much?” She asked as she dropped her bag down. Lupine laughed and hugged her.

“SEE! I knew she was still here!” 

“Why? I’ve only been gone half a day. Did much happen?” Nesta smiled as she hugged Emerie.

“Yes! Seraphina found a text about how Valkyries were one with nature and trained in the open.” Octavia pouched on Seraphina. “The only issue is where would we train?”

“We have to find a new place regardless.” Zora looked around with a frown. “Valkyrie's were efficient with swords and shields, and this tiny room that we rent out daily won’t be able to suffice all 7 of us swinging swords.”

An idea came to Nesta’s head and before she could stop herself she spoke. “If a clearing is what we need, I happen to know one.”

“Oh really? Where exactly?”

“Near the villages northbound. It's quite large, and it's beautiful.”

Adaria crossed her hands, “That village is close to the Night Court Border.”

“Yes, but it's a good 10 minute walk away. There would be no way a Night Court official could come without clearance. Trust me, it's worth it.”

Octavia looked at Adaria. “We only go if we’re all on board.” Adaria bit her cheek, tapping her foot.

“Yeah, that’s good with me. Now, are you going to tell us where you were?”

Nesta pulled out her water bottle. “Oh, I was helping the new Autumn High Lord overthrow his father. And I was at the coronation.”

The room fell silent, the others looking at each other. 

“You’re joking right?”

Chapter Text

3 weeks had passed since Beron’s death, 3 weeks since Helion had told the Lords and Prythian that he had an Heir. And those 3 weeks had been the most chaotic ones since Nesta came to Day. There were people carrying boxes of fabrics, ornaments. There was a group of fae with wings coming in carrying large columns made of marble, with different parents each time. The great hall had been closed off for the time, and the one chance Nesta had to take a peak, it was decorated to the point it moved her to tears. 

Even the citizens were feeling the same way. The town center was rid of any dirt and decorated with flowers and ribbons. Nesta walked down the street, watching a group of children talk about the nice clothes they’ll be wearing for the coronation. The older females were talking about how lovely it was to have an heir to keep them safe, and that they’re glad it was Lucien.

Nesta made her way to the training store where Zora was, bag in hand. Since Emerie, Nesta, and Lupine couldn’t winnow, they’d leave in pairs. They had divided their time between the store and the clearing, but whenever they spent time at the store, they’d talk the day away or went to the clearing.

“Ready?” Zora smiled at her, her hair pulled up. “The town seems so happy.”

“Everyone gets a day off, free food and drinks and a new heir. Who wouldn’t enjoy it. Are the others there?”

Zora nodded, and Nesta took hold of her hand, and they were in the clearing. The area was more beautiful than she remembered. There were large, sturdy trees all around that made the clearing feel like a secluded area, hidden from the world. Bushes would grow under the trees' shade, ripe with berries. And the sun would shine through the gaps of the trees, lighting the place with a soft glow. The grass was a deep green and it felt softer than any other she had ever seen.

The others were there already, Lupine with her sword out, practicing her form. Seraphina and Adaria sparing, trading blows. Octavia and Emerie were lying on the grass looking at the clouds, pointing at ones and trying to make out the shapes. 

“That’s a cat.” Octavia argued, her silver hair stuck to her damp forehead.

“No, it looks like a crown. See the pointy part?”

“In what world is that a crown?” Octavia cried, then she smiled at Zora’s direction. “Hey!”

“Trained already?” Nesta asked as she pulled out her sword. It felt weird in her hands, like it was off balance. But it did the job and who was she to fight it?

“With Adaria. The woman’s crazy.” Emerie laughed and stood up, dusting off the grass that stuck to her.

“I love this place. How has no one come here yet?”

“Makes me wonder why we even go to the store.” Seraphina added as they all huddled together. “We never get any work done there.”

Zora tilted her head. “You’re right. What do you think, Nesta?”

Nesta stopped mid taking a sip from her bottle. “Sera has a point. Plus we can do our physical training here. And you can save the money.”

“But what about when we winnow together? The store is a common place to meet.”

“We can find another place. After today, let's all head to the store and find a place to meet.”

“How does the fountain near the university sound?” Adaria propped herself up on her elbows. 

Zora kept her gaze on Nesta and nodded. “Okay. Now get up. Swords out.” The rest of the day passed with sword training. Nesta’s arms were burning but she welcomed it. Adaria was the only one without a sword, training with twin daggers instead. Her brother had trained her before Spring had fallen, and she could stand on the same footing as Zora. watching them spar was breathtaking.

Nesta was up against Octavia. For how cheery she was, she was a demon with a blade. She fought the same way she spoke: fast past and random. Nesta would think she had her where she wanted, then Octavia would pull some random move and before she knew it, Nesta had a blade under her chin.

And Nesta loved every minute. She could see both Adaria and Emerie take Zora. The 2 were attacking from every angle yet Zora was holding her own.

In the time she had turned, Octavia had shoved her to the floor, disarming her in the process. With a sword to her throat, she surrendered.

“Has anyone told you you’re mental?” Nesta breathed. Octavia dropped next to her and squeezed Nesta’s hand.

“Yes. Now look at that cloud and tell me what it looks like.” Nesta winced as she looked up, then she laughed.

“You’re both wrong. It’s a pegasus.”

“No, it's a crown.” Emerie dropped down next to Nesta’s left. Emerie grabbed her hand and guided it to the cloud. “See?”

“She won’t see it because she’s not high on crack.”

“I am not high!”

“Nesta is right.” Adaria said from next to Emerie. “The pointy part is the horn and the back is a tail, but a mane.” 

“No, that's a cat. The point is clearly an ear.”

“Sera, in what world is that an ear?” Nesta asked, and Adaria started to laugh, shaking her head.

Emerie looked at Nesta, her eyes hesitant, “Hey Nes, I-”

“Maybe we should get back to training instead of guessing what clouds look like?” Zora shoved the tip of her blade in the grass, leaning against it.

“I’m all out of training.” Seraphina looked up. “Relax, you need some energy for tomorrow.”

“Nessie, you have to tell us what happens in the castle. Please.” Octavia gripped her hand

“Just never call me Nessie again and sure.”

Lupine looked at her. “Ready to see your sister again?” Nesta wished she hadn’t reminded her. All the courts were invited to the coronation, and that includes the Night Court. She tried to shove out the reminder, she planned to avoid them and move one. 

“I doubt I’ll see them anyway.”

“I hear Lord Tamlin is coming.” Adaria said as she braided her hair. “Is it true?”

“Yes.” Another person she wasn't ready to see.

“I hope he’s doing well. Some of the people that recently left Spring are saying that he’s been in his manor since.”

“Maybe he’s trying to find his bearings.” Lupine paced a hand on Adaria. “It’s going to be fine.”

“I just -  miss what Spring was. You know? The others deserve a proper high lord.”

“You should go home, even if it’s just to see.” Emerie said softly.

“No. I can’t. I saw my parents, my friends, my neighbours get butchered like nothing by the Hybern soldiers. I saw them gut my brother and tear him in half.” She grabbed her dagger, and got lost in the metal. “I couldn’t even help him, I just took his daggers and ran. I just want the High Lord to try for the other people.” She turned her head to Nesta, and Adaria’s face was blank. “Just tell me if he looks okay.”

“Of course.” Nesta said. Lying in the grass, watching the clouds move past, Nesta cherished the quiet.

As everyone started to get ready to leave, Nesta could see Emerie in the corner of her eyes, playing with her fingers. But before she could speak, Adaria grabbed her hand and they disappeared.

Nesta and Zora followed suit and the 7 of them walked towards the fountain, taking in the sights and laughing about nothing and everything. After Nesta bid goodbye to them, she heard Emerie call out her name.

Her face was flushed, “Hey”

“Hey, everything alright?”

“Yeah, I was wondering if you could help me out?” She pulled Nesta into a small corner. “I'll cut to the chase. You’re a great healer, and I've been wondering if you could help me with my wings?”

Nesta felt dense for not noticing. She looked at the wings, and back at Emerie. “Of course. How does tomorrow sound?”

Emerie’s face lit up. “Tomorrow? That soon? I was thinking you needed a few days' notice.” 

“I would have done so today, I’m just worried I might mess something up.” 

“Tomorrow?” Emerie repeated the words, “Are you sure?”

“Yes.” Nesta placed her hand on Emerie's elbow and stirred them towards the road. “Now, mind telling me why you haven't been back to the Night Court? I’m sure your cousins have taken the store over by now.”

Emerie gave her a small smile. “Been holding on to that for a while?”

“Maybe.”

“Well,” She sighed. “I went back to the mountains and I wanted to try and enjoy it. But Day was like a breath of fresh air, I didn't want to be stuck in a backwards place where females were treated worse than dogs. And I, well it was like something had drawn me towards Day. You know? Like it was the place I needed to be.”

Nesta tried to calm her heart. She had felt drawn to day? Was it because of Nesta? Would that be the same for Gwyn?

“And so I sold all the store had, took the money and left. I went to Helion and asked for sanctuary. I've been told that after the coronation I'll be a citizen of the Day Court.”

“I’m glad you’re here. It would be weird without you.” Emerie rubbed her hand and let go, promising to be up and ready. Nesta watched her walk away, and hoped that Gwyn felt the same pull.

At the entrance of the castle, a female in armour came to her.

“My lady, this letter has arrived for you.” Nesta’s heart dropped like it always did at the Night Court Insign, but it vanished when she read the letter.

Dear Nesta,

I've missed you so much! Like so much. The store isn't the same anymore. And good on you for training! I’d sooner rip my own hands off than touch a sword, those are death traps waiting to happen.

Things at Night have been the same as before. Some people have been asking about you, and I’ve been telling them you found a job in Day, no need to bring drama.

I wanted to let you know that I'll be coming to Day for the coronation! And maybe when this letter makes its way to you, (postal service is SO slow!) I'll be at the inn near the Library of Alexandria, the one with the rooftop view. I can’t believe that Lucien Vanserra isn't even Beron’s son, and that the new Autumn High Lord was so okay with it all.

But anyway, I hope to see you soon, I have SOO much more to say!

Love, Enora! 

Nesta gave a quick thanks and ran back out, her feet slapping against the cobblestone. She was weaving through people like a mad woman. The doors to the inn came closer and she barged through the doors. And at the front desk, handling a bag of coins was the pink hair she had grown to love.

“Enora!” the female turned around, her soft eyes lighting up. Dropping her bags she ran to Nesta, pulling her into a bone crushing hug.

“Nesta! Oh, I've missed you so much! Come with me!” Nesta grabbed her bags and she followed Enora to her room. It was cozy, the wooden bed and the desk was pressed against the wall and on its right was the view of the city.

“Now tell me everything.” Enora said as she dropped into her bed. “How’s training?”

“It’s amazing. The clearing is such a lovely place. I'll take you there tomorrow.”

“I thought you’re taking the day off, on account of the coronation.” Enora took off her shirt, the sun shining on her pale back.

“We are, but I promised a friend I'd help her with her wings.”

“Wings? Are you talking about your Illyrian friend?” She looked at Nesta and smiled. “So you do have magic?”

“Please stop. You've done enough of that in the letters.”

Enora gave her a blinding smile, and just for a second, Nesta could see Clare. And she instantly hated herself. Enora was an amazing person and an even better friend. What kind of person kept seeing their dead friend in their new one? She’d sometimes wonder if the Mother made them meet as some sick joke. 

“In person is much better. Now tell me more about your magic. Has it acted up since you almost burnt down your room?”

Nesta shook her head and watched as Enora unpacked, she didn’t want to tell her the way her magic would randomly act up, like it did in Autumn. She didn't want to bother her friend, bad enough that the books didn't speak of such an occurrence, even in Helion’s study.

“Come with me to the castle.” Enora dropped the dress she was holding.

“No. You don’t mean it.”

“I do, come with me.” Enora looked at her clothes.

“I just - Oh I have to fix this. Fuck it lets go.”

Enora was fascinated with every book they came across, grabbing each one. Nesta left her on the 8th floor and headed up to the 12th. She walked to the history section and looked at each book, hoping to find something about a failed rebellion. But the row had no books for her. She moved to the next one, and the next, till she had passed 2 sections and the sun had long set. 

Enora had left after making Nesta promise she would take her to see the clearing, taking the books with her. Nesta pulled out another book about courts and flipped to the solar section. And just before the Night Court she saw a small note, hidden in the Dawn section.

“The — Court had been around since the start of Prythian and fell in the —” was all it said, the rest of the work covered in white ink. Nesta read the passage again, hoping her eyes weren’t deceiving her. She lowered her head till her nose was touching the book and found a symbol so small she would have missed it: it was a star, an 8 pointed on. The one that was in her dreams, on the castle floor and the Lady’s back.

So it wasn't a rebellion, it was a court, one that the Night Court took over. But there was nothing else about it. Nesta pulled out all the books by the same male and she found nothing.

“Nesta.” Lain said, holding a lantern. “The Library is closing early, remember?”

“I’m sorry.” She stood up, and placed all the books back where they belonged.

As she walked back to her rooms, she tried to remember her dreams, maybe she had missed something, maybe there was a way of figuring out more. 

Nesta slipped into her chair and gripped her head. She was missing something. She had to be. The answers were at the tip of her tongue.

Pushing the thoughts aside, Nesta picked up her anatomy book. She had promised Emerie she’d heal her wings, and she wanted to make it seamless. Nesta flipped through the pages learning more about Illyrian anatomy from the wide shape pelvises to the muscles helping the wings stay up.

Deep down Nesta knew she didn't have to go over the anatomy, she knew that she'd have to heal the torn muscles and heal the skin. But ever since she started healing, this weird feeling of self doubt would come over her. Nesta was afraid that she'd mess things up as she always did, the same way with the relationship with her sisters, the same way with her relationship with Cassian, the same way with her relationship with most people.

She hated the feeling. She was a good healer, she had healed a bunch of surface wounds, phantom pain, torn muscles. But the doubt never stopped. She could only hear her mother’s voice as she told her that she wasn’t good enough.

“Come home, my lovely.” Something hummed in her ear. Nesta tried to brush it off, resting her head on her hand.

“Take what is yours, my queen.” Nesta cracked open an eye. She was still at her desk, training clothes still on. The voice was low, vibrating in the back of her head. She couldn't place the voice, it was as if a man and a woman were speaking at the same time.

“Stop.” she crocked, shaking her head.

“Take what is yours, take it back.” She tried to go back to bed, but then she felt a tug, something pulled at her stomach, a feeling she knew all too well. The world became blurry, as if it were made of smoke.

Nesta jumped to her feet, stumbling across the room. The feeling in her gut became tighter and tighter, and she just about grabbed her sword when the world shifted.

The place was dark, darker than it should be at night. For a horrifying second, she thought she was back at the Night Court, back in the damned house. But her vision cleared out. She was in some swamp, the earth wet beneath her feet. The trees were still, and should hear no sounds, no critters, nothing.

There was a lake in front of her, a blue so deep it was black, and it was talking to her. She felt off. And every second she spent in the place, the more the feeling of dread grew.

“My queen, dear lady, come home. Come home sister.”

“No.” Nesta stepped back, fear gripping her heart.

But the voice didn't care, it kept speaking. “Sister come home, come home to me, I’m so lonely. I have no one to play with.” The voice had taken on a child like demeanour, whinging and whining. 

Nesta stepped forward, her brain screaming at her to go back, go elsewhere. 

“I’ll give you the answers you need, I'll set you on the right path. Star-blessed, the brightest constellation in the sky, come home.”

But her feet were moving on their own, she was at the edge of the lake, the deep calling to her.

“Yes, come to me. It’s been so long since I've played with someone. But you won't break like they did. No, blood of my blood, you’ll survive.”

What? Play? But she shouldn’t have hesitated. Because the water started to ripple and a hand grabbed her leg and pulled her down.

If she thought she was dreaming, the cold water woke her right up. The hand was digging into her legs, tearing at her flesh, Nesta raised a hand and fought against it, but it pulled her deeper. 

Her mind went blank, it was Tomas all over again, only this time she was trapped in a lake with whatever monster had crawled out of Hell.

A hand moved up her loose shirt and grabbed her breast. 

“You’re just a whore acting like a maiden.” Tomas snarled in her ear. “Stop hiding from me.”

A tongue slid into her mouth , and Nesta wanted to scream. It tasted like foul meat.

No. She was done with it. All of it. The males took her life and pulled it however they wanted. Her father letting her mother and grandmother do as they pleased, Tomas thinking he owned her, Hybern taking her life, Ferye’s mate thinking he could leash her. Her choices were never hers, she was to just lie down and take it.

She wouldn't anymore.

Her hands started to glow, and even though she was deep underwater, her hands ignited with Silver fire. She swatted at the creature, and it hissed, pulling back. The light illuminated its face. Its face was pale, white as a sheet. Its teeth were jagged, and its tongue was a dark black, the same colour as its hair.

It lunged at her again, but she raised her sword and sliced through it, the 2 halves floating down. She started to push upwards towards the land, but the voice called out again.

“Find me, let me help you.” But Nesta kept swimming up, shaking the voice up. It was the reason she was in this position.

“Sister, come to me.” The voice was growing frantic, desperation tinting its words. Her air was running out, and the small light above her was too far to reach.

“Sister please!” But the voice wasn't the mix of 2 voices any longer. It was Feyre. Nesta stopped and looked back. There was a small glow way below.

“Nesta don’t leave me!” Feyre sounded scared, and as much as she was pissed at her, Nesta found herself swimming back down, ignoring the pressure in her ears, the tightness of her chest.

Her swimming became more erratic, her limbs growing heavy by the second. By the time she reached the glow, her eyes were growing hazy. 

“Come take what was yours.” She reached out, her fingers brushing against metal, then her visions went black.

She was nothing. She was everything.

She had no need for air, for the blood that went through her. The Mask fitted perfectly on her face, as if it was made for her.

“Welcome home.” It sang. She saw back up, the burn in her limbs no longer there. The air was still, the trees not moving. She didn't belong here. She needed to go back home. So she went.

The world tilted, and the 4 walls of her room came back to her. But it wasn't empty. 2 males were standing there, looking at her with fear.

The younger one came closer, his lips were moving but Nesta didn't care. She didn't feel a thing.

The older one came closer, and grabbed her face. The mask slightly came loose. No it should stay, they should be together till the end of time. But the male was still grabbing her. Then it stopped.

The first thing Nesta noticed was the cold, her body was shaking, her teeth chattering.

“Thank the Mother.” Lucien said as he grabbed her shoulders, pulling her close. “Nesta can you hear me?”

“Yes.” She stammered out. “Where was- what.”

“You triggered the wards, winnowing out of your room.” Helion said, his hands trembling as he held the mask. “I thought it was an attack on Lucien, but he was fine, we came here and you were gone.”

“She’s shaking. Is the infirmary open?”

“No, I let them go home. My study.” Helion picked her up and ran out of the room, Lucien hot on his feet. 

Helion's office was a mess like always, he placed her on the couch wrapping her in blankets and he handed her a drink, forcing it down her throat when she resisted.

“Where were you?”

“A lake.” She managed to say. “Something took me there, it was calling to me. Then a creature, it dragged me into the water.” She took another sip of the tea. Her body was shaking, not from the cold, but form the feeling of hands groping her, the tongue-

Nesta jumped up and threw up in one of Helion’s plants, her body shaking. But the High Lord simply helped her back into her chair.

“The lake?” Helion looked at his son. “Do you think that it’s the same one that-”

“Yes. Nesta, how did you get this mask?” Lucien grabbed her hand, rubbing his thumb in circles.

“It came to me. It was calling out for me, saying I was its sister.” She had to get a grip. She was fine, she was ok. Nesta sat up.

“What the hell is that?” Helion looked away from her. But she stood up and got in his face.

“Tell me.” Helion looked at her, his eyes moving too fast for Nesta to understand.

“It’s what Briallyn was after. The Dread Trove. A trio of artifacts that would make one the owner rule the world. She’s been spotted around the Middle, where the lake you went to was.” Lucien spoke. 

“And now?”

“Now we lock this up and deal with it after the coronation.” Helion picked the mask up, and looked at Nesta. “Go to bed, rest.”

And how could she say no to that?

Chapter Text

The morning was calm, a vast difference to the night before. It was as if the weather knew what day it was. The air was fresh, the sky clear. But Nesta’s inner thoughts were like a tornado. The cuts on her legs were still stinging, she could still feel the hand slowly creeping up her waist, the tongue grazing her cheek. The thought alone had her wanting to slice her skin off herself.

A piece of meat, that’s what she felt like. Nothing more than a morsel to be handled how others wanted. But there was no rage, it had died down in the water, just pity. All that training and she still couldn't see the trap laid in front of her.

She moved back, leaning against the headboard and pulled her knees to her chest. As much as she despised the mask for what it put her through, some part of her craved it. The blissful silence where her thoughts were locked far away. She couldn't feel anything. She just was.

“Lady Nesta?” A soft voice said from the otherside of the door. “I have your dress for the day. May I come in.”

“Of course.” Nesta fixed herself, wiping the stray tears and a small female in a simple lavender dress walked in.

“My lady, I was told you had an errand to run beforehand?” Emerie. Nesta was here throwing a pity party when she had promised to heal her friend's wings.

“Yes, I did. I'll go now, thank you.” She looked around and her gaze landed on her training clothes, one leg was ripped to shreds. She tore her gaze away from it, it was Lucien’s day, the day Helion had moved heaven and earth to make happen, the day where she helped kill a High Lord to achieve. No more self pity, no more whining. She had a job to do.

“You look stunning.” Nesta said as she walked to Enora. She was in a pale yellow dress, slits at her thighs and fabric that seemed like water. Her hair was done up with a decorated pin.

“I know.” she moved her dress around and latched onto Nesta. “So how do we get there?” Nesta hadn’t thought that far. She could try to find Zora, or Adaria, but that would take too long. She could ask a guard?

Or she could try to winnow? She had done so last night, forced as it may be, but she could. She had done it the day she left the Night Court.

She closed her eyes, picturing the clearing. She focused on the smell of grass, the soft breeze, the soft rays of sun. The tilted on its axis, and Nesta could hear a faint shriek.

“Oh my word.” Nesta opened her eyes and a smile spread across her lips. The large familiar trees greeted her. She had done it.

“Nesta?” She looked to her right and saw everyone bareing Zora. Emerie was sitting on the grass, her face pale.

Octavia stepped closer. “Did you just winnow here?”

“I did.” It took some time for the words to reach her ears. “I just did.”

“Hi, I’m Enora. Nice to meet you all.” She waved when Nesta didn't move, she was still hung up on winnoning.

“Nes told us about you. Here for the coronation?” Octavia smiled. “I’ll be back, Zora was waiting at the fountain for you.” As Octavia winnowed away, Nesta made the rounds introducing Enora to everyone. Adaria was still standoffish but it was a given.

“I used to hear about what the Illyrian males did, I’m so sorry.” Emerie just gave a shaky smile, then looked back at the floor.

“No thanks to your High Lord.” Adaria breathed, but Enora just smiled.

“Did I miss it?” Zora breathed, her face damp. “Oh hello, you are?”

Nesta walked to Emerie and grabbed her hand as Enora and Zora spoke.

“You don't have to do it Nesta. It's fine.” Her face was covered in sweat. “I can manage.”

“No. we’re doing this. Whatever those males did can be undone.” Nesta took a deep breath and stood up. The clearing was still as they watched her stand behind Emerie, her hands at the tip of the wings.

Emerie jumped and Nesta pulled back.

“Sorry, the points are sensitive.” Her ears were slightly red, but Nesta simply placed her hands at the center of each wing.

She closed her eyes and tugged on her magic. The same tingling sensations came to her fingers and she moved her hands down the wings. Damaged was a light word. The wings were mangled, the muscles were sliced and shoved in the wrong places, bones overlapping.

She slowly dragged her hands over each section, taking her time as she mended each fragment, each muscle. Nesta could hear the small gasps coming out from the others, the way Emerie’s breath would hitch when Nesta moved her hands.

Then it all went to shit.

Maybe it was her being on edge from last night, maybe it was all the eyes on her, but her magic came out faster, like water breaking through a hose. Nesta tried to rein it in, gain some control, but she was too slow. It fought her, shaking her off.

Her hands came to life, Nesta opened her eyes to see the fire spreading down her hands onto the wings. Screams filled the air, Nesta watched as Adaria fell back, as Enora walked forward. Zora tried to come close, but the flames doubled in size.

But Emerie was still, her body no longer trembling. Her face was the picture of calm. The flames weren’t hurting her, not in any way Nesta could see.

It was all or nothing. She shoved her hands harder and the flames roared, getting large, the white light almost blinding. And as soon as it started, it stopped.

Nesta fell down, her body drenched in sweat. She looked up and gasped.

The once bent and cut wings were gone, replaced with skin that had never seen a blade. The wings were upright, fully stretched out. Emerie rose slowly, and stretched out her wings. They didn’t stop halfway, they kept going till they went above her head.

“Cauldron.” Lupine said, her black eyes shining. Emerie moved her wings once, then again. Then without a word, she was 10 feet above them. The look on her face was pure awe. She dragged a hand down her face, and smiled. It was unlike any Nesta had ever seen. All her teeth were on show, her eyes were bright. With a yell, she flew higher and higher.

“YOU DID IT!” Emerie came down and lifted Nesta into the sky in one swift motion. She screamed as the ground grew farther away. The breeze was in her face, and her stomach dropped as Emerie dipped up and down. 

The view of the clearing was even more beautiful from above, and Nesta found herself wishing she could fly. Emerie looked down and smiled at her. She dove back down and once they touched the group, Emerie held her tight and pecked at her face.

“I can’t believe it, you-” Was all she could say.

“So much for not having magic.” Enora laughed, as she approached Emerie. “May I?”

Nodding, Emerie turned and Enora ran a hand down the wings. “It’s like they’re brand new, no damage at all. There isn’t any scarring.” She looked at Nesta, her mouth low. “How did you do that?”

“I don’t know.”

“I thought she was a goner when the fire came.” Seraphina let out a weak laugh. 

“I’ve never seen anything like that.” Adaria walked to Emerie, looking at the wings. Caught off guard, Emerie grabbed Adaria by the waist and lifted her up, her screams growing farther away.

But as Nesta watched Emerie fly around, she found a crow on one of the lower branches staring at her. It was still, its eyes on Nesta, and she couldn’t tear her vision away from it. Her mind drew back to the crow she had healed, and wondered if it were the same one, or maybe the one that she saw in Autumn. But before she could go to it, it flew away.

Nesta slowly walked back to Zora thinking of telling her what she saw, but Zora stood straighter. She glanced over her shoulder and smiled. “Finally joining us today?”

Nesta looked around and saw a female walk out from the trees. Her skin was a pale green, lighter than the grass. Her silky black hair framed her slender face. She twisted the base of her shirt.

“I um- I was just looking, you know?”

“Oh I know.” Zora barked out a laugh. “You've been doing so for the last 2 weeks. So I'll ask again, are you going to join us?”

The female pulled back, her nose wrinkled. “What makes you think I want to join?”

“The fact that you have a stick that you place 5 trees down to use as a sword, and the fact that you always stay close enough to hear the instructions.”

Her green face flushed red. “I was just-”

“Are you going to join us or what?” Her gold eyes moved around, her teeth tugging on her lower lip.

“Yeah. sure. I’m Lyra. I live in the village nearby, You’re Zora right?”

“That I am.” Zora stepped forward. “You should go back, Nesta. You have to get ready.” she placed a hand on Nesta’s shoulder, her eyes sparkling. “You’re truly something special you know?” Nesta didn't know what to say. She managed a nod and she winnowed away, feeling better than she had all week.

If anything was certain, it was that Helion was an excessive male. Not only had he brought 3 maids to scrub Nesta raw in water that smelled like heaven, he had them lather her in said oil, and dress her to the 9s. Nesta felt like she once did in the mortal land, dressing for dinners and balls.

Her hair was in her preferred style of a crown braid, but there were small jewels sprinkled in her hair that shimmered when she moved, and a beautiful hair chain, with silver strands coming out of the large diamond in the center. Her face was bare, only the lights dusting of silver powder over her eyes, and a soft red lip. Her ears were adorned with jewellery that looked like a waterfall of gems, her slender neck bare.

But the main attraction was her dress. It was a pale cream dress, that was off the shoulders, with silver chains draped across her biceps. The dress was low cut, lower than what Nesta would prefer, and a simple silver chain was at the waist.

“You look gorgeous.” Edwina said, clapping her hands together. “A true star.”

And she felt like one. Nesta wanted to look in the mirror for years, but then a guard poked his head in. He looked at her, then looked away, his ears red.

“Are you ready, Lady Nesta?”

“More than ready. Thank you all so much.” The ladies smiled and Nesta left the room. 

She entered the hall and gasped. The effort Helion had put into it hadn’t failed. The floor was filled with padded benches, there was a raised dais with 2 thrones made of gold. There was a 2nd floor filled with children in white robes. The windows were made of stained glass, depicting scenes of the previous High Lords. She could see Helion in one, sitting on a grand throne with a scroll in his hand.

But what captured her attention was the small lights moving around the room. They were no bigger than her fist, and let out a small humming noise as they passed, and Nesta could see them emitting a warm yellow colour.

“High Lord Helion has certainly out done himself.” Lain was next to her, wearing his formal robes.

“I know. It's- I have no words. The Librarians got invited?”

“Yeah, all of us. I wouldn't have minded the city celebrations, I just wanted to see the Willow o wisp.” He pointed to the closest one, that was obsessed with a lady’s hair that was done up with roses. “Do you think they’d notice if I took one?”

“I think so. Have you seen the High Lord?”  

“No, he might come out soon. Oh Lady Bianca.” Lian’s tone fell flat as a lady in a red dress came close, batting her lashes.

“Lain, how lovely to see you.”

The hall was starting to get fuller by the moment and still she hadn’t caught sight of Helion. Abandoning Lain with Lady Biance, (to Lain’s utter dismay) she left the hall. She made her way up the stairs, but she was stopped from time to time by people she had healed, kissing her knuckles and wishing her well. 

It was a while before she reached Helion’s study, and for the first time it was cleaned. There weren't any papers and scrolls lying around, the quills were in their pots, his shelf was organised neatly. Helion was sitting at his desk, quill in hand and brows furrowed.

“I’m almost certain this isn't where you should be.” Nesta smiled, leaning against the door frame. Helion looked up and smiled.

“Beautiful, are you sure you want to turn down my offer?”

“Funny, but I’m in no mood bedding my friend’s father.”

“Some people are quite into that.” 

“Helion, why are you here when you should be at the hall?”

“I have a footnote to complete. And besides, shouldn’t you be wooing the guests?” Nesta walked to him and took the papers away.

“What’s wrong?”

“Nothing. I just want to write something down. But if you’d like to spend the time another way?” He raised a brow, and Nesta was almost tempted. Almost.

“No,” She raised her hand, and Helion took hold of it. “Let’s go.”

They had been walking in silence when Helion spoke. “I never wanted to be High Lord, you know? It was never my duty. My Brother, Apollon was the heir. I was content being a scholar and writing papers. But then he died, and I was High Lord overnight. I had no proper teachings other than the bare minimum, and I was expected to rule a whole court.”

“I never knew.”

“But I took the throne with pride.” He glanced at Nesta. “I had a duty and I fulfilled it. But I am worried. Worried that Lucien will resent me for this, for making him a political figure.”

“He won’t. He cares about you, that much I can see.” She slipped out her hand. “Go be the High Lord.” 

Nesta weaved through the crowds and came face to face with High Lord Tarquin. The male looked stunning. Unlike the other High Lords, he had forgone a jacket and came up in a blue shirt with gold trimming. His white hair was pulled back and he lifted a perfect brow as he looked at her. 

“Lady Nesta,” He gave her a nood as she looked around. “I had no idea the Night Court presession had arrived.”

“They haven't.” Nesta fought off the smile threatening to come as she watched the High Lord’s face change.

“But you are here? On a trip?”

“Oh no, I live here. You should come and spend some time in the Scholar’s path. It’s quite lovely.”

Tarquin nodded and caught the eye of a beautiful female, who resembled him. “Thank you My lady, but I must go.” A brief nod and he was heading to the female, and after a few words, she glanced at Nesta.

Nesta kept walking forward to the front, and came right next to Eris and Lady Sylvia.

“Nesta.” Sylvia smiled and hugged her. “How lovely it is to see you.” She was out of the large stiff dress, and was wearing a flowy dress that made her look years younger. Her hair was done, and she had a smile on her face. 

“As well. How have you been?”

“No hello for me?” Eris teased. He was in a similar outfit for his coronation, a crown of amber leaves on his head.

“Hello. How is Autumn?” Nesta took her seat.

“Better. We’re working on some laws to make sure nothing like the last hundreds of years happens again.”

“He’s being modest.” Sylvia laughed. “He’s done more change in 3 weeks than his father did in years. I couldn't be more proud.” She stroked Eris' cheek and he smiled, it was soft, one that was reserved for his mother.

“I’m glad. And you, Lady Sylvia?”

“Glad that Lucien has found his home. And it’s just Sylvia, you helped kill my husband, it's only fair to drop the titles.” she winked. 

“Mother please.”

“I’ve been well. I’ve been thinking of leaving Autumn. It’s beautiful, but it’s not home, not anymore at least.” She smiled at Helion, who was already leaving the hall.

“I can understand.” Slyvia’s sleeve fell back, and a thin scar running up her hand appeared. Sylvia was quick to cover it, avoiding Nesta eyes. But Nesta wordlessly reached out, her fingers glowing silver and she mended the skin. When she was done, the scar had vanished. 

Slyvia looked from her hand to Nesta, and when Nesta didn’t respond. She interlaced their hands together and kept going.

“I’d like to spend some time in Dawn. I haven't been there since the meeting.” She sighed. “I miss the honeyed buns they have.”

“I’ll take you Mother.” Eris hummed and she gave him a weak smile.  

A burst of commotion had Nesta looking at the entrance. Tamlin had arrived. He looked tired, his hair dull, his eyes tired. He was wearing a green jacket with emeralds all over. He was dressed well, but he looked utterly broken. People moved out of his way as he walked, making no point to hide their whispers.

Nesta looked away, but she could see Adaria’s face as she spoke of home, her family. The way her face tightened as she hoped for Tamlin to do something.

Her legs were carrying her towards him. She stopped in front of him, but he looked ahead.

“You need to get your shit together.”

“I beg your pardon?” He was holding a flute of champagne as he gave her a once over.

“You’re a High Lord, one whose court is in shambles-”

“And who’s fault is that?” Tamlin snarled. “Your sister-”

“Has done what she’s done. It's over. She dismantled your court, yes. But what now? What about the people you have looking up to you? What of the people that miss home?”

“I am doing the best I can. The supplies your High Lord-”

“Rhysand is not my High Lord, do not make that mistake again.” Nesta snarled and Tamlin tilted his head, a ghost of a smile on his lips. A few people looked at her, and Nesta tried to calm down.

“The help Rhysand is sending is not enough to help my Court. Bad enough I'm tethered to him and his mate.”

Nesta bit back a laugh, “As much as Feyre used to compliment you, you sure act dense. Do you think it is wise to be taking help from somebody who went out of her way to dismantle your court, and the male who assisted her?  What's to say when you have rebuilt your Court, they won’t come and under the guise of ‘we helped you so now we're in charge?’”

Tamlin clenched his jaw. “They would not.”

“And what makes you so sure? Maybe instead of hiding out in that manner of yours prowling on all fours, maybe you should reach out to other people, perhaps the ruler of a seasonal Court who's just ascended the throne? And from what I've heard you two seem to be very close when it comes to planning, I mean you took in his brother for the sake of it.”

Nesta watched the gears turn in his head. She knew he had no fault in what happened to her, but the feeling of resentment would take a while to wash out. She just wanted to prevent another person from being trapped in a foreign court because their home was no longer available to them.

“Have a good day, Lady Archeron.” He walked away and Nesta returned to her seat.

“Antagonizing powerful males must be a kink of yours.” Eris hissed.

“Perhaps.” The doors slammed open and Nesta knew who it was.

The Night Court had arrived. Rhysand was dressed in black as usual, his hand around Feyre. 

A pregnant Feyre. Her stomach was slightly protruding in her dark blue dress that looked like stars. The silver crown on her head glowing. Behind them was Cassian and Morrigan arm in arm and Nesta felt irritated, but she had no clue why.

Amren was tailing them, in a simple grey dress, her eyes scanning the crowd, perhaps for Varian. Nesta whipped her head back at Eris.

“Say something, anything.”

“Marry me?”

“Eris!” His mother hit his arm. “What is the matter with you?”

“She said to say- oh whatever. It seems that your friends have found their way here.” He smiled at her. “So, how is the healing business going?”

“Well, I helped heal my friend's wings, she’s an Illyrian.”

Eris’s brows shot up. “Now that’s something.” The Night Court precession sat at the bench across her, next to the Winter Court. She could feel eyes on her, but she let them roll off her back. No drama. It was Lucien’s day.

The doors shut, and the children in the top rows started to sing. It was a soft song, it sounded like the music studio at Enora’s apothecary. The sounds were overlapping and Nesta felt the need to dance.

The Willow O Wisp moved to the walls and the doors opened once more. Helion was at the front, in his simple toga, and his muscular thighs on show, he looked stunning.

7 lords trailed behind him, each with their head lowered. Helion reached the 1st row, winking at Sylvia, who blushed. He stood at the dais and smiled.

“It is a momentous day. One I am glad to share with you all.” He opened his arms. “For today we crown my son, Lucien Spell-Cleaver, as Heir to the Day Court.”

“300 years,” Helion said after the cheers stopped, atop his throne. “I have missed out, but that changes today. My son is a male of great character, of great virtue, and has shown that his loyalty to his friends knows no bounds. Lord Augustus,” The older male at the front nodded. “Have you a reason to doubt my son’s rightful claim?”

“No my lord. House Augustus stands with you.” The old male walked off and another one stepped forward.

“Lord Trajan, have you a reason to doubt my son’s rightful claim?”

“No my lord, House Trajan stands with you.” A young male stepped forward and it went on for Houses Nero, Caligula, Hadrian, Tiberius, and Commodus. When all 7 lords moved to the right, a female in soft yellow robes spoke.

“I am Delphi, High Priestess of the Day Court. All 7 houses have spoken. Bring in the chosen.”

The crowd turned and gasped. And for good reason. The Lucien she was looking at was vastly different than the night before. His hair was done, gold pieces shining throughout. His clothes were the same as his fathers, his hands adorned in gold. Each step carried power, he reached the dais and knelt at the High Priestess’s feet.

“Who are you?”

“Lucien Spell-Cleaver.” His voice was smooth. “Son of Sylvia Vanserra and Helion Spell-Cleaver.” A few people gasped and small whispers broke out. Nesta grabbed Sylvia's hand, rubbing her thumb back and forth.

“And what is it you are here for?”

“To take my place as Heir to the Day Court.”

The High Priestess placed a hand on his head, and a warm light came out. She lifted her head and spoke, but it was like 7 people were speaking at the same time.

“The Mother has spoken.” she rasped. “A new line has been made, a new future. Lucien Spell-Cleaver, rise. Rise as the new heir of Day.”

Lucien stood up, and the floor shook. A wave of raw power slammed through the hall, the air humming. He slowly walked to his father, to the throne next to him. He slowly took a seat and smiled.

“All hail the Heir of Day!”

People stood up and started to cheer. The Willow O wisp came towards Lucien and hovered around him, making him laugh. Nesta stood and clapped along, smiling at her friend.

Helion knew how to party.

Truly. He had the hall transformed, and it seemed much bigger than before. There were dancers, a full band, tables filled with food and drinks. The city long carriage ride had just finished and Lucien was smiling, talking to a lady with a metal hand.

Helion stood aside, Lady Sylvia on his arm, smiling at eachother. Feyre was on the other side of the room, her eyes constantly on Nesta.

Brush it off , Nesta kept telling herself as she spoke to a lord. A few people had moved to the centre of the room, dancing. Nesta wanted to join, but something was holding her back. Someone. Cassian’s eyes were on her, and she was afraid that if she stepped forward, she’d have to dance with him. The lesson’s her mother had drilled into her were still stuck with her.

“If a man asks for a dance, you must agree. I will not have you ruin the image I spent so long cultivating.”

“You know he told me it would be a small affair?” Lucien spoke, his crown tilted.

“Helion and small don’t belong in the same sentence. How are you?”

“Perfect. Care for a dance?” Lucien didn't let her respond. He pulled her to the center. And Nesta didn’t mind one bit.

“Rhysand has spent the better half of the day glaring at you.” Lucien lowered his lips to her ear. “It’s borderline obsessive.”

“Let’s not think of them today.” Lucien smiled and spun her. Nesta poured her attention on the dance. Lucien was a good partner, good in the aspect he didn't step on her toes. The song faded out and Lucien let her go. But she could see Cassian make his way to her.

“A dance my lady?” Eris smiled, and Cassian halted. He pulled her to the floor and a tango started to play. “Saved by the bell?”

“I owe you one.” Eris slowly moved her around, his movements precise. Nesta found herself letting go of it all. Eris was perfect, he kept up with her, moving like liquid.

And before she thought that was it, he was dipping her and throwing her around, laughing as he did so. And Nesta found herself laughing as well. Eris spun her around and around, his hands never straying from her waist. With each toss and spin she felt less tense.

The world was disappearing from her mind, it was just him and her. She hadn’t even realised that the music had ended.

“It’s rare to find such a skill partner, don’t you think?” 

“I do think so. Another?”

“Nesta.” she turned and saw Cassian, his hand out. “A dance?”

She wanted to say no, but the feeling of a stick hitting her hand came back. And people were watching.

“Sure. Another time?” She winked at Eris, who simply kissed her hand.

“Of course.” She grabbed Cassian’s hand and they started to dance. Nesta felt like the walls were closing in. all she could see and feel was him. His steps were slow, and Nesta tried to think of things to keep her mind away from him.

“How are you Nes?” Nesta let out a slow breath.

“Good.”

“One word only?” He tilted his head, and Nesta forced a smile.

“I’ve been well. And you?”

“Missing you.” That was not what she was expecting.

“Oh.”

“Nesta, come home.”

“I am home.” 

“To the Night Court, to the House of Wind.” His hand moved down her waist and she stilled.

The hand creeped up her shirt, grazing her breast.

The foul tongue invading her mouth with no care.

“Stop.” Cassian lowered his hand and he gave her a sideways look.

“I miss you, we all do. Nesta, come back. Feyre and Elain have been in a state.”

“Feyre looks quite content, and so am I.”

“Rhys is sorry, so is Amren.” Nesta laughed and Cassian stilled.

“Sorry? That doesn't even cover what’s happened. And the male has been glaring at me for the better half of the day. Try the lies on someone else.”

Cassian sighed, and the motion tickled her for some reason. “Nesta you have to. You know alot about the court. It's a security risk.”

“A security risk?” Nesta hissed. “Are you fucking kidding me?” A few people looked at her.

“Nesta.”

“That is the most lazy excuse ever. Lucien knows more than I do, is he a security risk? I'm quite happy in Day, and-”

“What about us?”

“There is no us.” The nerve of him. Nesta let his hand go and walked out of the room, the song still playing.

She walked to an empty balcony, letting the cool air hit her. Security risk, she wanted to slap the male. If he wanted her back, then maybe he should stick up for her. Act like he wanted well for her, when all he was capable of doing was licking Rhysand’s feet.

And what about us? She wanted to shove him off a roof with his wings tied up. 

“Nesta?” Feyre was standing at the door, a hand on her stomach. And Nesta could only hear the voice in the water calling for her.

“Feyre. How are you?” She looked at her sister.

“Fine. I'm so fine. I’m, well you can see.” She laughed pointing to her stomach. “You look well. Day’s been good to you.”

“It has, I needed the change. It's home.” It wasn't. It was the closest she’s felt to home in Prythian.

“I- Wow. I miss you Nesta.” Nesta just stared at her.

“How is-”

“Come home.” Feyre’s voice was small. 

Nesta stilled, and took a step back, her eyes narrowing. “I like it here. I'll be staying here.”

Feyre sighed and rubbed her stomach. “Why? Why go here? Why not go to the Continent? Why torment me by staying-”

“You?” Nesta shrieked. “My god Feyre, stop thinking about you. It's not always about you.”

“I am not making it about me-”

“YOU ARE!” Nesta let out a breath. No drama, no drama. “I am here because I love it here. I have found friends, a job and a home. So no, I won't leave.”

“Why are you doing this!”

“Because this is my home, and I don’t want to.”

“You need help-”

“Help? I have a job, I heal people, I have a house, I have friends. I don't need help Feyre, and especially not from you.” Nesta didn't bother sugarcoating her words, and Feyre’s face flashed with anger.

“We could have.” Feyre came closer, and Nesta stepped back, ignoring the hurt on Feyre’s face.

“Your idea of help was locking me in a house where I couldn't leave with a male I disliked. Only after trying to force a sword into my hand. so no Feyre, you couldn't have helped.”

“Oh but you help yourself to our money.”

“You mean your mate’s money? And last I checked, I paid it back.”

“Day isn’t safe. You have to come back home, I-”

“We can't be normal can we?” Nesta laughed. “We can never be on equal footing can we? This relationship only works if you're in charge. It's always been like that, in the cabin-”

“Oh, you want to talk about the cabin?” Feyre laughed but there was no humor behind it. “I was the one out there, I was the one hunting, so I am soo sorry that I gave you stuff to do so we wouldn't die!”

“That's the fucking problem! You think I was lying on my arse when I was cleaning up after you. I was the one cooking, who do you think was cooking the meat you brought? I was the one sewing our rages so it lasted longer than 2 fucking weeks!” Nesta pulled her hair, and cackled.

“At least with cooking there wasn't a chance of you dying! I did what I could, and yet you would only be concerned with gossip instead of-”

“When were you going to tell me about Clare?” Feyre froze, and when she looked up at Nesta, there was something like guilt in her eyes.

“I forgot to tell you.”

“That’s a terrible fucking excuse, try again.”

“The way she died, it was terrible. And I didn’t want you to know. I regret giving her name-”

The world stopped.

“What do you mean?” Feyre looked pale, she was playing with her hands and when she spoke, her voice was small.

“I gave her name instead of mine, and Amarantha- she took Clare.”

Nesta gripped the railing, her hands starting to tingle.

“You bitch.” Was all Nesta could say. 

“Nesta, I’m sorry, but I had to.”

“I never want to speak to you again, you knew what she meant to me and you kept it quiet for two years? You didn't ever think once that I would be affected and you just-” She raised a shaking hand and pinched the tip of her nose trying to steady herself. She had only gotten over the hole in her heart, and now the wound was pouring blood again.

“This is my home, I'd rather died than come with you, call off your bat.”

“Such original words.” Nesta looked to her left and Rhysand was there, arms folded. Nesta’s heart skipped a beat. She was talking about Cassian, not Rhysand. Was he here the whole time?

“Where one goes the other follows.” Rhysand smiled at her and moved forward. It was shit timing, or maybe they were called over because Cassian, Morrigan, and Amren came out.

“It’s time to come home.” Was all Rhysand said. 

“No. Piss off.”

“Girl-”

“Who let you out of your cage?” She snapped at Amren, who smiled. “I am staying here. You can cry, scream, whatever. But I'm staying here.”

“Why bother with her?” Morrigan huffed, and Cassian shook his head.

“Nesta, your magic-”

“I am in control of that, and if I do blow up, It won't be in your court so relax.”

“Nesta we miss you.” Feyre whimpered and Rhysand had the audacity to glare at her. “You don’t have to stay in the House of Wind, you can go back to your store.”

They would never let her leave where she wanted, if that was the case, they would have let her stay with Enora.

“And leave my job and friends? And live with you after what you’ve told me? No thank you.”

Feyre lifted her head, “Why do you have to do this? Why can't you come home and be-”

“What is this?” Helion snapped, storming through the doors. He took in the scene and his face twisted. “Must you be such a arse, Rhysand? On my son’s coronation at that?”

“It’s just a court matter, Helion.” Rhysand smiled, and for a second Nesta almost believed him.

“Nesta Archeron is not part of your court. So what do you want?”

Rhysand looked at Feyre and Morrigan. “As I said-”

“Helion, she’s my sister.” But Helion huffed.

“And she clearly doesn't want to be around you.”

“Why don’t we go somewhere else?” Morrigan trailed a finger up Helion’s hand, but he shoved her off.

“No thank you. Cut the shit Rhysand, I mean it.”

“Do you truly think that when the dust settles and they see you for what you are, they’ll want anything to do with you? Your so-called friends?” 

Nesta looked at Amren. “You should have died in the Cauldron.”

Amren’s face stilled as Feyre reached for Nesta, who moved back.

“Stop this Nesta,” Rhysand said, but Helion stood between her and Rhysand.

“I told you to stop. Now back up.”

“She is part of my court.” Rhysand snarled and Helion laughed.

“Nesta, do you like it here?”

“Yes?” Nesta tilted her head.

“And would you like to stay here?”

“Yes.” Rhysand’s eyes widened but Helion was already talking.

“As High Lord of the Day Court, I grant you, Nesta Archeron, citizenship.” Nesta felt herself relax as a warm glow washed over her.

“Now do me a favour, Rhysand. Take your court and fuck off.”

“You can’t-”

“You’ve never been able to mind the business that minds you Rhysand.” Nesta said softly. Rhysand turned to her, snarling.

“Nesta.” Feyre grabbed her hand and Nesta stilled. Feyre felt wrong, she had no clue what it was but it was wrong. She focused on the feeling and it was near her stomach.

“Somethings wrong with your stomach, you should check it out.” Feyre stopped and looked at Rhysand and his face was filled with rage. Amren gleaned back at Morrigan, who was staring at Nesta. 

Weird.

“You don’t think of the people you’re harming do you? Your sister-”

“Are you telling me you're such poor company that Feyre would rather speak to me? Some mate you are.”

A wave of black power washed over the balcony, but Nesta raised a hand and flames danced around her fingers, the dark pulling back. Amren looked intrigued, leaning close.

“Go Rhysand.” Helion’s tone was final. With one more rage filled look, Rhysand and his court disappeared.

“Always the theatrics with that court.” Helion sighed, and Nesta couldn’t help but agree.

Chapter Text

Part 2: The gods may roam, but even they return to scared grounds

Nesta was in a study, and a beautiful one at that. The large white desk was in front of a grand window, showing Nesta another view of the castle, one where she could see the nearest town closer. There were books with elegant bindings on the bookshelves, small trinkets shining around. There was a large tree outside swaying back and forth.

If Nesta could grab a vase and smash it over her own head, she would. She was too tired to remember anything.

Nesta watched as the familiar lady wrote on scrolls, taking time to look over her notes in a large book. She grabbed a quill and started to bite on the end of it.

“High Lady?” A male voice sounded from the other side of the door. The lady looked up, her face dull.

“Come in.”

“High Lady Celeste,” The male said, going into a deep bow. He stood up and looked around the room, “I- um.”

“I know. Take your time, child.” Celeste placed her head on her hands, a grin taking over her face.

Celeste, that was her name.

“My apologies, I come bearing upsetting news.” He walked to the chair in front of the desk and sat down. Nesta stepped forward and took a closer look at Celeste. She had a slender face, her ears were adorned with small earrings all the way to the slender tip of her ear. She had a small splash of freckles across her nose.

“About?”

“The conflict with the Night Court.” Celeste's face fell. She sat up and folded her arms.

“What is High Lord Blackbeak’s verdict?” Her voice was cold, detached. 

The male looked at her, his eyes wide. “That I do not know. They have cut off trade with us. They will not send weapons and they have sent back all the people we had stationed there.” The male frowned. “Has High Lord Blackbeak not given you his response?”

“No. I believe-” The door swung open and Lady Celeste stood up. Nesta moved closer to her, even though she couldn't do anything.

“High Lady.” The female said, her blue face pale. “The- The response has come.”

“What is it?”

“War. High Lord Blackbeak has declared war on us.” Celeste’s face fell. She sat back down and the 2 fae looked at her. Nesta could see the change, the way Celeste stood taller and how her face hardened.

“My Lady-”

“Go tell General Elizabeth. Tell her.” The 2 fae left and Celeste lowered her head.

“War.” she scoffed. “What is the overgrown bat doing?” Nesta watched as Celeste stood up and locked her door. She walked to her bookshelf and grabbed a leather bound book. She flipped through the pages and sighed.

“Let’s just hope this works.”

Nesta was half on her bed and half off it, her hair was stuck to her damp forehead. She was still wearing the outfit from the night before, minus all the jewellery and her hair was sticking up at random angles.

Celeste, that was the lady's name. That should narrow Nesta’s search. She could find somebody in history who was named Celeste and go from there. 

But the Night Court took over the place. Would the history be part of the Night Court history? Would Nesta have to go back to the Night Court? 

No, she couldn't. All of the hard work she had done would unravel in a second because of some dream she had. She had no guarantee if it were real. The best thing for her to do was leave. Go somewhere far away and forget everything that has ever happened. Open her own store, find a decent husband, settle down. She knew Rhysand wouldn't stay down. He'd find a way to bring her back. And Feyre would be standing by his side as he did, so her best bet was to leave.

But even as she thought about it, it left a bitter taste in her mouth. She didn't want to settle down, she didn't want to be safe. She wasn't going to go back to the Night Court, that was guaranteed. She'd find her own information. She had freedom and a bunch of great friends, a great paying job and quite frankly she wasn't in the mood to upheaval her life because of her sister.

Thinking about her sister hurt. She knew what had happened to Clare; she had condemned Clare to death. And it hurt. The only person that she could ever properly understand, the only person who had stuck by her through all of it was gone because of her sister.

She found herself wishing she gave another name, maybe her life would be different, maybe Clare would be right next to her, laughing at her.

She couldn't stay in bed forever, she had to get on with it.

Nesta opened her wardrobe and looked at the clothes, pulling out a flowy green dress, and looked at her clothes, trying to find some other clothes to train in. She pulled out a simple grey shirt and pants that she had bought a while back.

The hallway was empty, most people still in bed due to the party. Nesta took in the calm and the soft breeze. The dining room was mostly empty. Helion and Lucien were sitting next to each other, laughing and eating.

Nesta walked in, the green dress swishing with each step. A male with soft blue wings pulled out her chair and she sat down. The beige linen lined table was filled with furies and pastries.

“Nesta!” Lucien smiled and grabbed a strawberry with a fork. “How are you?”

“Tired from all the dancing. How are you doing? The Lords still on your back for marriage?” Nesta reached out and grabbed a handful of fruits.

Lucien rubbed his chin. “They don't seem to realise that I don't want to wed, not yet at least. Is what Helion’s saying true? Are you a Day Court citizen?”

Nesta nodded, taking her gaze off her plate and looked at Lucien “Yes. Helion had to, Rhysand was being his typical self, and Feyre, well she was as always.”

“Rhysand being a hard asre, I would have never thought.” 

“I actually did want to speak about this with you Nesta.” Helion said as he sat up, his lilac toga catching the sun. “Since you are now an official member of the Day Court, the only way you can stay in the palace is if you take up a role within the court. It doesn't have to be anything strenuous, it can be something as simple as being one of the healers, or I can make you a lord of something, perhaps overseeing the grain imports?” Helion smiled at her, and looked at a few papers near him.

No . Something inside her said. Don't.

“As much as that sounds nice, I think I'll decline. I'm in no position to Lord over people. There is a village I'm probably going to move to, it’s somewhere along the outskirts of the court.”

“I thought you’d say no.” Helion sighed as he picked up the papers, and they disappeared. “And what area?” Helion hummed as he grabbed some eggs on his fork.

“It's near the border of Night.” Helion dropped his fork and looked up at her

“I'm not too sure if you're being sarcastic or serious. You want to move near the border of the court that just tried to abduct you last night?”

“I'm not joking,” Nesta smiled. “And besides it's a lovely area, it's 10 minutes away from the border and there's no way people could mistake it for the Night Court. I’ll be fine and plus it's way closer to where I train.”

“Nesta, I can't in good conscience let you go there. The amount of danger that could happen, especially with what happened 2 nights ago.”

Nesta gripped her fork, the memories flooding through. “Well it is a great thing that I am not asking for permission.” 

She started at Helion, and some part of her wanted to back down, that was her High Lord. But she simply kept her eyes on him, ignoring the strain on her mind.

“It’ll be fine. Nesta is more than capable of looking after herself further and if you are that worried we can arrange visits every week to make sure she is fine.” Lucien said, and Nesta let out a small breath when Helion looked away. 

Helion looked between his son and Nesta. “Fine, but you do not go in there until I personally check out the area. Okay?”

“Fine and while you're at it, you can carry my bags.” Nesta continued to eat her breakfast. 

The library was open and busy. People were greeting her, all smiles. But Nesta had one goal in mind: Find out what the fuck the Dread Trove was. The Mask was still singing to her, through all the wards Helion had put up.

“Sweet sister, don’t you miss the nothingness?”  It would hiss to her in the dead of night, and all Nesta could do was cover her ears.

But oh lord how she was tempted. The quiet, the lack of self hate, the expectations she held herself too disappeared like smoke. She was nothing. 

The 2nd floor was the most packed, old myths were a fan favourite. Nesta was flipping through a children's book, when she came across it.

“The Dread Trove, one of a kind.

One of the rarest treasures to find.

3 items made by the Caldron alone

With powers that are mostly unknown.

A crown of pure gold, power entwined

Holding the ability to capture one’s mind.

A mask so grand, yet so full of dread

Gives one the power to bring forth the dead.

And last of all, the harp, it’s tune pure, sublime

Allowing one to pass through time.

All 3 used at once would make one less worthy a fool,

But to others, it gives the power to rule.”

The author sure had a flair for the dramatic.

The second page showed a picture of the 3 items, and the drawings made the Trove look so innocent, not a threat at all.

Nesta had worn one of them, felt its pull. And it led to the question of why Briallyn was so curious about them, so much so she’d go to Beron?

Packing her room up the next day might have been the most depressing thing Nesta had done. The room was the nicest she had ever spent her time in, the flowy curtains, the large bed, the balcony, all of it were stuff that Nesta was going to miss. But better her leave to the Castle than get dragged back to the Night Court.

Lucien was placing her books in a bag and Nesta was grabbing her jewellery when he spoke.

“I heard some news today.” He placed her healing book in the bag. “Tamlin has declined Night Court resources' entry into the Spring Court.”

“Oh, good for him.” Nesta hummed, putting on a necklace and admiring the look of it.

“Yeah, and now he's receiving help from Winter and Autumn. Eris has sent in a few farmers to help out. It's funny, right after you speak to him, he changes his views.”

“I had no clue.” She didn't, she thought Tamlin would huff and puff, not actually take her advice. “And anyway, it’s better for the seasonal courts, team-building and all.”

“I’m sure that’s purely a mortal concept. And better for Spring. Tamlin needed to fix up.”

“That’s true. Lucien, tell me what Briallyn wants with the Dread Trove?”

Glass shattering rang through the room, and Nesta jumped. Lucien had the fragments of Nesta’s glass vials still in his hands.

“Why have you done that?” She snapped, rushing to him. Turning his palms up, she ran her thumb over the cuts, watching as the blood stopped pouring out.

“What do you mean?” Lucien’s tan face was pale. “About Briallyn?”

“You know what I mean. She’s after the Trove but why? What does she gain from it? She can’t strong arm Prythian like Hybern wanted, the 7 Courts won’t let her.”

“I- I don’t.”

“Lucien, do not lie to me.”

“It has to do with the Cauldron. I've heard that she's jealous, she's upset about the fact that after you went in and stole from the Cauldron and it took its anger out on her. She might be collecting the Trove to regain her beauty or regain her standing with the Mortal Queens.” The words were tumbling out of him, and he looked miffed that he actually uttered them.

“That’s-”

“Insane. But she’s determined. We have a Trove now, and that lowers her chances of her goal. But I have eyes on her.”

Briallyn, Dread Trove, Cauldron. Nesta’s head was reeling.

“Lucien, I need you to tell me this stuff. You can’t leave me in the dark, not when this concerns me.”

“It was new, and you had just been through-”

“I don’t care.” She snarled. “When something concerns me, you tell me. You own me that at the least.”

He nodded, and gripped her hand. “I swear it.” Nesta smiled and pulled back, placing more of her clothes away.

Helion was awaiting her at the bottom of the steps outside the castle. “I’ve been to the village, and you’re right. It’s safe. These are the keys to your new home.” He placed the metal in her hand, and something stirred within her.

“I know, thank you Helion, for everything.” She dipped into a small bow, but Helion grabbed her shoulders.

“I should be thanking you for your help with our issue.” He winked at her and his face was the last thing she saw before she winnowed away.

The clearing was empty, it was hours till everyone came for training. The pair walked through the worn out path to the small village, the sun beaming down on them. And surely, a cluster of houses came into view. Cobblestone houses with grass all over, beautiful flowers near the path. A small center with shops all around.

The people slowly started to come out when they realised who was with Nesta. A lady walked to them and bowed to Lucien, grasping his hands.

“So lovely to meet you.” Lucien smiled and kissed her knuckles. A few more approached, then more, until they were surrounded by a small crowd. Lucien was basking in the glow, holding conversations with all the people, about trade, border control. A small girl with honey skin came up to him, and he picked her up, playing with her.

Promising to pass by another day, they walked till they reached a row of small houses. A lady with dark skin was leaning against a small brown door, her shirt cropped at the shoulders. When she saw them approach she smiled.

“Hello, you must be the lady Lord Helion was telling me about.” She walked to Nesta and grabbed her hand, shaking it, but Nesta winced at the touch, her hands were oddly cold, even in this weather. “He said that you were coming and I should wait till you came. My name is Vera. Welcome to Evenfall.” 

“Thank you, I’m Nesta. This is-”

“The new Heir.” Vera smiled, looking Lucien up and down. “I took my mother to the city, she was on a high all day long.”

“That’s lovely to hear.” Nesta moved forward as they spoke and tried the key. A click and the door swung open. The entryway was simple. A narrow hallway with a beige rug and a cabinet with little candles. On her left was a door and Nesta walked through. The living room was bathed in sun rays. The window was open, a breeze coming through, and on the window ledge was a cluster of small plants. A long couch shaped like a U was in front of the window, a low table at the center. A simple rack with books was in the corner, and Nesta was already thinking of how she’d arrange her books.

The kitchen was large enough for her to make food. Green cabinets and soft white plates. But the view was the thing that caught Nesta’s eye. It was a large clearing, one smaller than the one they used, she could see a few figures playing in the green.

“This is one cozy home.” Lucien said as he looked at a potted plant on the windowsill. 

“It’s perfect.” Nesta smiled, and laughed. “Helion has a good eye don’t you think?”

“He does. Now I'll be back this time next week. Just make sure to winnow back to the city if you see any issues near the border.” 

“I will, and you tell me about any change with Briallyen.” Nesta said as they walked out the door, where Vera was waiting.

“You like it?”

“Love it. Take care.” Lucien winked at her and left.

“I live right next door, with my mother. If you need any help feel free to swing by.” As she spoke, Nesta looked at her hands, small scars were all over her hands.

“Ah, I got those from the army. The males were not so happy about the new female addition. They made their hate known and I had no interest in changing their minds.” Vera brushed her hair out of her face. “Turns out I was more interested in swords than fighting, opened my own forge, you should swing by sometime soon.”

“I think I will, thank you for the help Vera.” The female nodded and Nesta walked back into her home. Grabbing her bags at the door, she walked to her room.

It was across the living room and the first thing she saw was her bed. It was positioned between 2 windows, and it was covered in blankets and pillows. The rug underneath her was soft, and she ran a hand through it. The walls had fae lights hanging from them.

As Nesta placed her bags in the closet, she walked to her bed, wanting nothing more than to relax. The covers were soft, and the bed large.

Nesta turned to get a closer look at the window when something sharp poke her thigh. She sat up and looked down, then jumped out of the bed, crashing onto the floor.

In the center of it was the Mask, its golden depictions shining in the light.

“Sister, come with me.” It hummed and Nesta felt her skin prickle. She took a step back. How the hell did it get here? Helion had guarded it.

“Like calls to like.” The Mask hummed. “Come home Sister, I miss you, we all do.” It was Feyre speaking, and Nesta covered her ears, her eyes screwed shut.

But would it be so bad? She could feel nothing again, she could be free. No expectations. Just peace. 

Without realising, she had moved closer to her bed, the Mask in reach.

“No, no.” Nesta stood up and grabbed the mask. It was pulsing in her grasp, like a 2nd heartbeat.

She needed to put it in a place where she couldn't reach it, somewhere it would never leave. 

What she needed was a safe, one where no one could get to, not even Helion. Then something came to mind. She had seen Helion place papers in nothing, they’d just vanished in sight. She had seen Feyre do the same. What she needed was to do that. 

Nesta stood up and paced around her room, she needed to make a safe in another dimension, somewhere no one could reach. She took in a deep breath, held it and let it go. As she did the breathing practices, she tried to visualise a safe, a large metal one like the ones her father had. And with each breath, the safe felt more real.

She grabbed the Mask, ignoring its pleas and lifted her hand. Her hand had vanished, only her wrist up left. 

“Nesta, why are you leaving me?” The Mask cried in Elain’s voice, and Nesta let the mask drop. Pulling back her hand, Nesta dropped on her bed and tried to push everything away.

“If I had wings I'd never stop flying.” Octavia smiled as she watched Emerie fly around. Nesta was lying on her back next to her.

“Me neither. It must be so freeing.” Nesta stood up and watched as Zora trained Lyra. Her hair was pulled back and her slender hands were gripping a wooden dagger. Zora was infront of her, guiding her every move. The nymph was picking up Zora’s instructions quite well, and Zora had even told Nesta that she might hand her an actual sword.

“I’d like to have paper like wings, the ones that can reflect light.” Octavia stood up and grabbed her sword. “I’d stand in front of the sun all the time.”

“I quite like Illyrian wings,” Nesta took a stance. “They seem sturdy.” Nesta launched herself at Octavia, her sword slashing down on her.

“Oh really? I always thought you were more of a Peyregen type. Big white fluffy wings.” Nesta watched as Octavia moved towards her, her feet light. Nesta had just enough time to step aside and bring her sword down, but Octavia had seen it coming and raised hers, the swords clashing.

“Is that all you have Nesta? Tired, are we?” The words lit a fire under Nesta and she rushed forward. Octavia had met her every move and was taunting her the whole time. Seeing an opening as Octavia raised her sword, Nesta summoned flames to her hand and shot them upwards. And as Octavia was distracted, Nesta swiped her feet from under her. Octavia crashed down, her sword next to her.

“That has to be cheating.” Octavia laughed, but she didn't get up. Nesta laid back down next to her.

“I think not. So tell me more about your new neighbour. The one who helped you with your broken bed?”

Octavia flushed red. “There’s not much to say-”

“Nesta.” Zora said as she sat next to them. “I was wondering about the Valkyries clothing. The texts say that they were battle ready, but I can't find any more. Could you check in the High Lords palace?”

“I can. Maybe Sera’s grandmother could help out.” She nodded towards the female who was speaking with Adaria. But Nesta already knew what they looked like. 

She wasn't keeping her mouth shut to be spiteful. She just didn't know how to break it to her friends.

“Oh I already know how the Valkyries used to dress because I’ve been dreaming about a Court that fell hundreds of years ago and they so happened to have lived there. Oh, and remember how I bought up Valkyrie training? That's because I had a dream about them and saw one die. And the only reason we're in this clearing is because this is the only place that feels like home.”

They would have thought her mad, or laughed.

“I doubt it.” Emerie sat down. “Finding out about the training was hard enough.”

“You know what?” Adaria said as she came over. “Emerie can be our aerial unit.”

“You should stay in Day Emerie. Your wings will cause an issue when you return to the Night Court.” Zora voiced as she stared at the large wings.

“Oh, I left Illyria. I gained citizenship yesterday. I was going to tell you all at dinner.

Octavia sat up, eyes shining. “That’s perfect! Saves you all the trouble. Now, round 2 Nesta?”

Chapter Text

The air was thick with Death.

Nesta couldn't move, weeds wrapped around her ankles, holding her in place, and maybe she was hallucinating, but they sound like they were mocking her. The sky was grey with the smoke coming from the clearing she had grown to love, the once large trees were reduced to nothing more than ash. The ground was black, for as far as her eyes could see. But her vision was blocked by the thick smoke.

But what confused her the most was the fire. It tore through everything in its path, but it wasn’t the familiar red, it was silver.

She had done this.

A scream tore pierced the silence. Nesta whipped her head around, the village in flames. She grabbed her skirts and tried to run, the vines loose. She could help them, she could-

The world tilted and she found herself on the blacked grass, the vines crawling higher up her legs, the feeling making her skin itch. 

The fog had cleared, and she screamed.

Bodies littered the grass, Zora was facing her, blue eyes still looking at her, despite the gaping hole in her chest. There was a charred body with soft white hair, hand on a still sheathed sword. Emerie was a few steps away, her beautiful wings lying next to a headless Adaria. Seraphina was next to her, hands outstretched.

But the red hair next to her had Nesta sobbing. Gwyn, or what was left of her was still in her priestess robes, her beautiful face melting off her, and Nesta could do nothing.

“Nesta.” A voice crooked, and she wished she hadn’t looked.

Feyre was looking at her, a hand around her stomach. Blood was trickling out of her mouth, one of her eyes was shut, a cut running through it and going down to her neck. Elain was next to her, eyes closed, her beauty still there despite death.

“You did this.” Nesta looked up and Amren was looking down at her, her lip curled up. “You can’t even control your magic, and you want to go sniffing in matters that don’t concern you.” She shook her head and laughed. 

“No- no I didn't-” Her tears were blurring her vision. She had done this. Her magic had ravaged her home, her friends.

“You did!” Amren grabbed hold of her chin and forced her to look at her friends, at Zora’s still open eyes. “All because you wanted to act like a child.” The hand pulled back and Nesta sobbed. She was nothing, she could only cause harm. 

“You are playing with power that you do not know how to control.” A voice spoke. And Nesta raised her head.

“You could stop this.” The voice said, sounding like crackling paper. A cloaked figure stood in the center of the field, and Nesta could only make out a withered hand.

“You could stop all of this, all the blood, just come to me.” She beckoned for Nesta. “Come.”

The vines had let her go, and Nesta looked at the hand. In some way Amren was right that Nesta was a loose cannon. And she had no idea what could happen when she did go off. 

But this lady, Briallyn, she wouldn't spare a soul. If she was hunting for the Trove, she wouldn't stop at Nesta.

Lifting her head took too much effort, but Nesta looked at the Mortal Queen and spat on the grass. 

“Go crawl back to your hole.”

The hand stilled and the Queen sighed, like Nesta was merely a child misbehaving. “You brought this upon yourself.” The lady was next to Feyre in a heartbeat, her hand grabbing a fistfull of hair.

Feyre looked at Nesta, her one eye wide in fear. 

“Nesta. NESTA!”

The blade fell.

“Nesta!” The lady in question pulled her head up and looked into Wren’s eyes. “Are you just going to stand there or do your job?” Nesta looked up, she was in the clinic, there was a male in her hair, a male with beautiful white wings that spread out behind him.

The dream had been replaying in her mind since she had woken up, haunting her whenever she closed her eyes. The visions of her friends dead, and by her hand no less. 

Feyre and Elain dead, Gwyn dead. And Briallyn, what did she want from Nesta? Did she know about the mask? Helion had been keeping it under wraps, and the object hadn't left the safe Nesta had shoved it in.

“She must have been speaking out of her arse.” She had told herself when she awoke in the dead of night, but Nesta knew deep down that things would be getting worse.

“Yes, I will.” She pulled herself out of her thoughts. “Sir, how can I help you?” Nesta stood closer to the male, who was smiling at her.

“I doubt you'll be able to fix my issue, but you know a temporary solution is better than anything. I would wait until I went home, you know the Dawn Court since we have the best healers. But then I thought the flight back home would take so much effort and strain my wings, so I thought I would go to you. Because let me tell you, I've been hearing talks all over this side of Prythian about this brand new healer coming to town and how great she is. So I thought why not give her a go?” The man spoke a mile a minute, and Nesta had to wait for her brain to register the words.

“Thank you.” She said dryly, taking in the wings. They were stunning, and she could see why Octavia thought Nesta would prefer them. The left wing was slightly bent, unable to close fully. Nesta thought it to be a muscle issue.

“It seems you strained the muscle, have you been doing any hard labour?”

“Oh yes. The High Lord has asked us to build a new star gazing machine, and it's been taking way too long to fix. I tried to reach the top gear to see how it would work with the new clog we bought, and let me tell you, it was anything but a good fit. The metal casing would scratch the clay and it left a dent the size of-”

“I'm sure the technicalities are riveting, but I need you to lean forward.” She shot a glare at Wren, who was already looking at her. Her mouth was curled, the scar moving along with it and she made a few gestures in the male's direction.

He, thankfully, followed Nesta's orders and she started on the top of the wing. Nesta was right, he had pulled a muscle. She slowly dragged her hand down the wings, untying the muscle, bit by bit.

The male let out a sigh, his shoulders dropping. When he wasn't speaking Nesta's ear, he was quite attractive. Nesta pulled her hand across the plumage, and not before long, it was fixed.

“I dare say you have Dawn Court blood in you, there's no other way. I mean you could use some learning.” He said once his wing was healed, his blue eyes shining.

“She was a mortal before this.” Wren’s dry voice cut through. The male laughed, his face slowly getting red. And in that moment Nesta could kiss Wren.

“Ah, well magic works in crazy ways.” He pulled out a few gold coins and handed them to Wren. “Why, my grandfather told me that the High Lord during his time had only discovered how to heal 30 years into his reign.”

Nesta dropped the towel she was folding. Eyes wild, she looked at the male.

“What?”

“Oh yes. He saw a flower hanging by a thread and the magic just poured out of him. My grandfather was an advisor for the High Lord, you know? We come from a very wealthy line.” He raised his brow, and Nesta had to bite her tongue, she needed more.

“Oh,” Nesta tried to keep her tone light, but her hands were shaking as she picked up the towel. “When was this? I’ve been trying to learn more about the Solar Courts.”

The male tilted his head, mouth screwed up. “About 10,000 years ago? It had been a long time coming. Around that time the only magic the High Lord possessed was mist shifting, and the world wasn’t advanced enough to have mechanics. It was quite the surprise, but the Mother does shine down on Dawn.” He barked out a laugh. “Shines down! That's ironic.” He gave Wren a wink and walked out.

“I have to use the bathroom.” Nesta turned to Wren, and the female waved her hand. She splashed cold water on her face and looked at her reflection. Dawn was never for healing.

She came out soon after, and Wren shot her a look. 

“Can you handle this? I have to fix something at the front.” She walked off and Nesta ushered forward an elderly water nymph and her mate. His hands were on her shoulder as he looked at Nesta.

“She’s been complaining of back pain, and it’s been getting worse.” Nesta ran a hand down the female’s back. A small knot was pressing on her spine, and Nesta slowly pulled it out, trying to be careful. She had seen how wrong it could go, a paralysed fae was not something she wanted to deal with.

The knot came undone soon after, and she guided the nymph forward. Her green eyes were shining as she handed Wren the coins.

“Thank you, now maybe he’ll stop nagging me.” She nudged her head at her mate and he shook his head.

“Maybe if you take breaks like you said, I will.” The male gave Nesta a small nod, and the nymph reached for her hands.

Dread washed over Nesta as she touched the female’s palms. Her hands were freezing, to the point where it hurt to touch. Nesta wanted to say something, but her mate grabbed the female's hand and she faltered. He didn't seem to notice it, and why would she cause them unnecessary pain?

She watched them walk and turned to Wren, who was frowning at a paper.

“I thought I said 2 rolls,” She placed the paper down and looked at Nesta. “How about you take the rest of the day off. I need you fresh and ready for the day after the Winter Solstices.” She sighed and put the money away. “All the drunken idiots and the need for conception tonics alone will drive me mad, not to include the injuries.”

Winter Solstices, her first one away from the Night Court. And Feyre’s birthday. Nesta tried to push the date away, she tried to push the thought of Feyre away.

The Mask haunted her, using Feyre’s voice as a way to pull Nesta into doing what she wanted. She hated Feyre for what she did, trying to get Nesta to be the scapegoat that they brought out when they needed. But she was her sister, and behind all the hate, she cared.

She remembered her last birthday, and how it all went down, everyone eyed her like she was useless, how Cassian wouldn’t leave her alone. 

Nesta had seen the day slowly approaching yet she didn't feel moved to get her sister anything. All that kept replaying in her head when she  remembered Feyre’s name was the look on her face after she told her what she did to Clare. 

Nesta didn't plan on seeing her sister, she preferred things the way they were, she was far away from her sister’s meddling reach, and she was glad.

“I’ll be there, don’t worry.” Nesta grabbed her bag and left, her mind racing.

3 weeks in Evenfall and it still took her breath whenever she came back. The house she lived in was quiet, and it was just what she needed after a day of dealing with chatterboxes.

Opening the kitchen windows and letting the breeze, she placed a glass of water on her brow, letting the cold wash over her. Nesta sank into a chair and looked out the window, the green fields empty.

She had been right. Healing magic was never exclusive to the Dawn Court, it came to Dawn 10000 years ago, but why Dawn? Why not the Night Court that took over them? Or Day, since it was the southern border?

“10000 years.” Nesta huffed. “And this just so happened to fall on me?” It seemed like she was on a wild goose chase and most of the time, she wondered why she was even bothering with it. She had dreams of the Cauldron, did that mean she had to find it again?

And it had been 10,000 years ago, most fae don't live past 1300, all records or oral stories would have been destroyed by now. And from what Nesta could see, the Night Court were very thorough in getting rid of them. 

But she had summit vision, she couldn’t leave now with all the information she had gathered. She’d hated herself even more than usual.

Downing the cup, Nesta walked into her bedroom, where a letter laid on her bed. She had no clue how it had gotten there, most of her letters ended up in the kitchen. She sat down on the covers and opened it.

Dear Nesta,

I hope this letter finds you well, and I hope you’re doing good. How’s the Day Court? Have you been having fun?

It’s Feyre’s birthday in a few days, and Solstices. I was we were hoping that you would come and visit us for the day, it's been a while.

We said some shitty things to each other during the coronation, I'll admit. But we care for you. You were acting like I we meant nothing to you at all. Please come back, for the day at the least. 

I miss you, so do your sisters. After all that Feyre has done for you, can you find it in your heart to do this? Please try and find it in you to come.

With love, Cassian.

Nesta read the letter once, then again. She bit her cheek so hard she drew blood. The nerve. Was this to be her life? Always repaying Feyre for picking up a bow? Was her contribution back then not enough? Was her fixing their clothes, washing up, cooking, not enough? 

The edges of the letter began to smoke and Nesta dropped it. She wanted to kill him, no she wanted to tie his wings together and throw him off a cliff.

She paced back and forth in her small room, and the rage kept boiling. She tried to do the breathing techniques but she was still fuming.

How was this fair? How long would Nesta have to keep repaying for not hunting? Was her contribution trying to find relatives to take them in not enough? Was making sure that they were at least fed not enough? Was her cleaning up after every single time Feyre dragged a carcass in not enough?

How long would Feyre’s so-called family keep dragging her like this, and how long would Feyre stand there quiet and contend, watching her friends fighting a battle that Nesta had no idea she entered?

“Breathe.” She told herself, as she tried to ground herself. From what she now knew, she needed to go to The Castle’s Library. She didn't need to look in the Night Court History, it was Dawn. 

She was out the door within 5 minutes, winnowing into the heart of Ostia, the city filled with fae moving around. Training was in an hour, and that was more than enough time to find something, anything.

But what would happen when she found her answers? Nesta stopped in front of the Mater librorum, her hand out.

She hadn’t had a dream about the Lady and her court in 3 weeks, the dreams seemed to hijack her whenever they left like it. So would they stop when she sought out the answers?

She hoped so, she doubted she could deal with them for her long pitiful existence.

She turned on her head and slammed into someone’s chest. Train as she might, she couldn’t stop herself from falling flat on her arse.

“I am so sorry.” A soft voice said. “I had no-” the voice trailed off and Nesta lifted her head.

The female was in pale bluish robes that showed off her nimble figure. The large hood had fallen down and Nesta lost the ability to speak.

Gwyn looked like the vision Nesta saw: coppery hair, teal eyes, and a splash of freckles down her face. Her eyes were wide, and she looked at Nesta, drinking her in.

“My apologies.” Gwyn stood up and Nesta followed. She was here.

She was here? Nesta tilted her head, why would Gwyn be in the Day court? Nesta watched as Gwyn stood taller and she smiled.

“The book I'm reading was too good to look up from.” She laughed, and it was an airy sound. “I am really sorry. Are you okay?” She waved her hand in front of Nesta’s face, which was still on Gwyn.

Her friend. She had come.

“I am, and I’m sorry, I wasn't looking. What book is that?” Nesta forced herself to speak. The book was covered in blue leather and had golden writing.

“Oh it’s a retelling of the war 500 years ago. To be honest, I don't care for it, I just wanted to read the passage of the Valkyries.”

Nesta’s breath hitched. “Valkyries?”

Gwyn’s face lit up. “Yes! A group of all female warriors that fought in the war. They were amazing, but they all died out after the war 500 years ago. Are you interested?”

“No. I mean yes. It’s funny because me and a group of my friends have been doing valkyrie training for the past few months.”

She watched as Gwyn’s face changed from shock to awe to excitement. 

“You’re lying to me.”

“I assure you. I’m not.”

Gwyn latched onto Nesta’s hand and pulled her close. “I need you to tell me everything. All of it.”

“I’ll do you one better, we’re meeting up in an hour's time, do you want to come and see?”

“I’m sure Merrill would kill me if I didn’t.” She held out a hand and Nesta took hold of it, gripping the hand like she would disappear.

“I’m Gywn.”

“Nesta. Would you like me to show you where I've been getting my information from?”

“If that’s ok with you.” Nesta led her up the stairs and to the small half empty bookshelf, and Gwyn looked at each book, her eyes locked into each one, her hands drifting down the pages.

“This is good. Very good. But Merrill has most of this information. Have you found anything else?”

“Somewhat. We know about how they used to train outdoors and work together.” Nesta went for a smile. “It’s not much, but it works. How about I show you around the city? It’s going to be a while before we meet up?”

Gwyn slowly shuffled from foot to foot, and she nodded. “Yes. But can it be near the Castle?”

After a while, Nesta and Gwyn were sitting in a cafe near her work place. Nesta was slowly stirring her tea, whilst Gwyn took in all the sights.

“I’ve never seen anything like this city. It’s so…. Airy.”

“That’s mostly due to the fashion, and the High Lord is a huge fan of open spaces.”

Gwyn took a sip of her drink, and licked her lower lip. “It's been a while since I've left home. It just seems… so foreign.”

“You live on the Continent?” Nesta said softly, keeping her eyes on her drink so they wouldn't betray her.

“The Night Court actually. I’m here for research. I live in a sanctuary, and it's been a few years since I've left it. And Day was the closest place to go.” 

“I used to live in the Night Court as well.”

“I know, you’re the High Lady’s sister.”

Nesta rolled her eyes. “Ugh, no matter where I go, that's how people know me. Not because of my own work, because my sister married a High Lord.”

Gwyn bit her trembling lower lip. “I mean you do look like her. Anyway, tell me what made you look for the Valkyries?” 

Nesta was sure, “I had a dream of them and now I'm in too deep” wasn’t normal, so she spoke of how they trained in a store, how Nesta had stumbled on a book about them. And Gwyn listened. They spoke for so long that Nesta had forgotten she had training. Conversion with Gwyn came so easily, and Nesta could see why they had been friends in the vision she was shown.

“Shit we’re late!” Nesta stood up and reached for Gwyn’s hand, then held back.

“Stop that.” Her soft voice had become hard. “Stop acting like I'll break if you grab me.” 

Nesta nodded, her face starting to get hot and grabbed her hand, taking her to the clearing.

“Oh look, she’s decided to show up after all.” Nesta heard Lupine yell. They group was already through their stretches, now they were sword fighting. Adaria was up against Emerie, and Zora was showing Lyra how to hold a sword.

“Sorry, I was showing my new friend around. This is Gwyn, she’s doing research on the Valkyries.”

Zora dropped her sword down and ran to them. “Really? Do you know what kind of clothing they wore?  I've tried my best to find the material but I keep coming up short.”

“It’s made of Morana cloth from Winter, since they look like normal clothes but are quite durable and withstand swords and arrows. But the clothing style is a mix of old Dawn Court and Continent styling. You can see by the trim of the skirts being very straight instead of layers and flowy like it usually is in the Day Court.” Gwyn pulled out a book and started to show Zora the dresses. And thankfully it was the exact same one's Nesta had seen in her dreams.

“Zora maybe let her breathe before jumping on her.” Serephina smiled and shook Gwyn’s hand. “Seraphina, it's nice to meet you Gwyn.”

“It’s nice to meet you too. So what exalt brings you to Day?”

“Oh my employer of sorts, she’s been looking into the Valkyries and I offered to go and find some information.” Nesta let them speak, and she looked at Emerie. She had a look on her face and was looking at Gwyn. 

Nesta walked towards Adaria, who was now throwing her daggers up and catching them.

“Hey, I need to talk to you.” She dropped her Daggres and looked at Nesta.

“Gonna say something about bringing another Night Court person here?”

Nesta raised a brow and Adaria sighed, “It was a guess, most of the people you bring here are usually from the Night Court. It's fine, the ones you bring seem to be docile.” She waved her hand at Emerie, who was lifting a shrieking Octavia up.

“Have you tried to cut the ribbon?” Nesta heard Gwyn say. She was sitting down and had taken down her hood again. Zora, Lyra and Lupine were sitting with her, and Nesta walked to them.

“No, not yet. I was thinking we get better at sword training then we attempt it.” Zora pulled her hair back. 

“You should give it a go. Most Valkyries cut the ribbon when they least expected it. Speaking off, is it possible to try with a sword?”

The group looked at Zora, who after a while, nodded her head. “Okay. Use a wooden sword, and try it with Lyra.”

Lyra smiled and pulled Gwyn up and Nesta felt her heart beat faster. Gwyn and Emerie were here. She hadn't dreamed them up.

The day passed with Gwyn tripping over her robes and laughing about it each time. Seraphina had promised to get her some training gear when she came back. The sun had begun its descent when they all left, with Gwyn promising to come the next day. Nesta walked back home, waving goodbye to Lyra at the crossroad, and she couldn't take the smile off her face.

“Hello there.” Vera said when she saw Nesta approach. “You had a good day?”

“The best one. How is the forge?”

Vera waved a hand. “Some males have been acting up with their payment, but it’s all good.”

“I can deal with them if you want me to.” Nesta was done with males acting superior and she had been dying to try out a flip Zora had taught her.

“No need. Come in, I have some tea to share.” Nesta walked into the home, it looked simparer to hers, but the bedrooms were father back. The kitchen was small and cozy, the air filled with the smell of stew. Nesta climbed onto a stoll and watched as Vera poured her a glass.

“This tea was from Autumn, and a friend gifted it to me. It's not as good as Summer’s, but not much is.” The tea was rich, slowly gliding down Netsa’s throat.

“It’s good. Really good.”

Vera smiled then her face fell, her eyes looking past Nesta. “Mama, it’s late. Go to bed.” Nesta turned to see a lady in a simple gown at the door. Her frame was light, her brown hair up in a bun. Her grey eyes were unfocused, and she was tapping her leg.

“The stars are bright. Too bright. They must go home.” Her voice was hoarse.

“I am so sorry, Nes. Mama.” Vera’s tone was soft as she grabbed her mother’s hand, but the lady stepped back.

“She comes, she comes for her home. The earth remembers, she sees the past.” She cackled and shook her head. Then her gaze landed on Nesta and she smiled even wider.

“She sees the past, the Celestial lady and her Shieldborn. The earth weeps.” Nesta looked at the female, her mouth failing to give her words.

Vera looked at Nesta, her eyes apologetic. “Can we do this another time?”

“Of course.” She stood up and left the home, the words still fresh in her mind. Shieldborn? She hadn’t heard that before. 

She slipped on her clothes and walked into the bathroom. Nesta was about to reach for the shower head when she stopped. She looked down at the top and took a deep breath. Slowly, she filled the bathtub with water.

When it reached a decent amount she slowly dipped a foot in, holding her breath. The showerhead was in reach if it was too much. She could do this.

The water was warm, soothing her sore muscles as she sunk in. her heart was steady, her breathing normal. It wasn't the Cauldron, it was her bathtub, she was safe.

“A court fell, the Night Court was responsible, they had healing magic and from the last dream, they had healers stationed around. The healing magic went to Dawn. This happened 10,000 years ago.” Nesta reaped as she grabbed a bar of soap.

She was close, so close. But why did it feel like she was looking for something that had no answers? 

And Vera’s mother? She told her about seeing the past, the Celsital lady, the Shieldborn?

How had she known about Celeste? And the visions? The whole thing was giving Nesta a headache. She got out of the tub, and put on a nightdress. 

Cassain’s charred note was still on her bed, and Nesta flipped the paper between her hands. She wasn't going to visit. It was all too raw, too soon. She needed space from all of it.

Nesta grabbed the note and placed it on her table and walked back to her room. The moon was watching her from her window, the stars winking in and out, and Nesta let her head hit the pillow.

Chapter Text

The chill of winter had faded, making way for the gentle breeze of spring. The air was cool, the bite of summer not yet here. The streets were filled with young children running around, playing games.

Nesta walked down the Scholar’s path, a bag in hand and a smile on her face. The sun was out and she felt good about herself.

The spring equinox was fast approaching, and Nesta had a plan. She had the dream about her future 6 months ago. She changed her life drastically, left her home and found a new one, found people that loved her with no strings.

Gwyn had started to come around more often, winnowing to and from the Night Court every other day and training with them, and in the blink of an eye, 2 months had passed. The vision that the cauldron showed Nesta could not compare to the way she felt now. 

As Nesta walked, a male came into view. His eyes were weary, and his face was sunken. As he drew near, Nesta realised that it was the Water nymph’s mate.

“Oh hello.” Nesta gave him a nod, and he returned it.

“Hello Soulmender, how have you been?”

“Well, how is your mate?” His face fell, and he gave Nesta a small smile.

“She returned to the Mother a month ago.” He lifted his head and looked at the clouds. “I like to think she’s safer now. I have to thank you, she passed peacefully, no pain.”

“I’m sorry for your loss.” Was all she could muster. The male nodded and walked off. Nesta watched his backing figure, and she felt her heart slowly crack.

A bakery came into view and Nesta pushed the door open. The soft cream decor with the soft blue seats was calming, the large windows letting light in, bathing the store in a glow. The place was beautiful.

And so was the baker.

Upturned nose, full soft looking lips, eyes the color of fresh grass and a smirk that made her knees weak were always a good view.

“Miss Nesta,” The male laughed, and Nesta rested her hands on the desk. “I think I see you more than my friends.”

“Well, I can’t stay away for that long. And you do make a really good honeyed cake.”

“The usual?” He leaned forward, his hands a breath away from Nesta’s. She looked up at him, and he was already smiling at her.

“Yes please.” He closed his eyes and nodded, pulling back to grab the order. Nesta watched him as he moved, well she was looking at his backside. And he had a nice one.

“Heading anywhere?” He asked her, pulling her out of her thoughts. 

“Yes, meeting with a friend.” She lifted her bag and placed it in the void. Helion had summoned her to the castle. Nesta had put a stopper into the weekly visits that Helion had demanded and instead would periodically drop through, giving him updates about her life and proving that she wasn't dead. 

The bell chimed and in walked a elderly lady, her gray hair up in a bun and her large grey horns adorned with strings of pearls.

“Nesta, so nice to see you.” Lady Renolds said as she grabbed Nesta’s hand, kissing each knuckle. Nesta had long gotten over the discomfort of the hand kissings, she didn't have it in her to turn down the elderly patients that did so, and the rest of the city followed suit.

“You too. You're hip doing okay?”

“Better after you took a look. Can I get a small vanilla cake please? It's my Noelle’s birthday. Did you know she graduated top of her class?” She gripped Nesta’s forearm. “She gets the brains from her grandfather, I sure don’t know how she does that sky charting.”

“Congratulations. And here is your cake Miss Nesta.” He gave her a wink and she grabbed the small box.

Nesta bid Lady Renolds goodbye, and came face to face with Morrigan.

“Nesta.” She looked like she always did: red scandalous dress, blonde hair in ringlets, her neck and hands adorned in gold, her lips a deadly shade of red.

She was beautiful, Nesata could admit that. But the look on her face was anything but.

“Come with me now.” There was no room for argument. Lady Renolds gave her a sideways glance and scoffed.

“Hello to you too, Morrigan. And no, I won't be coming with you.”

“We need to talk, now.”

“Your authority is limited to the Night Court. You should do well to remember.” Nesta’s tone was dry, unwavering.

“I'll see you soon Nesta.” Lady Renolds gave her hand a squeeze and shot Morrigan a glare, leaving the store without her cake.

“Ma’am I have to ask you to leave.” The baker crossed his hands, his green eyes clouded over. 

“Stop causing a scene Nesta.” Morrigan smiled at her and pointed to the people looking in the store, faces curious.

“You think this is a scene? Do you want me to show you what a scene looks like?” 

“It's about your sister.” She held Nesta’s gaze, her brow furrowed. Nesta grabbed her pastry and smiled at the baker, leaving the store, not bothering to wait for Morrigan.

She walked till she reached the fountain that she and her friends all meet up at, taking a seat at the bench across it.

Morrigan sat next to her, her long legs on show. “I didn’t want to tell you this, but your sister decided that this was the best way.” She let out a sigh and played with her necklace.

“Briallyn, the mortal queen that went into the Cauldron after you is active again. And she’s been searching for the Dread Trove. It’s-”

“Oh I’m aware.” Nesta leaned back and let the sun hit her face. In all honesty Nesta was quite disappointed this is what they decided to tell her. 

“You knew? How?”

“Funnily enough, it’s none of your business.” Nesta laughed and looked at her. Her mouth was pursed and her hand was tapping against her knee. “And no.”

“No?” Morrigan crossed her legs and smiled, “But you have no clue what I’m asking.”

“You’re going to ask me to help right? To do your court’s bidding?”

“Look at you hitting the nail on the head. We think it’s best for you to scurry. You’ve done it before, and Ferye is pregnant so she can’t.” Morrigan glared at her, and Nesta wondered if Feyre had fixed her issue.

“Last time I did, Elain was kidnapped by the Cauldron and it almost killed me. I don't care about your court and I don't care what you do. I have my own ways of protecting myself and I suggest you find someone else to do your bidding.”

Morrigan rubbed her forefinger and thumb against her temple. “Are you slow? The Dread Trove are items that were made by the Cauldron. There are three people that were made by the Cauldron. And if you won’t do it and if Feyre can't do it, who do you think it's going to fall onto?”

Elain. The sun didn't feel as good as it just did. That was the only reasonable answer. Nesta tried to speak but she couldn't. Is that what they were hoping for? For Nesta to hear about Elain being put in harm's way and jump right back to the Night Court like usual?

Was that the plan all along?

“If Elain sees it fit to scurry, then who am I to stop her?” The words came out easier than she thought they would. If this was what she wanted, why should Nesta try and stop it? She had her own life, and it didn’t involve the Night Court.

Morrigan did not seem to be expecting the answer. Her eyes widened and her face broke out into a shocked grin. “You're telling me that you’re content with the sister you spent so long protecting scurrying looking for the Trove?”

“Like you said, I’ve spent too long protecting her. She’s a grown woman, and she’s more than capable.”

“You’ve been training, you know Elain hasn’t. Are you sure you’re okay with this?”

“Maybe if you tried to lock her in a house with a male she disliked and forced her to train, she’d be able to do so.” Nesta said innocently. 

Morrigan scowled and sat up straight. “You’re a bitch.”

“And what about it? You rather me lose my mind scurrying for an item I don't give two shits about then use your precious Elain. I won't pretend I wasn't the reason for it, I coddled her and in return you coddled her. But if I know Elain and I know her, she's probably offering her help, trying her best to give you guys a reason to treat her like a normal person instead of a doll.” She leaned in closer to Morrigan. “And let's be honest, a bitch with crazy powers is more expandable than a seer right?” 

Morrigan sighed and tapped her nose. “This is something that could affect all of Prythian, are you truly that selfish to leave it up to fate?”

“Oh but I'm not leaving up to fate, I'm leaving it up to you. You see I'm no longer part of your Court, and I know longer care what you lot to get up to.”

“That court also happens to be your sister's home. It also happens to be Cassian's home.”

Something bristled deep inside Nesta and she shot Morrigan a glare but the female was already looking at her, a smile on her face.

“What has that got to do with me?”

“After all they’ve done for you, you can’t-”

“Oh shut up.” Nesta rolled her eyes.

“What?”

“You heard me, shut up. Nothing you can say is going to get me to come back to your court and help you find this trove. I left and you seemed quite glad when I was. So I'm quite confused while you're here.”

“Maybe I wasn't clear enough when I was speaking about Briallyn. Did I mention she was thrown into the cauldron right after you and holds a grudge for how she's become? Do you really think Helion is going to offer you protection?”

Nesta had to give it to her, if she was hearing this for the first time around maybe she would have been moved to move back to the Night Court.

“I don't need another person's protection. I am well suited enough. And I've known for quite some time Briallyn was after me. I'm still alive aren't i? You could sit here for eons yet my answer will not change. Maybe you should focus all this effort on getting Elain ready for this treasure hunt.”

She didn’t respond, her eyes were on the fountain, watching the water ripple.

“Humor me, when did you find this out?”

“Before Winter solstice.” Morrigan’s voice was detached. So that's why he sent the letter, not to get closer to her, not because he cared. Because they needed her.

“This was anything but a pleasure Morrigan, goodbye.” She left her still looking at the fountain.

As Nesta walked to Helion’s office, she tried to piece it all together. They wanted her to scurry, they had been wanting so for the past 2 months. But why wait? Why not come sooner?

Nesta watched as Lords ran past her, hands full, and she couldn’t help but feel a hole in her chest. It was childlike to feel the way she did when she knew the Night Court harboured no affections towards her, but it was something entirely different to try to strong arm her into doing that. Helion’s door was closed, but the male outside it was a new addition.

“Well if it isn't my favourite Archeron.” Eris Vanserra smiled at her, lips brushing against her hand. He had changed his wardrobe today wearing simple black pants and a plain red shirt. His hair was brushed back but a few straight pieces dangled in front of his face. 

There was a male in Autumn Court armour who walked up to him, speaking frantically and she watched as Eris's face fell and his eyes widened. He dropped his head to the male's ear and whispered into it and the soldier went running.

“What are you doing here? Haven't you got a court to run?”

Eris gave her a smile, but it didn't reach his eyes. “And that’s all thanks to you. They might have to add High-lord Slayer to your many titles. What was the newer one? Soulmender?”

“That’s highly misleading. I haven't mended any souls.”

“Not yet, I won't put that past you. And that’s why I’m here.” Eris nodded to the now open door. Leaving the study was Lady Sylvia. Her hair was down, and she smiled when she saw Nesta.

“It’s been too long. How have you been?” She said as she pulled Nesta in close. She could smell fire on her, and a hint of cedarwood.

“Well. what brings you to Day.”

“The High Lord.” Eris coughed and his mother swatted him.

“I have some plans in Day. High Lord Helion has been kind enough to let me stay here. But we must meet again.” 

“I hope you find it well here.” Nesta watched as mother and son bid farewell.

“Is it not weird for you?” She said as Lady Slyvia retreated down the hall.

“I try not to think of it. We need to talk.” He grabbed her forearm and gently pulled her into a room. “We have a problem.”

“What is it? And can’t this wait till after my meeting?”

“No, listen. The issue with Briallyn has gotten worse. Turns out my father was helping her get the Dread Trove.” His red hair was falling over his eyes, and his amber eyes were lasered on her. For a split second, Nesta had the urge to push the hair away.

“Wait, Beron was helping her?” Nesta said, the words registering in her mind.

“Yes, and she’s under the impression I will too. She came to me, broke past the border and tried to sway me towards her. I’m not as easily fooled as my father and she didn't take it well.”

“And that’s not all I assume?”

“One of my men has just told me right now. She has one. She has the Crown.” Nesta managed to sit in a chair before her knees gave out.

“What? How?” 

“That’s why I have to leave soon, she’s been acting differently since she gained it. And remember how I said Father was taking some soldiers at random? She’s been using them to find the Crown. 28 men died for that. 28 bodies that can’t be given back to their loved ones.” Eris bit his lower lip. 

“We have to take it from her.”

“And how do you pose that? We have no clue where she goes. The other queens have been tight lipped and we have pressing matters. We need to make sure she doesn’t get the Mask or the Harp.”

She won’t be getting the Mask, not at all.

“We will. And just to let you know, the Night Court are also aware. Morrigan came and told me.”

“3 courts become a crowd.” Eris gave her a small grin. “You know, if we were married…” he trailed off, and Nesta shook her head.

“Have a good day, High Lord.” Nesta laughed and walked into Helion’s office. 

Lucien, in a white toga, was leaning against the bookshelf, laughing at what his father said. Helion was leaning back in his chair and smiled when Nesta walked in.

“Nesta. Lovely to see you as always.” He took note of her face and sighed. “Ran into Morrigan I believe?”

“How do you know?”

“She asked for entry, just for an hour.” He stretched his long arms and the muscles rippled. “You look pissed and she’s gone.”

“You’re right. Lucien, how was Winter?”

“Cold, the weather and the people. Trying to talk with Kallias was like pulling out teeth. And I found the clothes you asked about. I sent a sample to your home.”

“Thank you.” She took a seat in front of the large desk and folded her hands.

“Nesta, I have something I need to discuss with you.”

“About Briallyn? Eris just told me.” 

Helion gave her a small smile. “As expected. And I'll tell you what I told him, we’ll handle the issue of the Crown and the Hrap when we get to it.”

“Oh that's not all, one of Eris's men has just told him that Briallyn has the Crown.” 

“How?” Lucien said, getting closer. “How did she-”

“Seems like Beron was loaning out his soldiers to find the Crown for her.  I don't know how Eris knows but she has a Crown. We have to do something about it.”

“Do what?” Lucien laughed, his metal eye rolling up. “If Eris is right and she has the Crown, that means anybody who even goes near her it's under her control. Out of all the ones she could have found, she found that one?”

“Better than her finding the Harp and sending us back to the war with Hybern.” Helion stood up and started to pace around.

“She might have the Crown but she doesn't have the Harp. Nobody has the Harp yet we need to find it before her.”

How had her day descended into this Madness? Nesta pushed back a piece of hair that strayed from her braid, wetting her lips. “That's actually what I wanted to tell you, the Night Court are aware of it all. And they sent Morrgian to make me scry for the Trove.”

Helion let out a groan and placed his head against the window. “For the love of the Mother, if I had known... The shadowsinger seems to be working hard. So what now?” Lucien sat next to her. 

“I could try scry for it. Take it and lock it away before anybody else gets-”

“No, absolutely not. You aren't.” Helion snapped, his eyes blazing. “Scurrying is dangerous as it is, adding made items into the mix is suicide. If the Night Court is determined to do this, then let them.”

“Helion, only made people can scry.”

The male spoke the last sentence without looking at Lucien. “Elain might scry for it.”

Nesta watched as Lucien’s face fell, his jaw clenched. 

Lucien shook his head and looked back at her. “Your sister is a grown woman, who can make her own choices. If this is what she wants, then let her do it.” 

“She might know we have the Mask. Briallyn that is.” The dream she had come to mind. Her loved ones dead and she couldn’t do shit about it.

“I trust you Nesta, I trust that you’ve hidden it well.” Helion moved closer, placing a hand on her shoulder. “I have a meeting with some scholars. Take care Nesta.” Helion left the room, but Nesta still felt her stomach twisting.

The path to her home was blocked by little boys playing. One had a paper crown and was chasing all the others. Nesta stood still and watched as they ran around. One was running whilst looking back, and Nesta could only yell for him to watch out. But it didn't stop him from tripping over a rock, sending him sprawling on the grass.

The other boys stopped, and slowly went to the boy, who wasn't moving.

Nesta hitched up her skirts and ran to him. He was on the floor, biting his lower lip in an effort to not cry. The skin was hanging off his knee and Nesta winced when she saw it.

“Hey, it’s fine.” She reached up, brushing the tears away. “Look.” She lifted her right hand, and slowly dragged it over the knee. Slowly new skin started to cover the cut, till the wound was gone, not even a scar left behind.

“Watch out when you play, alright?” He nodded, rubbing his eyes.

“Thank you miss.” His voice wavered. He reached over and grabbed a small blue flower, placing it in her hand.

“And thank you. It's very lovely.” Nesta placed it in her hair and the boy smiled. He stood up and ran to his friends, the game resuming like nothing had happened. 

“Thank you Miss Nesta!” A boy yelled out, waving.

Nesta kept walking home, her steps not wavering. The equinox was 10 days away, and Nesta needed to get a move on with her plan. 

Hastily changing into a pair of pants and a simple blouse, Nesta left for the town center.

It was a market day so the town was filled with people. The circle of shops were packed and Nesta could smell dozens of different foods waffling through the air and she could hear vendors yelling at each other and customers haggling for prices. 

Nesta weaved through people, and when stopped spoke with the town people. The blacksmith store was next to a fabric store and a bookstore. The simple door was open and Nesta could see sparks flying.

“Vera?” Nesta called out from the front, and through a small door, Vera emerged. Her dark skin was wet with sweat, and goggles hung around her neck. She gave Nesta a smile that showed all her teeth.

“Finally, I thought you bailed on me. Come, I have it all ready.” She pulled Nesta into a room, the forge blazing. On a table lay 9 sheets of metal. The idea had been gnawing on her ever since they started sword training, the swords they used were great but most of the time they felt unbalanced and didn't sit well in the hands. 

So what better than to make custom-made swords for each of her friends?  Granted Nesta could have bought the swords from a store, but she thought making it would add a personal touch.

Nesta had spent the past month making note of her friends preferences when it came to swords, how they liked the proportions, how heavy they liked it. Nesta had bought a notebook to compile all the notes she made.

“So,” Vera began, her hands on her waist. “I have all the sheets of metal ready and the black stones for the hilts. You wanted a few of them to be heavier and some of them to be lighter. I have them all laid out. You mentioned something about gems?”

“Yes I did, here.” Nesta grabbed the bag she was carrying and slowly pulled up a long box. Vera popped open the lid and smiled.

In the case laid 9 gems, Nesta had decided that plain silver swords weren't going to be enough, and if they were going to revive a dead group of warriors, they would do it with style. She had spent the morning looking at each due on trying to see which ones suited her friends the best.

She had spent the past few days visiting the forge and practicing on how to properly hammer metal into swords. The long grueling process that it would have taken in the Mortal world was non-existent in Prythian. After the metal had been made, they would put in a solvent to cool instantly and then attach the handle. 

“Not a bad idea. I did want to show you some designs I could do in the blades.” Vera pulled out a book, and slowly showed Nesta all the designs. But none seemed to be the right fit, they were either too flashy or too plain.

“No, it's fine. Let’s start.” The easy part was melting the Metal and putting them in the molds. Nesta was half tempted to make Adaria a pair of daggers but she wanted the gifts to be the same, to be a unit like they were.

After all the metal was put into the right mold and they started to look similar to swords, Vera let Nesta hammer them. She grabbed the silver gem she had picked out for herself and placed it in the bottom, near the hilt.

She raised the hammer and struck the hot blade, the sound ringing through the forge. She kept hitting it, her hands steady. Her chest was tight, and her arms were tingling.

She grabbed the other swords and grabbed a deep blue gem, the one she had picked out for Zora. again Nesta raised the hammer and hit the blade.

She let her anger out, the anger towards the Night Court for trying to trick her, the anger she held towards Briallyn, who wouldn’t let her live a normal life, towards the Cauldron that took her normal life from her.

She placed the blade aside as Vera cooled the metal down, grabbing the gold jewel for Lupine. She hit the metal with all she had, and the tingling in her stomach was still there.

She did the same for all the other blades, red for Seraphina, orange for Adaria, green for Empire, purple for Octavia, teal for Gwyn and a soft yellow for Lyra.

The heat nipped at her face, but she pushed past it, hammering down with all her strength. 

When she had handed the last blade to Vera, and when the last hilt had been attached, the air froze.

The sword with the silver stone, Nesta’s, started to light up and as they watched, symbols started to etch themselves on the metal. Right above the gem was an 8 pointed star and swirls and patterns started to decorate the sides of the sword.

“What the fuck is that?” But Nesta couldn't answer; she could only watch as the silver light spread over Zora's sword, and then to Emerie’s and then to Lupine's. When the glow had reached Lyra’s sword, all the air rushed out of the room and nine blades began to glow. They glowed bright, almost blinding Nesta, but she couldn't look away.

Bewitched, Nesta leaned over and grabbed her sword and the feeling that set over her was one that she had only experienced a few times. The feeling she had only experienced when she had held the Mask. It hummed under her touch, singing a song that held Nesta in place.

“I don't think this has ever happened before. What was that?” Vera said, pulling down her goggles but Nesta knew what it was.

A Trove. Nesta had made her own Trove.

For a second, Nesta thought about throwing them in the bin and starting again. They were dangerous they were powerful they could-

They could protect their friends. If Briallyn did come sniffing and if she tried to kill her friends like she did in Nesta’s vision, at least this time with a made sword, they would be unstoppable.

And who was Nesta to deny her friends that type of safety? 

“You are playing with power that you do not know how to control. ” The voice had her staggering, and it felt as Briallyn was standing right over her.

Dread clutched her stomach. “How much longer do you need with the swords?”

Vera shrugged her shoulders, the goggles shaking.“About a day. I need to make sure that the hilt stays on properly.”

“Make sure nobody touches them.” Nesta grabbed her bag and rushed out of the store, her heart in her mouth. She needed to put space between her and the blades. She was tempted, so tempted to grab them and put them to use. 

The walk back home was short, her feet racing to the small cobblestone house. She slammed the door open and Nesta ran to her room. She closed her eyes and started to lift her hand through the air and she came into contact with metal.

“Sister, have you returned? Have you decided to put me on?” The Mask hummed, and Nesta breathed a sigh of relief. 

She had made a Trove. The words made her laugh. Weapons born out of love? She could protect her friends, and that was all that mattered.

Chapter Text

“If it’s worth anything, he got his face punched in.” Lupine said, her hair escaping its bun. 

“Good on you. Some males are starting to act like dogs. The best thing to do is put them down.”

“Hear hear.” Lupine circled Nesta, her dark eyes on her.

Nesta brushed a hand against her bruised cheek, the sting disappearing. She lifted her sword, the grip off balance, and advanced.

Lupine met her halfway, sticking Nesta's sword and trying to force it down. She kicked at Nesta, and slashed down. She had just enough time to block the attack before another blade came at her, and she fell back to avoid its edge.

“On your feet, Archeron.” Zora smiled, and leveled her blade. Nesta simply ran to her. Blades clashed and Nesta found herself on the tips of her toes, and for a second it felt like she was dancing.

She charged ahead, targeting Lupine and twisted the sword out of her grip. 

Lupine dropped to the ground, hands up. And in the second it took to breathe out, there was a sword at her throat.

“Do you really think that if you were in a battle, the opposition would give you time to breathe. What's next, do you want some time to braid your hair? Or perhaps fix your makeup?”

“I get it Zora.” Nesta laughed and pushed the blade aside. The day had only begun but since it was the Spring Equinox, Zora still didn't want to compromise on practice. Instead of the usual afternoon meetings, she decided to move the session up into the morning.

After a few more pointers on her form, Zora walked away probably to talk to Seraphina and Nesta took a seat in the grass, drinking from her bottle.

“So how was visiting the family yesterday?”

Lupine took a long drink of water before answering. “It was fine, I mean obviously there was some tension between me and my brother considering what happened during Winter Solstice 2 years ago.”

“Oh really, what happened?”

“We got into an argument and I threw him at the window.” The words were delivered so normally Nesta thought she misheard her.

“I beg your finest pardon? What?”

“To be fairly honest I don't remember how the argument started. We were throwing dishes at each other, then I realized I could just throw him out the window. It wasn't that high up it was like what? 3 floors down? Anyway he's fine now but still bitter about it.” 

Nesta just nodded and drank some more water. Lupine’s fights with her brother made Nesta’s seem like child's play. 

Serephina had just been disarmed by a smug looking Gwyn when the air stilled. And walking through the Clearing was-

“Lord Lucien?” Zora said, her hand on her sword. 

“Happy Equinox.” Lucien was dressed in brown pants and a cream tunic, his hair down. The others scrambled to their feet, bowing, but Lucien waved them off.

“It’s fine. I just need to borrow Nesta for a moment.” His eyes met hers, and there was something like worry in them.

Gwyn frowned as she stepped forward. “Is it serious? Should we come along as well?”

“No Madam, everything is perfectly fine just- I just need to borrow Miss Archeron for a moment.”

“I’ll be back soon, just keep going.” Gwyn moved closer and Nesta gave her shoulders a small squeeze. With every step towards him, her mind was racing thinking about all the possibilities that could have occurred. Sliding her hand into his outstretched one, feeling his calloused fingers, the world disappeared. They appeared in an empty hallway in the Castle.

“I thought you couldn’t winnow into the Castle?”

“You can't, but the sole heir to the Day Court can.” There was a hint of smugness in his tone as he guided Nesta down a corridor she had never been in. It was darker, a large contrast to the open walls and bright lights of the court. 

“My lord.” An older male said as he approached them. He was wearing a toga that had a blue lining, and his hair was peppered with grey. Nesta recognised him from the coronation.

“Lord Tiberius.” Lucien spoke, slowly pulling Nesta behind him. “What brings you here?”

“An issue with the new laws, not much. But I do wonder why you're here.” The male glanced at Nesta. “There isn't a court meeting, is there?”

“No, this is just a personal matter.”

Lord Tiberius laughed, waving his hand. “Using the chambers for a personal meeting? Next you'll use the study as a spa!” His expression changed and he moved closer.

“I know you haven't been raised in Day, by no fault of your own. But this court has rules, and if I didn't know better-”

“You're right, you don't know better.” He smiled at the male. “This is a personal matter, and I advise you to remember your station.”

The Lord looked at Lucien with thinly veiled disgust. “I do, my Lord. Have a good day. Soulmender.” With a curt nod to Nesta, he left.

“Pain in my arse.” Lucien grunted as they headed down the hall. He led her down a stone spiral staircase and ended up right in front of a simple wooden door. “He's been trying to suck up to me, hoping I'd name him my second when the time comes. Fat chance.”

The inside of the room was a reception room of sorts. There were chairs and cultures with a small desk in the corner but the display in the scent of the room captured her attention.

Lady Sylvia was standing a hair's breadth away from Lord Helion, her face tilted upwards. Helion had a hand threading through her hair, his thumb caressing her jaw. He looked like he wanted to say something but he noticed Nesta and gave her a small smile.

“Good you're here.” Helion stepped away from Lady Sylvia, looking at her as if she would disappear, and took a seat in one of the couches crossing his legs. After giving a brief hug to Lady Sylvia, Nesta sat down on the opposite couch, her hand resting in the lady’s lap.

“Is there an issue?”

Helion sat forward, his hands resting on his thigh. “Last night, the Harp was found by the Night Court.”

Nesta slowly let out a breath, and nodded. “Okay that’s good is it not? Now we know where it is, and Briallyn can’t get her hands on it.”

“Whilst knowing the location of the Harp is good, the Night Court are aware of the Maks’s whereabouts.”

Cold washed over Nesta. Her eyes snapped to Lucien and the male was looking at his hands.

“You were right in assuming that Elain was going to be the one to find the Harp. They found it somewhere in the Prison and the second she touched the Harp, she ended up getting a vision of you finding the mask in the Bog.”

Nesta could feel Sylvia rubbing her thumb over her hand. 

“How do you know this?”

Lucien smiled for a second, then his face dropped. “Me and Elain had been corresponding over letters for the past few weeks and she told me this last night. She wanted to warn you. She says that Rhysand has been somewhat irritated about the ordeal.”

“Rhysand is irritated that for the first time in forever he is not aware of every single move going on in Prythian.” Helion laughed, a dry sound.

Elain scried, and she wanted to warn her? Why would she do that? Why risk it for her?

“The only thing we can do now is make sure that the Mask is secured and that there is no way that High Lord Rhysand can try and take it.” Sylvia said softly, brushing Nesta’s hair out of her face.

“Do you really think the word no is going to stop him? Rhysand is under the belief that he is the only person who can fix this issue.” Lucien said to his mother. “For all we know he's trying to assemble an army to come and take it forcefully.”

“He will not risk war with the Day Court, especially considering his mate is pregnant. We need to handle this as tactfully as we can.” Helion stood up, and Nesta could see him glow. “Rhysand has no ground to demand the Mask, it was found in the Bog and the Bog is part of the Middle. The Middle is governed by no Court. And for precaution I have banned him and his inner court entry into my lands unless I've given him explicit permission.”

“Fa- you don't understand, Evenfall is right near the border of Night. What's to stop him from claiming wilful ignorance?”

“Rhysand is a lot of things, but he is not an idiot. Crossing into Day without permission as a High Lord is grounds for war. And as I've said he has a pregnant mate he's not going to risk it.”

“What would be a good idea, Nesta.” Lady Sylvia began, “Is to come back into the castle until this-”

“No.” Nesta's voice was hard as she looked at Sylvia. “Evenfall is close to the border. It's better for me, I can be able to track them. And if worse comes to worse I can winnow.” 

“I don’t like this. Why can’t we lock it up in the castle?” Lucien asked.

“We tried that,” Helion said. “And it went to Nesta. What good will locking it in the castle do?” 

“You don’t see it do you?” Lucien rubbed his face.“You might bar the High Lord and his court from entering, but what says his shadowsinger won’t find a way in? What makes you sure that he won’t just take it by force?”

Nesta was silent as the Trio argued, speaking about where to place the mask and by extension where to place Nesta. But as they spoke, a sort of calm washed over her. Nesta was tired of running from the Night Court; she was tired of waiting for the other shoe to drop. If they came to her in Evenfall, then so be it.

“Stop.” 3 pairs of eyes turned to Nesta as she pushed her hair back and stood up. “Thank you for letting me know, but hiding in a castle is not going to work.”

“Nesta-” 

“You said you trusted me, trusted that I’m keeping the mask safe. I'm going to need you to trust me that I can handle this.”

Helion was looking at her, his eyes saying a million words.

“Okay.” Helion slowly nodded and stood up. He grasped her hands and forced her to look him in the eye. “Stay safe Nesta. Your life is more important than the Mask.”

Her heart pained as she nodded, not trusting herself to speak. Her hands grabbed Sylvia’s and she left the room with Lucien.

“Told you.” Nesta said, her voice low.

“What?”

“I said that Elain might fancy the new look. Day is certainly an upgrade from Autumn.”

Lucien laughed, shaking his head. “That was 4 months ago.” It seems like years.

“I’m happy for you. Truly.” She grabbed his hand and gave it a squeeze. Lucien only lifted it and kissed the back of her hand.

But as Lucien left, the reality of their conversation came crashing down on her. On the bright side Briallyn had only the Crown to rely on, and if the Night Court were willing, they could work together to remove that threat. But the Night Court, no Amren believed that she was a child incapable of taking care of herself, much less taking care of the magic that she stole from the Cauldron. 

In her daze, Nesta was a few places off from the clearing when she winnowed and ended up in front of a small girl crying. She was huddled up and clutching her knees, a sword next to her. As Nesta drew closer, she could see blood on the blade.

“Are you okay?” Nesta got down on her knees and the girl shook her head.

“Tell me what’s wrong.”

“I can’t.” The small girl whimpered as she wrapped her hand around her knees tighter.

“I can help you, you just have to tell me why you’re here all alone.”

“Really?” From the red curls, a small green eye looked back at her. Nesta nodded and held out a hand.

Shaking, the girl took it. And she slowly brought up her other hand. Where her ring and middle finger should be were 2 stumps, a steady stream of blood pouring out.

Nesta stifled a gasp and brought the hand closer. “What happened?”

“I- I went into my father's closet and I took out his sword because I wanted to play with it, but my mummy said I wasn't allowed to. So I ran here and I wanted to play with it, but then I cut my fingers.” The last words were a sob and she started to cry harder, her face red.

“It’s fine, I can help. Where are your fingers?” Nesta never thought she would ever say that sentence. The girl reached into her blood stained dress and pulled out 2 small fingers. 

She lifted them up to Nesta and she took a hold of them. She held the fingers side by side not wanting to misplace them and grab the longer one.

“For this you're going to have to give me your hand, okay?”

“Why?”

“I'm gonna put your finger back on.” The girl slowly let Nesta grab her hand. She placed the middle finger on the stump and left the magic flow.

She closed her eyes as she imagined stitching the finger back on, like how she sewed the holes in their clothing back in the cottage, nerves connecting and skin regrowing.

As she opened her eyes, the middle finger was back in place, not looking any different from the rest.

“See? Now let's do the 2nd one.” Nesta grabbed the ring finger and did it all over again. This time she watched as strings of nerves grew up and held the finger in place, the skin creeping up to meet it.

When she was done, she pulled back and watched as the girl looked at her hand. She slowly moved it back and forth, and then gave them a small shake. When she saw that they were going nowhere, she lunged and threw her hands around Netsa’s waist.

“THANK YOU!” She screamed, and started to jump up and down. “Thank you so much. Wait!” She ran down the hill and came back up after sometime, carrying a lily, the white petals somewhat glowing. Leaning up, she tucked the stem behind Nesta’s ear.

“Okay,” Nesta grabbed the sword and sheathed it, grabbing the girl's hand. “Do you know where your mother is?”

“Yes, she sells bread in the market.” Taking hold of her hand, Nesta winnowed into the center, and spotted a female running around, her skirts and brown hair swishing in the wind.

“ODESSA! O- There you are!” she stormed over, her face etched with worry. “What did I tell you about running off like that?”

“I’m sorry.” Odessa buried her head behind Nesta's leg.

“Where on earth- Is that your father’s sword? Why is their blood all over you?”

“It's fine miss, she had a bit of a bad run in with the blade and lost a few fingers, but we fixed it didn't we?” Odessa poked her head out and nodded.

“What have I told you about taking your father's sword and playing with it? The nice lady shouldn't have fixed your fingers, you should have left you like that.”

“But then how would I colour?” The question was so simple that it had Nesta chuckling.

“Then maybe you should have thought of that. Miss Nesta, I am so sorry. Here.” She rummaged through her pockets, gold in her hand but Nesta stopped her.

“It’s fine, honestly. Just stay away from the sword alright?” The girl nodded and grabbed her mother’s hand. As they walked away Nesta wondered what life would be if her mother wasn’t the way she was.

When she appeared back into the clearing training had long been over. They were sitting on the floor, the swords piled to the side.

“Nesta!” Seraphina yelled as Nesta moved closer. “What was it?”

“Not much. It's all good.” Nesta let Lupine look her over and gave her a tight hug.

“Why have you got blood on you?” 

“Helped attach fingers.”

“Of course.” Lupine sighed as Lyra walked closer.

“When Lord Lucien showed up, well.” She trailed off and Nesta smiled.

“It’s fine.”

Nesta started to walk toward the swords but then she stopped. She had to tell her friends this affected them just as much as it affected her. She would be no better than the Night Court if she kept quiet about this and kept them in the dark.

“Actually I need to speak with you, all of you. Probably after the training back at my house?”

Adaria opened her mouth to speak but Emerie beat her to it. “Of course.”

“Since she isn’t dead, should we keep going?” Zora asked, but she was looking at Nesta.

They grabbed their swords and started with drills, but Nesta could see the lack of effort. When she held Sera at sword point, she just sighed and dropped down.

Zora was pushing Octavia, but she was letting Zora disarm her, to the point where Zora was putting in less work.

“This is stupid, I know I'm not the curious one. Why are we even training?” Emerie threw her hands up.

There was no disagreement, the swords were packed up and they walked back to Nesta’s house. Nesta could feel the eyes on her as she walked home. The living room was small, but everyone settled in as Nesta made a pot of tea. As she stirred it around her heart was racing.

“This is such a cute house.” Gwyn said as she grabbed the pillow next to her, pulling it close. 

“The ones near my house are being listed for sale.” Lyra said as she looked at the potions stand, tapping a small vial and leaning closer when the blue liquid shimmered.

“So what is it?” Adaria sat forward, her fingers drumming in her leg.

“I haven't been the most honest with you all.” Nesta began after taking a sip. “I need to tell you what's going to happen, it would be inhumanly unfair of me to keep this from you.”

“Nesta-” But she kept going.

“I found the Dread Trove, well the Mask. And I'm 100% certain that the Night Court will come and try to take it by force, and if it happens when we're training together I can't guarantee your safety.”

The room was silent for a second then Emerie started to giggle.

“Oh my word, for a second I thought it was serious.” She shook her head, her plat swishing.

“Em, look at her, does she look like she’s lying?” Lyra pointed at Nesta, and Emerie fell silent.

“Nesta, when you mean the Dread Trove,” Lupine began, her eyes wide. “You mean the one in the myths? Like the Harp and Crown?”

“Yes.”

Zora blinked and looked at Octavia, who was looking at Nesta.

“And if the Night Court doesn't come, someone else will. It would kill me if something happened to any of you. So you need to stay away, till I sort this out.”

“For someone so smart, you sure act dumb.” They all turned to Zora, whose face was screwed up.

“What?”

“You heard me. You truly think we’re going to leave you behind? Because it might be scary? Then what is all the training for?”

“Zora, you don’t understand-”

“Oh I understand.” She said as she leaned back, and for some reason she looked amused. “I’m staying here, we are staying with you. And you'll have to cope with it.”

“She’s right.” Seraphina spoke. “You’re one of us, we won’t leave you behind.”

“And if they come sniffing, we show them what we learnt.” Adaria smiled, her teeth on show. Nesta met all their gazes, one by one, and she knew no matter how much she tried to reason, they were not backing down.

“I- well if you’re sure of this, you might as well have these.” Nesta left the room and came back with a bag.

Slowly pulling the drawstring open she grabbed the first one and handed it to Zora. Her mouth was slightly opened as she unsheathed the sword, the engravings catching the light.

“Nes-”

“I had these made a few days back, as a gift. Happy Equinox.” She handed out the swords, and watched as they all drank them in.

“You- you made this?”

“Yes.” Gwyn grabbed her sword and pressed it to her ear. 

“It’s singing. It's faint but I hear it.”

“That was my fault, I might have put a bit of magic in them.” 

Octavia looked at her, “You made these? Like the Trove made.” Nesta nodded, the weight lifting of her.

“I told you, you’re brilliant.” Zora gave her a small smile, and Netsa safely her heart raced.

“Magic swords, oh this is lovely.” Lupine got up and gave Nesta a hug, then so did Sera, and Emerie. It kept going till they were a mess of limbs.

“What should I name it?” Lyra stood and tried a few moves, the sword perfect in its motion.

“Male killer?” Adaria suggested as she looked at the orange gem. 

“Too broad.” They all spoke of names, but Nesta could only smile as her friends surrounded her.

“Hey,” Sera said, moving closer. “You’re family. We take care of our family.” Nesta could only nod.

After the sunset, her family left, swords in hand. Lyra had stayed behind, since she lived closer, it would be no worry. With plans to meet in the town by morning, Nesta and Lyra settled into bed.

As she watched Lyra’s chest slowly rise and fall, her mind started to slow down. She looked at the space where she shoved the Mask. It was way to much trouble, and if she could help it, she wouldn't don it again.

Elain had scried for the Harp and then deemed her mission to warn Nesta about the Night Court. Nesta missed what they were, the closeness, the ease of conversation but they were too different from who they were to go back to it.

And her and Lucien? Nesta was happy that her friend and her sister managed to find comfort in each other. Nesta didn't know to feel relief or disappointment that she had found her mate. From what Enora and countless other people had told her, and from how the Cauldron despised her, maybe it was for the best that he wasn't around.

Nesta tried to think some more but her mind wouldn't let her, and not before long she was deep in slumber.

“Come on!” Clare laughed as she ran down the small hill, her hair flowing behind her like a veil, and her green eyes bright.

Nesta tried to catch up to her, but her feet were slowing her down. The more she ran, the further Clare was.

Nesta grabbed her skirts and ran, her heart in her throat. But when she reached Clare, all she could see was her pale skin covered in blood, her eyes still moving.

Nesta’s knees hit the ground as she grabbed Clare’s hands, trying to heal her. But she was human, she couldn’t do a thing.

“But isn’t that what you wanted?” A soft voice asked as Nesta tried to stop the blood. “Didn’t you want to be human again?”

“No, No.” She sobbed through her teeth, and the voice laughed.Clare reached up and gripped Nesta’s forearm, and her fingers were so cold. 

“Why?” Was all she said as her eyes closed, and Nesta pulled back. Clare’s body slowly started to sink into the earth, and claw as she might, Nesta couldn't stop it. All that was left of Clare was the fresh blood dotting the grass.

Nesta hit her fist on the ground and screamed, but the grass started to die before her, dry yellow patches spreading from where her hands met the ground.

“This is what you wanted. This is what you deserve.” The voice called out, and Nesta sobbed, wishing for the ground to take her as well.

The next morning was calm, the sky’s clear and the sun out. Lyra had convinced Nesta to try out a new breakfast place in the town.

“I still can't wrap my head around it.” Lyra said as she slowly ate her eggs. “The Trove. The real deal. And you just stumbled upon it?”

“Not really.” Nesta said around a mouthful of bread.

“Then how?” Her black hair was waving with her head as she ate.

“It took me from my room, and then the water reached out, only the water was-”

“Forget I asked. And now what? They’ll just tell you to hand it over?”

“They already have the Harp, 2 Troves in one place, it's too much power for anyone.” Nesta watched as Odessa’s Mother sold bread, Odessa playing with a few girls. But right above them, 2 black crows were looking at her, their eyes unmoving, and the pit in her stomach grew bigger.

“And the Crown?”

“Unknown.” She wasn't wrong, they had no clue where it or Briallyn were. Nesta ate her eggs, but her stomach was wound up, the back of her neck tingling. 

Mid meal, Gwyn came to them, swiped some bread and the 3 walked to the clearing, the feeling in her chest getting worse.

Zora had her sword on her, and she smiled at Nesta. “Glad to see you in one piece. Now should we do some drills?”

“Zora, I did not wake up at this time to do some drills.” Seraphina dropped to the floor, her tan skin shining.

“Then what do we do?”

“Maybe Nesta can fill in on how this all came to happen?” Emerie said.

“It happened so long ago I don't think I remember how it even started. All I know is that I found the Mask and it turns out I shouldn't have. The Night Court came into the possession of the Harp two nights ago I believe and they know I've had it for sometime.”

“And how long it's quite some time?” Lyra asked.

“Since the coronation. We got a warning yesterday. Listen, I wouldn't blame you if you left.”

“We're not leaving you behind so stop trying to make us leave.” Adaria said she shook her head. “But I would love to try out this sword. Zora, you up for it?”

They stood in the center and began. Almost instantly, Nesta knew she had been right with her measurements. The way Zora lifted and manoeuvred her blade was as if it were a light as a feather. She blocked and swiped at Adaria, her blue gem glowing.

Adraia was smiling as she advanced on Zora, her movements fluid. It felt like watching a duet.

Gwyn was swaying from side to side. “I still hear it, a song.”

Nesta closed her eyes, and she could hear a faint hum coming from the swords, and she found herself swaying with Gwyn.

Adaria had knocked the sword out of Zora’s hand and pulled her up. 

“I’ve never-” A scream pierced the air. Nesta was already up and running through the clearing, Emerie flying above her.

As they ran ahead they saw a group of satyrs running past, one of them screaming in horror. Nesta tried to ask what happened but they shrugged her off. 

“Go!” She yelled at Seraphina. “Make sure they're okay.” 

She kept running till she reached the border and froze, Gwyn, Adaria, Emerie and Zora behind her.

Amren was standing there, hands on her hips, the grey shirt blending into the rocky terrain. Azriel was behind her, his wings still. And Rhysand was leaning against a tree, a smile on his lips. He wore black and had a rock he was passing from hand to hand.

“Nesta. A lovely day is it not?”

“It is.” She kept a hand on her sword, the made one left behind and she wanted to slap herself for it.

“You’ve never been one for games, so I’ll get to the point. You have the Mask.” It wasn't a question, he kept passing the rock back and forth.

“I do.” She watched as Zora moved forward, her hand on her sword.

“This power is too much, even for you.” There was a hint of mockery in his tone. “You of all people know how tempting power can be.” Rhysand began but she cut him off.

“Exactly. That's why two Troves should not reside in your court alone.”

“You have no idea what you are playing with the girl.” Amren sneered as she moved closer, her feet brushing against the border. “You have no control over your power, yet you want to play god.”

The words seemed to irritate her, unnecessarily similar to the one from her dreams. This woman knew nothing about her and she was never going to change her opinion on Nesta. She was always going to be the cruel older sister, the drunk who could never amount to anything. But she had a family that knew what she really was, she knew who she was.

“Your opinion on me is entirely invalid. And what business do you have going about demanding its return? Last time I checked the Middle isn't ruled by any court and that is where I took it from. I mean what makes you think I'm going to hand it over to you?” Nesta couldn't help laughing.

“You have no claim here, you should leave.” Emerie stepped forward, her wings out. Nesta could see the anger, the resilience in her gaze.

Rhysand tilted his head and gave Emerie a smile. “For an Illyrian, you’re far from home.”

“Day is my home. At least here that aren't males wondering if I'm deserving of living.” 

Nesta watched as Gwyn, Adaria and Zora stepped forward. Azriel slowly looked at Gwyn, his eyes lingering on her, then he looked at Nesta. His eyes were heavy, the shadows around him restless.

Nesta could hear the others getting near, and she stood taller. This was her home, she was safe.

“I am not part of your court; you do not command me as if I am. I respect that you are my sister's mate but that is where it ends. Leave.” Rhysand raised a brow.

“Hand over the Mask.”

“Give me one good reason why I should hand it to you. And don't give me some stupid excuse of my magic being too volatile and me too weak to control it.”

Rhysand stepped forward. “Becausewe have the best chance of keeping it from Briallyn.”

“Wrong. I’ve had the Mask for just over 4 months and it’s still safe.”

“Why must you have it?” Amren contered, and Nesra wanted to reach over and drag her across the ground. 

“Because I found it. Because I've been holding on for it for four months and not once have I had the urge to put it on and weak havoc.  but I can't say the same for you.”

“Bad enough you made your sister scry-”

“I didn't make her scry, she chose to.” Nesta stepped forward, and Zora was right there behind her. “I just made it clear I wouldn't do a thing.”

“Nesta, don’t be difficult. Hand over the Mask.” Rhysand has his hand outstretched. Nesta looked up at him.

“No.”

His once calm face slowly changed, his eyes slowly darkening.

“Hand it over."

“She doesn't have to hand anything to you.” Adaria spoke, her eyes never leaving Rhysand. “You can't come into this court, you're not allowed entry, you should just leave.”

Rhysand didn't say a single thing, he simply lifted his head as he locked eyes with Adaria.

She let out a gasp and fell back, Nesta rushed to her, cupping her face. Her eyes were glazed over, her mouth trembling.

“Aedion. No.” She whimpered, clutching her face and Nesta felt her gut tighten. She rose to her feet, her hands tingling.

“Get back.” Her voice wasn't her own. Lupine moved closer but Nesta looked at her. Lupine faltered her eyes wide.

“Get back.” She faced Rhysand and Amren, the latter moving as close to the border as she could.

“You want the Mask? Then here.” She raised a hand, pushing it through the air. Her hand came into contact with cold metal.

“Sister. At last, we are one.” The Mask hummed as she pulled it out. She watched at Azriel's eyes widened, then she was no more.

The air was calm, Nesta could see the 3 figures in front of her, their faces shocked.

She was everything in the air, she could feel the dirt call her name. Feel the sense of dread. She lifted a hand and felt the ground shake. Then a crack appeared between the dirt.

“Nesta.” She heard someone say. But then a hand shot out from the dirt, and a creature, a fallen male, who would have not been older than 20, crawled out of it, then came another, then 10 more, 20 more, 100 more.

The air was thick with death, and this time it was her doing. The dead moved to the border, hands in Night, dragging their nails through the mud. She could hear the dead whisper, she could see the blood drain from the winged male’s face as he stumbled back. The way the female slowly stood up, the glee disappearing.

The male without wings moved back, horror on his face. Good.

“If you dare to cross me or my village again.” She spoke and the ground shook in answer. “Not only will I send the dead to you, I will make you wish you were dead. Begone.” She waved a hand, and the winged male grabbed hold of the others and left. But the female was smiling at her as she vanished.

The dead retreated, the ground closing up.

She was free of it all. She had no thought other than content.

“Nesta.” A female, Lupine, came closer, her hand out. “Take it off.”

Why should she? She was free. She was everything and nothing at all.

“Please take it off.” She touched her shoulder, her hands warm, so warm.

“Nesta.” A woman with dark hair came closer, her blue eyes gentle. “Take it off, come back.”

The Mask loosened, and it fell. She could see faces looking down on her, but she sank into the dark.

Chapter Text

She had no idea how long she was running, she could only remember her feet slapping against the cold floor. 

The room, was it a room or a hall that never ended, was grey. Smoke covering the floor. Tall pillars surrounded her, and as far as she ran, Nesta always ended up in the center.

She was barefoot, and her nightgown was sticking to her damp body. Her skin felt cold and hot all over, and it felt like eyes were tracking her movement.

“Do you see dear?” A voice called out from the dark. “This is what your actions are. Useless.” 

From behind one of the pillars, a cloaked figure came out, her shoes clicking on the floor.

“What?” Nesta looked at Briallyn, her face flushed.

“Do you think I don't know about the little tricks you're doing?  they're all useless. You might as well run in circles.” She waved a wrinkled hand to the scenery. 

“Get out.” Nesta gripped her head, but Briallyn came closer, and 

“I could have your skin stripped from you, your lungs filled with acid. Just hand it over and it'll all be fine.”

“No.” Nesta pulled back and spoke her head. “Find someone else to bother. The Mask is not yours, and the Crown-”

“What of it? I have it now. And the other 2 will follow. You did this to me.” She pointed at her face, but Nesta couldn't see it. “You stole from it. And it took its anger out on me! I was beautiful, AND IT TOOK IT FROM ME!” The walls shook and Nesta could feel the floor cracking. 

“You will hand it back, and I won't kill your loved ones. But if you don't, my face will be the last one you see Nesta Archeron.”

The pillars began to fall, stone flying around. Nesta ran in the other direction, but she wound back where she was.

“Soon.” A voice spoke, much softer than Briallyn’s. “Soon. I await you.”

The floor gave out, and Nesta was falling.

Her throat was burning, light shining down on her closed eyes. Shadows danced across her vision, and there was something cold on her head.

She let out an undignified sound and cracked an eye open. Gywn was over her, cloth in hand and a worried look.

“Don't move too much, take your time.” She handed Nesta a glass of water and she drank it down. The room was packed with people. Zora was on the other side of her bed, looking down at her, the others were scattered around. But there were 2 ladies carrying baskets filled with food.

“What?”

“You passed out.” Gwyn began, rewetting the towel. “The- the thing disappeared. But we couldn’t wake you.”

“Or move you.” Seraphina stood near the door, her hands folded. “We tried to winnow you to the High Lord, but you set yourself on fire.”

“Again?” Her tongue felt like lead. She sat up and spots coloured her vision. She fell back and Zora reached over.

“Here, Enora was here a while ago, left you some of these.” She uncorked a bottle filled with blue liquid, and handed it to Nesta. The pain slipped away from her, her head clearing.

She sat up, and stayed up this time.

“High Lord Helion had to come here himself.” Zora took the bottle and gave her a pink one. “It took him some time to move you, but you stopped burning after a while.”

“The clearing is fine, burning but nothing burnt.” One lady laughed and got closer, handing Nesta a pastry, still warm to the touch. “That was so brave of you. You don't have to do that, standing up to the High Lord for us.”

“It was- it was no issue.” Nesta took a small bite, not wanting to tell the people she was the reason they came.

A small lady stepped closer, her grey horns shining in the light. “Me and my sisters wanted to thank you. He- he just appeared and well,” She flushed red, toying with her skirts. “I didn't mean to leave, I was just scared. I wanted to thank you.”

“It was truly no issue.” She didn't know how to deal with the thanks, the looks of adoration.

“Anyway, me and some others have left you some things behind, as a thank you for all you’ve done. Only the Mother knows what he would have done if you weren't there.” The elder lady laughed, lowering her head, her lips brushing against Nesta’s cheek.

The satyr came closer, kissing Nesta’s brow and left. The only people left were her friends, her family.

“Was it real, the Mask, the dead?”

“It was.” Seraphina got closer, sitting on the edge of the bed. “I never thought- well they left. And the place is the same. The crack is even gone.”

“The border has been quite, we’ve been taking turns with looking-”

“Where’s Adaria!” Nesta jumped out of bed, rushing out the door. She could hear Sera telling her to come back, but she kept going. The kitchen table was filled with gift baskets and flowers. Notes of well wishes and thanks were scattered all over the place. But Adaria was nowhere to be found.

“Nesta please! You’re still-”

“What’s going on?” Nesta looked at the door, and let out a sob. Adaria was in her training gear, her sword hanging by her waist. Without thinking, Nesta threw her arms around her, her head nestled in her hair that smelt like apples.

Adaria wrapped a hand around her. “It’s fine. I’m fine.”

“I thought he shattered your mind.” Her tears were flowing freely, her breaths ragged.

“I’m fine, all thanks to you. You didn't tell us you’d go full killer.” She laughed and guided Nesta to the couch. “He didn't stand a chance.” She grabbed a piece of tissue and gave it to Nesta.

The room filled up and Nesta tilted her head.

“Where are Octavia, Lupine, and Lyra?”

“At the border. Emerie is at Ostia, speaking with the High Lord about the issue. He wanted you to come when you woke up.” Gwyn gave her another glass. 

“I need to tell you something else. I told you the Crown’s whereabouts were unknown. The human Queen Briallyn has it.”

“Wait, I thought she was mortal? How can she use the trove?” Adaria looked around. “There are 6 correct?”

“Was mortal. She went into the Cauldron after me. It took her youth, and she blames me. She has the crown, she won’t stop till she gets it. She told me so.”

“And when did she tell you?” Zora folded her hands, running her tongue over her teeth.

“Just before I woke up.” Nesta stood up, her legs feeling much better. “This is way larger than before. You have to stay back.”

“Oh not this fucking shit again!” Seraphina groaned. “We’re in this together, scary queens be damned. You need rest and-”

“I’m going to Helion.” She left the room, Gwyn behind her.

“Nesta! You’ve been out of it for 2 whole days! You need rest.”

“Gwyn.” Nesta grabbed her hands, and gave her a smile. “I am fine, I was fine the last time it happened, this is no different.” She pulled back and threw on a grey dress, the layers light and breathable.

She didn't bother with her hair, she wore it down and grabbed her shoes.

“I’m coming with you.” Zora called out after her, and Nesta did not find the strength to argue. She grabbed Nesta’s hands and they were in front of the Castle. The guards moved for them, and they began the climb to the study.

Helion was pacing the floors and Lord Tiberius was waving his hands.

“My lord- oh Soulmender.” He gave her a nod and Helion surged forward, grabbing her shoulders.

“Tell me it all.” And so she did. She spoke of how Rhysand came, how he startled the satyrs, how he went into Adaria’s mind, how she sent him back. She tried to keep the details brief in front of Lord Tiberius, but Helion understood her. 

“An act of war, entering one of our citizens' minds.” Tiberius spoke, his hands shaking. 

“It’s not.” Helion sat back down, and he looked like he hadn’t been getting any sleep. “He was in his court, the treaty says nothing about using his daemati magic.”

“We need to retaliate!” Tiberius said as he made a fist, hitting his free hand. “This is preposterous.”

“You don't have to enact war, that would be stupid. But you need to teach him a lesson. The more you let him trample all over your court, Helion, the more he's going to think he can push your limits.”

“And you think I don't know that already?”Helion looked up, his eyes hard. “I'm well aware what Rhysand thinks-”

“Then send him a message.” Nesta said through gritted teeth. “Slow down trade, stop sending in scholars, bare entry to all Night Court citizens, anything. Teach him that he cannot harm Day court citizens.”

“Soulmender is correct, The Night Court benefits our scholars more than we benefit from their weapons. We have forges, and it might take some time to get used to the supply decrease, but we can manage.” Tiberius spoke and Helion nodded.

“I’ll tell Lord Tragan afterwards. But I don’t doubt Rhysand learnt his lesson.” Helion gave Nesta another one of his smiles, and the room seemed to glow.

“I have to admit. Evenfall is too far for me to keep an eye on. And it’s too close to the border for me to ignore.”

“So then what?” Nesta looked at the smiling male.

“The only thing to do is make you the Lord of Evenfall.” 

Nesta looked at Zora, who’s eyes were wide, but then a smile broke out on her face.

“I can’t be-”

“You’ve shown that you care, more so than others. And from all the gifts and well wishes, it seems that the people are content with it.”

“But I’m not a Lord.” Was the only thing she could come up with. In charge of Evenfall? The notion was so crazy, but it felt right, like there was no other possible answer.

“Then the Lady of Evenfall. We have Ladies in charge of towns, this is no different.”

“My Lord this can't be!” Lord Tiberius cried, his hands out. “Her proximity to the Night Court alone is a precarious situation. How can we trust-”

“If Ms Archeron was as close to the Night Court as you claim, she would have well as given them the tools to enter. And for some odd reason Lord Tiberius, it seems like you are questioning me. Are you questioning me?” Helion's tone had not changed one bit, but Nesta still felt nervous hearing him.

“Of course not my Lord, I was merely bringing up an issue but if you believe this is the right idea then I will fall in line.”

“See to it that you do.” The dismissal was clear, and with a side glance to Nesta, Lord Tiberius left.

“As the High Lord of Day, I grant Nesta Archeron Lordship over Evenfall. Do you accept it?”

“Yes.” The words had never felt so right. Helion gave her a nod, his eyes glowing.

“Now get some rest. Please.” Nesta stood on shaky feet and left the room, her worlds spinning.

The walk through the Castle, people stopped and nodded at her, as if her new role was plastered on her head.

“You look like you’ll be sick.” Zora pulled her to a bench outside the Castle, near the gates.

“I won’t. It’s all so… new.” The air was nipping at her face, her eyes stinging.

“Don’t do that again Nesta.” Zora sighed and placed a hand on her brow.

“What?”

“The secrets, the hiding information until you think it's relevant. That all has to stop. No matter what happens or what you tell us, we’re by your side. You can't keep information that affects us and tell us when you think we deserve to hear it.”

“I just don't want you to get hurt.” She couldn’t lose the only resemblance she had to a proper family because of something that she brought on to them.

“If something happens to us while we've willingly walked into it, that's not on you. You can't shoulder everything on your own, that's why we're here.” The words were harsh, but maybe Nesta needed to hear them.

“I- ok. I promise it. But there are somethings-”

“I don’t expect to hear every detail. But if there's information you’ve found, and it might be larger than it seems, then we need to know.” She placed her forehead on Nesta’s, their breathing in sync.

“How is the clothing hunt going?” Nesta pulled back, her fingers intertwined with Zora’s 

“We've been experimenting with some different types of styles, but we were far from the finished product. Gwyn's been looking over some different styles since she moved- oh you don’t know.” Zora laughed. “After you passed out, Gwyn went to the Night Court and left the same day. She thought that the High Lord would be… difficult to deal with after what happened. She’s been staying with Lyra.”

“Oh. but what about the research?”

“She’s told Merrill that she’d send notes whenever she could, it's all fine, and stop blaming yourself.” Nesta rested her head on Zora’s shoulder, watching the world move. But as she relaxed, she could feel something under her skin, a slow and steady beat. It wasn't her heart, and when she tried to focus on it, she could feel the grass rippling in the wind, the smell of bread in the air.

She could feel Evenfall, like a 2nd heartbeat.

Without warning, the world tilted and Nesta met the ground, grass making its way to her mouth.

“What was that for?” Zora gasped as she sat up, her temple red. Nesta waved a hand and the skin returned to normal.

“I didn't mean it, I was just thinking of home.” Zora took the offered hand and they walked through the green. The town center was in view, people huddled near a store, little fires of whispers reaching Nesta’s ears.

“LET ME GO!” A female cried and Nesta surged forward. In the center was a lady, one of the newer residents Nesta had run into, her blue skirts flying about. A male in blue and white clothes was holding her hand, 2 more behind him. The males holding her were looking at her in disdain. Aesira, Odessa’s mother, was shouting at one of the guards, her hands waving in the air.

“What is this?” Nesta moved forward, her hair whipping in the wind.

“Mind your business lady.” The male hissed, his eyes tiny. The female was still kicking her legs. Nesta looked at his clothes, a symbol of an ice wolf on his chest. Winter Court Soldiers.

“Since you’re in my town, it is. So I'll ask you again, what is this?”

 The male rolled his eyes and yanked at the female, who fell on the ground. “She’s a mated lady-”

“I am not! You disgusting-”

“You are! She’s denying the bond.”

“Then let her.” Nesta walked to the fallen girl and winced as the skin under her eye was purple. Nesta raised her hands, the skin returning to its rosy shade. “What’s your name?”

“Lumi.” She spoke, her lips quivering. 

“She can't just deny the bond considering her mated one is a son of a lord.  And I don't know if you understand this but-”

“I am well aware what happens to a male who is rejected, Sir. But you can't take the lady away.”

“That's right!” Aesira yelled as she shoved one of the guards, who didn't so much as budge. “You can't just break into another court and-”

“Considering she is one of the Winter Court’s citizens, I sure can. Now hold your tongue.”

“Why are we even bothering with her, Captain? Let her stay here, I don't care.” Nesta didn't notice this slender male standing behind the guards, his face was sharp and thin, his grey eyes looking bored.

“Lord Gabriel, as we said she is your mate.”

“I don't want a female who has sullied herself.” 

Lumi stated to laugh, “I’d rather fuck a male on the verge of death than you, you little-”

“Stop.” The square fell quiet as Nesta looked at Gabriel and Lumi. “Neither of you want the bond?”

“Their choice is nonexistent. His father is a Lord on High Lord Kallias’s council, this is not for discussion. Come with us, now.”

“What if I could get rid of the bond? Then no one goes mad.”

“Break it!” Lumi yelled, her eyes wild. “I can’t spend another second-”

“Neither can I. Get rid of it!” Gabriel agreed.

“The lady seems to be confused.” The Captain turned to the others and they laughed. “There is no way of breaking upon without the male going crazy-

“Shut up for a second.” It was crazy, and if it went wrong she could be in some serious trouble. But it would be wrong to not try, she had to.

“Come here, the both of you.”

“Nesta.” Alma, the lady at the meat stall spoke. “This is dangerous.”

“Don’t worry.” She placed a hand on Alma’s shoulder, and once her face relaxed, Nesta moved.

Gabriel and Lumi came closer, the two looking at each other with spite. She placed a hand on both heads and closed her eyes. She tried to find it, the slow pulse that the books had described. It was thin but it was there. She opened her eyes, and she could make out a thick golden line between them, connecting their ribs. Nesta raised a finger and slowly sliced down the thread.

“She’s gone mad.” The Captain laughed. “She’s touching the air.”

“One more word, I dare you.” Nesta could feel the bond fighting her, begging it to stay. It showed her images of the 2 on a frozen lake, in a ballroom. But Nesta could see the sadness in Lumi’s eyes, the way Gabriel clenched his jaw when his father forced them to speak.

Let it go, she demanded. The bond thrashed around as the golden thread began to fall apart. With one final push, the golden thread separated, falling down limply. Lumi gasped and stumbled back.

“I don’t - it’s gone.” She let out a sigh and fell down. Nesta looked at Gabriel, his mouth spreading into a smile. 

“Thank you, truly.”

“Sir, are you-”

“Yes, now are we leaving?” The captain looked at Nesta, and nodded. In a whir of ice, they left.

“Thank you. Thank you so much I-”

“Get up, it's all okay. Now, any issue you all come to me.” Nesta looked around, her voice carrying. “I promise to do my best to help.” With that, she left the square.

“I have no words. That was- wow.” Zora gave her a little shove. “Nesta you are truly something.”

“Why thank you Miss Arame.” She gave her a small curtsy.

“I have to head back to Otisa. Take a break alright?”

“I can’t promise that.” Nesta entered her home, the energy draining out from her. She went into her kitchen, and saw Gwyn and Emerie in the backyard.

“Em.” Nesta moved to her, pulling her close. Hands enveloped her, and Nesta let out a hum. She pulled back, grinning at her friends.

“Everything go well?” Gwyn asked.

“Yes, Helion is going to deal with the Night Court. And he made me Lady of Evenfall.”

“Lady of Evenfall, I could see that.” They sat in silence when Emerie spoke. “Nesta. This wasn’t a coincidence was it?”

She looked at Emerie, her face tired.

“What do you mean?” She said, her brows raised.

“I can't seem to put it into words but, I've seen you before, I've seen Gwyn before.”

The air left Nesta’s lungs and she looked between her two friends.

“After I left the store the first time we met I had this weird vision, maybe of me and you in my store, but that couldn't have been correct because you've never been to Illyria. And when I saw Gwyn for the first time I saw us all sitting down-”

“Making bracelets.” Emerie looked at Nesta, nodding.

“I had the same vision too. It was a while ago, and I guess I just wanted to meet you. I had no idea you would be coming to Day, either of you.”

“I believe you. Something told me just to go to Day. I thought I could probably get some clothes and maybe see some places. And when I went back to Illyria, something kept pulling me back.”

“I saw you and me in the library, the Sanctuary. And you were shelving books but you looked so much different. And when Merrill spoke of Day, I felt the need to go, to see it.” Gwyn got closer and put a hand on Emerie's knee “I could see you too. Do you think it's fate?”

“It has to be.” Emerie smiled, looking at Nesta. “With you it’s- it’s easy to be me. With all of you.” Placing her head on Nesta’s lap, she sighed. “I think fate wanted us to be here, to do what we're doing.”

“I’m glad I met you.” Nesta lifted her head, the air kissing her cheeks. The grass felt like silk and below it all, she felt Evenfall as it breathed.

The air turned sweeter, like the beginning of spring, like new blooming flowers.

“Huh?” Nesta looked down at Emerie who sat up. A letter was at Nesta’s feet, a blooming rose on the wax seal. She reached down and grabbed it, looking at her name in gold.

Dear Nesta Archeron,

The Spring High Lord, Tamlin Evergreen has humbly invited you to the reopening of the Spring Court a week from this day.

We hope for your attendance.

Althea, Spring overseer.

“Spring opening?” Gwyn looked over Nesta’s shoulder, her hair falling over her eyes.

“That’s good.” Emerie looked at Gwyn, her eyes smiling.

“It’s amazing.” Nesta looked at the rose, and smiled.

Chapter Text

“Gold or silver?” Nesta asked as she raised the hair pins. 

“It pains me to say but it seems gold isn't your colour.” Zora pointed at the sliver one, letting out a dramatic sigh.

“That's a lie. Gold suits everyone, what matters is the shade.” Lupine stepped forward. “See white gold-”

“Adding another colour defeats the purpose of Gold. If white gold is so good on her, she might as well wear silver.” Nesta watched as the 2 started to bicker about gold. Nesta once again raised the hair pins, the gold was lovely, it went with the Spring colour scheme, but it washed her out. Silver was her go to, it matched the jewellery she had, but she didn't want to stand out.

Sighing, she placed the silver hair pin on her braid, adjusting the teardrop gems. Her dress was green, the colour of mint, adorned with pearls and embroidery. The square cut of the top let the breeze hit her chest, and the arms were made of sheer material, so she won't overheat.

“I don't think it matters and besides, I haven't got enough time to find any white gold. I think this should suit me.” Nesta looked into the mirror, swishing around.

“It does look good, are you sure you don't want to go with the blue dress?”

“Since blue is the colour of Winter and Summer, it would look as if I come from those courts.”

“How is it you've been fae for… what less than two years, and you know all the tiny customs.” Lupine said, moving closer and applying a hint of red on Nesta’s lips

“Oh I think I know the answer: it's because you don't care.” Zora said with a smile. “Are you ready?”

Nesta took one more glance at the mirror, nodding. Spring was going to reopen, people would be able to go home, the border would be safe.

Nesta grabbed her blade, feeling it sing under her touch, but Lupine took it from her.

“I might not know much, but carrying a sword to a peaceful celebration is bad luck.”

“I need protection, we have no idea if Briallyn will strike. And bringing out the Mask will be exactly what she wants.”

“Then take this.” Zora stood up, pulling a silver dagger from her boot. Nesta grabbed it, sliding it into her undergarments. The cold metal gave her a sense of peace.

“I’ve spoken with Mister Ivan, he has some boys looking at the border, and Emerie and Octavia are on the watch.” Nesta moved through her home, walking into the kitchen. Pouring herself a glass of water she continued.

“I won’t be long, I should be back tonight, can you-”

“Yes. Like I've said the last 8 times, Adaria will winnow to Spring if anything happens.”

“The High Lord and High Lady should be in Spring with you, so it’s the Shadowsinger and General we should look out for.” Lupine grabbed a glass as well.

“Ok then, I’ll be back soon.” Smiling at her friends, Nesta let the world tilt.

The castle entrance was empty, exactly for the 2 figures speaking, the younger one looking agitated.

“Is there an issue?” Nesta asked as she drew near. Lucien dropped his hands and smiled.

“You look lovely Nesta, and no there is no issue.” He dropped a kiss on her hand, and Helion followed. Dressed in Day Court clothing, they looked regal. Lucien was in a cream toga with gold, the clothing of an heir, and Helion was in pure white. His crown of golden spikes looked eerily similar to the Crown. Lucien was glaring at his father, but stopped when he caught Nesta’s eye.

“Being the Lady of Evenfall suits you.” Nesta smiled up at the male. Being the Lady was way different than what she thought it would be. She assumed that there would be people queuing out her house, coming to her with every little issue, but it seemed the people of even for were quite content. A few people would come to Nesta asking her for help with a well that wasn't being shared equally, perhaps some livestock that went into the wrong pen, and quite frequently healing help. Other than a few questions about the border guard, (some of the males weren't too sure about ladies defending it and had decided to have a group of males there) life at Evenfall was quite peaceful.

“You’re right it does.”

“You know, as Lady of Evenfall, wearing lavender-”

“Lavender washes me out, and green is better, it shows solidarity.” She threaded a hand through Helions and he nodded. 

“Sylvia has decided to stay behind. She says that her presence might stir some problems.”

“Beron is long dead.”

“But the foes he has made still linger.” Nesta nodded and turned to Lucien, who was looking at a letter, the image of deer on the stamp. He waved his hand and it vanished, but his smile was still there.

“Shall we?” There was a tug in her gut, and green hills came into view. The air was fresher, like someone had opened a window after a while. The trees were large, soft pink petals were slowly drifting down, covering the ground in a soft blanket. A manor was in view. It was cream, with tall walls. But what really caught Nesta’s attention was the green all over it. There were patches of flowers that seemed to be growing from the walls, some vines that came out from cracks and grew into bushes.

“It’s different.” Lucien whispered. His knuckles were white, and Nesta watched as she saw a male approach them.

Tamlin looked like a High Lord. His once strawy hair was lush, falling down his back, his skin was sun kissed, his muscles bulging from under his crisp green jacket. By his side was a small nymph, her green hair done up with flowers and her emerald green skin adorned with gold. She smiled and gave Nesta a wave.

“Lady Nesta! I’m so happy you came.” She did a small curtsy and Nesta returned it.

“You must be Althea?” The nymph nodded and Tamlin stepped forward. 

“Miss- my apologies Lady Nesta, I welcome you to the Spring Court.”

“What am I? Chopped liver?” Helion huffed, and Tamlin clapped his shoulder.

“Welcome Helion. I hope your journey was well. Heir Lucien.” The air temperature dropped. Lucien was looking at Tamlin, his jaw clenched. Nesta remembered their past conversation in the pub, where she learnt to tolerate Lucien.

“Tamlin is a lot of things, I'm aware of that.”

Have they spoken since then? 

Lucien dipped his head, a polite smile on his lips. “High Lord. Congratulations on reopening your borders.”

“Thank you, without your friends meddling, I wouldn't have noticed how badly I had been neglecting my Court. It seems I have you to thank.”

It seems like they hadn't spoken. Tamlin didn't look one bit irritated; he was smiling at Lucien.

“Please, come with me.” Helion fell into step with Tamlin, speaking of the new additions, whilst Althea walked with Nesta.

“Lord Tamlin changed after he came back from the coronation.” Her brown eyes were looking over the manor, as if she could see through it. “Sent away the Night Court helpers and left to speak with High Lord Eris. He was saying something about ‘Crazed Archerons’. I had thought it was your sister, but I found out it was you.”

“He just needed a push in the right direction.” As the Manor drew near, Nesta caught sight of a decorated section where tables were flowing with wine and food and people dressed in white servants' clothing smiling and talking amongst themselves. There were flowers that Nesta didn't know the names of growing from the ground, and she thought how Elain would enjoy them.

“More like he plunged into it. Within a week he was reconnecting with old Lords and had appointed me to help.” They stepped into the Manor and Nesta drank in the sight, the 2 staircases that went up to the 2nd floor, the pristine furniture and lights. There was the smell of roses wafting through the air. A few fae were walking around, giving Tamlin smiles as they passed.

“I do have to say, I called you all early on false pretences.” Tamlin spoke, a flute in hand.

“Oh?” Helion grabbed a glass and grinned.

“I wanted to speak with Lady Nesta, if that would be alright?” He looked at her, and Nesta nodded. She moved closer, and he led her to a room.

It was like a cave, but there was a large pool in the center. There was a small hole in the wall, letting in the sunlight. The bottom of the pool was covered in grey rocks, and water looked translucent, and Nesta wanted to drink it. 

“The room had flooded a while back.” Tamlin bent down and took a seat near the edge. “I tried my best to fix it, but it wouldn't budge. Althea convinced me to leave it be, just make it nicer.”

“Althea seems to be the brains of this operation.” Nesta slipped off her shoes, and carefully gathered her dress. She dipped her fett in the water, letting out a hum.

Tamlin laughed, a barking sound. “She is. I wanted to give you my thanks. You- you gave me the shove I needed, my people were suffering and I neglected them. I have to admit, I was irritated that you dared to speak on the matter.” He dragged a hand through the water, her reflection rippling. “But when the anger wore off, it hit me. Everyone but me noticed how bad it had gotten.”

He turned to her, his green eyes looking like emeralds. “I need a favor. Ever since, well everything, this feeling of dread is all I can hold. The thought that this all is fleeting, that I'll blink and it will all go away.”

“High Lord I’m flattered but I can’t.”

Tamlin raised a brow and took a sip. “I thought you were a healer? People have been speaking about the remarkable talent you have.” 

“What you’re feeling, there's nothing I can do about it. I don't think the dread will ever go away. It's always going to be part of you. You made mistakes, horrible mistakes, but you also tried to right them.” The water had stilled and her face was looking back at her.

“No magic is going to erase all the pain and hurt you've gone through, I would have used it if that were the case. Just remind yourself of the good and keep going. People depend on you, a court depends on you. And the more you give the dread something to latch on to, the faster it will all slip away.”

“Have you tried poetry?”

Nesta shook her head. “Too wordy.” Tamlin stood up and offered her a hand. Her feet were cold, but a wave of fire and they were dry.”

“Silver flames?” Tamlin looked down. “I’ve never seen them before.” 

“I’m one of a kind.”

“My Lord.” Althea ran in, her face glowing. “People are arriving, The High Lord of Summer and his entourage. And spring citizens, they’re coming back.”

Tamlin grinned and held out his hand, Nesta took it and they walked out.

The grounds were flowing with people, pixies were flying around, leaving dust behind. There was a group of satyrs playing music. Nesta could see people go to Tamlin and bow, grabbing his hand, speaking with contagious smiles. It made her feel happy.

“Proud of your work?” Eris Vanserra asked, a drink in hand. “You should be. You were the only one to get reason through that thick skull. If only my father could see him now.”

“Why would Beron care?”

“He was bringing up talks of pushing the boundary, and I heard whispers of a takeover. But now I wonder how much of that was him, and how much was our friend.”

For the past week, Briallyn had been silent. Nesta had received no dreams, no feeling of dread, no visions of her loved ones dead, everything was silent, almost too silent. But her friends and the new appointed watch guards had found no strength activity whatsoever. Everything in Evenfall was fine. And it worried her.

“Everything is fine on my end, have you found anything else?”

“You are right about the Night Court; they have come into contact with the Harp, only the Mask is left.”

“You don't need to worry about the Mask, I have it.” Eris snapped his head around, and after a while he smiled.

“You and your secrets. A shame you turned me down, we could have been remarkable.”

“No thank you. I’d rather be Lady of my town.”

“A lady? Is that a new title?”

“Lady of Evenfall. It's near the Night Court border.” Nesta watched as High Lord Thesan spoke with Lucien, the pair laughing.

“Spring being reopened is a good outcome, a very good one. I've heard that the place where the wall is being heavily guarded in and day out and they have been some glamorous places. It might not seem like a lot to you, but it is.” 

Nesta nodded, she didn’t feel like she did much, she was sure her large mouth would get her killed in the moment, but as she watched children play games and see them speak with Tamlin, she’d do it all again.

“Soulmender.” High Lord Kallias and his wife Viviane came closer. The air was warm, but his ice blue jacket was lined with fur. Vivian wore a simple blue dress, but it looked timeless on her, her stomach was slightly out, and she was glowing. “How lovely to see you.”

“High Lord. My Lady. Congratulations.”

“Not for much longer.” Viviane smiled, her hand on her husband's arm. “We’ll be having a small ceremony. I am to be High Lady.”

“Congratulations, we need more Ladies in power.” Viviane gave her a brief hug, but Kallias’s stare was cold.

“I heard reports of you breaking a mating bond for a son of a lord?” He posed it like a question, but the look in his eyes was different.

“I did, they both agreed, and last I checked the male had his mind intact.”

“You broke a bond?” Viviane whispered the words.

“It was simple, and a much better way then the other alternatives.”

“A mating bond is rare.” Eris frowned. “The one person you call for and who sees you for you.”

“Maybe it's my human upbringing, but a thread between your ribs doesn't entitle somebody to your affections, especially if they're actions cause you harm. Love is not something that is automatically earned, it's something that you have to build on something that grows. So when I saw a young girl being forced back into her court, and a male he looked at her with no love, I had to do something.”

“Perfect bonds are rare to hear off.” Kallias stated, and looked at his mate. “Some are lucky, some aren't. If that was the agreed decision, then who are we to speak on it. I wish you well, Soulmender.” 

“High Lord, High Lady.” Viviane beamed and they left, walking to High Lord Tarquin.

“You never fail to shock me.” A kiss to the hand and Eris left. Nesta walked around the field, her heart feeling full. A figure to the side had her stopping. Azriel was on his own, his shadows curling around his feet. He was in a black shirt and matching pants, his wings were slowly moving with the wind.

“Azriel? Where is my sister?”

The male smiled at her, then his face dropped. “Your sister is pregnant. Rhysand didn’t think it was safe to come. And if you're asking about Elain, she’s there.”

Nesta turned to wear Azriel pointed at and saw that Elain was standing next to Tarquin, laughing as they spoke. She was dressed in a simple purple dress, her hair delicately done up. 

“Every other High Lord is here, do you know a message it sends when they don't even send their emissary, they send the shadowsinger and her sister? And what is wrong with Feyre’s pregnancy? Is she in danger? Is it a high risk pregnancy?”

“Something along those lines.” He threw her another glance and Nesta realized it was tainted in disdain.

“Have I done something to anger you?”

Azriel sighed and put down his glass. “You deemed it necessary to tell Feyre that there was an issue with her stomach during the coronation, did you not?”

“I did it because there was.”

“You were right, it turns out the babe has Illyrian wings, and if not dealt with there is a chance of-”

He didn't finish the words but Nesta knew what he was saying. Feyre had high fae autonomy, the babe’s wings would tear her womb in half. Pregnancy forIlyrian females was already hard enough, but for Feyre…

“Wait a minute,” Nesta said, a frown taking over her face. “You all knew of this?”

Shame colored his face. “We thought it would cause unnecessary harm.”

“About her own body? You mean to tell me if I hadn't said anything she wouldn't have even told? Are you shitting me?”

“It was for her own good.” But Azriel didn’t seem to believe himself.

“You claim she's your High Lady yet you disregard her in favor of a mate?  Will it be like this for every decision? Something that concerns her but because Rhysand said not everybody must do so?”

“Nesta please, Feyre knows now, and she's taking precautions. Rhys had sent people out to the Continent, to everywhere to see and get help. She doesn't blame you.” 

Nesta wanted to say more, she wanted to grab him by the collar and set his skin on fire. But she realized doing that during a peaceful day would cause more problems than she was willing to deal with. 

“Azriel, what was that at the border?”

“Everybody seems to be asking that question. After we found the Harp and realize that you've had been keeping information-”

“I didn't owe you any truth whatsoever, not after what you guys tried to do.”

“ -Rhysand was irritated, correctly, so. Nesta, you can't control that type of power.”

“I was quite in control when I sent an army of the dead after you, was I not?” A servant was passing by and Nesta took a flute of champagne from him, letting the liquor slide down.

“Nobody should have that type of power, they should be destroyed.”

“And we will after we've taken it from Briallyn. She has the Crown, and we need all the defense we can against her.”

“I don't buy the notion that you don't know what to do with your magic. The reports coming from Day alone are entirely different. But you need to be careful. The Trove, made objects are not something to be played with.”

For a second Nesta wanted to tell him that she had created nine made swords just to see the look on his face, but she held back.

“How is Elain doing?”

“You could ask me.” Elain appeared next to her, her face blank. She was holding a small drink and looked at Nesta. “You’re a Lady now? Of the border town?”

“Yes. It seems that Helion needs a hands-on approach with meddling courts.”

“Helion pulled back the healers In Velaris, did you know that?”

“I was the one who came up with the idea.” Azriel shot Nesta a look but Elain only smiled. Her eyes were glassy as she looked at Nesta.

She took a sip of her wine. “And if you're concerned about my episode with the Harp-” Azriel’s eyes widened but Elain kept going “I'm doing well, other than the fact that the Harp doesn't seem to like me everything is fine.” 

Nesta felt as if she were being watched, so she turned and saw Lucien looking at Elain, his eyes filled with hurt, and slowly he walked back inside the Manor. Elain's eyes were pinned on Azriel as if she was trying her best not to look away. 

Azriel reached for his glass, and he winced, his hands slightly shaking. Nesta took the flute from him despite his look, and grabbed his hands. Silver light came from them, Nesta let her magic smooth over the nerves, putting them back into place. Azriel’s fingers started to straighten, the strain disappearing.

“I didn’t know if you wanted me to heal the skin, but-” He grabbed her and pulled her into his arms. He smelt like tree bark, and a whiff of sea salt.

“Thank you.” He whispered into her hair. He pulled back, and after a small nod to Elain, walked away.

Her sister's eyes were on her hands, and she reached out for them, the small bracelet she was wearing swaying.

“Nesta I wanted to say sorry-”

Nesta pulled her hands back. “It's way too late for apologies, and it's way too late for you to try to mend this. I'm not going to pretend I wasn't an easy person to deal with, but I was there for you, after the Cauldron, after Grayson I was there for you, and when I needed you the most all you could do was what? Agree with them locking me up? I’m done.”

Elain lip’s quivered, looking as if she wanted to say more but a chime rang through, and Nesta moved towards the dias. 

“I would like to thank you all for coming here today.” Tamlin smiled at the crowd. “I have been neglecting my duties, and letting my past take hold. But it turns out a few harsh words were the cure.” He threw a wink Nesta’s way. “But I plan to uphold my oath, and care for these lands the way I should have in the past years.” Applause rang through and Althea came forth, a crown of flowers and jewels. Tamlin got one on one knee.

“Do you swear to govern this court with the care that it deserves?”

“I do.”

“Do you swear to use the magic that the Mother has given you to uphold this court?”

“I do.” A pang of pain started to spread through Nesta’s temple and she had to grip onto the table to study herself. The world kept blinking in and out,  and she had to grind her teeth to see clear. She tried to focus on a tree, but all she could see were 2 crows looking at her.

“And do you swear to do all you can to stop this court from falling into disarray?”

“I do.” Althea placed the crown on his head, and then a glow spread through the lands. The trees seemed to get fuller, the air clearer. The sun was shining down on them and Nesta felt her heart swell, her head still aching. Tamlin stood tall, a faint green glow around him.

“All hail the High Lord!” The cheer could be heard across the wall.

As the night progressed Nesta’s headache started to get worse, she thought maybe it was alcohol she drank, but even when she was just standing still the pain would take over her. Helion seemed to have noticed her predicament because he assured her that in a couple of minutes they would be heading back to Day.

“Soulmender.” A male with red hair and freckled skin came closer. Alder Vanserra was followed by his 2 brothers, Eris giving her a grin.

“I don’t think we’ve properly thanked you for all that has happened. With our father.” He dropped his head, and with a nudge, Lysander followed as well.

“It was no problem, it was for the better.”

“Some might say that about you one day, my Lady.” Lysander grinned, and Nesta just stared at him.

“This was.. pleasant, but I must go, have a good night.” Nesta hitched up her skirts and went to Helion, who was looking at Lucien and Tamlin. The latter placed a hand on Lucien’s shoulder, and she could see her friend smile.

Her house was empty, Zora had left a note saying she and Emerie were at the border, and that all was well. Nesta felt better that she was back home, the earth humming beneath her.

But the pounding in her head was still there, and no potion would stop it. Collapsing into bed, sleep took her.

She was back into the Castle again, but this time the empty throne room was filled with people, high fae and lesser fae alike. The room looked cleaner than before and after a quick run to the windows Nesta could see light flickering through the town, the sun slowly setting. Nesta didn't know where Lady Celeste was, was this before her time?

A male stood at the base of the throne dressed in grey and silver robes. On the balcony a group of children started to sing. Nesta didn't know what language it was but it felt nice to listen to. The doors opened, and a lady in a beautiful dress. It was large and the short shoulders showed off her slender hands, the bottom of the dress turned white, as if it were glowing. The female was Celeste, her face set and her head held high.

She reached the dais and looked up at the male.

“We are here on a momentous occasion, a new dawn starts and we bid farewell to the past. Lady Celeste Velmora, do you swear to govern our people?”

“I do.”

“Then step forward.” He moved so that Celeste was in front of the 8 pointed star, and he handed her a silver blade.

She raised it high and sliced down on her palm, red blood running down her hand. A drop hit the star and it sizzled, then another drop hit the floor. Slowly the start began to light up, the glow spreading to the edges. Celeste's eyes were closed, and she was swaying.

The star began to glow, and then it faded out. A soft breeze ran though the palace, and the male smiled.

He lifted a crown made of diamonds and silver, and Celeste faced her people, the sun dipping behind her.

“All hail High Lady Celeste Vemora of the-”

Nesta awoke to her door being pounded on, and she wanted to scream, she was so close, so close. She threw on a pair of night bottoms and opened the door, and screamed.

Emerie was bleeding, a cut down the length of her face. She grabbed her side, and Nesta could see blood streaming out.

“What happened?” Nesta yelled, as she stumbled forward.

“Beasts,” Emerie ground out, her eyes tearing. “They came from the Night Court, they’re attacking.”

Chapter Text

“Me, Zora, and Seraphina were standing guard with some males then we heard howling.” Emerie said, clutching her side. “They came and- they ate a male, they left his legs. Octavia and Lupine have been evacuating people. Gwyn said that some more have come through.”

Nesta waved her hands and the wounds closed up. She then ran back inside, her hands reaching for her sword, the metal humming under her skin.

“Nesta-”

“Stay back and get the people away safely!” She ran down the hill, screams filling the night.

Lyra was helping a group of ladies get into one of the homes, one lady had twisted her ankle, unable to move around properly. Gwyn was behind her, sword raised. Nesta ran to them, grabbing the lady's ankle and letting her magic flow.

“How many dead?” 

“Just the guard,” Lyra huffed as she shut the door, locking it. Her hair was all over the place, her green skin pale. “We have a few injuries but-”

“BEHIND YOU!” Nesta heard someone yell, and as she looked up, she was face to face with a wolf. She brought her sword down, but shadows wrapped around it, and it vanished.

Nesta turned around, but there was no trace of it. She looked around the homes, only for the beast to appear and to lunge at her. She stepped back and when it got closer, she sliced the creature down the middle, black blood splattering on her face.

The 2 half fell down, and Nesta took a step forward. The beats had silver claws, the metal glinting in the light. And looking through the muscles and bones, so we're its teeth.

“Silver teeth?” Gywn placed a hand on her head, her teal eyes looking around. “Merrill, she told me something about it.”

“What the actual fuck!” Lyra stepped back, almost tripping over her feet. The two half started to twitch and Nesta watched in horror as muscle, bone, and blood materialised out of thin air connecting onto the sides. Instead of one, two wolves looked at her, their teeth bared, eyes full of hate.

“How?” Nesta stumbled back and the beast came forward. It lunged at her, shadows curling around its feet, and with a sinking feeling, Nesta realised that the shadows were moving the same way Rhysands did.

“DON'T CUT THEM! THEY DOUBLE!” Nesta yelled at Vera, who was attacking one of the beats, 2 swords in hand.

“THEN HOW THE FUCK DO WE STOP THEM?”

The wolf came to her, biting at her heels and Nesta raised her sword, clashing with the metal beast. She rolled out of the way as one of the shadows tried to latch onto her legs. She needed to do something, she needed to bring out the Mask.

But summoning the Mask would mean that she would be relinquishing control over herself. And she had no idea what she would be doing under the influence, what if the dead took her people as the enemy? What if she killed them?

Noticing her hesitation, the beast leaped and Nesta could only summon a wall of fire before it bit her face off.

The beast screamed, falling to the floor as its skin melted off him. Nesta raised her sword and stabbed it, the charred remains floating around.

She ran down to the lake, where Adaria was dealing with 2 at a time, some young nymphs behind her. She summoned her flames and grabbed Adaria’s sword. The metal grew brighter and hotter. As Nesta ushered the nymphs away, Adaria raised it high and sliced the beast's head off. It didn't move again.

“Why are they here?” A small nymph with red skin asked, her face covered in blood. Nesta knocked on a door and a male opened it. He took one look at the scene and ushered them in.

“I don't know, stay inside!” Nesta slammed the door shut and ran. The earth felt wrong, like putting on a wet dress and letting the water run down. 

“Give me your sword!” She ran towards Gwyn, who was with Octavia, trying to move the beasts away from the homes. Nesta set it ablaze, handing her the hilt. “Fire seems to work on them.”

Octavia handed Nesta her sword, and when it was on fire, she started to spin it around, meeting the beats head on. They never stood a chance.

“Go to the border, Zora-” Nesta ran. Her town was in shambles. There were buildings falling down, wolves running amok, people screaming. As they ran away from beasts unless they could see the males trying their best. But the more beasts they slashed, the more came out. Nesta could see Seraphina and Emerie, who had run them out from the house, duelling 3 at a time.

Nesta ran to them, and without a word, set their swords on fire and ran to the male's aid. One was cornered by 2 beasts, his hand wavering as they circled around. He raised his sword as one lunged at him, but the other went low, grasping its leg in its mouth.

The male let out a blood curdling scream, stabbing the beast, but it wouldn't let go.

Nesta sent a blaze of fire at the wolves, turning them into dust. She ran, as fast as she could, her heart in her mouth. The border was silent, Nesta looked around, trying to see.

The Night Court section was still, but Nesta could see yellow eyes looking back at her.

“NESTA NO!” Zora screamed, Nesta turned to the sound and saw what she meant. 

It was a trap, she realised too late.

About 10 beasts surrounded her, their teeth glinting, saliva dripping from their mouths. Some came out from behind her, some crossed over the border. One of them got closer, and Nesta could see its maw covered in blood and flesh.

“I told you,” One said, its voice like 3 people speaking at once. “You can't handle this power, it's too much even for you.” 

Rhysand had told her those words, he had told her that the power was too much for her. So this was his retaliation? That's why he stayed behind, not going to Spring?

Was Azriel a ploy? Had he done something to her drink, something to cause her headache? Was that why she hadn't felt the breach of the border?

“The power is not yours to use.” Another beast laughed, and the rest laughed along with it. “Give it back.”

It didn't let her respond, 3 jumped up at her, slicing her neck, her arms. She set them on fire, but they didn't die. Shadows came forth and put them out.

“Nesta Archeron, we will kill you, not tonight but soon.” They spoke in harmony. “Your blood will feed us for eons. Your time has not come yet, but it will.”

Nesta watched as Zora, bleeding from her side, staggered closer, her blue eyes blazing.

“GET BACK!” Nesta screamed and set the field on fire. The night was illuminated by silver light. The beasts screamed as she trapped them in a ring of fire, and Nesta took her chance. She ran to Zora, taking a look at her side. The skin was gone, teeth marks imprinted on her. There was a chuck of flesh missing.

“Zora.” She whispered, and raised a hand. Nesta forced herself to watch as the skin fixed over, the blood stopping. But there were 3 lines running down Zora's side.

Nesta tried to run her hand over it again, but it was no use.

“The fire only burns them sometimes.” Zora gasped as she stood, running alongside Nesta, away from the beast. “We need-”

“NOOOO!” Lyra screamed. Nesta turned her head, looking as a wolf circled a small girl, her red hair a beacon to all. Somehow she had managed to throw off her parents and was walking towards the center, towards Lyra.

“NO ODEESA!” Lyra cried, running towards her. But she was too late. The beast lunged at her, its sharp teeth digging into her neck. It lifted Odessa up, her little fists limp, and threw her across the field. Nesta could hear the neck break all the way from where she stood.

Something snapped within her. Her breathing became harsh. Dead. Odessa, a child, was dead, because the Night Court wanted to play God.

A scream tore from her mouth, the ground rumbling, as if it felt her pain. Her body began to heat up, her skin growing lighter, the floor glowing.

They wanted to take her, to break her down. They killed people to reach their goal.

Nesta erupted.

Silver flames rolled off her body, dropping to the ground like diamonds. She was standing in the center of an inferno, silver and white dancing together. Her mind felt clear, her eyes could see for miles, she could see all the wolves, all her people.

She charged ahead, sword in hand.

The beasts went down quickly, almost too quickly for what it did. Nesta turned back to Zora, and flicked her hand. The beasts were screaming even louder, and Nesta loved the sound. She closed in the wall of flames tighter.

Zora was behind her, dipping her sword in the fire and running ahead. Nesta walked through her town, slicing the beasts down, and when she grew tired of slicing them down she sheathed her sword and started snapping their necks one by one. She was tempted to pull out the Mask, bring them back just to kill them again. 

Burnt flesh filled the air, and Nesta walked alongside Zora, setting the wolves alight. When the howls had stopped, Nesta stood still. Any trace of the beast was gone, no ash, no bones, no fur. Nesta sat down and the flames melted off her. The cold air stung, and Nesta found herself crying. A child gone.

She watched as Zora went to Lyra, lifting the small body. Then the doors opened. Villages came out, some limping, some running. And at the front was-

“NOOO!” Aesira howled, grabbing Odessa’s body. Her body was racked with sobs, her hands trying to smooth over her hair.

“Please!” She called out, pulling her daughter closer.

“Nes.” Gwyn placed a hand on her back, and Nesta simply leaned in. Gwyn had blood on her face, blending in with the freckles. “You…”

“It is done.”

More people came out, looking around. Nesta had to do something, she couldn’t afford to cry. Grabbing Gwyn's hand, she stood up, walking to face the crowd.

“If anyone has any injuries, come forward. Deathly injuries first.” The crowd stirred. A mall with half his leg missing was carried to her. Nesta waved her hands back and forth, the skin closing up, but like Zora, the teeth marks were still there.

“It must be the teeth,” Gwyn said. “Maybe a poison, or the silver.” But Nesta did not respond. She didn't trust herself not to cry.

An elderly lady cane forward and Nesta forced down the bile treating to come out. Her right hand was mangled, barely hanging on. Her face was tight with pain.

Nesta lifted her hand but the lady shook her head. 

“It's no use, I won't be able to use it. Cut it.”

“Mama no!” A tall boy said, holding her up, but she shoved him back.

“Please, just cut it.” Nesta nodded and grabbed her sword. She made quick work of it, after slicing the hand up to the elbow, she raised her hands, smoothing out the nerves, making the skin cover the flesh. The lady nodded, her jaw set and she walked off and a small boy stepped forward.

As she moved down the crowd and let her magic flow into them, the rage started to boil. It was slow to grow, and with every person healed, Nesta wanted to march right into the Night Court, into Velaris, and have Rhysand’s head.

2 were dead, Odessa and the guard. And about thirty were injured. 3 houses had been attacked, demolished by the wolves' shadows.

Nesta knew she should be thankful. She knew she should be glad that not every single person was dead, that there was a way that the people who were injured could be healed. But the guilt wouldn't let up.

“Zora, Seraphina.” The two moved forward. Seraphina was crying, her face blotchy. Zora was rubbing her side, her fingers brushing against the bare skin.

“Tell me everything.” The words were tumbling out of them, the guard was swallowed by the beast, and Seraphina had run to warn them. Zora was attacked by a wolf to draw Nesta in.

“There won't be any more rotations.” Nesta moved up the hill, towards the border. The fire was still raging, the beasts dead. She raised a hand and the fire moved back, spreading out. The border was replaced by a wall of fire, as tall as the trees. “I’d like to see them come now.” She laughed, her throat sore.

“The people that have lost houses, move them into the homes near the lake, and give them the choice of moving or rebuilding. Take a tally of people, see if more are dead.” 

Zora fell in step next to her, her hand brushing against Nesta's.

Aesira was still holding her girl, and a male with red hair was next to her crying.

“Aesira.” Nesta said as she got closer. Odessa looked peaceful, her eyes closed, Nesta reached out and closed the wound, but her heart was still. She tried to say more, to find the words to comfort her but she couldn't. 

“We bury her.” Her husband said, his voice hoarse. “In the fields, she liked it there.”

“Nesta.” Aesira sobbed and Nesta wrapped her hands around her. She rubbed her back as she cried.

“Don't bury her.” The words tumbled out. The father looked at her, his eyes rimmed red.

“What do you mean?”

“It's not- we shouldn't bury her.”

“We have to bury her. We can't keep her corpse.” The father choked back on a sob but Nesta rose, glancing around.

“I know tonight was terrible, I know we have lost people, I know we are hurt. The injured should go back home and rest, but to whoever can stand I need wood. Lots of it, enough to make a pyre.”

“We should bury her.” A male said from the crowd. “It's what we know.

“No, it's a new tradition.” Nesta could see an image in her mind, a large fire. “We must honour the dead. Letting them rot in the ground is cruel.”

“My lady, I know the pain-”

“No.” Aesira gasped, clutching her husband's hand. “No, tell us what you need.” 

Nesta pressed her lips onto Aesira’s forehead and moved. “Get a cloth, large enough to cover her. Make it nice, add symbols that meant something to Odessa. And get the wood. It must be dry wood.” She had no clue what she was saying, but it felt right.

“I need males to help me carry the wood from the creak.” Octavia said, and a few followed.

Nesta went along, letting the families grieve. She grabbed an axe and chopped the wood in half, her hands getting used to the familiar motion.

All that power, and what? People were dead. The wood went flying. Nesta grabbed another log.

“Careful.” Lyra said, an axe in hand. She stood next to her, letting the quiet wash over them. 

Rhysand did this. Feyre must have known. Her own blood.

THWACK!

She knew her and her sister had issues, she knew that it would be a while till they'd see eye to eye, but this?

THWACK!

“Nesta-”

“What is the point?” Her hair was sticking to her face. “What is the point of being in charge if I can't protect them? How can I be in charge when people are dying under my command? How can I be in charge if all I've brought is death?”

THWACK!

“No one could have foreseen this. The Night Court-”

“Played us. They sent the spymaster as they planned this attack. The beasts used shadows to bring down the buildings, they told me the same words Rhysand had.”

Lyra stopped swinging her axe and stared at Nesta. “If we're going to put the blame on people, maybe let's put it on Zora, or Seraphina, or Emerie. Or how about the guards who were at the border and did nothing except run.”

“That is not what I mean-”

“But it is. You're blaming yourself on something that you couldn't have prevented, neither could anyone else. The only blame lies on the Night Court, and I promise you, we will deal with them. I knew Odessa, I used to babysit her while her father would be away on work and her mother ran the market. This death hurts me more than you can imagine, so trust me Nesta, we will be getting back at them.” Her axe struck wood, and they fell back into rhythm. 

By the time they were done, all her tears had dried up. The wood was piled up and Odessa was lying next to it. Aesira had brought a yellow cloth, Odessas' favourite colour. There were flowers on it, a painting of a cat, and a small sword. Words of love and devotion were written all over.

Nesta took hold of the cloth and let a bit of magic spread through. She laid it on the floor, grabbing Odessa’s too cold body, and wrapping her up in it.

Alongside Aesira and her husband, they placed her on the pyre.

“We should not be experimenting with somebody's death.” One of the older males said, stepping forward. There were claw marks on his hand, running under his shirt. “This is a child.”

“Our Lady tested breaking mating bonds, and as we can see, she knows what she's doing. So either help or shut it.” A male snapped.

“Has anyone got any words to say?” Nesta faced the crowd. Aesira stepped forward.

“Odessa, she was my light. My everything. She made life better by living, and now,” She let out a gasp. “I don't know what to do.”

She fell into her husband's arms, sobbing. A lady stepped forward, Odessa’s teacher, then Lyra, crying as she spoke of Odessa’s large heart and bright face. Then lastly her father, who spoke of how he loved her, and how he wished her a safe return to the Mother. 

Nesta grabbed a log and set it on fire. 

“May the Mother greet you with open arms. May you find peace, peace that this world could not give you. May your soul be remembered till the earth lets out her last breath.” Nesta spoke, tears blurring her vision.

She handed the log to Aesira. Husband and wife stepped ahead, setting the pyre on fire.

Nesta didn't know what she was expecting, but she wasn't expecting for the pyre to catch fire instantly, burning everything. The shroud caught fire, the cloth burning slowly. And the air wasn't filled with the scent of burnt skin, the air carried the smell of lilies. 

The town watched as the ashes drifted upward, carrying the scent with them.

Nesta waved a hand and the pyre turned to ashes.

“Thank you.” Aesira said, kissing Nesta's dust covered hands. “Thank you so much.” 

Nesta and her family stood still as the townspeople went back home.

“Speak with Adaria and Lupine. Tell them to try and find anything on the  beasts. Give home and rest.” Nesta watched the sun slowly rise, her head clear.

“What about you?” Gwyn asked.

“I'm going to Helion. Then I'm going to kill Rhysand.”

Chapter Text

Sleep didn't come easily to her. The horrors of the night before were still fresh in her mind. The stumps of feet in shoes that were brought to the guards wife, and her screens filling the air. Odessa’s body unmoving. A few hours of tossing and turning later, Nesta slowly moved out of bed, not wanting to disturb Zora, who had decided to stay with her, which was silly, Nesta didn’t need coddling.

With her wardrobe open, Nesta looked through her clothes, trying her best to quiet. Dresses were a no, if she wanted to rip Rhysand’s head off, she needed all the movement she could get. A loose grey shirt captured her attention, 2 small buttons and a flat collar. Nesta grabbed it and also pulled out a pair of black pants. Nesta sat at her vanity, slowly braiding her hair. A part of her hope that Feyre had no idea about this. That Rhysand was keeping this information the same way he kept the horrors of her pregnancy hidden. If that was the case. it would make Nesta’s work much more simpler for her.

Nesta slowly opened her jewellery box, pulling out a slender silver hair pin, the top part looking like a comb. If she was disarmed, at least she’d have another weapon available.

“Nes.” A groggy voice came from the bed. Zora sat up, her hair all over the place. She rubbed her eyes. “Where are you going?”

“To ask Helion for aid, I need him to send over repairs.” She had rehearsed the half lie in the bath, as she filed her nails to a point. She was heading to the castle, and then the Night Court, where she’d get her payment. “I’ll be back soon. Get some rest.”

“No,” she stepped out of bed, Nesta catching a look at the silver scars. “I need to see if there are more things that need to-.”

“Zora, sit down .” Zora fell back down, her blue eyes filled with questions. “You had half your side missing not less than 6 hours ago. You will sleep, and if you so much as move a muscle I’ll know.”

“You’re gonna stick Gwyn on me?”

“No Adaria.” That was a lie. If Adaria saw her, she’d be able to sniff out what she had planned.

“Fuck.” The female fell back, and within a bit, she was out. Nesta stood, tucking Zora in and placing a kiss to her brow; if she didn't survive, she knew Zora would be a great Lady to the people of Evenfall.

Grabbing her made sword, Nesta stepped out. The town was silent, a few people moving about, staying clear of the damaged homes, as if more beasts would come out. Taking what could be her final look around, she winnowed away.

Each step she took up the palace’s stairs, Nesta felt the rage in her grow stronger. The hallways were empty, and for that she was thankful. Helion’s study was a hallway away, when a guard came in front of her. 

“My lady, High Lord Helion is busy. Do you mind-”

“I’ve just spent the night killing beasts that took the lives of 2 of my people. Do you want to see how much patience I have left?” Her sword glowed in the light and the guard raised a hand, panic on his face.

“My Lady, if it was anyone else, I would have. But-”

“Move.” The guard tripped over himself as he moved aside. She stormed to the study and flung the door so hard open, one of the hinges came loose.

Helion stood up, his eyes wild. “Nes-”

“You have to-” A wall of black slammed into her, sending her down the hallway. She crashed into the wall, seeing stars. And walking to her was Rhysand. His face was filled with rage, his purple eyes glowing.

He dared to use the same magic that his beast used? The same magic that took Odessa?

“You bitch.” He raised his hand, but Nesta was on her feet, and she sent a wall of fire at him. It slammed into him, his shirt burning, and she hoped his skin was damaged. Sword drawn, she charged. She took a swing at his head, and Rhysand pulled out a dagger. He raised his hand, and the hallway sunk into darkness.

“You had to do that didn’t you?” Rhysand said from all around her, Nesta kept a firm grip on her sword. “You’re such a vengeful bitch.”

“You’re one to talk.” Taking a wild guess, Nesta swung. A cry of pain and the wall vanished, Rhysand was infront of her, a cut running down his arm.

“I’m going to enjoy ripping your skin off.” He lunged at her again, and Nesta barely missed the blast. She danced around Rhysand, throwing flames at him and trying to make contact when she tugged at her magic. Rhysand lifted his hand again, and shadows slipped out. But this time Nesta raised her free hand, summoning flames and firing them directly onto her sword. The hallway was bathed in bright light, to the point where she was almost blinded. She took her chance and ran towards Rhysand, kicking him square in the chest and making him fall down a flight of stairs. She jumped down after him, and with a wave of her hand the pain in her leg vanished. 

She closed her eyes and she could feel the pain emitting from where she struck him, his back muscles flaring up in pain. But she could also feel pain in his knee. Without thinking she yanked on it, and the High Lord went crumbling down once more.

“YOU KILLED THEM!” Nesta set her sword on fire, charging. Rhysand stood up, his face twisted with pain and came at her, and at the last second, Nesta dropped her sword and punched him in the face.

Rhysand fell back, and the look on his face was pure shock, but Nesta didn't give him any chance to adjust. She grabbed his collar and swung.

“She was 6!” She covered his fist in flames and swung again. Rhysand had anticipated it and vanished into the dark. A swift kick to her back and Nesta was flying back, her back slamming into a wall.

“You talk of death? When you killed a mother? She had children!” Rhysand roared, his hands reaching for her sword. Nesta opened her palm, and the blade nestled in her hand. She got back up, and ran to him.

He had managed to pull out a sword, and blocked her strike. Nesta could hear commotion, people coming down the stairs. She charged at him, her sword pointed at him when a blast of light separated them.

“STOP THIS AT ONCE!” Helion roared, coming out of his study. But Nesta tore it in half with her bare hands. She was going to kill him, no matter the cost. The shock on Rhysand’s face gave her enough time to punch him again, and she trapped them in a ring of fire several paces away from the Day Lord. She didn't need any more interference.

The male looked around, trying to use his shadows to douse the flames, but any time his shadows touched the flames, they’d just grow higher.

“I don't look so out of control now do I?” Nesta grinned, and Rhysand came at her. Hit after hit, Nesta kept pushing him to the edge, wanting him to burn.

Lucien had come out of a random door, and was trying his best to break through the flames. Helion was sending people away, with the help of Lord Nero. 

“Nesta!” She turned and saw Sylvia standing to the side, her eyes wide. Rhysand took the chance and the world shifted. They came crashing out of the shadows onto the floor above, and Rhysand gripped her throat, the whites of his eyes swallowed by the purple.

“I should have put you down long ago.”

Nesta didn’t say a word, she just unhinged her jaw and bit his hand. He let go long enough for her to headbutt him, and she kicked him where the sun didn't shine. He doubled over, groaning.

“I’m going to drink your blood, High Lord.” With all her strength, Nesta sent flames at him, and her heart grew twice as large when the esteemed High Lord of the Night Court went flying and crashed into Helion’s bookshelf. 

Rhysand was on the floor, his hands twitching. Lucien and Lord Nero tried to move forward, but she moved her flames, making a direct way to the study.

“I don’t doubt you acted alone,” Nesta spoke quietly, as she walked towards Rhysand. “And when I’m done with you and my treacherous sister, I’m going to rip your 2nd’s throat out.”

She was at his feet and she raised her sword, silver flames coating it. 

Rhysand was on his feet, eyes wild, teeth bared as he brought down a dagger, but with a flash of light, Nesta was shoved in a chair, Rhysand trapped across from her. She tried to stand, but a circle of gold was containing her to her seat.

Helion was fuming, his chest heaving and his eyes wild. Lucien was behind him, his face white.

“What the fuck was that?” Helion fixed the door hinge, letting Lucien and Lord Nero in the room. To Nesta’s horror, Cassian came into the room. He looked at Nesta, then at Rhysand. Then Cassian sighed and pulled at his hair.

“Rhys, no.”

“Don’t make me ask again. What happened?”

“This bastard knows what he did.” Nesta snarled. 

“You despicable-”

“SHUT IT!” Helion yelled. He dragged a hand down his face. “Nesta, Rhysand is claiming you attacked his home-”

“ME? HE SENT THOSE BEASTS AFTER MY PEOPLE!” Nesta felt the ground respond to her. Lord Nero took several steps away from her, almost tripping on his toga.

“I did no such thing.” Rhysand was fighting his restraints. “But you? We took you in, we made sure that you were cared for, and you attacked my city. I should have your head.”

“Like you could.”

“Nesta, please stop. He says he has proof.”

“Oh that’s a story.” Nesta clapped her hands. “You sent those wolves. And don't pretend like you didn't, because they happened to have the ability to travel through shadows and bring down buildings. This was the plan the whole time wasn't it? Send Azriel and Elain into the coronation while you, my sister, and your second planned this attack? All because I wouldn't give you the fucking Mask. THIS WAS WHY! YOU’RE A FUCKING CHILD!” Nesta took a deep breath and sank back down in her seat; if she wanted to kill Rhysand, they'd have to assume that she was calm enough to take off the restraints.

“A man is dead, a child is dead because of those beasts that you sent. They came from the Night Court, and I would know that because my watchguards-”

“Oh yes, please. Let's bring up the watch guards that are looking into my court day in, day out-”

“Because you thought it best to threaten my people, to go into my friend's mind-”

“It’s way too early for this.” Lucien mumbled.

“That was a mistake, I'll admit that, and you cut off trade in response. But you sent these beasts to my city, beasts that could summon those flames you favour. And when I had Azriel track them, their trails showed they came from Evenfall. I have no clue-”

“You both can’t be this stupid.” Helion snapped, and his gaze made Nesta feel like she was back to when her governess would scold her. “You both happened to deal with beasts, and they have magic that you think ties to the other, they attack your home. Do you see the pattern?”

“It was a set up.” Lord Nero said, his amber eyes looking at Rhysand. “Someone wanted this to happen.”

“But who would…” Cassian trailed off, looking at Nesta.

“Lord Nero, do you mind leaving us for a second?” The lord bowed, but Lucien held out a hand.

“No, it's fine.” Helion looked at his son and nodded. “I assume the Harp is in the city that was attacked?”

“It was.” Rhysand said, his eyes narrowed.

“And the Mask is-”

“In Evenfall. It was Briallyn.” Nesta dropped her head into her arms. She was played, they both were.

“Nesta, why would you think it was us?” Cassian asked, moving closer.

“It’s what the beasts said, they said that ‘I had no clue what power I was doing,’ and that it was ‘too much, even for me.’”

Realization washed over Rhysand’s face, he glanced at Cassian. “The beasts told me that Lady Death was coming. That she wouldn’t stop till we all perished.”

“I’m confused.” Lord Nero said, sitting on the table’s edge. “So someone played you because of the-”

“Dread Trove.” Lucien supplied. Lord Nero’s eyes widened and he let out a long sigh.

“How did you even get here?” Nesta asked, and Cassian shook his head. 

“We flew here. The whole border, not just that part surrounding Evenfall, is covered in fire.” 

Nesta knew she should have made the wall higher.

“Amren is trying to see if she can take it down.” Cassian spoke, and she could see admiration in his eyes.

“No need.” Nesta closed her eyes, trying to feel the wall. She could see Zora nearby with Octavia, she knew she wouldn’t have listened and stayed back. She focused on the fire and called it back. She could see the wall slowly fade, and Zora looked around. The wall vanished and she sighed.

“It’s down.”

“My question is how could someone duplicate her magic?” Rhysand nudged his head in Nesta’s direction. “It smelt like her power.”

“A powerful person.” Lucien sighed, and looked at Nesta. “I’ve spoken to Eris-”

“Is Eris involved?” Rhysand asked, and looked at Nesta.

“He is. And he’s not heard a thing.” Lucien finished. “It seems like the Queen is not working on her own.”

“That's actually why I came here. I wanted to say something that I heard last night.” Cassian moved closer. “One of the beasts I was attacking said something along the lines of ‘The bright one returned to her Lord.’ It's probably a male.”

“But who?” Lucien let out a gasp and ran to the door, flinging it open, but a male with a letter stood on the other side.

Lucien grabbed it and the paper turned to ash. Helion stood up and moved forward.

“What is it?” Nesta said, rushing to him.

“Vassa.” Lucien choked out. “He’s taken Vassa.”

Nesta wasn’t fond of the mortal Queen, but even she knew the issues that surrounded her capture.

“This is the lord, this male right? But who is it?” Nero asked, his eyes on Helion.

Nesta looked at Helion and Rhysand. Rhysand was standing with his mouth open, Helion had a hand on his brow.

“Fuck.”

“Koschei.” Helion said, and sat back down. “Briallyn is working with Koschei.”

“No.” Rhysand shook his head. “He’s trapped in a fucking lake.”

“No, it makes sense.” Nesta said as she started pacing back and forth. “You're right he is trapped in a lake, and what better to free him than the Dread Trove? He might have been the one to give Briallyn the idea of finding them. How long has he been planning this?

“Long enough.” Cassian said. “We've been seeing some suspicious activities coming from that area but we assumed it was Briallyn.”

“This is more than a petty queen.” Helion said, and he looked at Rhysand. “You know what we need to do.”

“We need to tell the other rulers of Prythian, we need to call a meeting.” 

“I’ll hold the meeting, the Night Court isn't well liked at the moment.”

“Who would have thought?” Nesta said, and Rhysand glared at her.

“I’ll hold it in 2 weeks time, that gives you enough time to give us all the information you have, and gives me enough time to tie the loose ends.”

“I’ll be there as well.” Nesta said, and Rhysand held out a hand.

“No, this is not your problem.”

“My people were attacked, and I have the Mask, tell me again I have no stakes in this.”

“Stop.” Helion sighed. “Let’s shelf this discussion for the next time we all meet, and no more fighting.”

Nesta left the room, and a hand grabbed her at the base of stairs.

“Nesta.” Cassian was looking at her with something she couldn't place. 

“Hello.” She felt nervous looking at Cassian. He looked good, his hair was down, his muscles were bulging. But Nesta felt heavy.

“You didn’t send me your response.”

She sighed and all the feelings evaporated.

“Tell me Cassian, and just what would have happened if I did come. Because I do know when you sent that letter you had just figured out about the Trove, and needed somebody to scry. How much of that letter was you, and how much of it was orders from your High Lord?”

Cassian’s face fell and he breathed in through his nose. “Nesta, I just need you to-”

“I need to go deal with repairs, and you need to go figure out what you're bringing to the meeting. Have a good day.”

“Nesta.” Rhysand was behind her, hands in his pocket, Cassian gave him a look and Rhysand dipped his head. “I am truly sorry for your loss, no child deserves to die.”

“No child should grow without a mother.” Rhysand nodded and locked eyes with her.

“You see what Briallyn is getting up to, you can see what vulnerable position you're in-”

“Rhysand I swear, I will throw you across this hall if you ask me-”

“Stop, Nesta I’m sorry.” But Nesta walked away from Cassian.

“Feyre is going to kill you.” Was the last she heard.

Her family was in her home, and they looked pissed.

“YOU TRIED TO KILL A HIGH LORD?” Lupine screamed for the 10th time, walking back and forth. “A High Lord!”

“I love you.” Adaria said, her face beaming. Nesta was trying to look remorseful, but she kept laughing at Adaria's awestruck face.

“If it makes you feel better, he didn’t get that much damage in.”

“Your bruised ribs say otherwise.” Zora said as she rubbed her face. “You told me that you were going to ask for help.”

“And I did, I asked for help and I beat the shit out of Rhysand.”

“YOU DIDN'T HAVE TO!” Lupine let out a small breath and looked at Nesta. “I'm very happy that all of this has been sorted out but no more fighting with High Lords okay? This town has just gotten you, we can't lose you now.

“What we need to focus on is how we're going to deal with this meeting.”  Nesta said as she took a sip of juice. “We need to convince all of Prythian to band together, and now that Beron is dead it should be a whole lot more easier but-”

“It’s hard to get powerful people to agree on shit?” Adaria finished for her.

“Yes. Hopefully they listen. But if they don’t then we’ll try something else.”

After a few more minutes of yelling and after Lupine was satisfied in getting her method across, they left to help out. Nesta watched the crew that Helion had sent an hour ago. They had just gotten started on the new layout, starting with the bricklaying, and Nesta smiled. She and Seraphina had volunteered to re plant the strawberry patches that had been burnt down alongside a few young ones.

One of the little boys would constantly pick three strawberries and put one in his mouth, and Nesta found it entertaining and pretended that she had no idea.

“The wall of fire disappeared, you know? Just randomly. Zora was at the border with Adaria and then it just went down.”

“That was me, after we had gotten everything out with the Night Court, I decided that the wall of fire was just more threatening than usual.”

“I just can't believe it. Briallyn and she's working with somebody else. A death god at that.” She signed and pushed her black hair back. “And this lake business seems like bad news.”

“Something along those lines. And if Briallyn gets her hand on any of the other Troves. He’ll be able to break free.”

Seraphina nodded as she planted a few more seeds. A little girl started running around dancing, and not long after the boys started getting into it, leaving the seeds behind. Vera was passing by, and started to chase the children around, and the laughter filled the air.

“Sometimes I wonder what life would have been like if we had just ignored everything, and stuck to our training centre.”

“It would be a lot less stressful.”

“Yes,” Seraphina said. “But I don't think I would meet Lyra, or Gwyn, or maybe even you. Fate is quite shitty at times but I feel like maybe she was generous in letting us meet.”

“Maybe.”

“Hey,” Octavia sat down, her silver hair flowing. “Zora says that a few girls have been coming up to her asking her for some training. So instead of our normal training sessions daily, she wants us to start teaching the females  self-defense. Not Valkyrie level training, just something enough to protect themselves if anything bad happens.”

“That's a good idea, I do remember this one satyr with blue hair repeatedly trying to play a song to get the beasts to leave.” Seraphina laughed, shaking her head. “It wasn't effective but it was ballsy.”

“I saw a male who was using 2 swords like a windmill, it was working, but that could have ended so badly.”

Nesta listened as her friends spoke, and as she planted seeds, she wondered about Cassian. For a moment today, she thought she could see something, a glimpse of what was there. It was silly, she was letting her emotions get the better of her. Things could only work out if they went back to the days of the war, and even then they were on cold terms.

Letting him go, even the idea of him, was the best idea. The more she thought of him, the more she could convince herself that she cared. And she knew that if she did, she’d only get hurt.

8 days later, Evenfall was back to normal. The homes were rebuilt, the fields growing. You wouldn't have thought that an attack had taken place.

But Nesta could see how Aesira walked, how she kept to herself, visiting the fields where Odessa played. Nesta would sit with her sometimes, and she spoke of stuff Odessa used to do, how she used to fool around. The tears were still there, Nesta knew it would be a while before they stopped.

Training the girls of Evenfall was a very good idea. Zora had decided that teaching them sword techniques was way too early and had instead taught them on how to stand properly, how to study their breathing in a fight, and how to try their best to avoid confrontation. Most of the girls enjoyed it, coming over most of the time and relaxing. But some of the girls weren’t too interested in sword training. One day a small water nymph came carrying a bow and arrow and tried to fire an arrow, and one almost took out Adaria’s eye. After some stern talking to, the group split up into what weapons they wanted to master. 

The clearing they usually trained in was not large enough for the large numbers of people so they moved to the clearing behind Nesta’s house.

It was spacious but it didn't have the same feelings that their clearing had. Nesta spent her days between Evenfall and Ostia. Wren was upset at the less hours Nesta spent with her, but Nesta was needed in Evenfall. She was gathering all she knew with Helion and Lucien. The Night Court was silent, and for that Nesta was thankful.

The day was nice and the sun was slowly starting to set. Gwyn had convinced everybody to start cutting the ribbons and to everybody's shock, it was way harder than it seemed. Most of the time the air would blow the ribbon aside, and if somebody had managed to cut the ribbon (like Zora) it wasn't a clean cut.

Gwyn had only managed to cut the ribbon two days ago and she screamed so loudly that the birds left their trees. It had become a competition of who could cut the ribbon next. As the only Valkyrie, Gwyn would check every ribbon that was cut, and without fail all of them were terrible.

“The book says it needs to be perfectly cut but see, there's threading.” She smiled as she gave it back to Adaria, who sighed, and grabbed another ribbon.

Octavia thought that if she went slow and sped up at the end, she’d win. But the blade would miss, or it would tear.

“That’s quite close.” Gwyn smiled, her ribbon tied around her head. “But no.”

“Then you do it.” Lyra huffed, her lip curled. 

“Oh I did!” Gwyn danced around the clearing, and Nesta laughed. She faced her own ribbon and it was taunting her.

She had been trying non stop daily, even at her home. But after she had sliced through a couch pillow, she started to try outside.

The only person close to winning was Emerie. Her movements were slow, and most times, there was only a small mishap.

“So close.” Emerie sobbed as she grabbed her ribbon. Gwyn was spotting Lupine, who was trying to argue that she was done.

“This is crazy.” Adaria said, standing next to Nesta. “I was done.”

“No you weren’t.” Gwyn sang.

“Wait.” Nesta tried to do the breathing technique. She closed her eyes, and let the sword sing to her. She was unbreakable. She tried to find peace, and she gripped her sword.

“Nesta-”

“Shh.” Nesta slowly opened her eyes. She slowly raised her sword and sliced downwards. The blade sliced through the ribbon like butter, and the lower half fluttered down to the ground.

Gwyn wordlessly grabbed the ribbon and held it up. The cut was clean. She stood behind Nesta and tied the ribbon around her head.

“Valkyrie.”

“You have to name the sword.” Emerie said. Gwyn had named her sword ‘TideStopper’ after she had cut her ribbon. As Nesta looked at the blade, the name came to her.

“Ataraxia.”

The water was pulling her down, and Nesta was swimming up, the Cauldron at her heels.

“You think that you’re safe, my thief?” Her mother laughed. “You think this new life is any better now you’ve meddled around? You should have stayed with me, stayed with the path I planned.”

“No, I make my rules, you have no hold over me.” Nesta said softly.

“She doesn’t, but I do.” Briallyn spoke, and Nesta was falling till she hit the ground. She was back in that dark room, the water leaking out. Briallyn was on top of a throne of bones, and she looked down at Nesta. 

“I tried to give you a warning, I tried to give you a way out, I tried to let you save your family, but you keep throwing my generosity back in my face.” The Queen laughed. “ I think I'm done with warnings Nesta Archeron.”

“You sent those beasts to my home and to Velaris. You wanted us to use the Trove. And if not that, you wanted us to kill each other.”

“You can't blame me. You made it so easy to believe Rhysand was behind it. And so did he. Your hate works in my favour.” She slipped down from her throne and started to walk towards Nesta, and try as she might, Nesta couldn't move.

“I just want to be me again. I want to be able to go back to my sisters, and be welcome with open arms. Give me the Mask, and I can give you your old life back. Wouldn't you want to be mortal again?”

“You've got the wrong sister. Now kindly leave my dream.”

“For the last time, I will accept your demands. I want you to know that I warned you, and I want you to know that those beasts I sent are nothing compared to what I'm going to do to you. You are going to wish for death, Nesta Archeron. and I will not be swift in delivering it.” The room vanished, and Nesta let go.

Chapter Text

“Now, You can try and fight as much as you want but it all depends on how you carry your body. Especially when it comes to punching. When you throw punches, you want to make sure that you're putting enough weight behind it so you don't hurt yourself, and so you can deliver the most effective hits.” Nesta spoke as she circled the girls throwing punches. 

“You also have to try not to overexert yourself, practice the breathing techniques we went over and also try to keep a level head. Most of the time if you are having a disagreement with somebody, hand-to-hand it should be a last resort.” Gwyn grabbed a girl's hand and lifted it higher.

Two days till the High Lord's meeting and Nesta was feeling good. She had spent late nights meeting with Helion, gathering as much information as they could on Briallyn, and possibly hinting towards a threat of war. Evenfall had resumed back to normal, Nesta found herself relaxing once again.

Training was less often, especially since they have all become Valkyries. Adaria was the last to cut the ribbon, and when she did, she winnowed into Nesta's house showing her the perfectly cut ribbon, screaming at the top of her lungs.

For now they just focused on teaching self-defense to the young girls. Zora was with the advanced group, helping them perfect their grips on the wooden swords. 

“Lady Nesta,” One of the girls, Kira piped up, her hands at her side. “When  can we use the swords?”

“When you can hold your own in a fight.” Seraphina called out from across the clearing.

“She’s right. Sword fighting takes time, and you want to make sure that when you start, youre ready.”

“Nes, over here.” Lupin called her, and held out a letter. Her name was hastily written at the front.

Nesta,

Come into work, I need help maning the store,

Wren.

Working at the clinic changed from being a need to being a hobby. Being the Lady of Evenfall, it meant that she was on a salary funded by the Court. But Nesta liked working at the clinic, helping people and seeing Wren.

“I’ll be back soon,” Lupine gave her a nod and went back to her girls. Winnowing onto the steps of the clinic, Nesta brushed off her shirt.

Students were walking around, one of them carrying a large scroll and pointing to an image of a hand.

“A broken bone.”

“No, it seems like a fracture.” 

People smiled and waved at Nesta as she made her way to the back rooms. 

As she reached the doors, Mina, the new potions help, walked out of the rooms, her eyes red.

“I am NOT dealing with her today!” She sobbed. Nesta slowly slipped into the room. Wren had changed out the decor, the creams replaced with lavender curtains and cloth. Her back was to Nesta, her hands moving over mixtures.

“Hey Wren, I got your letter, need me-”

“Go to the front.” Wren snapped, still over her cauldron. “Sell the potions and stay there.”

“Is everything alright?” Nesta tried to move closer, but a glass vial came towards her, Nesta sidestepped and it smashed against the wall.

“Go.” She didn't need to be told that twice. She was rarely at the front of the store, most of the time it was Wren up front and Nesta would be back healing people but she could make do with it.

She tried to push the interaction to the back of her mind as she started to sell out potions. People kept coming in and congratulating her on fighting the High Lord, because at this point almost everybody in Prythian knew about what went down between her and Rhysand.

“Good on you for sticking it to him,” A group of girls said as one of them brought a headache relief potion. “He's been terrorizing our borders for way too long, and if he needed to be bitch slapped across a hallway, then so be it.”

“I was there you know,” A male who wasn't there said as he moved closer to one of the ladies. “It was glorious, the Soulmender undermines her talent.”

“Oh my goodness, tell me everything.” The male spoke depicting a fight that did not happen as the girls surrounded him.

Some people had come up to her asking her for a bit of healing advice, but Wren kept glaring at Nesta as she did so.

Nesta had to dodge flying potion bottles after she tried to tell Wren that they were out of headache relief. She wanted to grab the female by the shoulders and shake her right but she was probably going through something. She  remembered how Wren told her grandmother fell ill a week ago, maybe her condition had worsened.

The students came closer to her when Wren went back to her room.

“It's like something came over her this morning. She was fine, snappy but she usually is.” A girl in pale robes said as her friends agreed with her.

“And then, I don't know, around this morning she just snapped. Every single thing we did was wrong, she didn't even want us near her room.” One of the males said as he rubbed his shoulder where Wren had hit him with a towel after he stood too close to a display case.

When the flow of customers had slowed down, Nesta peaked her head in the back rooms. Wren would move around, and then she’d stop, grabbing her head. After a while she’d return to her potions.

Alder, the baker had come in asking for a joint pain salve, and was smiling at Nesta.

“Tell me the rumors of you beating the Night Court High Lord is false?”

“It’s false.” She handed him the package and he laughed. 

“I want to believe you, but since you and his 3rd were so frosty with each other, it makes sense.”

Nesta bit her bottom lip as she wiped the table down.

“I heard there’s a play happening a few nights from now, would you like-”

“Last time I checked, I don't pay you so you can converse with your friends” Wren slammed down a crate of potions and glared at Alder.

“Maybe putting you at the front was a bad idea since you can't be trusted in doing your job. A male has come in complaining of arm pain, go and heal him.”

“Are you feeling alright today? You've-”

“Did I say stand there and talk or did I say go there and heal him?” Wren gestured for her to leave, and with a final apologetic glance at Alder she did.

The male had burnt his skin and needed some help, Nesta was absent minded as she healed him, Wren’s behaviour towards her had changed for the worst in the last few hours, but her grandmother was ill, and Nesta didn't want to be the bitch yelling at her.

After a particularly annoying internet with potions, that was all Nesta needed to get out.

“I have a meeting with the High Lord, we need to discuss something about-”

Wren looked at Nesta, and slowly nodded her head. “I don't care about that, just leave.” She didn’t need to be told twice. She practically ran out the store, heading to the Castle. There was a group of people near the meeting rooms, Lady Sylvia at the center.

“Autumn and Winter aren't on the best team, but ever since Eris took over they’ve been fine.” Her hair moved as she pointed at her chart. “So place the Dawn Court between them, that should be the best bet.”

“And what of the Night Court, My Lady?”

Slyvia shook her head, “I’m no lady, and why don’t we place them next to…”

“Next to the Lord Helion?” Another girl spoke.

“No, that won't work- Why don't we place the Spring Court in between Autumn and Winter since they've been working well together, and we put the Night Court at the end of the table, not too far away where they feel isolated,  and on their left we should seat the Dawn Court.” Sylvia said as she clapped her hands, the planners nodded and jotted the notes down. Slyvia’s eyes looked around the room till they landed on Nesta.

“Nesta! What a lovely surprise.” Slyvia came forward, holding tightly to Nesta. Nesta sunk into her arms, the stress of the day leaving her.

“You seem well, planning for the meeting?”

“We have it all done, All we have left is the seating arrangement for the meeting.”

“My Lady!” A young male came rushing forward, carrying 2 pieces of cloth. “Should we go for the Snowdrop or for the Hellebores embroidery for the Winter Court?”

Sylvia picked up the clothes and held them closer, she looked between the pair and handed them back. “The snowdrops, they’re more winterlike.” The boy nodded, bowing and running off.

“You’re great at this.” Slyvia flushed at the complement, and the planners nodded.

“She truly is. She saved us from so many embarrassing mistakes. I don't think we'd be able to pull this off as efficiently as she is.”

“You’re too kind. Why don’t we take a break and come back in.. 20 minutes?” Sylvia grabbed Nesta’s hand and they began to walk through the rooms.

“It’s funny. All the planning I usually did in the Autumn Court most of the time went unnoticed. It's quite refreshing to have people appreciate what you do.” She brushed a strand of hair away from her cheek. 

“Beron was a poor excuse of a male.”

“He was.” Sylvia looked out the window. “It's been months but I still find it hard adjusting to living in a world where he doesn't exist. I have to remind myself that I can wear the clothing I want without somebody forcing their opinions down my throat, say the things I want, go out and see things.” They walked out of the door and headed into the grounds. 

“He didn’t suffer nearly as much as he should have.”

“That’s true. Let’s leave him in the hands of the Mother. Now, tell me why you’ve come by?”

“I wanted to speak with Lucien and see if he's found any more information on Vasaa, and our other situation.”

Sylvia frowned and looked at the large clock in the center of the gardens, “That's funny, Eris has just called him over for a meeting, Helion as well.  You've just missed them, they left 10 minutes before you arrived.”

A meeting? Helion hadn’t told her about one, maybe it was spontaneous.

“I do wish that I could talk more, but I promised to swing by the housekeepers and see the housing arrangements for the Seasonal Courts.”

“No worries, Lady of Day suits you.”

“I think I'm done with being a lady of the Court.” she smiled at the sky. “I think I just want to be me.”

Walking around aimlessly, Nesta wondered what the meeting would be like. The Summer Court had only finished the preparations of the court mere months ago, Spring had just reopened, and Autumn had just gained a new High Lord that cared for them. They would be risking all of it to go to war up all with a death god. The war with Hybern would seem like child's play compared to him, and if he was freed from his Lake…

Having nothing to do, Nesta headed to the Library. Lain was at the front desk, stamping books down.

“There she is, the Lady of Evenfall.” He dipped into a low bow. “How may I serve her highness?”

“Stop that, I just came for a recommendation.”

Lain laughed and tilted his head, pondering the question, “The 6th floor has just gotten some new books, how about there?”

Nesta walked up the stairs and walked to a new shelf, the books were about the war 500 years ago, from the perspective of a poor family from Autumn. The books were nice, but they were not capturing her attention.

Looking through some more sections and floors, Nesta wound back down to the myth section. She was reading about a Lady with a large net in the sea, when a book shoved in the back caught her attention.

It was old, the grey dyed leather peeling off. The words had faded. Leaving only a symbol behind, one of a crow.

Almost instantly her heart dropped to her ass. The only time she ever came into contact with crows was when the Night Court was planning to do something devious. But they had never come in book form. Maybe she was hallucinating, maybe the lack of sleep was finally catching up to her.

Coming up with a quick excuse to Lain, she ran out of the library and started to make her way down to the gardens, Sylvia had extensive knowledge when it came to myths and maybe if Nesta asked her-

But the second she looked up she could see crows, not one, not two, but six crows in a row looking directly at her. She stumbled back and one of them hopped down from the branch and started flying towards her, only stopping when it landed on her shoulder. 

Crows couldn't speak, Nesta was aware of that. But the way it was looking at her was almost human-like. It tilted its head and flew off, the other five following. 

Her heart was racing as she winnowed back to Evenfall, walking to her living room. Zora had been staying with her, but there was no trace of her. She walked through the house, but no one was home.

She ran outside and saw a young male was carrying a basket of strawberries. When he saw her, he stopped and smiled.

“Hello Lady Nesta.”

“Hello there, have you seen Zora? Or anyone?”

“They finished training in the field back there a while ago. I think they moved to the clearing near the border?” Thanking him, she winnowed to the field. The stands they put there to tie their ribbons to were still there, so was the crate of straw figures that they practiced training on.

Something was wrong in her gut but Nesta couldn't tell what it was. She walked around the clearing wondering where her friends could have been. 

Nesta was walking till she saw a glint on the ground. Bending down, she picked it up. One of Adaria’s daggers was on the ground. Adaria never went anywhere without them.

Nesta started to run from the field, towards the border, something must have happened. But then something hard connected with her head and she knew no more.

“Wake her.” Water was splashed onto her face, and she couldn't breathe. Her eyes looked around, she was still in the clearing. Her hands were free, but she felt sluggy. She tried to winnow, but her magic was silent.

Gwyn was standing above her, her lip curled. She was looking down at Nesta, her eyes far away.

“Don't bother with winnowing or using magic, the Faebane I injected you with will last you till midnight. You 2, hold her up.” Hands grabbed at her and Nesta watched as Lupine and Zora held her up, their faces blank.

“Gwyn, what?”

“Nesta Archeron, I told you that I’d see you soon.”

Her mouth dropped open, her heart racing.

Gwyn, Briallyn was walking around her, TideStopper in her hands.

“You’re a hard female to find.” She shook her head. “I'll give it to you, the protection you put around this village is extraordinary, it was a miracle I was even able to get in at all.”

“Let her go.” Nesta snarled.

“You might have warded this Village from me,” Briallyn kept going, “But it turns out, taking hold of your dear friend's mind works well enough.” She lifted the blade and smiled at her reflection. “She’s beautiful. I think I’ll keep her, or maybe gift her, my friend is so fond of young girls.” She laughed and moved around, the movements wrong.

“That friend of yours who works in that store, Wren was it? I tried with her, the plan was to keep you in the store until sunset and then bring you back but her mind seems to be strong enough. But no worries, you're here now.” 

Wren’s behaviour had started to make sense, and Nesta wanted to slap herself for not noticing.

“Oh don't be too hard on yourself honey,” Gwyn ran a finger down Nesta's cheek. “I went through great lengths to make sure you didn't notice anything different other than a bit of irritation. Now, let's stop the games: You have the Mask and I want it.”

“So you can go and free Koschei from his Lake? So you can put us into another war? I don't think so.”

Gwyn stopped, then looked at Nesta, her teal eyes narrowing. “You speak as if you have any real say in the situation. You do not. The only things we have for you is getting the Mask and slicing you down the middle and giving what you took back to the Cauldron. Now hand it over.” 

“Why don't you use that fancy crown of yours?” Zora’s nails were starting to loosen, then her grip tightened again.

“No funny business Zora dear. And I can't use a Trove to take another Trove Nesta.” Gwyn rolled her eyes. “I'm starting to wonder if I should have gone to your sister.” 

“Leave them out of this!” Nesta began to kick her legs, But Lupine held her sword under her throat.

“Oh we're long past sparing family. I told you to give me the Mask multiple times. He told me not to give you that many chances, but I wanted to be kind. I'd know what it's like to put yourself in harm's way to protect your siblings, but you kept throwing my kindness back into my face. So just give me the Mask and when I do kill your sisters I'll make it as painless as I possibly can.”

“Fuck yourself.”

Briallyn sighed and snapped her hands. Zora and Lupine pulled back. Briallyn threw Ataraxia at Nesta’s feet.“Fine. Zora, attack.” Zora drew Ventus, and came running to Nesta. She barely managed to grab Ataraxia and put distance.

“NO!” She pushed back, trying to disarm Zora, but she had always been better at combat. Nesta was panting, trying her best to keep from harming Zora, she had no magic, she couldn't heal her if it came to it.

“Zora,” Nesta gasped. “Please stop this.”

“You still think she can hear you? She's not going to stop until you're dead.  And when I do take the Mask from your rotting corpse, I'm going to have her watch as I kill every single one of your little Valkyries. And then when I'm done with all of you, I'm going to your bitch sister and take back the Harp.”

“NO!” Nesta rushed ahead, using Ataraxia a lever and Ventus went flying out of her hand. Nesta turned to Gwyn, but Lupine leaded forward, swinging Solmora. Nesta bit back a sob, she backed Lupine to the edge of the clearing, but then she was shoved back, her body hitting the soft earth. Seraphina was walking to her, her eyes glossed over. Aeternum came down on her, and Nesta screamed, ducking as the grown sliced opened like butter. She tried to pull at her magic, but it was like a wet blanket over it.

“The Mask, and I can stop this.” Lyra spoke, coming towards her.

“No!” Nesta shoved Seraphina. “You can keep this up, but Helion will come here the second he finds out-”

“The Day lord is occupied in Autumn, alongside his son and the Autumn Lord. my dear friend made sure of it.” Gwyn laughed. “Open the wards on the town, let me see you.”

Nesta wanted to scream, but all she could do was lower the defences she had spent days making. The air hummed and Nesta watched as a clothed figure walked towards her as Gwyn hit the floor, her eyes closed.

“There you are my dear.” Briallyn pulled back her cloak. Her face was withered, skin sagging and her cheeks hollow. Her skin had the texture of yellow paper, and her once long dark hair was grey and straw like. The Crown was on her head, the golden spikes shining in the setting rays.

“See what you did to me? SEE WHAT YOU MADE ME!” She moved closer, grabbing Nesta’s jaw. “GIVE IT TO ME!”

Nesta reached for her sword, but Zora grabbed her once more.

“Fine. Come out.” From a bush, Emerie and Octavia walked out, dragging a bound Adaria between them. She was kicking her legs, looking at Emerie with tearfilled eyes.

“After her run in with the High Lord of the Night Court, your dear friend here started to do mind exercises, strengthening her mind to make sure it never happened again, and it works. I can't seem to possess her but that's fine.” Emerie and Octavia moved closer and dropped Adaria down, taking out her gag.

“Mask, or I have the Illyrian kill her.”

“NESTA NO, DON’T GIVE IT TO-” The gag was shoved back in. Adaria was looking at Nesta, her face calm.

She wanted Nesta to watch her die.

“Then maybe you? I can’t take the Mask using this, but this will do.” Briallyn grabbed the dagger and walked to Nesta. “Kill her.”

A weird sense of peace washed over her, she should kill her. It would be fine. Her hand grabbed the dagger and she moved forward.

But then her legs stopped, the grip on the dagger loosening.

“Kill her! I said KILL HER! KILL HER!” 

The sky was getting clearer, she didn’t want to kill Adaria, but her hand was getting closer. Her knees hit the dirt. Adaria was smiling at her.

“It’s okay. It’s okay.”

Nesta didn't want to kill her. 

“I SAID KILL HER!”

But she never said who. Nesta looked around, her friends blank eyed. She just hoped that Helion could help them. Hoped they could forgive her.

She turned the blade around and plunged it into her heart.

Chapter Text

Part 3: Crowns are forged in fire and worn in silence

Death used to scare her.

When she was 8 and she saw her grandmother's dead body, Nesta felt itchy. She ran out of the room and claimed it was because she missed her grandmother, not because the corpse scarred her. Her grandmother's beauty, which hadn’t faded with age, was all gone, she looked hollow, she looked wrong.

She was told death was final. You’d be nothing afterwards, but it never made sense, how could one stop feeling? Her governess had told her that the last sense to go was sound, and that was comforting. That she'd hear her loved ones as she passed away. Her governess also liked to drink, so her words were taken lightly.

The fae said that death was a peaceful thing, that you would wake up in a blinding hall and be well come back into the arms of the Mother. You'd feel absolutely no pain and you'd live the rest of your internal being in peace. And Nesta preferred that, it was better than never feeling a thing again. 

So when Nesta opened her eyes, she wasn’t expecting a town, and not just any town, the one she grew up in.

People were talking and selling stuff, a man was yelling about cheap meat. There were well dressed women, looking through their carriage doors. Nesta’s body started to move on its own, tailing behind 3 ladies. 

“She’s perfect.” The voice made Nesta stop. She forced her body to move ahead and look at the woman who spoke.

Eliza Archeron was walking through the road, her purple dress perfectly tailored, her hair done up, her diamond wedding ring atop her finger.

She was carrying a bundle, a small babe with tuffs of golden hair.

“My Nesta,” Her mother said, and the 2 ladies got closer.

“Oh she’s beautiful!”

“Takes after her mother of course.” The one with the yellow dress said. Eliza smiled.

“A boy would be preferred, but my Nesta is a blessing.” More ladies came to look at the babe, at Nesta.

They kept walking, speaking of balls and casting sad looks at Eliza, who couldn't go due to her rest period after birth. The ladies seemed sorry, but Nesta could tell by their face that they were glad. All friendships back in the human lands were transactional and hoping for no one to have better than you.

“Fortunes,” A woman in a stall said. It was bare, except for a glass orb, a table, and a chair. “Fortune readings, young and old. See what the future holds in store.”

“What a scam.” The woman in the pink dress said, hiding her face behind her fan. “Everyone knows that it's a way to rob people.”

“What a lovely babe Miss, would you like to see her future? I can do it free of charge for you.”

Nesta watched as her mother stooped, looking down at the babe.

“Oh alright then. It couldn’t hurt.” She sunk into the plastic chair, and brought baby Nesta closer to the woman. Her face was covered, but her long pale hands reached out. She looked into Nesta’s palm and hummed.

“A good life, a long one at that.” She lifted the hand up and smiled. “Wealthy, wealthy beyond what I can fathom. Her other hand please.”

“Of course she’ll be wealthy, you can see that by the clothes we wear.” The woman in pink rolled her eyes. “Eliza, let’s-”

“Now wait Annabeth, I want to hear more.” The woman grabbed Nesta’s right hand and smiled.

“She’ll be a queen.” Eliza stilled, and she moved closer.

“A queen?”

“Yes, she’ll rule over a court, she’ll have power and influence.” Annabeth came closer, her black hair making a curtain around her face.

“A court? She’ll marry a king!” Eliza squealed and raised Nesta up and gave her a kiss. “Oh yes. My little Queen!”

“Oh do me next!” Annabeth said, leaning closer.

“That’s 5 marks.”

Eliza was looking at Nesta and smiling. “My little queen, you'll make me proud.” But then the fortune teller looked up, and Nesta caught sight of arched ears and purple eyes.

Nesta was back in the throne room, the one where Briallyn had threatened her, but it looked different. The mist was gone, and the room had light. The pillars were standing tall, and the throne was empty, but standing there next to was Lady Celeste. She was in the clothes she died in, the blood stained gown and the crooked crown.

“Is this a dream?” Nesta asked as she moved closer. “Can you even hear me?”

“I can Nesta.” Celeste moved closer and smiled, she lifted a hand and cupped Nesta’s cheek. “You’ve been so brave.”

“Why have you been showing me visions? Why me? I don’t understand.” Celeste stroked her face and pulled her close.

“Then let me explain it to you, come with me.” A door opened and Celeste walked through. Nesta hesitated, but she needed to know what was happening. She walked through the door and she was back in the throne room.

“This is where we start, and where I end.” Celeste was smiling at her past self, who was running down a hallway, her eyes glowing. She ran down a stone staircase as the battle raged outside, an old book clutched in her hand.

There were lamps shining down on her as she knocked on a large wooden door. She did one knock, then 3 fast ones.

The door slowly creaked open and Celeste ran in, only to be met with a blade to the throat.

“Soren.” She gasped and hugged the male, his sword falling to the ground.

“My lady, what's going on?” As Soren spoke, people started to flood into the kitchen, some were in grey dresses, some were in light blue.

“My lady.” They all said, drawing closer. Celeste smiled at them and walked to the large table in the center.

“Have you decided to join the fight My lady?” A male in armour said, his hands tapping the table.

“I can't, if I fall in battle, High Lord Blackbeak will take the land, I must hold the castle, which is why I'm here.” She placed the book and a lady gasped.

“High Lady, you can't!”

“I will.” She flipped through the pages and took a breath. 

“What are you doing?” Nesta walked closer, looking around the room. There were about 35 people in the kitchens, all covered in dust. A few were attending to a girl who's temple was bleeding.

“Watch.” Ghost Celeste said.

“I have a plan, a plan to save this court but I need your help.”

Soren stood tall and nodded, blue eyes blazing. “Anything you need My Lady.”

“I need you all to swear a few things to me. Do not leave this room till you get the signal, you'll know what it is.” She read over the pages and walked to the door. She sliced her hand and started to draw with her blood.

“When it all ends, I will not be here, you need to swear that you'll swear fealty to the new High Lady, or High Lord.”

“A High Lord? Mother forbid.” A lady with soft red skin spoke, and Celeste laughed, connecting the circle she had drawn. The blood glowed, then faded. The symbols she had drawn had become etched into the door as if it had been there for years.

“Now swear it.” Soren looked at her, then dropped down to a knee, the rest of the room following. 

“I swear it, My Lady, to all of it.”

“Good.” She walked to the back and waved her hand. The cut on the lady's face healed and she kissed her brow. “I'm going to seal you in. I-” she tired her head, eyes glinting in the light. “Goodbye.”

Maybe Soren had realised the severity of the situation, because he moved forward but Celeste held up a hand. Celeste left and summoned silver flames. Nesta watches in awe as she dragged a finger down the metal framing, sealing the fae in.

A loud boom shook the castle and Celeste ran up the stairs, her tears now falling freely. 

“You. You knew they were going to die?” They entered the throne room and past Celeste paced the room, touching her face.

“Not really, I will answer it all in due time my dear.” They watched as Celeste held Elizabeth as she died.

“Where are we?” 

“The Dusk Court. There were eight courts to begin with, before what happened. Four seasonal, four solar.” Celeste moved closer to Elizabeth’s corpse, her hands passing through it.

“How come there's never been any writing about it? Most of the things I've scraped together come from the visions you gave me.”

Celeste smiled, walking back to place her hand on Nesta’s shoulder. “Wait a bit longer, then you will see.” Past Celeste took out her hair pin, slicing her palm.

“I’ve seen this before.” The 1st drop of blood hit the star

“Not in its entirety.” Past Celeste began her chant, and this time around, Nesta could understand.

“Magic take me, Mother hold me. I give myself for you, for protection and care. To preserve what will be hidden, till the time is right.” The star began to glow.

“Till the tide changes, till the earth takes its last breath. Till you welcome us home.” The doors flew open, and the Night High Lord walked in.

“High Lord Orion Blackbeak.” Ghost Celeste said softly as Elizabeth was turned into nothing. “He wanted a marriage between me and his son, I said no so he declared war.” She gestured to the male on Celeste’s right, dragging her to the Night Lord.

“Do you surrender?” Celeste looked at him, hatred swirling in those silver eyes. She looked at the guard with his sword drawn. She shook her head.

The blade went down, but as Celeste's body fell, light came out of her, silver light that spread through the room, Orion stepped back, his eyes searching the room. The walls began to shake, the light growing hotter and brighter, Nesta tried to shield her eyes, But Celeste held her hand.

When the light dimmed down, they were on land, there was green grass waving in the wind and the Castle was gone. There wasn't any trace of it, even of the once beautiful gardens. The army was standing there, looking around in shock.

“What did you do?”

“What I had to do, dear Nesta. Watch.” Orion walked around, his eyes scanning the earth.

“High Lord?” The guard who chopped her head off asked. “What-”

“That bitch.” Orion laughed, taking off his helmet. His dark hair fell down his face. “She fucking played me.”

“My lord, Father, she’s not here, the castle it’s-”

“My doing.” Orion stood tall, facing the crowd. “I did this. I slit her throat and I demolished her home.” Power rang through his words, and the guards nodded as well, as if they hadn't witnessed it all.

“The Night Court remains powerful!” He raised a hand and the army cheered. As they started to leave, the male with the sword stood back, looking at the ground.

He followed his father into a large tent, a fire burning in the corner. The males left after they congratulated the High Lord.

“Father,” The guard began. “She used her magic, old magic. That court isn't gone.”

“Is it still standing, Atlas?” Orion laughed as he walked around, a flask in hand. “No, this is our land now. Sure it would have been nice to take some keepsakes, but we take whatever the Mother blesses us with.”

“The Mother hasn't blessed us with it!” He pleaded, following his father around. “What if she comes back? What if-”

“The hard thing about secrets,” Orion sighed as he polished his sword. “Is that the more people who know the truth, the harder it is to keep.” In one swift move he beheaded the male, his son. “And I am the only one who can shoulder it.” He snapped his fingers and any trace of the male was gone.

The world faded and Nesta was back in the throne room.

“They didn't die, you saved the court.” Celeste sat down and nodded.

“Back in my day and it seems yours as well, the Night Court was not to be trifled with. I tried to send aid to my allies but they didn't want to risk it. Day was threatened with war, and It couldn't blame them for pulling back. There was nothing we could do, there was no way we could come out victorious. So I went back to the old magic. It said that I had to give my own life to preserve my court, and I did within a heartbeat.” 

“But there was a catch?” Nesta sat down next to her, who nodded.

“There had to be life still in the castle, to tether it to the world, and the only way Dusk could come back is if somebody died for it. And that's precisely what you did.” 

“But how did you know it was me? You’re dead, you shouldn't even be here.”

Celeste tilted her head, scrunching her nose, the freckles moving. “I think the Mother pitted me. She showed me a vision of a female that carried silver flames in her heart, the same ones my ancestors did, and a female that healed a dead crow. So I sent you the visions, I helped you read the laws that the Night Court tried to lie to you about.”

“So this was all planned, nothing of my own will?” Nesta felt sick. “Were all my-”

“No my dear, I could only send you the visions and the crows, everything else, from your magic to your mind is yours.” She pulled Nesta close, and she leaned in. Celeste smelt like cinnamon. “I am so proud of you.”

“So what now? Am I dead?” Nesta didn’t feel dead. She touched her hand, feeling the smooth skin. Celeste was still holding her.

“Not yet. Briallyn is still there.”

“How much time has passed?” Nesta should have been rushing to go home, but she was tired. Her body felt heavier than ever. 

“About 10 seconds. Nesta, there is more to say.” She sunk even more to the floor, her mind racing.

“This is not the final leg of the journey. Koschei is growing stronger. And you need all the help you can get.”

“I can’t stop Briallyn, let alone Koschei.”

“Look at me Nesta.” Celeste cupped her face, foreheads touching. “You can. You and I are one. Death bows to you. Now take what was owed to you.”

The world began to fade and Celeste’s smiling face was the last she saw.

“Take it back Nesta.”

“Come home little thief,” The Cauldron sang, sinking its claws into Nesta’s leg. “Come home.”

The water was choking her, and the light at the top was fading. Nesta glanced back at the Cauldron, at the thing she let dictate her laugh, and laughed.

“I know where my home is, it’s not here.” She kicked and once she was free she swam up.

When she came back, the world was the same as she left it. The sword was still in her but she felt no pain. 

“NOOOOO!” She could hear Briallyn scream, stomping towards her. Adaria was looking at her in awe. The hole in her chest was healing, and Nesta pulled the blade out. 

She got to her feet and smiled, Briallyn was staring at her, snarling. Nesta rushed forward as she pounced on Briallyn. The queen tried to rush back but Nesta grabbed the Crown, taking it off her head.

The Queen screamed as Nesta heard as the hold over her family’s mind shattered, the females slowly sat up, their eyes rid of the milky haze.

“NESTA NO!” Lupine screamed, but Nesta moved forward, her body feeling like it would compost.

“You are done.” She spoke to Briallyn.

“HOW?” The queen screamed, fear etched on her face. She was clawing at the ground, as if it would answer her.

“I am Nesta Archeron, Cauldron Born, Kingslayer, Soulmender.” She got closer to the queen and grabbed her by cloak. She placed a kiss on her withered skin.

“Begone.” The queen tried to speak, but her mouth dropped, blood trickling down, because where her heart should be was a hole, her still beating heart was in Nesta’s fist.

The Queen fell to the ground, and so did her heart. Nesta closed her eyes and shoved the Crown into the safe, locking it tight.

“Nesta, what?” Gwyn looked at her, tears falling down. “I-I”

“It’s fine Gwyn.” But Nesta started to feel her hands tingling. She could feel her magic, slowly coming back to her, but it felt wrong. Her body was heating up, too fast. She grabbed her head and stumbled back. It was like someone was trying to cut her skull in half.

“Nesta?” Adaria rose and tried to reach her but Nesta held out a gand.

“Get back!” The second those words left her mouth, she felt her mind split in half.

The world shook, she could feel the land change. Day and Night collided, the borders changed, pushing back. When the world stopped spinning, Nesta was standing in a vast room, the 2nd floor looking down on the 1st, 2 statues of Valkyries above a stone throne.

Celeste’s castle.

Her sisters were in front of her, Gwyn was on her knees, clutching her head. Lupine was holding up Zora, who was staring at Nesta witn crazed eyes.

Nesta looked down, she was on the 8 pointed star. The room was the same as when it fell. 

“Nesta what- how are you-” She looked at Sera, and could feel pain coming from her left leg. With a wave it was gone. She slowly walked around, her mind feeling like someone had shoved her in acid. 

The doors swung open and a male came stumbling in. His blue eyes searching the room. It was Soren. He looked the way he did 10,000 years ago.

“MY LADY-” He looked at Nesta and stooped. He took her in, her back, her hand, still covered in Briallyn’s blood.

A few more people started to trickle into the room, looking around.

“High Lady, it's lovely to meet you.” Soren said as he dropped to one knee. 

“High Lady? No you're mistaken.” Nesta waved her hands, and Gwyn collapsed. Her eyes were shut and she was sobbing.

“I'm so sorry. It's all my fault. There was something weird going on in the Night Court, and I shouldn't have but I left Evenfall and then Briallyn was there, and- and I didn't want to do what I did.” 

“It’s fine, let it out.” Nesta kissed her brow, pouring her magic through her. She reached through Gwyn's mind, softly brushing over it, calming her down.

Gwyn sighed as her eyes closed, falling asleep.

“High Lady you must-” Nesta cut Soren off.

“I know what Celeste did, but I'm not the High Lady.”

The red nymph looked around, her golden eyes skeptical. “Well healing is Dusk Magic, and you just healed her mind. Granted, rulers also have silver flames-”

“She has them.” Nesta snapped her head towards Emerie, who was rubbing her neck. “And she's a crazy good healer.”

“So let's test it.” A lady in robes that looked like starlight came forward. “My lady, I am Astoria, the High Priestess of the Dusk Court. May I?” She walked Nesta to the 8 pointed star.

She knew what to do, she had seen Celeste do the same. She lifted her hand, and cut herself with the dagger Astoria offered her, and her blood fell freely. It sizzled as it touched the star, and she closed her eyes. Heart licked her back.

“See!” Someone yelled and pointed to her back. Nesta slowly turned to a window and often it up. In the center of her back was a tattoo like Celeste, like the star on the floor.

“My Lady,” Astoria bowed, then lifted her head. “What is your name? I kinda need it to do this.”

“Oh it’s Nesta Archeron.” Nesta was going to wash Emerie’s mouth with soap.

“Nesta Archeron, do you take the mantle of High Lady of the Dusk Court?”

Nesta closed her eyes and bit her lip. It all made sense, Celeste didn't just want her to bring back Dusk, she wanted her to rule it.

“Now take what was owed to you.” She had said. The fae fortune teller, and Nesta would bet she was a seer. Said that she'd rule a court.

“I do.” And words had never felt so right. Magic flowed through her. The land shifted beneath her, and Nesta could feel every rock, every river and person in her home. Fire ran through her blood, silver light flooded her sight. She felt powerful.

“May the Mother bless the Rightful High Lady of the Dusk Court.” Astoria finished and she bowed. The others followed, and Nesta watched in awe as her family, her sister, lowered their heads and bowed.

Nesta stepped towards them, her hands reaching out towards the still sleeping Gwyn.

“Today was a lot.”

“That didn't even cover half of it.” Lyra laughed.

“But that's for us to discuss tomorrow. I swear I will tell you it all.” She turned to Zora. “You told me not to keep secrets, but I-”

“I know, this is, it's hard to wrap my mind around. But tomorrow, yes?”

Nesta placed her forehead on Zora's and smiled.

“Captain Calix, could you show my friends some rooms please.”

“Of course, my Lady.” Adraia grabbed Emeire’s hand and followed the Captain, the others following suit.

Zora stayed back and threw her hands around her neck. “I tried, I tried to let you run, but she stopped me.”

“I know, I know. She won’t be bothering anyone else.” 

“High Lady.” Zora said as she smiled. “It suits you.” She gave Nesta one final squeeze and left.

Nesta looked around. The Night sky was clear. A calm washed over her as she walked around the throne room. It felt like home.

“My Lady.” Astoria said. “I'm assuming what used to be Dusk was former Night Court territory?”

“And some of the Day Court as well.”

“So an address to your people is needed. I'll have them come into the throne room, you need to get ready-”

“High Lady?” Nesta looked at the door and saw the other guard, his face was flushed. “There are people at the border. They claim to be the Autumn and Day High Lords?”

“Yes, I'll let them in. High Priestess Astoria, can you bring people here?”

She nodded and bowed again. “Anything for you, My lady.”

The halls were something that she didn't see that much in her visions. The floor was made of white marble, with silver accents. The ceilings were covered in designs, the windows large with grey trimmings.

Stepping out of the castle she stood still for a bit, letting the air cool her face. She walked with the guard, Jason, till they reached Evenfall. The people on the street were looking at her, waving as she passed. She could see Vera walking to her, kissing her hands.

“We felt it. Evenfall isn't part of the Day Court is it?”

“No, not anymore. It’s part of Dusk now.”

“I like the sound of that.” Nesta moved through the homes, people smiling at her as she passed. Helion and Eris stood at the border. Eris was covered in blood, Helion was grinning ear to ear.

“Nesta.”

“Helion.” The male tilted his head.

“Will you let us in?”

“Do you support my claim?”

Helion nodded. “I acknowledge your claim as High Lady of the…”

“Dusk Court.” she looked at Eris, who smiled at her.

“As do I, Nesta.” She waved the 2 in and Helion wrapped his hands around her.

“You need to tell us everything, Nesta.”

“Not tonight, at the meeting. Come with me” She grabbed their hands and looked at the guard.

“Jason, tell Captain Claix to help High Priestess Astoria, and let the people know to come.”

“Yes my Lady.”

Nesta closed her eyes, and they were in the castle, In Celeste’s study. It was tidy, the bookshelf missing a book, the windows slightly cracked open.

“Nesta, why is there blood all over my hand?” Eris said, his lip curled.

“It’s Briallyn’s. What happened?”

Helion sat down, rubbing his temple. “Me and Lucien were sent word by Eris of a meeting. We went to Autumn, only to find out that it had been a ploy.”

“Lysander was behind all of it.” Eris waved his hand, the blood stains vanishing. “He was aware about our Father’s alliance with Briallyn and after she realized she couldn't have me she went to him, promising falsehoods of becoming the next High Lord. He trapped us in the Forest House, and we couldn't even get word back.” 

“Where is he?”

“Headless in a grave.” Helion looked at her, and Nesta narrowed her eyes.

“Did you know?”

“I admit I had suspicions. Usually when one is ascending to High Lord status or in your case High Lady, they start showing signs of heightened powers. You were able to heal people with a single wave, you were able to summon fire so strong that couldn't be put out by any normal means. I did some research and it turns out that those flames were known to a fallen court, but it didn't say with which.”

“Nesta, you must know that we could feel you claiming the court all the way in Autumn, all of Prythian felt it.”

“Good, then it should be fine in the meeting-”

“Which you now must attend, alongside your court.” Eris stood up and looked out the window. “I doubt Rhysand will be glad that his territory is ⅓ less than what it used to be.” Eris leaned down and kissed Nesta hand, the clean one “Alas, the marriage I was hoping for is mote. I wish you well, High Lady.”

“I have to leave as well, I’ll tell Sylvia to make some changes in the seating, take care Nesta.” 

“Wait.” She pulled out the Crown and handed it to Helion. “This needs to go with you. 2 Troves in one court is dangerous.”

Helion grabbed the Crown and started at it, his mouth downturned.

“I’ll have it warded in the treasury.” With a final nod they left.

Nesta sat down on her chair and sighed. She was a High Lady of a court, one that had fallen 10 millennium ago. She had wondered what she would do when she added all the puzzle pieces together, but this was never a possibility in her mind, but it felt right. Nesta knew she was the High Lady, she could feel it in her soul. It was right. Evenfall felt like home. It was home; she just didn't know it yet.

Nesta leaned back, and looked at the ceiling when she heard chirping outside. She stepped out onto the balcony, and looked at the small crow seated on the railing. Nesta scooped it up and looked at it. Its eyes were shining, and she could see a small scar along its wing.

“Hello there,” Nesta pulled it close and kissed its head. “It’s nice to see you again.”

“My Lady?” A female walked in, her grey dress whipping in the wind. “It’s time to get ready.”

“Oh no it’s fine, this will do.”

The lady looked at her in horror. “You are High Lady, and you are going to be addressing your court which may include citizens who have never met you before. And if you show up covered in blood, it's going to give the wrong message. So please come with me.”

She left no room for argument and helped Nesta up and guided her to a set of rooms. There was a large bed against a wall, paintings hanging from the walls. There was a large window that overlooked the ground, and a fireplace. The floor was lined with soft carpet and had a large white vanity.

The bathroom was grand, a large marble tube with an even larger mirror behind it. The marble floor was warm to walk on, and the large chandelier was illuminating the room.

The lady, Lavanya, brought over another lady to help out, they dragged Nesta to the bathtub and scrubbed her raw.

“I have no clue why you have blood on you.” She laughed as she rubbed jasmine pressed soap in her hair. “Lady Celeste was like that, always getting messy.” Her face fell.

“I know you miss the High Lady-”

“It's not that - I mean it is, but she told us what was going to happen. She told us that she wouldn't survive. It just doesn't feel like 10,000 years ago, but it doesn't feel like it was yesterday either.” She shook her head and snapped her fingers.

“The silver off the shoulder ball gown should work! Serena take it out, alongside the set that High Lady Rosaline gave during the Autumn Equinox!” The cherrywood nymph ran out the bathroom and pulled the closets open.

“It feels weird wearing someone else’s clothes.” Nesta washed her face.

“It’s not like she’ll wear it, and besides, this is your court you’re going to speak to, and that outfit would not do you any favours.” Lavanya helped her out of the bath and placed a robe on her.

She dragged her to the vanity and looked at her. “No makeup, just a touch of rouge on the lips. Any preferred hair styles?”

“A Coronet please.” The pair worked and made small talk with Nesta, they asked her questions, like where she was from and what of note happened in the past 10,000 years. They told Nesta about their time in the kitchens.

“I could feel time pass,” Selena said as she pulled out a gown that looked like liquid stars. “It was funny, like moving through honey.”

“I know I'm addressing the people, but the dress is too much.”

Lavanya shook her head and laughed. “Let's see what we have.” The closet was the size of a room. Dresses hung from every corner, but Nesta couldn't find one that suited her taste. She was about to give up when she saw something. 

It was the Valkyries armour, but the top part was Silver rather than Blue.

“Oh that was gifted to High Lady Celeste by the head of the Valkyries. the Valkyries were-”

“I know about the Valkyries. My friends and I have been doing some research, training. We've cut the ribbon.” She reached out and touched the dress. It felt cold, like metal. 

“Even better. A general addressing her people. Lavanya, let's go with the simple silver necklace.”

Nesta slipped on the dress, she thought it would feel heavy, but it was light. The inside felt more like a dress than armour.  Selena beamed when she pulled back from Nesta. “Perfect!”

She looked different. Not just because of the clothing but the way she stood, the way her skin seemed to have a glow coming up from underneath it. The way her eyes were lighter, shining.

The armour fit her like a glove and she smiled as she took in the sight. She felt like a High Lady.

“And the last touch.” Lavanya walked gingerly towards her, carrying a crown, the same one Celeste wore on her coronation. She placed it on Nesta’s head, and she looked at herself.

“Nes- wow.” Octavia came into her room, her hair washed and brushed out, and she was in the Valkyrie clothes as well. The silverbelt held Harmona, and the 8 pointed star was gleaming at the base of her throat.

“That looks lovely on you.”

“What, this?” Octavia spun around. “The handmaidens gave them to us, saying the Valkyries wore it after Sera said that she missed her ribbon. And you're one to talk, you look stunning. We have to go, Captain Calix says that the people are waiting.”

This was it. She smiled at Selena and Lavanya.

“Thank you, the both of you.” The ladies bowed and Nesta walked out of the room. The lights in the hallway were still burning, and she could see Otisa in the distance.

2 males pulled the doors open and she stepped inside. The floors were filled with people, people from Evenfall and a handful from the Night Court. They looked at her as she walked to her throne. Astoria was at the base and she bowed as Nesta drew near. Her sisters were at the dais, dressed in Valkyrie gear and smiling at her. Gwyn was awake, winking at her.

Nesta nodded and sat on the throne. She looked around, at the people looking at her.

“I know this is a large change, for some it’s been 10,000 years, for some you used to live in the Night and the Day Court. Some know me as the Day healer, and some know me as the Lady of Evenfall. I know this will take some getting used to, the world as we know it was not what it seemed, but I vow to you that every day I live I will make sure that the Dusk Court and the people that live in it will remain standing, I will do it until my last breath. But if you wish to leave-”

“Leave?” Aesira said as she stood up. “We know you, you stood against the High Lord of The Night Court for us. You defend Evenfall from those beasts. You helped us, Nesta. You care for us. So no we won't leave.” The people around her nodded. 

“I have to say, we do not know much about you other than the fact that you are the Soulmender, and you bitch slapped the High Lord across a hallway.” A male said as he stood up, roughly 70 people around him. “And at this point, anything is better than living under a male who only cares about his precious little city.”

“Is there anybody here who refutes the Lady’s claim?” Astoria asked. Nobody stirred, nobody made a single sound.

“The Mother has decreed it, and I am her mouthpiece. All hail Nesta Archeron, the rightful High Lady of the Dusk Court.”

The people rose up, clapping as they cheered. She smiled at her people at her home. She stood up and walked back down the hall, people bowing as she passed, praising her name.

“This has been the single most confusing day of my life.” Lyra said as she drank her wine, her face flushed pink.

“You’re telling me.” Nesta placed her crown on the table, the war room filled with her sisters. “I know I'm not telling you anything, Tomorrow I will tell you everything, and I mean everything.”

Zora shook her head laughing. “You know when I told you that you could keep secrets, I didn't think you were keeping this.”

“How many people would have believed me if I even told you this? I still can’t believe it.”

Gwyn smiled and grabbed Nesta’s hand. “It's okay, and we're alive, that's all that matters.”

“You’re still going to the High Lord's meeting?” Adaria asked as she raised her head from Emerie’s chest.

“I have to, being High Lady and all.” Nesta closed her eyes and listened to the sound of her family laughing, her people celebrating outside in the ruined gardens, and smiled.

Chapter Text

She was on a cloud, a soft cloud. She moved her hands, brushing against the silk and let out a little sigh.

She had to deal with Briallyn, and find more books. But then Nesta's eyes opened and she looked around. She was in her bedroom, the one inside the castle, because she was a High Lady now.

She was the High Lady of the Dusk Court. 

Nesta let out a gasp and jumped out of bed, her silk nightgown pooling between her legs. The fireplace was burning, silver light warming the room. Her feet sunk into the plush carpets.

The apprehension of sleeping in another's room had last night disappeared when she came in contact with the bed, she was out in seconds.

Briallyn was dead, she had figured out the dreams, she was done with it all.

The next thing was to go to the meeting, come to an agreement and see if war was the right idea.

Nesta sat down on the long chair and looked out the window. There were a few people walking around, looking at the grounds. She had to fix them, the castle was preserved, but it didn't fix all the damages. There was still a tower missing, the dead flowers on the grounds and more.

She was going to fix it. She was High Lady.

Nesta bit back a smile, High Lady. She had been raised to be a doting wife with the qualities of a man. Told how to cook whilst being able to solve equations. Taught how to gossip and look after a home. She might have deviated from the role her mother wanted for her, but the seer was right.

Captain Calix had given her a tally of people staying in her lands, about 270 people that came yesterday. Nesta knew she had to do a lot more to restore the court, but she had to do it bit by bit.

For the first time in a while, Nesta’s mind felt clear. She wasn't competing for her mother's affection, she wasn't arguing with her sisters about trivial matters, she wasn't chasing after affections from a male who did not want her.

She was happy in Evenfall, there was no doubt. But for the first time ever since she stepped foot in Prythian, a type of calm settled over her. The one that made your bones feel heavy and the only thing you could do is sink into the ground.

“My Lady?” Lavanya spoke from the otherside of the door. “Can we come in?”

“Yes, yes of course.” The ladies had changed out of the white and were wearing deep blue dresses, with grey accents.

“Your friends are in the dining room.” Selena said as she guided Nesta to the Bathtub. She grabbed a bottle and poured it in, the smell of citrus and spice filling the air.

“I'll be there, what about the people that came yesterday?”

“Some have left, some are staying behind, since the court is new and shiny, they might be hoping for court roles.” Lavanya walked in and showed Nesta a silver dress. It had the square cut she preferred, and a simple cut.

“Can't I wear pants?” Her mother would faint if she heard her say that, but she wanted to move around, and pants gave her the range.

“Yes. Yesterday was all about you claiming the throne. Today you need to wear something simple. Speak with the people, have a nice relaxed day.” Lavanya smiled as she spoke, her brown eyes shining.

“Because tomorrow will be anything but simple.” Selena handed Nesta a towel and helped her out of the tub. 

“Tomorrow will be fine. It has to be.” Nesta grabbed the jewellery box and looked around. She wanted something simple to wear.

“How about this one?” Selena gave her a simple silver chain, and a small star made of diamonds hung from it.

“It's perfect. What did you do before the war?”

“Served a court Lady. She was so haughty, always rude to the help.” Selene frowned. “She's dead, should I speak of her like this?”

“She's been dead for years, it's no harm.” Lavanya placed a pin in Nesta's hair. 

“Would it be possible for you to be my handmaidens?”

Selena dropped the hairbrush, and looked at Lavanya, her face flushing purple.

“YES! Wait I mean, of course my Lady, I would be honoured to serve you.” She smiled and bowed.

“Oh my word, I was always jealous of the High Lady’s handmaidens, they had the biggest rooms and the nicest dress.” Lavanya slowly began to sway. “Well we are wearing them, but only because the other ones are missing.” She held up a hand in front of her face.

Nesta laughed, clutching her stomach. Their demeanour was contagious. “It's fine, now let's go. I think Zora may kill me if I keep her waiting.” 

A few handmaidens were walking around the hallways, bowing as Nesta passed. She'd have to make it a point to remember their names. Her mother always told her that being close to the help meant that the house runs better and more smoothly.

The males who had been keeping guard duty in Evenfall had decided to man the castle alongside Captain Calix and Jason, exchanging stories about what occurred.

“I'm so sorry.” Jason said, shaking his head. “You mean to tell me that there is a way to look at the stars? With a piece of metal?”

“I'm telling you! There's some in Otisa and you can look up and you can see stars!” Captain Calix smiled till he turned and saw Nesta. He jumped up and ran towards her.

“High Lady.” He bowed and followed behind her.

“Oh please go back, don’t let me bother you.”

“No my Lady. As your personal Guard, I must be by your side at all times.” He rubbed the back of his neck, “I was just-”

“I don’t expect you to jump right back into it, Soren. It’s fine.”

The dining room door was opened and Nesta could hear laughter. There was a long table long enough to fit thirty people in the center of the room and right in front of it was a beautiful oak glass cabinet filled with plates and cutlery. Three large vases were spread out through the table and each of them had flowers in them, a mix of yellows and whites.

“There she is!” Gwyn threw her hands up. “You look lovely, and we've been waiting here forever!”

They were wearing their normal attire, probably having gone home. Nesta walked to the table, and Soren stayed at the door.

“I'm sorry, turns out being High Lady means you must look the part.” She waved down at herself.

“Evenfall is the same as always,” Lyra said as she grabbed a strawberry with her fork. “The only difference is the rule change.”

“How are you? All of you?” Gwyn made a face at Emerie and grabbed an apple.

“Fine, it was like I was in a daze, I could see it all but I couldn't stop.”

“You're asking us if we’re fine when you were stabbed and survived.”

“She's the Soulmender,” Octavia waved her hands at Gwyn, who swatted her hands away. “A stab wound is nothing to her. Now.” She pointed her fork at Nesta, “Tell us everything.”

Nesta nodded and folded her hands on the table.

“It starts-”

“My Lady!” Jason ran in. Oliver, the boy who gave Nesta directions when she came to Day behind in.

“Oh come on! This has to be a joke!” Lupine hit her head on the table.

“What is it Jason?”

“Illyrians.” Oliver gasped, clutching his side. “About 400 of them are waiting outside. They want to speak with you.”

Illyrians, it made sense. She took over part of the Night Court, including the two Islands off the coast. 

“Only 400?” Nesta stood up. 

“These are the people from the Night Court border. A town called Steelborn.”

“One of the more progressive camps.” Emerie spoke, rubbing her chin. “I'll come with you.”

“We all will.” Seraphina grabbed an orange and headed out. 

Nesta had never seen this many Illyrians in one place in her whole life, even during the war. The top and bottom floors of the throne room were filled, male, females and children looking around. Nesta sat on her throne and looked around. Emerie was beside her, her wings on display for all to see.

A male looking around his 30s, but Nesta would have assumed somewhere in his 600s with soft dark hair and hazel eyes walked forward.

“Last night we felt a disturbance, and when we woke up, we found out there's a castle in the distance. What exactly is going on?”

“My apologies for the confusion to all of you.” Nesta began as she sat up higher. She could do this. “This land used to be Dusk Court territory 10 millennia ago and the Mother has decided to give me the chance to revive it and take care of it. And it turns out that it also includes former Night Court territory. I will give you the same option as I gave the people in Day yesterday: you can stay or you can leave.”

The crowd looked around, some looking at her, some looking at Emerie. 

“Are you being serious? I mean, this is absurd. It's bad enough that High Lord Rhysand shows his wife around claiming her as his equal-”

“You should do well to mind the way you speak of my sister.” Nesta snapped as she sat up higher.

“My dearest apologies, my lady.” The male said, giving her a smile, but the look on his face was anything but sincere. He faced the others. “Are we really going to subject ourselves to live under a woman's rule? I say no!”

“Which is precisely why she gave you an option.” Emerie kept her hand on Paxzora, glaring at the male. “If you don't like living under her rule, then you're welcome to leave.” She stepped closer to the male, who looked her up and down.

“You don't talk to me-”

“I will speak how I see fit.”

“She's right. You are allowed to leave my court, I will not force you here if you do not like my rule. But you will not be staying on my lands while you question my claim. So if anybody here doesn't want to live under my rule and prefers the Night High Lord more than welcome to leave. You may do so now.”

“Let's go.” The male looked at the other Illyrians.

“Would it be so bad?” A male upon the second level asked, and when everybody was there at him he flew down tentatively. “I mean, it wouldn't be so bad. A new court. And it would be better than how we were treated.”

“Oh, please Elias, tell us how much better it would be to be ruled by a female.”

“High Lady Feyre is as much a ruler as the High Lord. And besides, it's not like he cares that much. Most of the time he comes over it's to make sure that we're training for war. We're always training for war.”

The male at the bottom lifted his hands, looking at the people at the top, some of whom were snickering. “Oh yes Elias, would you rather us braid other's hair, and speak of flowers?” 

Elias’s face reddened. “That's not what I mean. Don't you want to be known for something other than the High Lord's brutal beasts that he calls upon?”

“You-”

“As riveting as this is, I need answers, no I need your fealty to me.” Nesta stood up and walked to the center. “You would be able to live the way you want, no need for training unless you want to. I know what it's like to be forced to do what you dislike, and I won't subject you to that.”

“Why bother with this!”

“If you don’t like it, leave!” A lady yelled from the back, a few others taking up the cheer.

The male at the bottom just laughed and left. A few others followed him, trying to drag some women. But one look at Nesta’s flame filled hands was enough.

There were 220 people in the room, mostly females, but it didn't matter. She looked at them and smiled. 

But when the oaths were done, she could see many of them looking at Emerie, more importantly, her wings.

“I do have one more thing to say.” Nesta looked up. “Who here has clipped wings?”

Almost all the females raised their hands. Nesta tried to mask the pain in her eyes. 

“If you want it, I can fix them. I did so for my friend. But only if that's what you want.” 

“It's painless,” Emerie said to a female clutching her 2 children. “I swear it.” The mother nodded and moved closer to Nesta. Her wings were bent, but better than how Emerie's had looked.

Placing a hand on each wing, Nesta called her magic up. It came out easily, no sudden flames, no mishaps. The mother touched her healed wings and dropped to her knees, sobbing. Her children came forward, looking at her wings in awe.

“Thank you, thank you.” Seeing the effects, more came down, getting in a line. But there were over 100 people, it would take her too long.

“Can you all grab hands? Down the line.” Nesta said after the 6th person. A few gave her confused glances but agreed. Grabbing the hand of the female in front of her, she let her magic pass through, thinking of it as a drop of rain going down rope. One by one, bones were healed, muscles were mended. When she could feel the person at the end of the line wings heal she let go.

A few females were using their wings for the first time, looking down at people.

“I will add this: Wing clipping has no place on my Court, nor does any type of it. If I find anyone doing so, I will remove their wings. Are we clear?” Some males had the decency to look ashamed.

Elias came to her and bowed. “My lady, thank you.”

“No one should be forced to do a thing. War is not all you can amount to. I do have a request to make.”

“Yes, of course.”

“The 2 Islands of the coast in the Eastern sea: Morwynn and Noctara, I need you and a few others to go and have them swear fealty.”

Elias tilted his head. “That I can do.”

“Good, I'll have your supplies ready as well.”

“I am at your disposal, High Lady.” He turned and left, most Illyrians following.

Nesta turned to her family as the Illyrians left, and sighed.

“Come one, it's time I told you it all.”

“It started the day I left the Night Court. I had a dream, one where I saw the previous Dusk High Lady be killed, only I didn't know it was her.” Nesta was seated at the head of the table, her family quiet. Soren was at the door, trying to look like he wasn't listening. 

“Then the whole issue with the Night Court happened and I was in Day. Then the healing magic started, and the fire.”

“You couldn’t heal beforehand?” Lyra sat up, her hands, on her leg.

“No, I was shoving the magic down, it was my way of dealing with it all. Then I met you all in the training center and it was good for a while.”

“The Valkyrie training.” Seraphina asked. “Was that a ploy? To get here?”

“No.” Nesta felt offended by the question. She looked all of them in the eye. “I read about them after a dream, and the idea of training to be part of an all female unit, to train for me not for others was something that I wanted. I swear it.”

“I believe you,” Sera grabbed her hand and urged her on.

“I kept looking into courts, I kept looking into rebellions into healing magic. Then I became a citizen of Day, and I moved to Evenfall and it was just- it was amazing there.”

“Does the clearing that we trained have anything to do with it?” Adaria asked.

“I was in the clearing when I first came, and it just felt right. And so I wanted to train there. Then I started to add things together. I had dreams about her Coronation and had dreams about her talking about healers. Briallyn was on the forefront of my mind so I couldn't really focus much on it. But when I turned my attention to it, Briallyn and the beasts happened. I am truly sorry for keeping this from you, but I had to because there was no way anybody would have believed me if I was speaking of dreams of a fallen court, a court that there was no trace of.”

“Nesta stop that. This was fate, and it bothers me that you had to carry this, but it’s fine.” Zora stood up and came to her side, grabbing her hand.

“And if anything, this changed for the better.” Octavia laughed. “A new Court.”

“That needs a Council. I can’t do it all on my own.”

“Wait what?” Octavia shook her head. “Nesta, we have no proper knowledge-”

“And you think I do?” Nesta laughed, her head shaking. “I’ve been fae for what? 2 years.”

“If I may,” Soren said from the door. “The reigning person has about 8 adviseurs at all times. Their Shieldborn -”

“I'm sorry what?” Gwyn sat up. “Shieldborn?”

“8 people. Her second and her third, her advisor, the Captain of the Valkyries, the Captain of the Guards, the Emissary to the Solar courts and the Emissary to the Seasonal ones, and Her Informative. You can't truly think this is all a coincidence that there are nine of you, one High Lady and eight others, and this symbol of the court just so happens to be at 8 pointed star?”

“Nesta…”

“I swear I did not know that.” 

“Shieldborn.” Gwyn repeated. “That sounds nice.”

“Then that settles it. Zora.” She looked at Nesta. “You’re the one to call me out when needed even if I don't want to hear it, and you’re a great leader, will you be my 2nd?”

“You have to say yes.” Lupine nudged her. 

Zora nodded, biting her lip to stop the smile threatening to come out. “Yes, I will.”

“Em, will you be my 3rd?”

Her face lit up and she nodded. 

“Adaria, Captain of the Guards.” The female’s eyes widened.

“I- well I can’t say no can I?”

“Nope. The role is yours, you’re great at teaching the girls, and you’re a hand at sword work.”

She named Gwyn her Advisor, Lyra her emissary to the Solar Courts, Lupine the Emissary to the seasonal ones. Seraphina was named The Captain of the Valkyries. Nesta named Octavia her informative, keeping an eye out on other courts.

“Okay,” Emerie, her Third said, laughing. “The titles are great, but how can we take them? There must be other people, more capable people.”

“You are capable. Valkyries, remember?”

“You did tell us that High Lord Helion said that you need to come to the meeting, so what is the plan?” Zora leaned forward.

“Zora is right, you know.” Octavia said “You took territory from the Night Court, Lord Helion as well, and he seemed to be decently fine with it but your sister's mate-”

“Can go kick rocks for all I care. The land was never his to begin with. His grandfather knew it and beheaded his firstborn for stating it. If he has an issue with it, he can go to the Mother and bring it up with her.”

“Me and Zora should come with you, alongside Captain Calix, just to make sure everything stays safe.” Emerie said.

“Just what I was about to ask.” Nesta stood up and rolled her shoulders. “I have to check on the damages. I’ll see you all for dinner.”

The grounds were worse than she assumed. The tower that had fallen had smashed into the ground and covered everything in a thick layer of dust. All of the palace gardens were dead and all of the trees hacked off. As Captain Calix took her around, Nesta felt sorrow.

“It's much better than what happened last Night Court rebellion I remembered. All of them misted, dead just like that.” Soren said as he lifted a piece of rubble throwing aside. “It's going to take a while, but the sooner we get started…” 

Even he didn't seem into it. Nesta sat on the charred grass, knowing Serena would cry if she saw her. The earth was crying to her.

“There used to be large Redbud trees all round. Hundred of wood nymphs and shrubbery. They stayed around the fields. But they're gone.” His gaze was far away.

“But it shouldn’t be like that.” Nesta grabbed the grass. The earth was crying to her, it felt wrong, so wrong. The scent of death filled the air, Nesta wanted to take it all away.

“My lady?” Soren moved back, looking at Nesta’s hands. The grass she had grabbed was green, fresh. Not like the black that surrounds her.

“Give me a moment.” Nesta moved her hands, grabbing a different patch. She closed her eyes, breathed for a second, and opened them. The grass was green.

Nesta closed her eyes, and let it all out into the ground. She thought of the rubble, the grounds, the dead trees. She could feel the earth change, she could feel life.

When she opened her eyes, she couldn’t recognise where she was. The grass was a vibrant shade of green and it smelled sweet. The rubble that had littered the floor was gone, not even leaving a tiny trace behind. There were trees, trees that had red pink and somewhat purple leaves growing from it, some trees with white and green leaves were scattered around as well and at the base were bushes, sweet berries growing from them.

Soren laughed as he moved around, his hands brushing the trunks of trees. Then it shook, and from the base came a female, her purple hair cut to her ears. Then more came out, they came from the trees, the bushes. Nesta was surrounded by them.

“Oh this is so much better than the last place I grew up!” One said as she moved around, her dress flowing in the breeze.

“I’ll say!” Another one came to Nesta and waved. “Thanks! Most of us were hanging around some other place, but this is so much nicer. Oh shadwood berries!”

Zora walked into the garden, her eyes scanning the nymphs lying around.

“Wow. Um, Heir Lucien is here to see you.”

Nesta snapped her head and looked back. “Lucien? Let’s go.”

He was in her study, looking at the books.

“Lucien? Has something happened?”

The male looked up and surged forward. He wrapped his hands around her, pulling her close.

“High Lady, I can't say I'm surprised.” He said once they pulled apart. He took a seat and looked around. “This is… well it's shocking.”

“It is, but it feels right. How have you been?”

“As well as you can be after watching your brother betray you and your older brother kill him.” 

“I'm sorry for your loss.”

“Don't be, he was an arse.”

“Was he the one who chased you to the border?” Nesta took a glass of water, filling it up and handing it to him.

“No, that was Alder.” Seeing Nesta’s expression he carried on. “Alder was always the more genteel one growing up, he hated fights. Beron wanted him to become tougher, so what's better than to chase and kill his own blood? But anyway, I come with news. High Lord Helion is asking permission to send builders to your court to help with rebuilding as a coronation gift.”

“What?”

“They can be here in 3 days time,” He took a sip and looked out the window, towards the Night Court. “They can build 2 villages for you, and a 3rd if you agree to be allies, whenever another Court comes and tries to threaten us, you will come to our aid and vice versa.”

“Lucien, this is too much.”

“You helped us.” He grabbed her hands. “When we needed to get rid of Beron you were there, when Evenfall was attacked you were there, fighting for our people. Take the gift.”

Nesta nodded, her heart feeling tight. “Thank you, Heir Lucien. I will also agree to the allyship High Lord Helion had brought forward.”

“On to the 2nd part. Since Dusk will be at the High Lord’s meeting, Lady Slyvia has asked for information, such as the court symbols and so on. Could you shed some light on it?”

Nesta sat back and pulled open her draws. Looking through the papers, she pulled out a small file. Flipping through it and feeling like it was thorough, she handed it to Lucien. It seemed like Celeste had planned for it all.

“Thank you, High Lady.” He kissed her hand. “I will see you tomorrow. Are you ready for it?”

“I am.” She had to be, because Nesta was sure it was going to be a long meeting.

Chapter Text

Nesta could never sleep the night before a big event. It had been like that in the Mortal Realm, the excitement of the upcoming day and the feeling of nervousness was too much for her to bear. So she'd lie awake in bed until it was past her bedtime, looking up at the ceiling thinking about the next day. She’d had no idea when she'd fall asleep, all she knew was that she'd wake up feeling refreshed.

Being Fae and being High Lady did not change that whatsoever. After her meeting with Lucien, she had spent the rest of the day going around the court and healing wherever there were signs of war. Even though she was a High Lady, even though she had power that she could have never imagined, she still got tired. And as she was dragging herself back into bed Nesta hoped that her work would mean she'd have a dreamless sleep and wake up refreshed.

But it wasn't the case; it felt like she had only gotten a few hours sleep before Selena was bursting into her rooms, shoving her awake saying that they needed to get her ready. 

“This is your first ever meeting with all the other High Lords of Prythian, you need to look stunning!”

“I've met all the other High Lords before.” Nesta buried her head in her pillow. “Do you think you could give me like two more hours?”

“Those two hours are going to be precious time, and I won't waste them. I bought reinforcement for a quicker start. Now come on!” Hands pulled Nesta out of bed and dragged her into her washroom. 

Selena wasn't kidding, they had bought two other ladies maids, and they got to work on her. They brought out scrubs and body oils. They covered her face in a mask and let it sit. They were filing away at her fingers and applying a fresh coat of silver nail polish.

“Your advisor says that she received word from Lord Helion’s emissary that the notes you sent over were more than exempt. And everything should be ready for today. She's also sent word that your Illyrian convoy to Noctara and Morwynn have left.”

Gwyn was a godsend.

“And it doesn't matter if you've met them before,” Lavanya slowly helped Nesta out of the tub, handing her a towel. “This is your first formal appearance as High Lady.”

Evangeline, one of the other ladies maids, had brought out a long grey dress, But Selena shook her head, pointing with the hair brush she was using.

“That's too underwhelming, she's High Lady, not a Court Member.” 

“Then what about this?” The next dress was a large one, the bottom half alone was enough to fit 3 people.

“Now that's overwhelming.” Lavanya shook her head. 

“Why not the one that you wanted me to wear for the coronation? It seemed nice.” Nesta winced as Selena tugged her hair.

“Oh that would be lovely. Lavanya, bring it here!”

The dress was grey, but the small crystals made it seem like it was made from stars. The bodice was fitted, the top part with pleats that overlapped and dipped down. The bottom was made of layers and shimmered when it moved.

“That's the one! Okay, you should wear the traditional headpiece.”

“I thought that was what Lady Celeste was wearing when she passed?”

“No, that was the daywear crown. This one-” 

The headpiece wasn't a crown, it was a diadem. The metal twisted among itself, the silver looked like it was melting. The centerpiece was a deep blue gem with the metal bordering it. And at the top was an 8 pointed star. 

“Is what the High Lady would wear for meetings with other High Lords and Ladies. You should wear the Movana earrings, that should be perfectly paired.”

It took another hour and a half till Nesta was done, and she could understand why. She looked different, more regal. Her face was barely touched, a simple covering of red on her lips, and a small tint on her cheeks. Her eyes were lined with silver dusting. Her hair was in its usual braid, her Diadem resting above her brow.

The dress was stunning, and as Nesta moved around she couldn't help but laugh.

“This is perfect, thank you, all of you.”

“No problem My Lady, now you should have something to eat before all of this.” Soren was at her other side of the door, walking a few paces behind her.

Nesta had skipped over breakfast, she knew she wouldn't be able to keep it down.

Zora was waiting in her office, looking over the notes she, Nesta, and Serephina had written.

“I’ve added more info about the Beasts, maybe someone could shed some light on this.” She placed it back on the desk. She was in her Valkyrie uniform, her hair pulled back and tied at the base of her neck, Ventus hanging by her side. “And maybe some insight onto the other queens. Em is speaking with a few Illyrians that stayed behind. You ready?”

“I have to be.” Nesta grabbed the file and placed it in the air, disappearing. 

“And your sister, Feyre? You haven't seen her in months.” Zora spoke Feyre’s name slowly, like Nesta would run if she heard it.

“Feyre is… I’m ready.” For the first time in her life, Nesta was her own. She wasn’t at a lower position and could be shoved around however Feyre pleased. She was on equal footing for the first time, and she’d be lying if she wasn’t glad.

“Ready!” Emerie burst in, her face flushed. “I had to show some girls how to land, it took longer than I thought.” She walked to Nesta and clapped her hands. “You look stunning, and so do you, Zora. Adaria is showing the new guards their rooms, turns out the males want to fight.”

“You have way too much energy.” Zora looked outside, the sun shining down on the nymphs outside. “Shall we?”

“We should, I’d like to be the first one there, I have some things to do.” Nesat winnowed Emerie and Soren along with her, right in front of the Day Court Palace. It had been only two days since she last saw it, but those two days felt like eons ago. The castle was still the same beige color, still had greenery growing out from each crevice, and still had the large tower that contained the library.

At the front of the gates was Lady Sylvia, dressed in a warm gold color that brought out the hues of her skin.

“High Lady,” She dipped in a low bow. “I am so very glad to see you, and congratulations on the coronation.”

“Sylvia,” Nesta pulled her closer, taking in her smell. “How are you?”

“Well. I have made the arrangements for you and your court. Follow me.” Helion was really putting his best foot forward. Every single surface in the castle was shining more than usual. There were fresh flowers hanging from every single stand, the marble busts were so shiny, Nesta could see her own shocked reflection. And there were other subtle hints: artwork that could only have ever come from the Dawn Court. Helion had changed the water fountain head to the gift that he had received from Summer, the mouth of the sea serpent pouring clear water.

As Nesta was led up a corridor she had never been before, she tried her best not to gawk and marvel at what she was looking at.

“And these are the Dusk Court quarters. I am very thankful once again for the note you sent me.” At the top of the door was a silver 8 pointed star.

“Thank you very much for Sylvia.” The lady only smiled, rubbing Nesta’s cheek.

 “You are the first Court to arrive, so why don’t you rest for a bit and come down. I’m certain the High Lord would like to see you.

Nesta said her goodbyes, and looked at Zora. “I’ll be back soon. I have someone to see.”

Zora plopped down on a chair and nodded. “Stay safe.” Nesta turned to leave, but Soren was beside her.

“You can stay back, it’s no worry.”

“You are my High Lady, I must remain at your side every waking moment.”

“I can keep myself safe, Soren.” She turned and the male stood still. “I have dealt with a lot, I have faced a lot. I can handle a small walk. You can stay back.” Her tone held no room for arguments.

The people in Day looked at her as she passed. It might have been the clothing, she was sure it was the clothing. A few bowed as she passed, the words High Lady tumbling from their lips. Nesta made certain to smile at them all.

The clinic was somewhat empty. The students that had once filled the halls were gone, done with their apprenticeship. Mira was at the front, slowly painting her nails. Her eyes widened as she took sight of Nesta.

“Nesta! I mean, High Lady.” She did a hasty bow, the bottle of polish slamming on the table.

“No need, is Wren in?”

“At the back, shall I call her?”

“That’s fine, have a good day.” The back room was filled with smoke, Wren stood over her cauldron, her hair down.

“The door is closed, I’ll be out front in a second.”

“Can’t spare time, even for me?”

Wren’s shoulder’s stilled, and she slowly turned towards Nesta. Her face was stone like, her eyes blank.

“A new title doesn't mean you get special privileges.”

“I thought that was exactly what it meant. How are you?”

Wren moved to a shelf and grabbed a bottle, pouring it all into the mix. “Fine. my mind was possessed, and all I could do was act like a drunk soldier.”

“The female who did this to you is dead.”

“I know, I could feel the spell lifting, then something shook Prythian.” Her white eyes were filled with pride. “I knew you were meant for great things, I just never thought it was this.”

“I wanted to say goodbye, after everything I owe you that.”

“You were a decent person to be near, even though you had your moments.” Wren sighed and walked to Nesta, standing an inch away. Then she wrapped her hands around Nesta and kissed her forehead.

“Be great Nesta. Prove me right.”

Slyvia might have given Nesta the best suite. The first thing that caught her attention was a seating area with a large couch made of fine cloth, and a few single chairs scattered through, all surrounding a small table. Right in front of it was a grand fireplace that wasn't on. There were a few doors leading to separate rooms, and the view overlooked the back gardens where there was currently a small school trip happening.

“This is much different than before, but not? High Lady Hemera was known for her gatherings.” Soren was looking around the room when she walked in, lifting pillows and feeling under the chairs.

“This is it.” Zora was sitting down and placed her hands on the table, her eyes dark. “We’re expecting an ambush, we know that the Night Court will be mad, we know that some might be confused as to why there’s an 8th court. But we can count on support from Day and Autumn. And that's better than nothing.”

“We also know that the Night Court will try and hide stuff.” Soren moved closer, his search showing no results. “They’re known for mind games, and no magic in meetings is just a suggestion.”

“We stick to what we know.” Nesta placed her hands on her waist. “We tell them what we learnt, and we keep to the plan. Don’t allow yourselves to be baited.” This was it, and she was ready. She thought.

The procession made their way to the meeting room, their footsteps echoing softly against the polished stone floors. The tall arched windows stood open, allowing the sun's golden rays to pour in and bathe the room in warm, natural light. A gentle breeze carried in the faint scent of blooming flowers from the gardens outside.

At the center of the room stood a large circular table carved from gleaming white marble, its surface etched with intricate patterns of vines and celestial symbols. Surrounding it were high-backed chairs adorned with gold lining and plush white cushions. 

To the side, a smaller table was laid out with crystal decanters of water, wine, and fruit juices, alongside goblets and delicate plates of refreshments—figs, honeyed pastries, and slices of soft bread. A few attendants stood nearby, dressed in cream uniforms with hints of gold, their movements efficient and quiet as they ensured everything was in perfect order. The air buzzed with a quiet anticipation.

Helion was seated, his face one of pure calm. He was speaking to his 2nd, Lord Trajan. The young male was nodding at what Helion said. Lucien was beside his father, his hair down, gold woven through. He had a hand on the table, tapping methodically. 

“The High Lady of the Dusk Court.” A male at the door announced. The room turned to her, and the attendance lowered their heads. Helion stood up and walked to her. Nesta could properly see his clothing. His cream toga was perfectly pressed, not a wrinkle in sight. His hair was down, each black lock gatching the sun’s light. His crown was shining, and so was he.

Once he reached her, he dipped his upper half, his lips slowly brushing against her knuckles.

“High Lady Nesta, may I welcome you to the meeting.”

“Thank you High Lord for the invitation. And may I say I’m looking forward to our partnership.”

“As am I, you already know My 2nd, may I ask who you’re with?”

“My 2nd Zora, my 3rd Emerie, and my Royal Guard, Captain Soren Calix.” She gestured to each person, her heart beating in her mouth.

“I welcome you all, please take a seat.” Helion pulled out her chair and Nesta rolled her eyes.

“Lucien, lovely to see you.”

“You as well. Now are we ready?” He looked perfect, but Nesta could see how tired he was. “Notes and proof?”

“Yes, I also-”

“High Lord Kallias and High Lady Viviane of the Winter Court.” Kallis was dressed in pure white, a touch of blue weaved through. His crown looked like ice, his face colder. Viviane was wearing a light blue gown, her white hair pulled up, a few pieces framing her face. They walked arm in arm, and Helion stood up to greet them.

“It seems we have a knack for being early.” Viviane returned Helion’s greetings, and Kallias clenched his jaw, his eyes locked on Helion.

“Dear friend, how have you been?”

“Well, until you called a meeting.” He looked around, his eyes landing on Nesta, who raised a glass in response.

“It was needed. Come, get comfortable, you as well High Lady.” He guided them to a set of chairs across from Nesta.

“We felt you claim your court.” Viviane said, her hand on her stomach. “It was a shock, but a good one. As a very wise female told me, we need more High Ladies.”

“We do.” Kallias was still looking at her, it wasn’t anger or delight, just a quiet acknowledgment. “I hope this meeting is a smooth one.”

“Then you’re dreaming.” A voice said from the entrance.

“High Lord Eris of the Autumn Court.” Eris was dressed in style. His jacket looked like the first days of Autumn, he had his crown on, slightly tilted. his brothers, Callum and Alder were behind him. Helion walked to him, a small bow exchanged between them.

“Now Kallias, all 8 rulers of Prythian in one place makes it hard for anything to get done.” He sat beside Zora, his brothers to his right “High Lady, have I offered my congratulations? We needed some new faces.”

“Thank you, High Lord.”

“Brother, you look well.” Callum said, his face twisted in a smile. “How’s the royal life treating you?”

“Still as charming as always Callum. Eris.” Lucien nodded to his brother.

“High Lord Tamlin of the Spring Court.” Tamlin was dressed in green, his crown made of leaves and emeralds. Like the last meeting he was alone. He took his seat next to Eris, looking at Helion with irritation.

“Another meeting? Why?”

“Nice to see you again, and it will be revealed soon.”

“Has it to do with the blast of magic 2 days ago? I thought it was the wall all over again.”

“Oh that was all the High Lady.” Eris pointed his head to Nesta. Tamlin looked at her, a smile on his face.

“Congratulations High Lady.”

“Thank you.” Emerie shifted in her seat, giving Nesta a look. 

“When will this get more active?” It seemed to say, and Nesta bit her cheek. Tamlin and Kallias were speaking of trade deals when the Summer Court walked in. Tarquin was flanked by Cressida and Varian. The male took his seat next to Tamlin, giving the male a curt nod. Then he looked at Nesta and his mouth slightly lifted.

“High Lady, It’s good to see Dusk back up again.”

Nesta snapped her head to the male, Helion echoing the action.

“What?” Was all she could manage.

“My Grandsire used to tell me tales of Dusk, he never knew what happened, but he said that Prythian used to be 8. It’s quite lovely to see balance restored.” Varian said as he took a slice of cake, licking the residue of his fingers.

Nesta felt like her mind had stopped working. It was insane, how was there a court that knew about Dusk? It had taken her weeks to piece a proper idea together. Emerie was trying her very best to keep her expression neutral but her wide eyes gave her away.

“You mean if you just went to Summer, you would have known everything?” Zora whispered, “This must be some cruel joke.”

It was beyond cruel. She could have solved it all. But would she have gotten the same results? Would she have even met her Shield-born?

“High Lord Thesan of the Dawn Court.” Nesta let out a little breath. The Dawn Lord was closely followed by his Captain. He sat next to Viviane, his eyes never leaving Nesta. But Nesta met his gaze head on. Never would she cower, she was done with the hiding.

“Now Helion,” Taquin’s face turned solemn. “Have you a reason for this meeting?”

“There is still a court missing.”

“Always with the theatrics.” Eris rolled his eyes. But he didn't have to wait long. 

The doors slammed open, the harold not having time to introduce the court. Rhysand looked murderous, his eyes on Nesta. Feyre walked in after him, Azriel at her side. Cassian, Morrigan, and Amren were behind him.

Rhysand helped Feyre into her seat, then snarled.

“Give it back, Nesta.”

She looked at her glass, her lips curled. “Whatever do you mean?” She could see Eris slowly smile and Thesan slowly sit up.

“My land, the land you took from me.”

“Oh,” Nesta placed her glass down. “You mean the land that your ancestor took by force? I don’t think so.”

“Nesta-” Feyre was cut off by Helion raising a hand.

“Rhysand don’t act daft. You can see what the Mother intended: she took back what didn't belong to us. And I'm quite sorry but there is nothing you can do. The magic chose her.”

“Or she took it.” Amren took a sip from her wine. “I wouldn’t put it past her.”

“Tough words coming from a female with no proper standing.” Zora laughed. “Mind your tongue.” Amren's lip curled, but Feyre shook her head.

“After the wave shook Prythian, I could feel the ability to heal leave.” Thesan said quietly as he kept his gaze on Nesta. “I knew the gift was never mine to begin with. My grandfather had only discovered how to heal halfway through his reign. If this is what the Mother intended, then who are we to disagree with her.”

“She cannot waltz in and take whatever she wants!” Rhysand slammed his hand down on the table, and something snapped inside of Nesta. The High Lord of the Night Court, a male she had once feared, was throwing a tantrum. He was no better than the boys in the human realm crying over a toy. Any type of fear she felt towards him melted on sight.

“Oh but I have. You can cry, you can throw all the tantrums you want, but the land is mine, and I won't have an overgrown child-”

Rhysand lifted his hand, shadows swirling, but they fell short. He tried once more but they would only make it a few feet.

“Oh noticed?” Helion smiled.

“Helion.” Rhysand spoke, the word escaping through clenched teeth. “What is this?”

“You have Thesan to thank for that. After your little display two weeks ago I've decided I don't trust any of you to act like proper rulers. The chairs effectively stop you from attacking other courts, and considering what matters lay at hand Rhys, I would think you and your court would come here with a bit more decorum.”

Feyre glared at Rhysand and he sat back. He picked at his shirt, his mouth curling. “She took what was mine. Who gave her the right?”

“But that's never stopped you before has it Rhysand?” Tamlin asked, his tone dry as he took a sip from his glass. 

“And if this bothers you so much, we can take this outside,” She gestured at the hills. “I wouldn't mind kicking your arse again.” Cassian dragged a hand down his face and Feyre looked at her mate.

“How do we know that she didn't take it by force?” Rhysand sat back down, trying to go for a calmer approach, but Nesta could see the tension.

“Because I was there when the court fell.” Soren’s voice was low. “I was there when your ancestor killed my High Lady.”

“And then he killed his firstborn because he dared to question him. So stop acting like a child.” 

“Oh really, I'm the child? You took something you had no claim to and now you expect me to be happy and move on?”

“I expect you to keep your mouth shut and deal with it. The Mother gave me the land back. I took the land Rhysand, there is nothing you can do about it. So you can bitch and you can moan, but you're going to do so in silence.” 

“Enough. We are not here for childish games.” Helion stood up.

“Then why are we here?” Tarquin rubbed his head.

Lucien looked at his father and stood up. “It seems that Hybern was not our final issue. One of the Mortal Queens who was working alongside him, Queen Briallyn, has been active again.”

“If you have called a meeting about a Cauldron cursed fae Helion-” 

“She was using the Dread Trove. She was working alongside the previous Autumn High Lord and he had gifted her men to scout out the Crown for her. Her plan was to wield the three objects and restore her youth. But she was not working alone, my people have collected information that she was hanging around a certain Lake on the Continent.”

“My spymaster can confirm that as well.” Feyre looked at Azriel who pulled out documents. Helion duplicated them and passed them around. Nesta had to admit, Azriel’s work was very thorough, it gave times of where Briallyn was, who she was speaking with and pieces of conversation. But Nesta was sure the Night Court was holding out.

Thesan placed the papers down. “So you need to tell me, that the war we fought not even two years ago was all for nothing?”

“We can't think that yet,” Nesta leaned forward. “We know that Hybern’s goal was to rule over Prythian, and maybe set his eyes on the Continent. Koschei is virtually trapped in that lake, his goal might be to escape, his goal might be to enslave us. But it doesn't change the fact that he is dangerous.”

“If this Mortal Queen was working alongside Autumn, maybe we should be keeping a closer eye to them.” Nesta winced as Kallias looked at Eris, a white brow raised up.

The Autumn Lord clenched his jaw and straight his shoulders. “I am not my father, and Briallyn did come to me but I turned her away. Autumn is finally free of a tyrant. I am not going to undo my work just to leave her under another one.”

“But you have no qualms of leaving a female in distress.” Cassian said and Eris scoffed, turning to look at Morrigan.

“Morrigan, I am going to give you two options. You can either call off your beast and speak to me yourselves, or I can enlighten the whole table of what actually happened that day.” 

Morrigan blanched and she looked at Feyre. 

“So the Queen wanted to use the Trove, she had the Crown but what?” Cressida said as looked around. “You speak of her in the past tense.”

“That's because I ripped her heart out of her body.” They all turned to Nesta. “She’s dead, but the threat still remains.”

“And your Court?” Cressida questioned. “It’s back, and there’s a castle.”

“The Mother does work in mysterious ways, and who would I be to turn away her blessing?”

“But what of the Trove? They are dangerous, and who ever has it-”

“If Nesta-”

“High Lady.” Emerie glanced at Morrigan. “Address her properly or don’t speak to her at all.”

“If the High Lady killed the Queen, surely she knows where the Crown is.” Nesta wanted to rip her smug smile off.

“I do, Lord Helion is in possession of it. I have the Mask. and The Harp lies in the Night Court, something their 3rd is omitting.”

“Only made fae can use it, so they’re useless in any court without them.” Feyre looked at Helion. “The Crown-”

“Will stay in Day. Having more than one Trove in one court is a bad idea.”

Eris looked at Rhysand. “Why so quiet? About the Trove and in general?”

“Just thinking about the logistics. The Dusk Court has no proper barriers, therefore it's much easier to take the Mask. They should move it to a safer location.”

“Oh you're asking this time?” Cressida kept her eyes on her nails. “I thought you would just take it, you seem to take a lot of things that don't belong to you.”

“The Book of Breathings-”

“Would have been given to you if you had just told us what was going on. That is the issue with you, Rhysand. You believe that's with your only person who is worthy of knowledge.” Tarquin breathed through his nose and looked at Nesta. “When exactly did you come into contact with the Mask?”

“The night before Heir Lucien's coronation. And I assure you all. It has been safe ever since, something the Night Court was aware about. Besides, the Night Court already has their hands full with one Trove, a Trove they haven't managed to figure out.” Feyre had the gaul to look at her, her brows furrowed. “But enough of that, Koschei currently sits at his Lake planning his next attack, I say we beat him to it.” 

“What you're asking is preposterous, another war?” Thesan shook his head. “Some of us have barely recovered.”

“I think the High Lady of Dusk is right.” Kallias spoke. “The reason why Hybern managed to get one on us was because we were disorganized and he attacked first. Imagine what we could do if we strike now while they have no clue. Victory could be swift and guaranteed.”

“A war is the last thing we need.” Helion stared at Rhysand in shock, who was leaning back. “I do not know how we managed to win last time, but what is the point of a war when we could go in and just kill him.”

“You can not be that dense.” Nesta rolled her eyes. “You cannot just kill a death god, especially one as powerful as him. He will have reinforcements if we don't get the upper hand he will. And if you thought we barely won last time, I doubt there are words to describe what will happen to us.”

Rhysand nodded, and looked at her. His eyes filled with amusement. “I understand what it's like being a new ruler, wanting to prove yourself and make your mark in this world. But let me tell you something that's not-”

“I'd rather you not. You might have been preoccupied with those high walls in your secret city, but I am known. I have healed many, I have healed damages that others could only dream of fixing, I have helped to rebuild Courts, I have broken bonds with my will alone. People know me, and they will for a long time, long past your demise. Whatever you think you know about me I suggest you amend that.” 

Rhysand glared at her, and Nesta held his gaze. She wouldn't back down, never again.

“Summer has just been fixed, and we don’t have the needed equipment-”

“Autumn will provide for its allies.” Eris cut off Tarquin, and the younger male nodded.

Tamlin ran a finger down his papers. “If we are going to do this, attack Koschei, we have to be smart. Last time we were all in disarray, Autumn wasn’t a part of the fight till the last second-”

Rhysand picked at his jacket. “How rich, coming from the male who just rebuilt his court to speak of disarray.”

“No thanks to your mate, and I suggest you keep to yourself. You’ve done enough meddling. The High Lady of Dusk is right, if war is near we need-”

Feyre laughed and shook her head. “High Lady? Coming from the same male who wanted me to be a quiet wife.”

“Maybe your memories have changed since we last spoke, but I'll have you know it's that I offered you it. You are asked about high ladies and I asked if you wanted that role. You told me you didn't. I have not treated you well. I will admit that, but you don't get to go about and rewrite what happened.”

“Not treating me well? That is the least of it.”

“This is war, take your childish games elsewhere.” Eris threw up his hands. “You’d think that the matter at hand would make you all a bit more sensible.”

“You do not speak to my wife that way.” Rhysand stood up, his hands in fists. “The Night Court-”

“-Is not as needed as they believe themselves to be. You helped in the last war but you seem to be missing something very powerful that you had last time: The Dusk high lady. If you want to sit on your arses and hide in that oh-so secret city of yours then be our guest, but you will not sit here acting like a perpetual child.” 

“You call us perpetual children Eris, but you didn't hesitate in asking us to achieve your goals did you now?” Amren laughed lightly, and Eris widened his eyes, laughing.

“You? Help me achieve my goals? The only thing you manage to achieve is making me wait longer. You kept me in a one-sided bargain for almost 2 years, and the only way I managed to get out of it was due to the High Lady of Dusk's help. Do you see how unimportant the Night Court is in this matter?”

Feyre whipped her head to Nesta. “You helped him Kill Beron?” Rhysand looked at her and Nesta shrugged.

“It was quite simple. Such a shame the Night Court couldn’t fulfil their side of their bargain. I can’t say the Mother seems pleased with you.”

Morrigan stood up and pointed a finger at Nesta. “Must you meddle with everything?”

“You sound like a child, The High Lady helped get rid of a tyrant, whilst you all sat around.” Emerie rolled her eyes.

“She killed a High Lord?” Tamlin raised a brow? 

“More like assisted Eris.” Nesta sighed. “Morrigan, you seem upset about it? Care to share why?”

“You messed with a bargain that's why! Have you any idea what that cost us?”

“Maybe you should have completed your side, Mor.” Viviane sighed, rubbing her stomach. The blonde looked at Viviane with a look of hurt.

“We were.”

“And it took you almost 2 years? Don’t take us for fools.” Tamlin chuckled.

“You're the biggest fool here Tamlin. Aligning with Hybern because that suited you.”

“To get information, and I'd rather that than siding with Amarantha and not being able to stop her where it counted.” He looked Rhysand up and down, a look of pure disgust on his face. “A shame to waste magic in bringing your ungrateful arse back.”

The room descended into chaos, people over speaking yelling at each other. And Nesta didn't miss how a few people tried to summon magic to their aid, but all attempts failed 

“Did this happen last time?” Zora leaned closer.

“No, believe it or not, that was more tame.” Thesan was sipping his drink, looking around with a tired expression. “You owe me 10 marks.” He said to his captain.

“ENOUGH!” Lucien stood, slamming his hands down. The room fell silent, all eyes on him. His gaze was one of disgust. “We are discussing the betterment of Prythian, not to travel verbal blows, and not to discuss one's love life. If you still harbor this hate towards each other, take it out somewhere else. We come forward with information that Koschei is a threat and the only thing you're concerned about is hashing old grudges? Is this what Prythian has come to?” He grabbed the paper in front of him and flipped over a few pages. “One of the last places Briallyn went before she was rightfully disposed of, was Vallhalen, to meet with their King and Queen. If anything, that shows that the Continent will not help us and might even be aiding Koschei. So stop bickering like children and get to a vote.”

His chest was heaving and he looked around, meeting everyone’s gaze.

“The Heir is right,” Viviane smiled, her eyes sad. “War is imminent, and it's better if we get the upper hand.” She looked at her mate, who nodded. “Winter calls for war.”

“So does Day.”

“It’s too soon. Summer has just healed.” Tarquin shook his head, his cousin placing her hand on his shoulder. “But the sooner we act, the better the results. Summer calls for war.”

“Dusk calls for war. Briallyn tried to harm my family, she tried to kill me. If she was willing to do that, Koschei must have something horrible planned.”

“Dawn Calls for war.”

“Autumn calls for war.”

“Spring calls for war.” The room faced Rhysand. His eyes were glazed and so were Feyre’s. Their hands were intertwined, and Feyre was blinking hard, Rhysand looked at his mate, then nodded.

“Night calls for war.”

Chapter Text

“That was terrible. How does work even get done?” Ventus was lying next to Zora as she stretched her legs, her face of pure bliss.

“It's a good thing we don't need other courts to decide inner court workings. And it could have been worse?” Emerie had a small plate of cakes, Soren swiping a few.

“It could have. The last one I went to, the Summer Lord tried to kill the Dawn Lord. It was messy to say the least.” He wiped his mouth.

“We've managed to do the hard part, we've told them about Koschei, we've managed to get them all on board for war. Now we just have to figure out the strategy for it.”

“That's if nobody backs out because in my opinion, it seems like Summer and Night are the ones most willing to back out.” Zora added as she reached up, swiping at the plate as well.

“In all honesty I was expecting the Winter Court as well since they're expecting an heir as well. But I doubt anybody would be backing out. Some people are too prideful for that.”

“But not too prideful to try and ask for the Trove in front of everyone.” Emerie licked her lips, catching stray crumbs. 

“I’m this close to punching their 2nd, the female is irritating.” Zora pinched her fingers together, leaving a hair's breadth of room.

A knock on the door echoed through the room, Nesta stood up to open it, but Soren bet her to it. Azriel was standing on the other side, his blue shipons glowing.

“High Lady. The High Lady of the Night Court would like to have a word with you.” Nesta glanced back at Soren, who was giving her a sideways glance. His hand was on his waist, his little finger slowly tapping his blade.

“Of course, lead the way.” She turned to Emerie and she nodded. Soren was on her tail as Nesta walked alongside Azriel.

“Congratulations, on bringing back your court.” His face was blank.

“Thank you.” Feyre was pacing the hallway back and forth, her hand absently rubbing her swollen stomach. Her black dress was flowy, giving her room to breathe. She was muttering under her breath, her eyes moving around.

“Feyre.” Nesta stood a few steps away from her. Her sister’s head shot up, and her face softened.

“Hey. I wanted to speak with you.”

“I gathered that. How are you?”

“Fine. I- Rhysand was out of line, now and what happened 2 weeks ago. I had no clue, I would have done something. He should have tried to hurt you.”

Nesta knew deep down that she wouldn't have much. “It’s not like he did much, and your mate's temper tantrums are the least of my worries.” She looked over her shoulder, Soren leaning against the wall, his eyes never leaving Nesta.

“I could feel the wave of magic, it was magnificent.” She winced and rubbed her stomach, Azriel moved closer and she shook her head. “He’s just kicking. I’m fine.”

“He?”

“It’s a boy, I wanted to tell you on Solstice.”

“Oh. That’s lovely.” Nesta shifted on her feet, thinking of a way to leave without seeming like a bitch.

“I want to say sorry.” Feyre closed her eyes for a brief moment and looked at Nesta. She looked older, so different from the cabin. They both were.

“Sorry for what Feyre? For planning to lock me up? For trying to steal the Mask? For undermining me and my ability to look after myself? For Clare?” She was so tired, she just wanted to go and lie down.

“All of it. I hurt you, we hurt each other. I just- I thought if I could force you to get help, then it would work, you’d be yourself again, the way you were before the Cauldron, before the Cabin.”

“Feyre, how can we be normal when your-” 

It’ll change, I’ll change. I miss you. Please.” Feyre reached out and Nesta sighed, her eyes looking past her sister. Could they be normal? Could they be sisters after it all? Nesta was no saint, but there were some limits. But the look on her sister's face was pure sadness. She couldn't just leave her like that.

“Fine.” Feyre smiled and moved closer, and then stopped. 

“How is the pregnancy? Have you found something?”

Feyre’s face fell, her jaw working. “No, yes but it’s, we were thinking of cutting the bones for a way out, but without the speck of Thesan’s, your power, we might have to change it.”

“Feyre.” Rhysand was walking towards them. Soren was off the wall, his eyes tracking the High Lord’s steps. He looked at Nesta, and went for a smile, but his eyes held hate. “High Lady. Do you think you could spare some time? I think we should have a talk.”

“No. Have a good day, High Lord. Feyre.” She turned to leave, then hand was grabbing hers.

“Nes please, don’t go.”

“Nesta don’t leave me!” The Bog, the Mask was still taunting her. She tried to relax. Slowly she nodded, Soren ran back to their rooms, and soon after Zora and Emerie were behind him. The walk to the Night court rooms was too quiet for her licking. Zora was holding Ventus like a lifeline, and Emerie had her eyes locked in on the Spymaster.

The Night Court rooms were nice, couches, tables, doors that lead to other rooms. 

Sylvia had definitely given Nesta the better suite.

Amren was softly chucking at what Morrigan said, the 3rd’s hand hooked around Cassian’s neck, her legs wrapping around his. She was draped across him, holding a glass of wine. The air stilled as they all filled the room. Nesta stood next to the table, Zora close by. Cassian lifted Morrigan off him, his eyes filled with guilt as he looked at Nesta.

“What is it?”

“A drink?” Rhysand held up a glass, and when she declined he poured himself one, taking a large sip. Amren sat up and smiled at Nesta.

“I knew I had seen those flames before. I would have never expected you to be the one to bring back Dusk.”

“Your expectations of me matter little. High Lord, you have called me here. I hope you have a reason.”

“Emerie, I haven't seen you in a while.” Cassian stood up, A flicker of warmth crossed his face. “Your cousins run the store.”

“I left Illyria, a long time ago. And I don’t care what my relatives do.” Cassian looked at her wings, his eyes widening.

“Your wings-”

“The High Lady’s work.”

“How nice of her to do that after she took our land.” Morrigan said behind her glass. 

“Mor.” Azriel said softly from his corner. She looked at him, her eyes questioning.

Emerie scoffed and looked at Morrigan down her nose. “You talk too much, and most of it is garbage. Nesta healed my wings long before we came to Dusk. And that’s more than you lot have done.”

“We are doing our best with wing clipping.” Feyre sat up, grabbing Rhysand’s arm. “Sure there are some small issues.”

“Oh, is that what you call it when illegal clippings happen underground and women get infections because of it? What do you call it when a man grabs a woman and cuts off her wings in the middle of a street? It's clear that your best is not enough.” Nesta could see her restrained slipping. “We all expected more from you, since you happen to favor Illyrian wings.”

Feyre turned red, her hand on her stomach. “I will admit change takes time-”

“But it only took Nesta, what five minutes to get the threat of what happens to those who clip wings. The only thing you care about is your little city in the centre and Troves. But instead of trying to get Troves, I suggest you turn your attention to Illyria before you're left with none to fight your battles.”

“Em.” Zora held out a hand. 

“Let's stop, please.” Cassian shook his head. “We can have an adult conversation right? Let’s sit.” He pulled out a chair for Emerie, who was still irradiated. He tried to pull one for Nesta but Soren got in between them, a smug smile on his face, slowly pulling the chair to Nesta.

“You’re good.” She had to stifle a laugh at Cassian’s face. He looked between them, his jaw set.

“I'll be the first one to say that I do not want a war.” Feyre said as she took a sip of her water. “Hybern took a big hit on us, we almost didn't make it out alive. And now another one, this time facing death god, it's absurd.”

“You saw what Briallyn did to your city, you saw what she did to my Village. If you thought that was bad, what do you think a literal death god is going to do when he's freed from his leg? We have a leg up, we have an advantage. He's trapped and he can't leave. The sooner we get rid of him the sooner we can get back to our lives.”

“We're going to have to build up the armies again.” Cassian rubbed his drawer. “And we'll also going to have to get the Illyrians and the Darkbringer-”

“Which is why I wanted to speak with you.” Rhsyand stepped closer, taking a seat on the couch’s armrest. “Most of Dusk used to belong to the Night Court, I’m well aware of how to run it, we could become friends of some sorts.”

Nesta wanted to say that she’d rather eat Ataraxia. Rhysand looked so proud, as if the idea was a favour for her.

“That is not needed. I am more than capable of running my court. And I will decide if being allies with the Night Court is in my best interest.”

“We are offering you help.” Morrigan scoffed. “Half of the people that will cross into your borders are people that we have dealt with. Do you truly think you can handle the Illyrians?”

“Speaking of Illyrians.” Rhysand looked at Nesta, and she had a feeling of what he was going to say. “Morwynn and Noctara house over 10,000 illyrians, And we all know first hand how they act towards females, much less females in high ranking positions. I think they would be better suited at the Night Court.” 

“I'm going to say this once and only once.” Nesta sat back and placed her hands on her lap. “The amount of say you have in what happens in my court is zero. If the Illyrians want to go back to the Night Court they can, I've given them the choice, but like the other ones who have stayed, I'm pretty sure itching for a change in leadership, maybe it's all the freedom and healing I’ve offered them that's led to them staying. Your lack of an army does not reflect on me.”

“You have no idea on how Illyrians work.”

“And you do? As my third said, you allow the soldiers to clip the wings of the women so they fight for you, you have little care in what they do till it's time to fight. Feyre, it doesn't have to be like last time, we can get the upper hand.”

“Can we?” Azriel looked at her. “Can we trust the other High Lords and High Ladies to do what’s right?”

“Thye care for their people, so yes.”

Amren shook her head, “This is too much, by the time we’re done with negotiations, Koshiel might get the upper hand. Under one ruler however, this could all be avoided.” Rhysand let out a slow breath.

“We have spoken about this. I have given you my answer. Stop this at once.”

“Things would run a lot smoother, and you can't deny it.”

“Are you saying that we should have, what? One High Lord to rule them all?” Soren laughed. “It’s been tried before, and it never ends well.”

“A High King. And I'm pretty sure Rhysand and Feyre are the only ones worthy of it.”

Emerie looked at Amren with wide eyes, “You want him to be High King.”

“Yes.” She rolled her shoulders, as if this were a simple solution. “Making decisions that benefit Prythian would be a lot easier when there aren't eight people yelling at each other. How things are going now is insanity.”

“What’s insane is that you think the man who can't control wing clipping can control Prythian. I suggest you aim smaller, like tackling the issues in Illyria.”

“Amren, I need you to be quiet.” Feyre said, the light in the room dimmed for a bit. “That’s a crazy notion.”

“That’s why you keep pushing for the Trove.” Zora stated. “You don't care if the High Lady can handle the power or not, you just want it so you can have control.”

“And you're going to tell me that it's wrong aren't you?” Amren took a sip of wine. “I have been alive for ages, and petty squabbles end up turning into the most brutal of wars. Each Court is in a precarious situation-”

“But yours more so than others, am I right? The Night Court isn't well-liked by most and you think what, becoming High King will change that? Prythian has managed to govern herself properly with separate High Lords and High Ladies for quite some time, and it will be doing so for a long time after now. This latest scheme is crazy, and if power is something you couldn't live without, maybe you should have stayed in the cauldron.”

“You don't get to speak to me like that.” Amren snapped. “This would be better for Prythian.”

“Maybe you wouldn’ be spoke to like that if you didn't say crazy shit.” Zora said as she gripped Ventus. “It is foolish of you to think anybody would back your claim.”

But Amren wasn't looking at Zora, she was looking at Ventus, and Nesta knew she had finally connected the dots.

“When exactly did you get that Sword?” Her voice was harsh, a contrast to the easy tone she had before.

“The High Lady gifted it to me on the Spring Equinox. Why does it concern you?”

Amren looked at Nesta and let out a low growl. “How many more have you made?”

“Made it?” Azriel asked, his shadows restless.

“She made a sword, she made a Trove.” Feyre snapped her head towards her, her eyes wide.

“Nesta no.” Cassian moaned, his head in his hands.

“That’s none of your business, I made my family gifts, and I could care less if that bothers you.”

“Nesta that was dangerous.” Rhysand moved closer, his face filled with concern, but Nesta could see the way he eyed Ventus. “Made items are dangerous. You know that.”

“A Trove?” Morrigan leaned back, her mouth slack jawed.

“And to think I thought you were finally starting to use that brain of yours.” Amren stood up and started to pace back and forth. “Do you even know how to control your magic? Have you any idea what could happen if these fell into the wrong hands? We could lose the war before we even start it! You’re acting-”

“Your voice is really starting to get on my nerves so I'm going to need you to shut your mouth. Yes I am very aware I made a Trove, yes I handed it out to my family, yes I'm going to keep making magical items if it suits me. And last I checked there is quite literally nothing you can do about it”

Amren’s eyes started to glow a deep white, but Nesta knew it was all for show. “You need to hand them over, it is clear you can't be trusted with such power.” Amren went closer to Zora, trying to grab her sword but Nesta was quicker.

In an instant, she had Amren by the throat, lifting her off the ground. Flames started to dance their way down her hand, and moved around Amren’s neck. Nesta relished the fear across Amren’s face. 

“The only similarities we have are winning this war. And I think you should remember that. You've been left unchecked and now you're going out into the world with a sense of importance that you just don't have. You are no longer a creature of death, you are a common High fae. And like any other common High fae, I will snap your neck with ease if you try to speak to me like that again, If you ever try to come to my family.”

And with that, Nesta hardened her grip. And the sound of bones breaking was better than any music she had ever heard.

Rhysand made a move forward but Zora pulled out her sword. “If you're unable to govern your second, don’t be upset when other people do.”

“Nesta,” Feyre gasped.

“You asked me if we could be normal sisters again, you asked me if things could ever be normal again between us. The longer you keep letting your family get in between us, the longer you keep telling me that I can’t control myself, we will never be able to function properly.” She dropped Amren and walked out.

The door slammed shut, and as Nesta left she could hear Morrigan snapping at someone.

“-If you had just made her stay-”

Nesta collapsed in an armchair, rubbing her temples. Zora let out a sigh and poured each person a glass.

“Why do we even bother with them?” Soren hummed as he leaned back in his chair. “The Night Court isn't really worth all the trouble.”

“It’s because of Feyre, if she wasn’t there I’d ignore them.” Nesta held her glass of whiskey to her head, eyes closed. 

“Is a relationship with someone causing you this much pain worth it?” Soren said, and Nesta had no response. A small part of a thought maybe this was her payment, having a terrible relationship with her sisters because of the life she led. But Feyre was a grown woman who made her own decisions, and Nesta didn't have to be part of said decisions. 

“Nesta?” The door opened and Seraphina walked in, her hair pulled up and her loose top flowing in the wind. Emerie rushed to her, pulling her in a hug.

“Thank the Mother you’re here. It's horrible.”

“Really? I thought all the drama would be enjoyable.” She sat down, her skin glowing. “I have good news, Elias came back, he says that Morwynn and Noctara have sworn to you, and all will agree with your reign.”

Nesta laughed and got up to hug Sera. “Thank the Mother, and the females?”

“Will make their way to Evenfall with the help of the ones already here.”

“Good, we have about 200 men ready to fight, and maybe 200 more that are willing to.”

“War?” Seraphina sat up, “It’s agreed on?”

“Yes, but we haven't worked out the finer details. Tell Adaria to separate the women, the ones who can and are willing to fight should be training day in and out. We’ll find out more after tomorrow.” 

“Alright. I’ll go now. I have to see my Grandmother and tell her the news.” She wrapped her hands around Nesta, and kissed her cheek. Soon after Zora retired to her rooms, saying she needed a nap. And Nesta went to the washroom, lying in the water filled tub, rubbing her temple.

Things were going to be better, she would survive it. She had to.

The next day, the tension had faded out. Helion was sitting with Tamlin, speaking of the trade deal they had. Lucien was next to them, pointing to parts of the paper they huddled around.

Nesta was in a gown that started off blue but faded into a deep indigo. She had her hair down and a hand on her head. She had no proper sleep, her mind racing about Feyre’s pregnancy, the war, the audacity the Night Court had endless supplies of.

The Night Court called was sitting across her today with the noticeable absence of Amren. Nesta hoped the female had lost her voice.

“I was wondering,” Thesan took the seat next to her. “As your coronation gift, I will be sending over the school of healers that I used to oversee. Now that I don't have any healing gifts, it wouldn’t make any sense for them to be learning under me.”

“Thesan, you don't have to do that.”

“But I want to. If we are going to be allies, and if we are going to be good friends in the future I would like this.”

“Allies?” Nesta grinned, and the Dawn Lord returned it.

“Well of course, Dawn is a neutral court after all.”

“I like the way you think.” The Winter Court had finally made it in and the meeting began.

“We came to the decision of war yesterday,” Helion began. “But we need to be smart about it.”

“Y,es yes Helion, we've discussed this. Be friends, hold hands, sing songs.” Eris moved his hand. “But the question is how?”

“By deceiving them, of course. I have to say the High Lady of the Night Court gave me the idea.” Tamlin flashed Feyre a smile, but her sister just scowled. “Most people are going to assume that we can't agree on one decision, so why not play into that belief?”

“What are you suggesting, Tamlin?” Kallias sighed.

“I say we send four Courts in beforehand and keep four Courts behind. Therefore they think we can't agree, and we have the other 4 Courts waiting to attack.”

“That could get risky really quickly.” Thesan shook his head. “It would be best for all of us to move forward at once, I would say.”

“Or maybe not,” Nesta slowly nodded her head. “Think about it like this, we have no idea what Koschei is planning, maybe he's planning to attack Prythian. If some of us stay behind and some of us move forward it gives the illusion of disarray, and it also gives us a chance to protect our home.”

“Can we all agree on the decision?” Helion looked around. After everybody confirmed, he carried on. “Then who do we send?”

“It can't be the Autumn Court.” Kallias said as he faced Eris.

“Still think I’ll suck up to Koschei, Kallias? I know you're warry, but you can’t be that stupid.” 

Kallias slowly nodded, his face pained. “I admit I made some brass claims yesterday, but Autumn has the largest Militia in Prythian, and it would be better suited to be guarding Prythian, and used as a surprise attack.”

“If we're going by that logic then you should send Dusk in. I have the least fighters to offer, and me in the Valkyries can get in close.”

“The Valkyries? I thought I remembered the uniform.” Tamlin raised his glass to Zora, who returned the gesture. Cassian snapped his head to Zora, his eyes scanning her uniform, his eyes filled with.. pain?

Feyre looked around. “I don't think it's safe, considering that you are just a brand new High Lady-”

“I think the High Lady of the Night Court forgets herself and her say in Dusk.” Feyre bristed at the remark. “Dusk will go to the continent.”

“The Illyrians should stay behind. Dawn will be the air support until the Night Court arrives.” Thesan looked around. 

“High Lord Tamlin needs to stay behind so we can winmow to and from Spring, that leaves Summer and Winter.” Tarquin said as he looked at Kallias , who nodded.

“Summer, Winter, Dawn, and Dusk will be the first 4 Courts to reach the Continent. If things do end up getting out of hand, send word back and we will winnow the rest of the party in, that is if Kosheil hasn’t planned anything. How quickly do you think you can start forces?”

“Two weeks. It's only a matter of gathering up the armies.” Thesan looked around. Kallias, Tarquin and Nesta nodded along.

“Then it is settled.” Helion went to stand but Tarquin raised a hand.

“We still have another issue,” Tarquin looked at Nesta. “The Dread Trove.”

“As I've stated before, High Lord Tarquin, the Trove can only be controlled by made people. The Crown is staying in Day, the Harp is in Night, and the Mask will be staying in Dusk.”

“But that goes against your logic, only made people can use it and there are no made people in Day.” Morrigan raised a hand. “You should hand over the Crown-”

“After the discussion we had yesterday, I would rather eat on my own foot than let Night possess more than one Trove.” Callum let out a snort. Rhysand slowly nodded.

“Why the obsession with the Trove?” Viviane asked. “The High Lady of Dusk is correct. If what we know of the Trove is true, then the more you have the more likely you are to be corrupted. And lest we forget the saying that if you have all three you could control the world. The Crown should stay in Day.” 

“The High Lady is right.” Tamlin sat up. “The Night Court has the Harp, that should be a handful itself.”

Thesan nodded. “And another thing, the Troves should only be used in dire situations.”

“The best thing we can do is when the Trove is needed, we discuss it when the time comes. It's much easier for us to draw a line in the sand before we've experienced the threat. I've used one of the Troves, I've been under the control of another, there is much room for error.” Nesta looked at Helion who nodded, then at her sister. Feyre bit her lip, then dipped her head.

“Then that settles it.”

The meeting carried on late into the night, from battle formations to information exchange. Nesta could barely feel her feet as she walked up the stairs. Feyre was walking out of her room when she spotted Nesta.

“Nice dress.” Feyre moved closer. “It looks like the one we saw in the new store that had opened, remember.” They had just lost their fortune, and Nesta was out with Feyre, they had spotted the dress, and even Feyre, who hated the feel of them, stopped and looked with Nesta

“It does, right?”

“I was a right bitch today.”

“Oh so a normal day?” Nesta tried to ignore Soren’s words floating in her mind.

“Fuck you.” Feyre smiled, then winced. “I have no clue why this child likes to use my ribs as a footrest.”

“You should sit down, or maybe lie down.”

“No, walking helps, will you come along?” Nesta grabbed her sister's hand and led her to the back gardens, to the little grove she had passed many times. The night air danced across her skin, and she tilted her head up.

“The stress is no good for you, or the babe.”

“I can’t help but stress: a war, the Trove, the birth. Majda has told me that she could make it work but I doubt it.”

“Couldn't you briefly shift back into being an Illyrain?”

“No, the change is too dangerous especially with how far along I am.” She sat down on the swing and laughed, a bitter sound. “Your 3rd, Emerie, she's right. If I spent enough time looking after Illyria and getting to know them as much as I did wearing their wings, maybe I wouldn't be in this predicament.”

“She's quite sensitive about that issue, and when this all passes, and it will, this could be a learning stone for you. I wanted to-”

“Rhysand told me that Illyrian pregnancies were difficult for Illyrians, but for high fae…”

“Maybe your husband should have properly told you before he decided to get you pregnant. He is part Illyrian after all.”

“The baby having wings depends on the mother, Nes.” 

“And he knew that you favored those wings, it was a matter of time before - I don't want to get into your bedding habits. Anyhow, I wanted to say that you don't need to worry about Majda cutting you in half because I will do it.

Feyre stilled, “You’ll cut me in half?”

“No, you idiot. I’ll help you with the birth. Your sister is the High Lady of Healing after all.”

“That’s… wow Nes.”

“For a fee.” Feyre’s face feel, a look of unease settling on her.

“What kind of fee?”

Nesta leaned back. “You make sure that you, your mate, and your little circle stay out of Dusk Court affairs. Permanently. And in exchange I’ll help you with the birth.”

“We mean well, Nes. Ruling is hard-”

“It’s a good thing that Mother made it all I learnt. That’s the terms for helping you.”

Feyre slowly nodded her head and hummed, “I think I can manage that.” Nesta felt a prick on her inner wrist. She raised her hand to see an 8 pointed star with a small mountain below it.

“I forgot the bargains show on skin.” Nesta huffed, but she couldn’t tear her eyes from it.

Chapter Text

The group made it back home the next morning, after she had gotten a curious look at her tattoo. Nesta had brushed off Zora’s complaints, but Emerie had just nodded and told Zora to get ready.

The Castle, which Soren told her it was called Velora Palace, was shining in the sunlight. The nymphs were roaming around, rushing to Nesta when they saw her arrive. The fields looked better than when she left. The grounds were covered in flowers, all native to the Dusk Court. 

Zora had told Nesta that she needed to speak with the builders and see how far along they were. As she vanished from sight, Emerie placed a hand on Nesta’s shoulder.

“You have to be careful with bargains, Nesta.” Her voice was low as they walked through the halls. “A broken bargain has a way of fucking you over.”

On that positive note, she walked through a door, leaving Nesta with her thoughts. In one of the courtyards, Adaria was drilling rounds with the males, having them fight in pairs.

Her hair was in her face, and she was yelling at a pair of Illyrians that had gotten into a scuffle.

“Last time I checked I didn't say throw punches, did I? I said try to block his attacks. I don't know why you've decided to test me today but I'm not having it. Fly 50 laps.” The younger looking male huffed and took off, the other one following afterwards.

She brushed her hair away and looked at the males on the ground. She stopped a pair and corrected one’s grip. The male rolled his eyes and his gaze landed on Nesta. He slowly bowed, causing Adaria to look up.

“Nesta.” The rest of the males bowed deep as she walked to them. 

“As you were. How have you been?”

“Well,” Adaria gave her a brief hug, smelling like grass. “Sera told me, I’ve been drilling these males, the 2nd group are taking a break.”

“That’s good, have you seen Sera?”

“She’s at Evenfall, talking with the elders. Why?”

“I need you all in the war room, bring in Elias as well.” Adaria nodded then turned to the males.

“That's enough for the day. Make sure you keep the wing training, I’ll be having you all fly 100 laps tomorrow.” The males nodded and slowly began to walk away. Nesta looked at Adaria with a hand on her hip, the corner of her lips raised.

“They seem to like you.”

“You know, they're not so bad. I mean some of them are a bit harder to deal with. But with those males, you just need to show them that you're the strongest person around them. I’ll go call Lupine over, she says that she wants to speak with you.” 

Nesta dragged her aching body to her bedchambers, where Lavanya was looking over gowns.

“High Lady, I’m glad to see you.” She bowed and walked closer. “Soren told me you arrived. Let’s get you something more comfortable.”

“Yes, please.” Nesta gasped. Lavanya pulled down the zipper and Nesta sighed as the dress fell down. She was guided to the bathtub, steam curling in the air. The water was warm, seeping into her aching muscles. Nesta submerged herself in the water, her head cooling down.

“I was thinking of a simple blue dress, and no gems.” Selena dragged the soap up Nesta’s hand. “How was the meeting? Were the High Lords kind?”

“The meeting went well, and the High Lords were decent.” She slurred as Lavanya slowly scrubbed her head, her mind blank.

The dress she was wearing was a simple blue dress, the cuff sleeves decorated with simple silver patterns. Soren held the door open as Nesta entered the war room. Octavia was speaking with Lyra, who was shaking her head.

“it doesn't matter they wanted to- Nesta!” She walked over and clung to her. Nesta sank into the warmth and held her tight. “How was it?”

“That’s why I called you all here.” She sat at the table, Lupine to her right. “The meetings went well, and the rules of Prythian are aware of Koschei. We’ve come to the decision of war.”

Lyra nodded and slowly drained her glass of water. “Okay. So how will it work? Is it now or later?”

“4 courts will go ahead, Summer, Winter, Dawn, and Dusk. We will head to the Lake and try to reach Koschei. The other courts will stay back, in case of an attack on Prythian, and for an extra shove. Sera,” Nesta turned to face her. “How many women can fight?”

“About 130. Some are from Evenfall, some are Illyrians and some are from the rest of Dusk.”

“I have 378 males ready to fight right now.” Adaria spoke. “Our lack of numbers is an issue.”

“Which I wanted to speak about.” Elias sat up. “Out of the 5000 Illyrains, 3000 are willing to fight and about 1000 are here now. The males should be here tonight at the latest.”

“And what of the women? Are they coming here for healing?”

“There are about 300 females here now, I have them on the 6th floor.” His wings slowly moved back and forth. “And about 1700 more are coming.”

“Okay, I’ll help them after this. We will meet with the other 3 courts in 2 weeks time. And then we head to the Continent.”

“We also received word that Valhallan might send aid to Koschei, so we have to be ready for that.” Zora said, and Octavia raised her head.

“Really?”

“That’s the intel that The Night Court and the Day Court have.”

Lupine looked at Nesta,“The Night Court, did they try for the Trove again?” 

Nesta nodded, and Lyra cheered, she faced a sulking Lupine and held out her hand. “20 marks, hand them over.”

“I thought you had scared them away from the Mask.” Lupine sighed, handing over the gold.

“Not the Mask, the Crown, in front of the High Lords.”

“That doesn't count!” Lupine tried to swipe back the coins, but Lyra moved back.

“You said Trove, not Mask! Not my problem if the way you phrased it was wrong.” Emerie whipped her head to Nesta, her brow raised.

“He was very adamant, to the point when High Lady Viviane got involved.” Soren grabbed a glass, pouring himself a drink. 

“That leads to the other part: Their 2nd believes that Rhysand and Feyre should be crowned High King and Queen of Prythian, and that’s her driving reason for the Trove.” 

“No. That's impossible. No other court will agree.” 

“Adaria, this is the Night Court, they don’t care if the others agree, which is why we need a plan, a way to stop that.” Ovtavia looked at Nesta. “We should destroy it.”

Seraphina immediately shook her head, “The Mask was the only thing keeping the Night Court away from us. The Mask is our last resort to protect ourselves, if we destroy it-”

“The only reason the Night Court wanted to come to Evenfall was because of the Mask. And besides Nesta is the High Lady. If anything, the Night Court wouldn't want to risk war with us.” Octavia cut in.

“High Lady Celeste thought the same thing; she thought that High Lord Orion wouldn't want to fight with somebody he wanted his son to marry. See how that turned out for her?”

“The High Lady is her sister, she wouldn't want to-”

“But she was more than content trying to lock Nesta up?” Octavia shrugged her shoulders. “She might think a war is worth the risk. They all think that Nesta is irresponsible when it comes to The Mask. What will stop them from fighting us?”

“We won’t destroy it.” Nesta placed her hands on the table. “If we do, we’ll have way too many issues.”

“You can unmake it.” The room fell quiet as they turned to Gwyn, who was playing with a strand of her hair. “You made the swords, you were made by the Cauldron, you can unmake it.”

“That… Is an option.” She could try, she didn’t know how to make the swords and she did. “But for now, I’ll keep it in the void. I have to go to the Illyrians that have arrived and heal them. Soren, can you call all the people in Dusk? I need to tell them about the war.”

“Of course, my Lady.” The room slowly emptied, but Octavia and Gwyn stayed behind.

“The Emissary to the Autumn Court has reached out, she says that she wants to come for negotiation talks, but with the war happening.”

“Tell her to put it on hold. And I’ve spoken with Eris, he says that he’s willing to trade with Dusk.”.

“Nesta, why is there a bargain on your wrist?” Gwyn moved closer, and Nesta couldn’t escape her teal eyes.

“I made it with Feyre-” Nesta winced as her family groaned. Octavia rubbed her face and Gwyn had a frown across her face.

“Why? What if her mate uses it against you?” Her hand gripped the desk. “Nesta he tried to steal from you, fuck he tried to kill you, what if-”

“That’s her side of it. I’ll help her in labour, and she’ll keep her mate out of my court. Gwyn I’ll be fine.” Nesta stood up, but the unease on Gwyn’s face was still there.

“I hope so. I’ll go help Soren round everyone up.” They separated in a hallway, Nesta walking down to the Throne room.

Even more Illyrains were here, young and old. The females stopped as Nesta walked down the length of the room. She stood in the center and grinned.

“Hello everyone. Will all the females with clipped wings come forward and hold hands?” 

Nesta was mid healing when the doors opened again and more people trickled in. She could see Aesira and her husband standing aside, she could see Vera laughing at her friend. 

Nesta shoved more magic down the line, and when the screams of delight came from the back, she let go. Some females were trying to fly to the upper level, some were slowly moving their appendages.

“Thank you all for coming.” She walked back to her throne, sitting down. The stone was cold to the touch and Nesta let a bit of fire spread through. Maybe she was tired, maybe she didn’t notice, but the flames spread to the whole throne. Silver flames slowly moved in the air, the stone glowing.

“I know some of you have just arrived in Dusk and wish for peace, but I have grave news. War is among us. The death god Koschei is planning on an attack, and the rules of Prythian have decided that we will meet him at his lake, and take care of the threat.” Some people gasped, small whispers spreading around.

“In 2 weeks time, The Dusk Court will be heading to the Continent, alongside Summer, Winter, and Dawn.”

“So when do we train?” A male said, his pale eyes looking at her. “2 weeks is enough time to get ready, but when-”

“You don’t have to fight, the choice is yours.”

“You could have sent us back to Rhysand, but you allowed us to stay. You gave us the choice to fight, and now we are.” Shouts of agreement rang through the hall, and Nesta tried to school her face.

“The Captain of the Armies will give the males instructions. The females have the option of training with the Captain of the Valkyries. I thank you all for this, truly. Now if any other female or male needs healing, step forward.”

Nesta did the thing she should have when she came to Velora Palace: she went to the treasury.

She had expected them to have been raided, but Soren told her that Orion wanted to wait. They walked down past the kitchen, and past the dungeon cells. The light had started to fade, so Nesta set her hand ablaze. They had reached a plain hallway with about 10 doors. Soren pointed at the handle. 

“Only the High Lady and the royal treasurer can enter. After you.” She placed her hand on the handle, and she felt a tingle through her. The door swung open and Nesta laughed.

The room was filled with gold, silver and gems, mountains of them. They were large chests that couldn't close due to all the riches tumbling out of them. The shining metal mixed with her flames nearly blinded her, stumbling back. Hands grabbed her waist, steading her. 

“Careful, and maybe tone down the flames?”

“Uh yeah.” She looked around, her eyes returning to normal. “This is- wow. And it all survived?”

“Lady Celeste knew what she was doing.” Soren picked up a solid gold bar. “You need to have your treasurer come down and have them come and bound.”

“I forgot I need more people in other roles.” She sighed and grabbed a necklace with diamonds the size of her nails. “But for now, I’ll have Lupine sworn in.” She let go of the necklace and walked out of the room, Soren hot on her heels. They were passing the kitchen when Gwyn came to them. She was out of breath, and she practically screamed when she saw them.

“Oh thank the Mother you’re here!” She grabbed Nesta’s hand, her eyes wide. “Your sisters are here.”

“My sisters?” Nesta’s voice went up a few pitches then she cleared her throat. “Why are they here? When did they come?”

“They came about 10 minutes ago, and they won’t budge. They're at the border.”

Nesta stood still, And try as she might she couldn't find a reason why her sisters would bother to show up. 

“Nesta? I-”

“Let them in, and bring them straight to the study. I’ll be there soon.” When Gwyn left, Nesta faced Soren, a smile gracing her face.

“Would you like to place a bet with me Soren?”

“I'm afraid I don't understand what you-”

“I am willing to bet you 10 marks that my sisters are here because of something to do with the Trove. What do you think?”

He looked around and sighed. “It seems like they are here because of the land they have now lost. Orders from their High Lord no doubt.”

Nesta nodded and they walked towards the study, Nesta taking her time as she walked through the decorated halls. When the door to her study came into view, she slowed down. She took Soren’s sword and checked her face. She looked alright, she looked like herself.

“Are you done?” His lips were curled up and Nesta rolled her eyes. The door to the study was open, Feyre was seated on the couch, Elain next to her.

“Hello.” Elain looked up, her face the same, her brown eyes hesitant. She was dressed in a soft purple colour. Her hands hidden in her skirts.

Feyre was in a simple black dress, her stomach barely concealed. She smiled and stood up. Emerie was off the wall in an instant, her hand near Paxora.

“It’s fine Em.” Nesta nodded at Feyre and Elain. She went to close the door, Soren’s eyes on her.

“So, how are you? She reached her chair and sunk in, her fingers going to her bargain.

“I’ve been doing the same, and we’re good.” Feyre laughed and showed her tattoo. Emerie gave Nesta a sideways glance, but Nesta moved on.

Nesta looked Elain, her sister sitting up. There was so much she could have said but her mind went to:

“So you and Lucien huh?” Elain’s face turned red and she looked at Nesta. Feyre turned her body to Elain and nudged her.

“How do you know that?” Her sister grabbed her skirts, her knuckles turning white.

“Lain, are you? That’s lovely.” Feyre reached out but Elain shook her head.

“That’s what I have to do right? You have to love a male that a large bathtub has chosen for you?”

Emerie rolled her eyes and gave Nesta a look.

“The choice is yours.” Elain laughed and looked at her, the once soft eyes now sharp.

“So you’ll break the bond then? I’ve heard you did that for a Winter Lord.”

Nesta took her time to respond. “If that’s what you truly want, then yes. But that’s not why you’re here, is it?”

Elain looked out the window and Feyre faced her again and nodded, “You’re right. We need to speak with you.” She glanced at Emerie. “Could we have some privacy?”

Emerie just stood still, her gaze ahead. But Nesta gave a short nod, and Emerie walked to the door. She had only been out a second when a knock came.

“My Lady?” Soren’s voice carried through the wood. “Is everything alright?”

“Yes. It's all well.” She looked at her sister and sighed. “If that is about the Mask then don’t bother.”

“It’s not. It is but it's not what you think.” Feyre held out a hand. 

“Then what? I have matters to attend to and have no patience to deal with a ploy for High King.”

“That’s why I’m here. Amren’s idea is one of insanity and we need to make sure that it never comes true.”

“And what of you Elain? Why are you here?”

Her sister sighed and looked up. “I wanted to see you. See how you are. Our last conversation was… I wanted to see you.” She repeated and Nesta gave her a terse nod.

“You, your 3rd, you’ve told me things that I wasn't ready to hear. I left Tamlin because he wanted me to be a glorified housewife, and I've turned into exactly like that.”

She took in a shaky breath and carried on. “I’ve been failing as High Lady, but I'm trying to fix it. I’ve been to Illyria, and seen the females. I’ve been speaking with them.”

Nesta rubbed her eyes, “That’s lovely. But how-”

“I’m getting there,” Feyre huffed, rubbing her stomach. “My point is that we can barely look after our court, this High King and Queen nonsense is mental. But as long as the Dread Trove is around and one is in the Night Court-”

“She’s determined.” Elain said, her hand holding a pillow. “And she keeps speaking of the Day Court with me.”

Nesta knew the plan before Elain spoke of it. She glanced at Feyre.

“Why not get rid of her if she keeps pushing you?”

Feyre shook her head, “Amren is a good person. She thinks large, I can't fault her for that. But I’m scared that Rhys will get the same idea, he’s been worried about the Trove you made, but I wonder how much fear of the power, or regret that he doesn't have them.”

“Being a good person isn't going to stop your doubts, is it?”

Feyre looked up and in her eyes was a small fire. “She's family. Are you saying that if one of your friends did something like this you'd give them the shove?”

Nesta leveled at glare at Feyre. “My sisters wouldn't do something like that, they’re loyal to me and our court. Your little circle of friends are loyal to your mate more than you.”

“Then what do you suggest?”

Nesta leaned back. “I can’t tell you how to run your court. You should figure that out. Anyway, How do we propose we stop this?”

“We agree that we only use them when we three decide to, and we converse beforehand, the majority side takes precedence.” Elain said, and looked around. “We don't use them against each other unless we have to, like if we were under a spell.”

“And we keep them away from Amren, and Rhys.” The words seemed to hurt Feyre, she looked at her stomach and sighed. “I love him, but I don’t think I can trust him on this matter.”

“And you haven't told anyone else? Not even Azriel?” 

Elain tensed at the name, but Feyre carried on. “Since they decided that matters pertaining to my body shouldn’t involve me, I’d like to keep this between us. I never thanked you for telling me, did I?”

“You don’t need to. Elain, can you make a void? A place to put the Harp?”

“The Harp is guarded, and it doesn’t like me.”

“Then Feyre. Make a safe of sorts, one that only responds to you. And the Crown is fine, since only we can use it.”

“And what of during the fight? Do we use it then?” Nesta fiddled with a small orb on her desk, and Feyre nodded.

“The only one useful in a fight is the Mask, and the Crown is too cruel. I’ll let you know what I decide.” Elain’s eyes widened and she looked at Nesta.

“We should all agree on how we should handle the Trove-”

“And the both of you can discuss how to handle the Harp. Maybe I should have made the barging clearer. I don't want you or your mate, or your Inner Circle meddling in my court’s affairs, that includes you as well Elain. Thank you for coming to me with this, and I’ll let you know what I think is right.”

Elain moved to speak but Feyre helped up her hand. Nesta wanted to make a comment about it but bit her tongue.

“There is another thing.” Elain shook her head, and Feyre looked a bit red.

“What is it?”

“I need you to break a bond.”

“With Rhysand?”

“No!” Feyre glared at Nesta. “No it’s- well. Right after the war, me and Rhysand made a deal.”

“Here we go.” Elain said but Nesta waved her hand, telling her to quiet down.

“And what was the deal?”

Feyre took a deep breath and looked at Nesta head on. “The deal was that if one of us dies, the other follows. I had just lost him and it just came to mind.”

Nesta just tilted her head and looked at her younger sister.

“And before you speak, Elain's already-”

“You have to be one of the stupidest people I have ever had the displeasure of meeting. Are you slow?”

“You can't speak to her like that, she's pregnant!”

“I don't care if she's pregnant, that was such a childish thing to do.” Nesta grabbed her head and started rubbing rigorously, as if it would take away the oncoming headache. “You are aware that if you both die with no heir the magic could choose somebody else? Maybe somebody Morrigan is related to. You would be undoing years of hard work for what? To fulfill some stupid childish wish. Honestly, Feyre.”

“It was a mistake! We were so hung up on what had happened, we were just upset and the bargain just happened. But it's dangerous and if I die-”

“We've already spoken about this, you are not going to die.”

“But what if I do? Rhys would follow through, the baby may not even be alive! He might not even survive and I can't have that happen.” She gripped Elain’s hand and a few tears fell. 

“The mating bond would kill him alone.”

“It wouldn't. He'd survive it, people have survived it. Nesta, you have to help me.”

Nesta rubbed her neck and gave her sister a look. “Feyre, I can only do mating bonds, and that's was a new discovery. You have better chances with Helion.”

“Nesta please try, I need it done before it happens, before he starts to- Helion would take too long, and I haven't anything to exchange with him. Please Nesta.”

Nesta sighed and nodded. “Okay. I will.”

Feyre smiled at her, wiping her tears. “Thank you.” She stood up and looked at the clock. “Rhys and Az will be heading back soon, we should get going.”

“Feyre,” Nesta bit her lip. “If he tries to-”

“Don’t worry Nes,” Feyre came to her and held her hands. “I can handle my husband.” She went into a hug and Nesta clung to her little sister. She pulled back and gave Elain a smile.

“Take care. I’ll see you in Spring.” 

“See you soon, Nes.” Elain opened the door and Emerie came closer, she looked at Feyre and let her pass.

“You alright? They bother you?” Nesta shook her head and looked where her sisters once sat, and shook her head. Soren quietly slipped in and placed 10 golden coins on her desk, and left without a word.

“No.” Lupine had been pacing the war room for the past 5 minutes. “Tell them no.”

“She’s right.” Lyra said as she played with a gold coin. “If the majority side takes precedence and both of them agree to you handing over the Mask you'll have to listen.”

“But there's no guarantee that she would have to, she could say that they don’t hand over the troves.” Gwyn said, her voice carrying as she looked around the table, But Adaria shook her head.

“It's bad enough you have a bargain with the Night Court already. When push comes to shove they both want to protect the Night Court. Who's going to be on your side?” Zora placed a hand on the table. “Don't agree to this.”

Her hands rubbed against the bargain. She hated how correct they were, if Elain and Feyre both agreed to something that Nesta was against, the majority vote would proceed, allowing her sisters to speak on matters of the Trove, and that could be a loophole for Rhysand to try and involve himself in her Court.

“You have ownership of the Mask. Nobody can tell you what you can and can't do with it; entering this bargain will only limit your availability to it.” Octavia said as she looked at Nesta.

“Okay, I’ll send word to them tonight. We’ll manage on our own.”

Thesan had held to his word and sent Nesta the students he was teaching. Some were from Wren’s clinic and were glad to see her. She had begun to teach classes in one of the stores in Evenfall every morning after she handled her duties.

They were lovely to teach, some had even moved to Dusk to ask for more advice. They were so curious in how magic and healing intertwined, looking at old scripts. 

Nesta was in the middle of showing how to heal cuts with no scarring when her left hand started to itch. She pushed through it and kept showing the male how to move his hands, but the itch spread to a burn.

Nesta went to scratch the bargain when it dawned on her.

“Let’s stop this here, I have to go.” She all but flew out the room, running to her rooms and grabbing the bag she had prepped. She had practically flown down the stairs when she collided with Lupine.

“There you are! The-” A hand grabbed her and Azriel looked at her, his hazel eyes wide.

“She’s in labour, isn’t she?” He nodded, grabbing her hand, the world shifting. and Nesta found herself back at the riverhouse.

Screams filled the air and Nesta ran towards them, her heart racing. She slammed the door open and took in the scene. Feyre was on the bed, her face twisted in pain. Rhysand was holding her hands, kissing her brow. Elain was next to her. Cassian, Morrigan and Amren were next to Majda, who was shaking her head, looking through a desk.

And the blood, there was blood all over the sheets and Nesta felt sick.

“What the fuck is she doing here?” Rhysand stood up, his eyes dark. He took a step to her, but Feyre gripped his hand.

“Stop, she’s here to help.” Feyre was panting, her brows furrowed.

“She needs to stay back.” He snared and moved to her. But a blast of light had him crashing with the wall. Golden light surrounded him and he slammed on it.

“STAY BACK!” Feyre screamed, twisting in the sheets. Nesta moved forward and took a seat between Feyre’s bloodied legs.

“The babe is crowing, why haven't you tried cutting her?” She snapped at Majda.

“YOU ARE NOT GOING TO CUT MY WIFE!” Rhysand roared and hit the shield, but the wall held.

“It would be too dangerous.” The older female said, her head high. 

“And the babe about to cleave her in half isnt?” Nesta came to Feyre’s side and slowly pulled the top of the sheet down, pulling up her dress.

“You have no idea-”

“No you don’t! You kept this from her, you could have tried other things!” Nesta went to her stomach but Feyre grabbed her hand.

“The bargain!” She screamed. Nesta grabbed her hand and tried to find the bargain. Rhysand was roaring at this point and Azriel was in front of the wall, trying to calm Rhysand down.

“What is it?” Morrigan looked at Amren, but the female grabbed her hand, pulling her back, shaking her head.

Nesta found it, hiding between the actual mating bond. She took hold of it, and it buckled under her touch. Nesta tried to snap it the way she did with the mating bond, but the thread seemed to grow stronger. 

Nesta was about to yank again when she stopped. Death came to her as easy as healing, maybe if she tried to-

Nesta stopped the tugging and grabbed the thread tight, and she envisioned it turning into ash, like a corpse would. The gold dimmed, and the bargain faded into ash. Rhysand stopped fighting and looked at Feyre in horror.

“Feyre…”