Nesta
Helion's Private Estate
The Day Court
Nesta was angry. Angrier than she'd been in a long time. Fists clenched at her sides; she was practically shaking with fury as she stalked into her bedroom. How dare he? How fucking dare he? Nesta seethed as she flung herself down on her bed, punching her pillow for good measure.
Her singular request was to keep her family away from the business with the Mortal Queens. It was her one and only demand! How dare Cassian call for Feyre's involvement less than a day after joining forces. She was deeply regretting her decision to work with the Illyrian. She could always shift him off to some far-flung corner of the continent, but that would probably only delay him for a few days, a week at most before his annoying ass found its back to Prythian.
Nesta had been a fool to trust him so easily. Cassian knew too much. Well, he was only privy to Helion's involvement and thank-the-cauldron for that. It would have been so much worse if he knew about her other allies. Still, what if he decided to run to Feyre and her bastard brother-in-law? Helion was a direct link back to Nesta. For three years, Nesta's personal cohort were the only ones who could connect her back to Helion. Less than one day with Cassian and her secret was about to be blown to hell. She slapped her mattress in frustration and was debating screaming directly into her pillow when there was a knock on her door.
Nesta froze, then marginally relaxed when she sensed Helion outside her room. She was debating sending him away when he called out to her.
"Sweetling, I know you're in there. And while I appreciate your dedication to letting this old childless male experience what it would have been like to parent a teenage daughter, I think this will be to everyone's benefit if you open up."
Glowering, Nesta shot off the bed and yanked open her bedroom door. Helion was alone, thank the mother, and she motioned for him to enter. He strode inside and surveyed her room. It doubtlessly likely looked a lot different since the last time he was here. Helion granted her permission to decorate the space to her own taste, and she'd done just that. Each little nook and cranny displayed little treasures that she'd picked up during her travels. Her bookshelf was overflowing, of course. Many of her books were filled with pressed flowers or scraps of lace. This was his first time stepping inside her chambers since the day she'd been presented to the Day Court.
Nesta crossed over to her bed and flopped down in a decidedly un-ladylike fashion. Helion had seen Nesta at her absolute worst over the years. He'd witness her tired and exhausted as she pushed her magic to her absolute limits. He's seen her vomit her guts out after becoming overworked and overextended. He'd ignored her as she begged for a reprieve, pushing her instead to keep honing her magic. He'd weathered all of her terrible moods, so Helion could surely forgive her a momentary lapse in grace.
"Did you send the Illyrian bastard away?" She sniffed. "He has a lot of balls asking me to run back to Feyre with my tail between my legs."
Helion dropped into the wingback chair next to her unlit fireplace and gave her an appraising look.
"I'm actually fairly certain that you misinterpreted his words. Not once did he ask you to return to the Night Court."
Nesta's eyes narrowed at her friend and mentor. There was no way that he was siding with Cassian on this matter. Not after supporting her for the past three years.
"Were you not sitting right beside me at lunch? Did you miss the part where he wanted to go running back to the High Lords? I won't do it, Helion. I won't go from being the prisoner of the Mortal Queens to being a hostage of the High Lords." Nesta vowed. "It doesn't matter who holds the keys when you're trapped in a cage."
Helion sighed as he stood up from his seat and walked over to Nesta, placing both hands on her shoulders. He gazed down at her with what only could be described as a look of fatherly affection.
"Sweetling, over these past few years, I've come to love you like I would my own daughter. So I want you to understand that I mean it with every fibre of my being when I say to you, you need to pull your head out of your ass."
Nesta frowned and yanked herself out of his hold. She gave him her coldest glare, one that had sent multiple males running from her in the past. Helion remained unaffected as he dropped back into his chair. He tilted his head as he watched Nesta pace the room.
"The Illyrian spoke sense. This is about more than your wounded pride."
"This is not about my pride..." Nesta argued but paused when Helion lifted a hand to silence her.
"You're right. It's about your pride and your fear. May I remind you that Cassian never asked you to speak directly to the High Lord? He believes they must be alerted of the total depth of the Mortal Queen's ambitions for you, and quite frankly, I agree. He's a smart male. Cassian wouldn't have risen to the level of Commander General if he lacked strategic foresight. We've managed to handle this on our own so far, but the Mortal's coalition continues to grow. Who knows how powerful they will become if left unchecked?"
Nesta sat back down on her bed as she pondered Helion's words, feeling the fight begin to leave. Helion made it seem so easy. Was she just supposed to ignore her apprehensions? Just ignore her deepest fears that simmered and churned at the edge of her consciousness? Nesta was quiet for a few moments, thinking.
"Before I came to you, back during the war with Hybern, they wanted to mould my powers to shape me into a weapon." She was quiet for a moment as she fiddled with her duvet cover, refusing to meet his eyes as she exposed her vulnerability. "I won't let that happen again, especially now that we know the extent of my magic. I won't become some High Lord's tool for destruction. They won't use me to attack the human realm."
Helion tisked.
"I know all of this, sweet girl. I would never let them use you in such a way. You have at least two courts who are willing to back you, never forget that."
Nesta let out a shuddering breath as she finally met his eyes. Helion made a valid point, something she had perhaps forgotten during her meltdown. Her friends had always supported her since coming into her life. She needed to trust others to have her back. Her mouth twitched slightly as she scrutinized Helion.
"Perhaps, maybe, I will take a moment to consider Cassian's offer." She said stiffly.
"You were always quick to see reason, Sweetling," Helion told her with a sage smile. "Our Illyrian friend has returned to his chambers. I believe he was equally troubled by your confrontation. Take this piece of advice from an old male; don't waste so much time worrying about the future that you miss what's in the present. Will you go to him?"
Nesta felt her cheeks heat up at the question, and she chose not to dignify that with a response. While she cherished Helion's unwavering support, this was not a topic up for discussion. She stiffened her back and gave him her best imperious scowl as she crossed the room and opened up the door, gesturing him out. Helion simply laughed as he passed her, wandering off to deal with other matters. Steeling herself, Nesta glanced out the window at the guest house, where Cassian was licking his wounds.
Nesta didn't tarry too long when it came to addressing Cassian. Helion made a valid point, but she couldn't quite shake off her initial distrust of the Illyrian. The two of them had conflicting loyalties for so long now that she had difficulties accepting that anything had changed. Perhaps she'd been a bit too quick to jump the defensive, but Cassian had almost always deferred to Rhysand in the past. In her heart of hearts, she thought that this was yet another example to add to their sordid history. There was still a large part of her screaming at her to keep Feyre out of the equation, but she would let Cassian argue his side.
Straightening her shoulders, she knocked on the door to his suite. It opened without hesitation, almost as if he heard her approaching and rushed to meet her. Cassian's eyes were so large that it was almost comical that a laugh bubbled up from her throat. She managed to turn it into a polite cough before addressing him.
"I've had a discussion with Helion," she began awkwardly, "and it's come to my attention that I misconstrued your comments."
Cassian didn't immediately react, his warm eyes intently searching her face. Nesta felt a line appear before her brows. Damnit, she was never good at apologizing. Was he going to force it out of her? Did he think he deserved one before he even clarified his stance?
"If you're looking for an apology, you might as well…"
Before Nesta could finish the sentence, she was suddenly engulfed by the Illyrian. Her face was crushed against his hard chest, her arms pinned at her sides. Mother above, his embrace was crushing. She could do little but stand there and be squeezed against the hulking brute. A fleeting part of her wondered if this was how she was fated to die, hugged to death by an overly-affable giant of a male when he suddenly pulled back. Pride kept her from gasping for air as she stumbled back.
"That was a little excessive." She grumbled as she breezed into his room.
"Helion told me about his vow to you." Cassian blurted out, freezing Nesta in her tracks.
"Pardon?" She asked after a beat.
"Helion told me you'd rather die than fall into the witch's clutches. That death was the only viable option." Cassian looked over her frantically as if she was currently only moments away from meeting her end. "Gods, Nesta, why did you make such a ridiculous request?"
Nesta blinked. Fucking. Helion.
Of all the things that he could have told Cassian, that was the last thing she expected. She stepped away from him, the space suddenly feeling much too small—Damn Helion for sending her to Cassian without any warning. Cassian had always been protective, even before she ever became fae. Nesta never intended for him to learn about Helion's promise. Gods, how would she even begin to explain this?
"You have to understand, Cas. I didn't make that decision lightly. I don't want to die; it's the furthest thing from that. But I also can't allow myself to fall back into their custody." She took a deep breath, forcing herself to maintain eye contact.
"The sheer amount of people that would die on both sides of the war are horrifying, and I'm just one life. One out of thousands would fall if the Mortal Queens had their way. There is no equation. I won't let myself be used as a vehicle of war. You don't know what it was like, to be trapped in your own mind while the witches twisted your body to do their bidding. I couldn't live like that. Not again."
Cassian's expression was unreadable as he watched Nesta explain herself. Those warm, hazel eyes had taken on a world-weary flatness, the lines on his face suddenly deeper. He looked so different from the male who had pulled her into his arms just that morning. Nesta bit her lip and walked over to his bed, gingerly sitting on the edge. She patted the space beside her. He joined her after a minute, and she nestled into his side. They'd been reunited for under a day, and she was already becoming reliant on his body heat. His mere presence turned her world upside down.
"I don't want to die." She reiterated. "So, if you have any other suggestions, I'll be thrilled to listen to them."
He was quiet, taking a moment to debate her words. He held himself stiffly, softening only where Nesta pressed against him. Cassian was troubled by her revelation, and she once again cursed Helion. Nesta's vow had been made at one of her lowest moments. A solid month of nightmares kept her from meaningful rest, her imagination running wild with the worst-case scenarios, and Nesta had reached her wit's end.
In retrospect, she'd almost forgotten how bad things had been those first couple of months. Time and training had done wonders in improving her mental fortitude. Her perspective changed the moment she took back control, and she hadn't thought about Helion's vow in ages.
"Talk to me about the High Lords." She prompted gently. "I promise I'll listen this time."
He nodded his head and stood up, crossing the room to face her. His face was closed off, once more the general preparing for battle.
"I think we need to bring this information to the attention of the High Lords. I'm not asking you to join us. I can speak on your behalf or, if you prefer, Helion can represent you. But the ruling families must be made aware of this new development. It has the potential to change everything.
"I'm not telling you to present yourself before them; I'd never force you to do that. But forewarning the High Lords will give them time to strategize a way to defend their people from attacks. That could be the difference between life and death for the people of Prythian."
A wave of fear washed over Nesta. She shivered, despite the heat of the room.
"I'm not ready to face them again, but I'll let you speak on my behalf. If you think that the High Lords can use this knowledge to defend their people, then I give you my blessing." She searched out his eyes, not bothering to hide the desperation in her voice. "But can you please reign in my sister? Just make sure she doesn't do anything stupid? This isn't her personal battle. I don't want her sacrificing herself in some foolish ploy to save me. Please promise me this, Cass."
His eyes tightened as he turned to face the window. His profile was a cold mask.
"I think it's safe to assume putting yourself before your family is an Archeron trait." He quipped in a humourless voice. "But I will do what you ask. I will go before the High Lords and Ladies and tell your story. This is… the right thing to do, Nesta. I know you have your hesitations, but you don't need to do this alone. Some people will help you. You just need to let them in."
She nodded as she stood up. And that was it, then. She was coming clean. Sometimes being in control meant learning to let go. There was nothing left to do but pray that she made the right choice.
"I guess you and Helion will want to leave today?" She asked as she walked towards his door.
Cassia had a troubled expression on his face. For a moment, she thought he was going to stop her from leaving, but he remained at his place by the window.
"We'll need time to prepare. I'll speak to Helion. We need to outline our discussion, but it's a good idea to leave today."
Nesta nodded in understanding, standing awkwardly at the entrance. Cassian didn't say anything else, so she gave him a tight smile and then let herself out of his room.
Cassian
Helion's Private Estate
The Day Court
They had spent the better part of the afternoon going over their submission for the High Lords and Ladies of Prythian. According to Helion, the ruling families were set to return to Adriata for the evening session. This was the best time to present their findings on the Mortal Queens. Nesta had stayed for the majority of their deliberation, answering questions as best she could. Helion was well-versed in the situation and could fill in many of the missing pieces. By late afternoon Cassian felt confident their presentation would convince the High Lords to the seriousness of the matter.
Nesta would remain in the Day Court, and all agreed that Helion would reveal his involvement. Cassian would give anything not to miss Feyer's reaction to that particular piece of information. Nesta wasn't the only Archeron with a knack for petulance, and Cassian was secretly anticipating Helion's eventual castigation.
The small group finished up their preparations over an early dinner. There was little reason to delay their trip. Helion had left a few minutes prior with an offhand remark that he needed to leave instructions for his staff. Cassian privately assumed it was an excuse to give the pair privacy for their goodbyes. Nesta was busy shuffling a few loose-leaf papers in order, rereading the hastily scribbled-down notes. Cassian watched her as she moved around the table, focused on the paperwork at hand.
Cassian was troubled. Before Helion's admission, he was prepared to sit Nesta down and tell her all about the mating bond. He regretted not telling her back in Velrais, heart heavy with the knowledge that the past few years may have played out differently if he never delayed that talk. Nesta wanted him and no longer shied away from the connection between them. Cassian thought it best to stop delaying the inevitable and address the bond with his mate. It wasn't his intention to force the issue with her - her choice to accept could wait - but he wanted Nesta to an informed decision before their relationship progressed.
And then Helion had revealed his vow to Nesta, blowing his plans out of the water. Twin instincts were at war within himself. Part of him felt he should still speak to Nesta, especially knowing just how angry Feyre was after learning about her mating bond with Rhysand. Nesta was just as hot-tempered as her sister; it was likely that she would react similarly. But now, he worried the timing of this could be viewed as an act of manipulation. He would never again threaten Nesta's sense of agency. The last thing he wanted was Nesta's viewing their mating bond as a plot to bind her to him.
So, when she approached him earlier in his room, Cassian decided to hold his tongue. He didn't want to decide in haste, but the short delay had done little to resolve the issue. Now they were alone once again, and Cassian had a decision to make.
"Nesta, there is something we need to discuss." He told her with little preamble.
She stopped what she was doing and looked up, meeting his gaze. Her lovely face had a quizzical expression, a faint line appearing between her brows. He took a calming breath.
"After I've returned from the Summer Court, when we have more time together, I would like to sit down with you. There is something that's been weighing on my mind for a long time, and I want to talk to you about it."
The questioning expression quickly morphed to one of worry.
"Is there something wrong? Did something happen?" She asked immediately, dropping the papers to the table.
"It's nothing to worry about. At least I hope it's nothing to worry about." Cassian paused, warning to smack his forehand when alarm began to mar Nesta's lovely features. "Sorry, sorry. I'm doing this all wrong. It's nothing… bad. I think. There's just something that I would like to discuss with you. It's about us. Or maybe not."
Nesta's eyes were wide as she listened to him. Cassian couldn't help but notice how shallow her breathing had become. He closed his eyes in frustration. This was coming out all wrong. He never claimed to be overly romantic, but he was usually much smoother than this.
"Can this even wait until you return?" She asked quietly, trepidation colouring her features.
"It can. I didn't mean to startle you. I just wanted to make plans for our future."
"Our future?" Nesta repeated, a light flush staining her cheeks. "Oh. Oh. Okay."
"Okay, then. Good. It's a date. When I'm back from Adriata, the two of us will sit down and have a talk. Just us. No disruptions."
"I'd like that, I think," Nesta told him softly, anticipation lighting up her eyes.
Her countenance was at complete odds with the women he met in the Mortal Lands all those years ago. It wasn't that Nesta had necessarily changed, per se, but his perception of her had altered. She was still the proud, irascible female who sized him up and refused to back down from their very first meeting. But now, she wasn't afraid to let down her guard and show Cassian her softer, vulnerable side.
And maybe Cassian had changed a little, too. Spending his formative years believing himself to be unworthy had moulded his character, perhaps for the worse, and it had taken him too long to become cognizant of that fact. His birth status led him to believe himself unworthy of high-born females. Sure, he'd flirt with and fuck those who were willing, but all parties were perfectly aware that it was a short-term arrangement. They couldn't hurt him if he didn't give them a chance.
But did it have to remain that way?
After all, look at his meteoric rise in the Illyrian Army. It was previously unheard of a bastard born nobody ascending to higher ranks, yet Cassian had attained the top level of Commander General. He'd never sabotaged himself because he believed the army was his destiny. Cassian was always meant to become a soldier. He never doubted himself and rose to meet every occasion with stubborn determination. That, in of itself, was proof that he could rise above the station of his birth.
So, why did he allow his illegitimate status to hinder one aspect of his life while thriving in the other? He never examined it too closely. But now Nesta was back in his life, and he found himself willing to risk the heartbreak. Nesta was the female that made the risk worthwhile. Even before the bond, she was always worth it, even without the bond. Others may find his heart to be unworthy, but it wholly belonged to her.
So he reached out, took her hand, and gently pulled her to his side. Nesta was more than eager to embrace him, readily collapsing into his arms. One hand fell to the soft dip of her waist, the other slid up her back and nestled between her shoulder blades. He held her close, delighting in the scent and the soft swells of her body.
Cassian bent down to kiss her, and his sweetly vicious little mate enthusiastically rose up on her toes to meet him. The kiss was soft and gentle, much more restrained than their earlier embrace in the garden. Later, after Adriata, he'd have the opportunity to worship her properly. He would sweep her into his chambers and lock themselves away from the world. Then he would take his time to learn the secrets of her body, discovering all the different ways to bring her pleasure. But, for now, they only had this one fleeting moment, so he made the most of it, kissing her with a tenderness that laid out the truth of his heart. Then, much too soon, Cassian became aware of the sound of approaching footsteps. He reluctantly released her and stepped away, but not before brushing a thumb over her plush lower lip.
"All preparations are complete on my end," Helion announced in too loud a voice, making sure his presence was known before approaching. "I'm ready to go if you are."
Even though she knew their departure was imminent, Nesta's face seemed to drop at Helion's announcement. A detached part of his brain marvelled at the fact that this female, who'd once fought so hard to keep her distance, was now anguished at the thought of their separation.
"As soon as I'm back." He reminded her softly, just loud enough for his mate to hear.
He gave her a wink, then turned around to face Helion. The High Lord of Day stood back at a respectable distance. In his High Lord finary, he was attired, a sun-inspired crown atop of his head. He looked every inch a ruler, which was good because Cassian wasn't looking forward to the task at hand. They'd need all the help they could get.
"Are you sure that you don't want me to go ahead first?" Helion asked him. "To gain Tarquin's permission for you to enter his court?"
Cassian huffed a laugh.
"Why start asking for permission at this point? What's the worst they can do to me, throw me in prison?" He asked with an ironic twist of his mouth.
Nesta rolled her eyes, less than impressed with his wisecrack at her expense.
"Go now and take this fool with you. I'll be forever indebted to you if you leave him in Summer." She told Helion with an indignant sniff.
"Liar." He whispered in Nesta's ear, and he swept past her to join Helion. Cassian bit back a grin when she shivered in response to his taunt, choosing to ignore that until they had their privacy.
The plan was for Helion to winnow them into the Day Court's assigned chambers before the summit reconvened for the evening sessions. Cassian would stay out of sight until Helion had the chance to brief Tarquin about his presence. Fortunately, the Day Court's suites were on the same floor as the Night Court, so Cassian would seek out his brothers while he waited.
The last time Cassian spoke to them was when Azriel informed Cassian of his mate's imprisonment. It was possible that Rhysand and Feyre didn't know who assisted Nesta with her jailbreak. Cassian was still banished from the Summer Court, so the less they knew of his scheming, the better. There was only so much that Tarquin would let slide in the name of diplomacy.
"Let us not tarry, then," Helion announced as he placed a hand on Cassian's shoulder. "Nesta, it's best if you remain here under the protection of my wards. I wouldn't be surprised if this is debated throughout the night, but I will do my best to send word."
Nesta sat on the edge of the table as she watched the males prepare to leave for Summer, uneasiness apparent on her face. Cassian gave her a crooked grin, hoping his relaxed stance would help soothe some of her anxiety. She returned the smile, but it didn't quite reach her eyes.
He frowned and opened his mouth to reassure Nesta, but Helion tightened his grip and darkness folded around them. Cassian's vision was nearly obscured. He could make out little over the churning shadows as Helion winnowed him away. The darkness cleared as suddenly as it appeared, and they found themselves in the Summer Court, with Nesta behind in Day. Cassian yanked himself roughly out of the High Lord's grasp, annoyed despite himself, and took in his surroundings.
The suite was spacious, with floor-to-ceiling walls lining the western bank of walls. The sun was just beginning to dip into the horizon, and the sky was awash in a brilliant display of orange, pinks and purples. He stepped towards the window to take in the view. Was it really only that morning that they awoke with Nesta on the other side of the Bay?
He was aware of Helion moving around behind him, and Cassian turned to face him again.
"This is my personal suite, so you'll have adequate privacy here. My retinue knows to keep their distance without invitation. The summit is set to reconvene in about thirty minutes, so Tarquin should be on site. Do you want to wait here, or would you prefer to arrive with Rhysand's people?"
"I should probably check in with Rhysand," Cassian responded without hesitation. Rhysand may have suspected his involvement, but his brother and High Lord would be less than pleased to learn of the extent of his entanglement with the other leaders of Prythian.
Helion gave him a tight nod, and he gestured towards the door.
"No time like the present." Helion prompted, and Cassian followed him out into Summer.
Feyre
The Adriata Palace
The Summer Court
The overall mood encompassing Feyre's friends and family was one of sombre dejection. Ever since the Mortal Queen's stunning declaration earlier in the day, the air had been heavy with an impenetrable sense of unease. Elain's presence had done little to abate Feyre's despondency, especially because of Elain's steadfast refusal to discuss the situation at hand. Feyre couldn't help but feel frustrated and a little betrayed by Elain's refusal to speak of their missing sister. It had quickly escalated into a shouting match, their respective husbands dragging them apart before it could devolve even further.
Rhysand had stayed close by her side for the majority of the day, doing his best to comfort his stressed mate. But time was a luxury that they could no longer afford, and Rhys was forced to leave to consult with the other High Lords. Feyre had desperately wanted to join them but remained in their chambers at Rhys' request. Tensions were running high, and he was worried about the effects of stress on their baby.
So now, there was little left to do but pace the suites. Azriel and Elain had retreated to their room. Mor was in the mortal realm on a fact-finding mission. Only the Gods knew where Cassian was, leaving only Armen for company. Feyre appreciated Amren, truly she did, but her third in command was the last female she'd want to rely on for sympathy. The tiny fae watched Feyre stalk pass for the dozenth time that hour, bemusement clear on her face.
"If you require exercise, then you should consider taking a turn around the gardens. I'm sure Tarquin's carpets will thank you for it." Amren suggested dryly.
"If you're bored, then seek our Varian," Feyre replied icily, no longer bothering to hide her exasperation. "I don't require a keeper."
Amren sorted as she picked up her wine glass, giving the blood-red wine a swirl.
"Varian and the Royal Guards are in the city offering assistance after the attack. I could join them, or I could stay with you. You have wine, so the choice was easy." Her third offered before taking a deep drink of her wine.
Feyre didn't bother to hide her eye roll as she reclined back onto a settee, reaching for her own glass of ginger tea. The taste itself was appalling, but the tea was the only thing that helped soothe her second-trimester bouts of nausea. The morning sickness may have passed months ago, but the Mortal Queens declaration had frazzled everyone's nerves. Feyre needed all the assistance she could get.
Amren gazed at her with a hawkish expression, taking one last sip of wine before depositing her glass back onto the side table. The wine had stained her lips blood red, reminding her of Amren's previous proclivities before the Cauldron had forever altered her dietary requirements.
"Perhaps your temperament would improve if you repair your relationship with your sister." Amren offered almost indifferently.
"Elain?" Feyre clarified.
Amren snorted. It wasn't like Nesta would walk through the front door anytime soon, and maybe her third in command had a point about Elain. Feyre had, perhaps unfairly, taken out her frustrations on her remaining sister. Elain wasn't to be faulted for their current predicament.
It was clear that Elain missed Nesta; she dropped everything and asked to be winnowed immediately to Adriata after learning of Nesta's reappearance. They had been in the midst of persuading Tarquin to let them visit Nesta when Varian had announced Nesta's escape. Elain had been devastated that she missed an opportunity to see her big sister. Yet, she remained tight-lipped when it came to Nesta. It was a tired argument at this point. Feyre had already lost Nesta. She didn't want to drive Elain away as well.
"Perhaps you're right," Feyre muttered as she pushed herself to her feet.
Thankfully Amren kept any comments to herself as Feyre shuffled towards the newlywed's chambers. At least, that was her intended destination before three rapid knocks on the door diverted her attention. She cast a quick glance at Amren, who was busy studying her own nails.
"Were you expecting someone back this early?" Feyre asked as she changed directions towards the front entrance.
"No." Amren drawled, not even bothering to glance up from her examination.
The floor had been warded against spies. The magic dampened Feyre's own sense when she reached out to discover the visitor's identity. Still, she wasn't too concerned. This floor was restricted to the High Lords and their most trusted advisors. Whoever stood on the other side wouldn't pose a threat. Feyre swung open the door to reveal Helion and… Cassian?
"Cass!"
Cassian was the last person she had expected. Gods, he was still banished by Tarquin! Feyre stepped aside to clear a path and gestured for the males to enter. He may not be dressed in his usual leathers, but he was tall and broad, cutting a striking figure wherever he went. Hopefully, Cassian's arrival had gone unnoticed by anyone who could recognize him. Feyre shut the entrance and immediately engulfed the towering Illyrian into a hug. It had been well over a month since she last saw her friend. He placed two calloused hands on her shoulders as he leaned back to survey her.
"You're huge. " Cassian exclaimed as he gaped at her rounded belly.
Feyre gave him a mock glare and punched him in the shoulder. Cass only laughed at her actions, completely unfazed by the blow. His laugh lines crinkled as he smiled down at her. Feyre was aware of Azriel approaching from her peripheral vision.
"Brother." Cassian greeted with the old sparkle back in his hazel eyes.
Azriel simply nodded at Cass, seemingly unperturbed by his brother's sudden appearance. Huh. Feyre narrowed her eyes slightly at the Spymaster as her suspicion flared to life. Cassian arrived shortly after Nesta's disappearance was shaping up to be more than a coincidence.
"What are you even doing here? Tarquins isn't going to be pleased you're in summer." Feyre warned Cassian before turning her attention to the High Lord of Day. "I'm assuming this is your doing?"
"It is, Feyre," Helion confirmed as he stepped to Cassian's side. "We have pertinent information regarding the Mortal Queens and came to present the matter before everyone. I realize you may not be comfortable with Cassian's presence, but our information supersedes the banishment of one male. I am going to petition Tarquin to suspend the banishment for the duration of the summit."
Cassian nodded his head in agreement. "I'll wait here while Helion gets permission, assuming you're okay with that."
Feyre looked at the two males before her, blinking in confusion. "You have information about the Mortal Queens. Helion… were you not here earlier today?"
The High Lord of Day's brows furrowed in bewilderment. "I was here for a short visit but spent most of the day at my personal estate. I'm aware that the Mortal Queens attacked the city."
" They don't know," Amren commented helpfully from her chair.
"Don't know what, exactly?" Asked a suddenly cautious Cassian, his eyes flying to meet Azriel's. His jaw clenched at whatever he saw there. Feyre pushed down a sudden wave of nausea. Gods, Cassian has no clue.
"Come, sit down." She offered, suddenly feeling a hundred years older. "We have a lot to discuss."
Everyone had settled themselves in the Night Court's parlour. Rhysand, having sensed Feyre's discomfort through their bond, arrived only minutes after Cassian. He was currently perched beside her, running a soothing hand over her back. Elain sat on her other side, clasping Feyre's hand in silent support. The sisters had quickly exchanged an apologetic look, but the time for atonement would have to wait. This was so much more important than a sisterly feud.
Amren remained on her chair, silently sipping her wine as she took in the scene before her. Azriel stood behind his wife, his face a carefully neutral mask. Feyre ran her free hand over her stomach soothingly as she indicated for Cassian to continue.
"New information has come to light regarding the Mortal Queens and Nesta." Cassian began, pausing awkwardly as he met Feyre's eyes. "I was the one who helped her escape from the palace last night."
Feyre gasped at the revelation, but the sound was drowned out by Amren's snort. She felt a flash of discontent from her mate.
"You purposely entered a territory from which you've been banished? Not only that, but you broke Nesta out of confinement from Tarquin's palace? The very palace where your own High Lord and Lady are currently residing as honoured guests?" Rhys snapped. He turned to throw an icy look at his Spymaster. "It doesn't take a leap to logic to determine where Cassian got his information from."
"It was a good thing that Nesta was removed from the Summer Court. The witches were sent here to collect her." Cassian argued.
"Yes, we're well aware." Rhysand snarled.
The visiting males started at that, exchanging a confused look.
"What exactly transpired in my absence?" Helion asked carefully.
Feyre's stomach tightened as she placed a hand on Rhysand's thigh, a silent request to let her continue the story.
"At first, we didn't know why the Mortal Queen's soldiers were attacking. We assumed it was a minor skirmish. That they were sent to distract the High Lords, they didn't send many soldiers, and there was no direct attack on the civilians. The Wyvern itself did minimal damage. All in all, the outcome could have been a lot worse. But then a representative of the Queens delivered a summons to the castle. They walked right up and knocked on the front door."
"Where is the representative now?" Helion queried.
"He left shortly after delivering a message." Feyre swallowed, and Elain gave her hand a squeeze. "It was an ultimatum. The Mortal Queens have demanded the High Lords of Prythian turn over Nesta within a fortnight or risk all-out war."
Cassian went Stockstill, but Helion barked a humourless laugh.
"She has been missing for years. Why do they think you can find her now?" Helion asked.
"Because," Rhysand answered on her behalf, "their witches foresaw it."
Feyre couldn't help but shudder as she surveyed the male before her. Cassian's didn't move a muscle, remaining in place with a preternatural stillness. His calculating face reminded her just how cold-blooded the Illyrian could be. She struggled to tear her gaze away when Helion continued his line of questioning.
"The witches foresaw the High Lords handing your sister over to the Mortal Queens? I don't believe it. It's a bluff."
"You don't seem surprised that the Mortal Queens want Nesta," Amren noted from her place in the corner. "How did you become involved, High Lord?"
"I may be a bluff," countered Rhys, "but the timing is suspicious. Especially when you show up on our doorstep, claiming you also have news of my mate's sister. Why exactly are you here?"
A muscle in Cassian's jaw twitched.
"First, I want to clarify the wording of the ultimatum. Did they foresee the High Lord's just handing over Nesta? Would they even consider that? Would you even allow it?" Cassian asked with an intensity that he'd only previously displayed in battle.
"They foresaw, or alleged to have foreseen, Nesta falling under their command." Feyre clarified. "Cass, no matter what has changed over the past three years, I don't believe she would willingly work for the Queens. Not when they were responsible for dragging her into the Cauldron. But the witches have proclaimed that she is destined to go to the Mortal Queens. They want us to speed up the process and deliver Nesta ourselves. If we don't hand her over then, they will start attacking our cities."
"If she presented herself to the High Lords, would you hand her over?" Cassian insisted.
"Of course not." Snapped Feyre, wrapping a protective hand around her stomach. "She's my sister. I would never hand over a family member."
"I wonder," summarised Helion as he dropped his chin into his hand, "What your own seer has to say about this?"
Everyone stiffened at Helion's words. Elain's cauldron-given abilities weren't common knowledge among those outside of the Inner Circle, Helion being one of the few exceptions. The High Lord of Day had learned about Elain's gifts during the war with Hybern, specifically after she was returned from Hybern's camp. Despite his casual stance, Helion's golden eyes gleamed with undisguised interest as he viewed her sister.
"Elian hasn't seen anything," Feyre answered on Elain's behalf.
"Is that so." Helion offered in an unconvinced voice. "How interesting. Perhaps I can work with Elain a little. See if we can trigger a vision, hmm?"
Azriel's wings snapped shut in annoyance, looking like he was about to protest when his wife spoke up.
"I would like to try, actually," Elain announced.
"No." Came Azriel's cold reply from over her shoulder.
Feyre froze, leaning back as Elain stood up to address her husband,
"My darling, if Helion is willing, then so am I. I would like to help in any way possible. We'll just be in the next room, so I'll be perfectly safe. But I need you to understand; this is not your decision." Elain turned back towards Helion. "Helion, would you join me in my chambers? We should have more privacy there. It will be easier to concentrate."
Helion nodded in agreement, those golden eyes still locked onto the Spymaster in a calculating gaze. Azriel watched them go with a frown on his face.
Rhysand sat back, tilting his head at Cassian.
"Well, brother, it seems you have your own story to tell."
Cassian tore his gaze away from Helion, refocusing on the remaining members of the Inner Circle. And then he told his story.
Cassian did his best to bring the Inner Circle up to date on Nesta's activities over the past three years. Feyre tried to remain quiet as Cassian weaved his tale, interrupting only to ask for the occasional bit of clarification. She had tried to keep emotions out of it, pushing down any little bit of hurt or rejection that reared its head when Cassian defended Nesta's motivations. Rhysand was a supportive presence at her shoulder, but she could tell that Rhys was dampening his own emotions for her benefit. Amren offered little commentary, merely lifting her red-stained lips in an approving grin as Cassian told Nesta's story.
It was absolutely ludicrous for Nesta to take on this burden independently. Feyre was her sister. It was her job to protect Nesta, and she was absolutely going to wring her neck the next time they met. Helion was nice enough, but Nesta wasn't his responsibility. She could feel the annoyance radiating off of Rhysand. He was similarly displeased to learn about Nesta's antics and was similarly worried about the far-reaching effect of her powers and what that meant for Prythina. Her stomach tightened in frustration, and she ran another soothing hand over her belly.
Darling, are you managing okay? I know this must come as a terrible shock, and I'm worried about the effects on you and the babe.
She gave Rhysand a tired smile.
I won't lie; it's a shock to hear about Nesta, especially after so long an absence. But I'm glad she's safe. This is a good thing, Rhys. We can protect her now. I won't let her fall into the Mortal Queens clutches.
Her mate's eyes hardened at her comment as he tipped his head in agreement. Rhysand and her sister may never see eye to eye, but he wouldn't let anything happen to her. Nesta was family. He would tear Prythian apart before letting harm befall her.
Her gaze drifted towards where Cassian and Azriel stood in a quiet conversation. They stood near the door towards's Azriel's rooms, where everyone was waiting impatiently for Elain to exit. When this was over, Feyre was sitting everyone down. All of this drama could have been avoided if they stopped hiding their secrets.
Will Azriel be disciplined for revealing Nesta's imprisonment to Cass? Feyre asked through the bond.
Rhysand's response was cut short by the sound of a door opening. Feyre rose to her feet with a little assistance from Rhys and turned to watch Helion and Elain enter the room. Helion's face was impenetrable; he wore the same inscrutable expression that Rhysand often displayed when dealing with stately matters. Elain just looked tired.
"Were you successful, my heart?" Azriel asked as he took his wife's hands into his own.
Elain bit her lip as she met his eyes, giving him a soft shake of her head. Feyre sagged gently against Rhysand. If Elain could hone her skill to read Nesta's future, so much doubt and uncertainty could be avoided. Still, nothing was guaranteed, but Feyre wouldn't let Mortal Queens wouldn't get their hands on Nesta. Feyre would go down swinging before letting that happen.
"This doesn't end here. We'll do everything in our power to keep Nesta out of the Mortal Lands. She'll be safe from them. This is my promise." Feyre vowed.
"We will keep Nesta safe from the Mortal Queens," Rhysand announced as he stood at her side. "We failed her once before, during the war with Hybern. I had promised Nesta and Elain safety and ultimately let them down. The Night Court will not fail her again."
Elain's eyes were lined with silver at Rhysand's words, but she also shook her head in gratitude. Elain leaned into Azriel as he wrapped her into a comforting embrace. Cassian met Rhysand's gaze and nodded his head in thanks.
"Well, I should be off." Announced Helion as he made his way towards the exit. "We still need to bring this matter before the High Lords, and Tarquin needs to give permission for Cassian to enter his lands. I'll go search him out now. I'll have a servant send word when it's safe."
"Thank you, Helion," Feyre told him.
The High Lord of Day gave her a tight nod before letting himself out of the suite.
The entire group let out a collective breath once they were alone. Elain remained tucked into Azriel's side, a rare display of emotion for the two. Her sister looked worn, something Feyre understood all too well these days. She wouldn't press Elain for details. Not until her sister had time to recover.
Rhysand dropped his hands into his pockets and took a swaggering step towards Cassian.
"So, brother, care to explain just exactly what you and Nesta got up to last night?" He asked with a glint to his eye. "However, did you convince Nesta to stay by your side?"
"I handcuffed her," Cass responded dryly, causing Amren to choke on her wine.
He did what? Feyre's eyes went huge at Cassian's casual admittance.
"I'm surprised you still have your balls, boy," Amren remarked after collecting herself.
"That was a concern of mine, truth be told," Cassian added with a shrug.
Rhysand made a sound that sounded a little too much like strangled laughter.
"I don't know how to feel about this," Feyre confessed, giving her mate a deserving glare.
Rhysand slid his gaze to meet hers, humour dancing in his eyes when Elain suddenly jerked out of Azriel's embrace. Everyone stopped what they were doing to focus on her sister. Elain took a staggering step back, panic lining her face. She opened her mouth and then immediately closed it. A half-swallowed sound of frustration bubbled out of Elain. Her slim hands clenched into fists at her side.
"Elain? What's wrong?" Feyre asked, voice thick with worry.
Elain turned to face her. Her mouth opened and closed a few times, but no sound passed her lips. She stood there, eyes wide with panic, as she struggled to speak. Feyre took a step forward when Elain abruptly spun on her heels and dashed out of the room.
What the fuck?
"What was that about?"
Rhys' eyes were fixed on Elain's retreating figure, humour quickly replaced by a look of calculating intensity.
"Follow her." He ordered.
It was an unnecessary instruction. Azriel had already left to follow his wife. Cassian's eyes darted between Rhysand and Az's rapidly disappearing back. Dammit, Cass cannot be found wandering around Summer Court grounds. Feyre was about to order Cassian to remain in this suite when he launched himself after Azriel and Elain.
"For fucks sake." Feyre cursed, turning to Amren. "Wait here for Helion's return."
Amren nodded in acknowledgement as she rose to her feet. Feyre and Rhysand left the chambers without further hesitation, quickly following Illyrain's trail. They were headed down a long corridor, her friends currently out of sight.
"They're just up ahead." Rhysand assuaged.
Sure enough, Feyre spotted the trio as soon as she rounded the next corner. Elain was banging on a closed door. Azriel's stood protectively at her back and placed a hand on her shoulder. Elain shrugged it off and commenced her knocking. Cassian stood back a few feet back from the married couple. He looked at her with wide eyes, shrugging his shoulders slightly to say that he still didn't know what was causing Elain's frenzied behaviour.
"Step back." Elain hissed at them.
Both Illyrians stepped back as requested, the hurt apparent on Azriel's face. Feyre and Rhysand finally reached the group, taking position behind the Spymaster. There was a rattling behind the door as the locks were disengaged, and everyone looked expectantly at the entryway. The door swept open, revealing Eris Vanserra.
The High Lord of Autumn took a half a step back, equally startled by the retinue at his front door. Eris started to sneer at her mate, but his expression dropped into one of outright surprise when Elain took a step forward and clutched Eris's hand within his own.
"Please." Her sister begged. "Please, you have to help."
The redhead focused intently on Elain, all venom gone from his face.
"Help with what?" Eris demanded.
"You need to help Nesta," explained Elain, terror clear in her voice. "She's about to die."