Hey guys ^-^ Welcome to my story, hehe. Right off the bat, I'll say that any characters or concepts related to Julie Kagawa's Iron Fey Series belongs to Julie Kagawa and was not created by me. I have added my own characters which you will get to know in the story.

This is my first fanfiction so take it easy on me. I had published it once on another account but deleted it because I thought it sucked. Now, I'm giving it a shot again. I would love to read what you have to say to my story, but please don't be hateful. Constructive criticism is appreciated and wished for. Other than that. I hope you enjoy my story and dive into the wonderful world of the Nevernever.

Crow

(present day)

Skylin

I kept a wary eye out for any signs of danger. The thick growth of trees providing perfect shelter for beings, who wished to remain unseen. Breaking through the thick fog covering the ground, blades of grass peeking out here and there, I seemed an easy target. Yet, I was a force to be reckoned with.

Sadly, not everyone was smart enough to keep away, which made my journey even more tiring than it already was. Those redcaps didn't have to meet that fate, but they brought it on themselves, following me to the portal. To their disappointment, I wasn't the quick and easy meal they desired.

I'd been traveling for longer than I would have liked, so it was understandable that I wished for peaceful travel.

Besides, I couldn't afford any more delays. Time was running out and I had duties to fulfill, places to be. It seemed like every time I finished with one thing the Nevernever looked for another way to screw things up and slow me down.

I heard a rustle not too far off. Pulling my steed to a halt, I tilted my head as I waited for the sound. Silence. That wasn't the first time.

Of course, I was in the Wyldwood, a place for the wild and untamed fey where the strong preyed on the weak, danger lurking at every corner. The place you couldn't afford to be off your guard. There was never nothing happening here and it was absolutely normal to hear the cries of some unfortunate animal caught by its predatory hunter, but that particular sound had been accompanying me for a while now and I never got rid of the feeling of being watched.

Like a stalker was hiding in the trees observing my every move. I jumped as a crow flew by overhead, cawing loudly. I needed rest. My jumpiness would not benefit me in the long-run. I wouldn't survive this way. Tired, weak, unfocused. Things that made me an easy target. Yet, getting devoured was not an option.

Signaling for my horse to move on, I looked for shelter, one well hidden and not too easily seen. After searching for a while I found a cave big enough for me and Shadow. While he grazed, I prepared the rabbit I'd caught along the way. The fire I'd made crackled before me, the yellow flames licking the air.

My hunger satisfied I sat down next Shadow, leaning against his warm stomach, the silky black fur tickling my bare skin. He lifted his head, glancing at me and nickered softly. I stroked his neck and with a heavy sigh let my thoughts wander. Soon they found a girl with straight brown hair that fell to the middle of her back. She was rather short with slightly tanned skin similar to mine. A crown of daisies sat upon her head as she laughed.

A small smile spread across my face but quickly vanished. I pushed the image of the young girl away, not wanting to think about her right now. It was too painful. My heart already ached with the knowledge of the things that must come to pass. I didn't need to add on to the sharp sting in my chest. Thinking of the past was not an option now. I had to look forward. Keep my eyes on the task before me and stay focused. I brushed a stray strand of my brown, wavy hair out of my face and sighed. My eyes drifted shut, sending me into a deep sleep. This was going to be a long journey.

I awoke to the sounds of nature and a bird making a racket. My eyes fluttered open and I stifled a yawn. Instinctively, I looked to my right but no one was there. An all to known sadness came over me. I still wasn't used to waking up alone. I still wasn't used to being alone. Stretching, I realized Shadow was awake as well. It was time to move on.

I didn't particularly feel hungry so I just made my way out of the cave. Just when I was about to mount my horse I spotted the source of the sound that woke me up. It was a cawing raven, sitting atop a branch eying me curiously. Noticing the green emerald eyes staring back at me, I knew it was the one from yesterday. Why was it following me? Another thing came to my attention. I felt a hint of familiarity, like I knew those eyes. Like I'd seen them before. Shaking my head I pushed that thought away. It was just a bird and I didn't have time to waste my thoughts on such inane things.

I traveled for what seemed like several more hours. Yet, who could tell? Time didn't exist in the Nevernever. For all I knew it could have been days in the mortal realm. Finally, I reached the iron boarder. Relief filled me when I spotted the wooden bridge, covered in vines which had an iron-like shine to them. It seemed as if they were trying to drag the bridge down but with its stable build, it wasn't moving any time soon.

There was that rustling sound again. I had had enough. This bird was going down. Dismounting, I conjured up my bow, looking for the bird, ready to aim for the kill but as I scanned my surroundings I found nothing. Everything had gone perfectly still. I let out a frustrated sigh. This place was taking its toll on me.

"Looking for someone?"

I whipped around. My eyes widened and my mouth briefly flew open when I saw none other than...

"Robin Goodfellow?" I quickly hid the shocked expression on my face. Actually, I should've known. That's where I knew that crow from. Those green eyes and that bright flame atop his head. How did I not realize?

"Ah, she remembers me. Long time, no see, Love" he says with a grin plastered on his face. I flinched at him using my actual name.

"You haven't changed a bit."

If only he knew...

"Nice to see you too, Goodfellow."

"What brings you out here, Skylin? Where's the old ray of sunshine? Off conquering the world?"

Again, I flinched at his last question. I averted my eyes from his, my expression solemn.

"Kensley is not with me anymore."

"What do ya mean-"

"It's a long story Puck. I'll have to explain another time. There's somewhere I need to be. Now, if you would excuse me..."

"Whoa, a little annoyed, Blue?"

"No, I am simply in a rush and don't call me that," I replied, rolling my eyes.

"Okay, then I'll keep your grumpy cheeks some company. That way you won't be so alone and we can catch up on old times."

"You can't follow me, Goodfellow. My journey takes me into the Iron Realm and I doubt you would want to go there."

"The Iron Kingdom? I was wondering why you were so close to the border. What's going on, Skylar?", he gave me an almost serious look, his voice one of curiosity. "What's the deal?"

I sighed, brushing a hand through my hair. I didn't have time for this.

"The Iron Queen and her prince consort are in danger, Goodfellow. I have an important mission to accomplish. A mission that affects the whole Nevernever."

He sobered pretty quickly at the mention of Meghan.

"I'm coming with you. Haven't seen ice-boy in a while. I gotta say, you do grow fond of that block of ice," he said in a cheerful manner, even though I saw the concern in his eyes before he could hide it. I wanted to contradict him but right when I opened my mouth he added, "No discussion and on the way you can tell me everything."

I knew he would want to tag along. After all, it did concern the Nevernever and a woman he loved dearly. I was too tired to argue with him and besides, I could use the extra skill and power. Robin Goodfellow was an old fey, known for his mischievousness and also a force to be reckoned with.

"Fine, Goodfellow, but the iron would affect you too much. Allow me?" I asked. He nodded his agreement. Thoughtfully, I approached him. Usually, I didn't dish out this gift so easily. However, the urgency of the situation called for urgent measures. Closing my eyes, I drew my strength from my essence. The emotion that was both my strength and my weakness, my rise and my downfall. The emotion that was the very essence of me. With a featherlight touch, the color exploded around him. It spread over him, covering every inch of his bare skin like an invisible blanket. When I was done, Puck was left trembling a bit but otherwise seemed fine.

"You are temporarily immune to iron now. As long as we both are in the same realm you will not be affected in any way, but as soon as we are apart your immunity will wear off."

Slightly taken aback he stared at me. "You can actually do that? Why didn't you ever tell me? Now, I'm invincible!", he said triumphantly raising his arms.

"I wouldn't go that far," I mumbled to myself, slightly annoyed by his flippancy.

He dropped his arms, giving me a disappointed look.

"Oh, come on. Don't be a stick in the mud."

Ignoring his comment, I turned and started in the direction of the Iron Kingdom.