You call my name

I come to you in pieces

So you can make me whole

Chapter 6: Pieces Falling into Place

If there was something Tamlin would never ever miss about being a High Lord was diplomacy.

He hated having to dress in extravagant clothes and walk on eggshells as every single thing he said and did would be judged, more so after that disaster of a meeting they had during the war.

'I should've kept my mouth shut.' He thought as he fumbled with the neck of his shirt. "Fuck!"

"I'd take you up on that but I'm already dressed." Lucien joked as he walked into the room dressed in a white tunic that made him look like a prince of the day court.

"Help, before I choke on this thing."

He laughed and immediately went over to fix everything. Tamlin was grateful to have someone that understood the ridiculous aspects of fashion.

"There. All done. You look dashing."

A green tunic with golden accents would have to do. While he was gaining weight and muscle back, Tamlin still didn't fit in most of his old clothes. Thankfully he could borrow Lucien's but that came with the downside that the beautiful garments smelled just like the former Autumn prince. And while Tamlin could drown in the scent of cedarwood and cinnamon all day, his heart would probably give out by having him wear it upon him as if they were husbands.

"Thanks. Are we all done?"

"Yes. Azalea is downstairs waiting and probably denting the floor by pacing around in heels. Clare will be joining us as well, but for now, the rest of the family will wait until the marriage is officially arranged to make introductions."

He shuddered. Luckily for him, Tamlin had avoided the fate of being married off. His father never cared to make a match for him, and he was eternally grateful he could give the old man that credit at least.

Tarquin was a good man, at least he seemed like one, and Azalea was strong enough to make this sacrifice for them. Still, he felt uneasy knowing his younger sister had to take on duties that should've once been his, terrible as they were.

"I know that face. Stop thinking that this is your fault! You were a great High Lord and the fact that you even considered bending to Amrantha for our sake should say enough."

Tamlin gazed at Lucien's beautiful face, even in worry he looked lovely. His hair had fallen out of place when he was helping Tamlin with the neck of the shirt. Tamlin gently pushed the red locks away from Lucien's face. Staring at him deeply, Lucien noticed and tried to turn away.

"Lea isn't the only one making sacrifices for the court. You did as well, and I've never forgiven myself for it."

"I never blamed you for it."

"Irrelevant, I was supposed to protect you. And I failed at it so many times..."

"Tamlin for Mother's sake please stop saying that! If it wasn't for you I wouldn't be standing here right now! If I hadn't had you...I would've drank belladonna extract after Jesminda was killed."

He suspected. The emptiness in those gorgeous russet eyes said as much. Tamlin would never forget that look.

"Luce...You had other options, other courts."

"And yet I chose you! Because, I feel safe with you, because I can count on you for everything, because you're home to me, Tam!"

He felt his heart racing upon hearing that. No matter how much time passed Lucien was the only one to make his heart race like that.

"You're home to me too." Was all he could respond as he fought the urge to cry and the urge to kiss the redhead right then and there.

Lucien kissed him on the cheek, it was soft and gentle but Tamlin felt as if he was seeing stars.

"If you two take any longer to come downstairs I'm going to leave without you!" Azalea shouted.

"Ambrose women tend to get nervous rage," Tamlin said in resignation.

"Leave her be, you're the same way too. At least Lea hasn't broken any windows like you and Tamarand." Lucien told him as he walked away.

"That was one time!" Tamlin protested as he followed.

Azalea was eternally grateful to have company this time around. While her last visit went by well, she wasn't sure if she could keep composed today too.

Tarquin would probably test her, which was to be expected but even if she passed medical training with flying colors tests always made her nervous.

She envied Clare's ability to find whimsy in everything since their arrival, but she was happy the once-human girl could enjoy a beautiful environment again.

"This place has changed so much since our last visit," Lucien whispered. He and Tamlin seemed happy to see that Summer was also healing and being reconstructed but there was a sense of unfamiliarity with the new court. They hadn't been as lucky as Spring to rebuild an almost identical replica of what the court used to be."

High Lord Tarquin and Princess Cresseida were waiting for them. The High Lord looked as approachable as he did the day she met him, the princess was an absolute beauty but she looked so serious she couldn't help but feel intimidated.

"Welcome everyone! It's good to see you've all made it safely."

He addressed everyone formally save for her, as Tarquin was quick to repeat his gesture from their first meeting and kiss her hand. Azalea blushed which made her brother and friends chuckle. 'I have to get back at him somehow!'

"Lord Tarquin, thank you for the invite, we are happy to see the Court is thriving again."

"The feeling is mutual, I've heard of Spring's healing and it makes me happy to know you'll be back to your former glory soon. It's why I consider this such an important alliance to build."

Cresseida cleared her throat. "Said alliance will only come to pass if Miss Ambrose here proves her worth to the court. Now if you would please, my lady we can begin your tests. The rest of you are free to explore the court with my cousin if you wish."

She didn't protest and followed the princess as she waved everyone else goodbye. They didn't go far, as she led them through a magnificent well-stocked library near the throne room. "I was told by my cousin that you pride yourself in your intelligence, is this true Ms. Ambrose?"

"Yes, your grace. I graduated medical studies with top marks, have continued studying while helping with court management back at Spring, and have pursued the hobby of ancient magic practices and alchemy."

Cresseida's beautiful face was unreadable. She merely nodded and gestured at her to take a seat. "Today we intended to test said intelligence in Summer Court matters. My brother prepared a written test for you. Anything that there is to know about our culture, etiquette, history, and economics is on this test. You have three hours to complete it. Should you pass it, then you'll be considered for a second test, should you not pass it, this marriage deal won't go through. Any questions?"

"No, your grace."

"Then you may begin."

With quill in hand, she took a breath and began to answer the questions. 'Have to thank ya, Daphne. I'm putting all of your lessons to use now!'

"You're awfully chirpy..." Lucien noted as he kept an eye on Clare who was happily running through the edge of the water barefoot.

"I can't help it! It's been four years since I last saw light. I'm going to enjoy everything to the fullest now that I'm free!"

He wouldn't argue with that logic. Despite her initial rage the banshee had come to accept her situation rather quickly. Still, there was sadness in her silver eyes as she stood still upon the waves and looked at the horizon. "Has the mortal world changed? You know, after what the queens did?"

"I cannot speak for your village, but it's safe to say that with the queens seeking fae power, there have been some changes. Kingdoms are guarded and alert but have seemingly begun to break free of their rule, perhaps in time they'll overthrow them. For now, we wait, and watch nature change in the same way."

She smiled. "That sounds nice."

"You could come with me when I visit my friends. We have extra rooms in the house, and we could go to your village."

She hesitated for a moment but eventually agreed. "I'd like that. I want to know how everything is since we were gone..."

Lucien let her lean on him. For all their abundance of faults, he wouldn't know what to do if his family suddenly died and he found himself in an unknown world as a different creature. Luckily, Clare had them, and he knew that they would care for her and Nesta well.

"The world goes on, but I'm certain someone as optimistic as you will find new things to enjoy and live for. And when the time comes, your family will be happy to see you again."

"Thank you, Lucien. You have a way of making others feel at home already!"

Now he was the one who wouldn't stop smiling.

"Seems like those two are enjoying themselves." Tarquin smiled as they looked at Lucien and Clare playing on the beach.

The two were having tea by a seaside café, deciding to observe rather than play between the waves.

"It's well deserved." Tamlin smiled, Lucien always looked his best under the bright sun.

"You should rest as well. I'm sure you've been working hard with your brother too."

"It's the least I could do after he was settled with my former post. The truth is that while I'm glad that Spring has a proper Lord again, I feel guilty for putting such a responsibility on my younger brother's shoulders."

He stopped himself from saying more, still, Tarquin seemed to understand. The High Lord gently took his hand acting more familiar than regal for a moment. "Tamlin you and I both fell into this position unexpectedly. If I may be honest with you I think that you did an excellent job during the time you were in charge of your court. Many wouldn't have been able to hold out for as long as you did, and I admire your strength greatly. I'm certain your brother will make for a great ruler, not just on his own merit but because you're there to guide and help him.

And had I known that things were so dire for you then...I would have reached out. Forgive me for not doing so."

"That was never your responsibility, but thank you. It's comforting to know you would've done so regardless.

And for what it's worth I think you're a great High Lord too, you've done an excellent job caring for your court and I trust you'll do the same for Azalea should you marry."

"That I can promise."

They finished their meal and walked towards the beach. Tamlin had never noticed how young Tarquin looked in his crown. It was as if he was seeing himself when he was crowned. It made him feel a little closer to the man that was once a stranger.

"Should this alliance go through or not, I want you to know that I would be glad to provide help and friendship. I have been in your shoes, my lord. And I would've given anything to have had more support."

"Thank you, Tamlin. Truly, I am glad to have you as a friend."

"Hmmm, color me impressed. You got every single answer right."

Finally, she breathed out. Azalea was certain she could pass the test still she held her breath since handing it over to the princess.

"Were you studying beforehand?"

"Etiquette and culture only, your grace. My late sister was a historian, and I learned the rest from her."

"My condolences for your loss. She must've been quite a wise lady if she thought you this well."

"She was. Since we are exchanging condolences I'd like to express mine for the passing of your cousins. They were good men."

Cresseida softened yet remained calm. "Thank you. I appreciate it." The princess put the papers aside and stood from her seat. "By sending us the jewelry back you proved you're kind, and by passing this test you've proven you're intelligent, there are more qualities of yours that we'll need to see before accepting your proposal, but for now I am in favor."

"Thank you, your grace. I shall do my best to continue proving myself to you and the rest of the court."

"Call me Cresseida. If we are to be family I'd like for us to be informal."

"As you wish, Cresseida."

The two joined the group at the beach. Azalea didn't expect to see their coats and shoes placed by the shore while they were swimming and playing with the dolphins. Alana jumped when she saw her and swam up to her as she began to walk into the sea.

"Hi, sweetie! I missed you!" Any nerves she had left from the test left her as she began petting Alana.

"It seems she missed you too."

Tarquin looked just as handsome as he did this morning, even if his braid had been undone by the waves and his white hair was now soaked and sticking to his pretty face, the High Lord was not wearing his elegant attire but just silk pants, Azalea fought hard not to stare at his broad chest and muscular arms. Instead, she focused on his eyes. They were still as shiny and pretty as the last time she spoke to him alone.

She kept her poise despite feeling a faint blush on her face. "Perhaps she won't have to miss me too much. Cresseida has informed me that I passed the first test with perfect marks!"

Tarquin's smile was impossible to hide. He picked her up in a hug and spun her around. "That is amazing! You're truly a genius! Varian made that test nearly impossible and you passed perfectly!"

Azalea couldn't help but hug back and laugh as she was praised. Tarquin put her back down and Alana immediately began trying to cuddle her too.

It was only then that High Lord realized what he'd done. He too was red and bashful. "My apologies, I got too excited."

"Never be sorry for being affectionate. I quite like it."

Feeling bold rather than nervous she gave Tarquin a gentle peck on the cheek. He grinned at that. "Feeling more confident now, are you Azalea?"

Hearing her name in such a deep flirty tone caught her off guard, still, Azalea Ambrose was never easily swayed.

"I do. Best be ready for it, Tarquin. I intend to be both a sweet yet mischievous wife."

She managed to catch a glimpse of Tarquin's satisfied expression before Alana splashed them both with water. "Yes yes, I understand you're not happy being ignored." Tarquin protested as he petted the dolphin.

Azalea laughed, glancing at her group for a moment. Clare was talking a mile a minute with everyone. Lucien seemed used to it but Tamlin and Cresseida just raised an eyebrow and listened in confusion. Thankfully none of them looked unhappy.

Alana returned to her when Tarquin seemed to be heading out of the water. "What's wrong?"

"Varian just contacted me telepathically, it appears some creatures are invading the neighboring city. I'm afraid I must go help."

"Do you need assistance?"

"No, I won't be putting you in danger, much less if you're yet to be part of the court. Stay here with the others. I will return shortly.

Just let Alana play with you while I'm gone. I'll be back soon, promise."

With that, he left. Azalea was worried but decided to trust his judgment, he was the High Lord after all. She wondered if this creature's attack correlated to the Dawn and Spring attacks, but that was a question for later. For now, she let her dolphin companion lead her toward the rest of the group and enjoyed a well-deserved break for the rest of the afternoon.

Playing with Alana and her companions provided a fun distraction, but once the sun went down and they left the beach, she was panicked that Tarquin had yet to return.

"He is well, do not worry too much," Cresseida reassured her as they waited.

The others returned home but Azalea waited until night fell and she fell asleep on the library sofa. She heard faint voices in the distance as her body was waking but decided to remain quiet and still.

"She waited all afternoon?! Cress, why didn't you tell her to go home?" Tarquin's worried voice put her at ease. At least she knew he was well.

"I did! She was worried about you!" Cresseida protested. "Next time take her with you! The poor girl couldn't even read in peace and would just stare out the window until she fell asleep!"

"She seems awfully anxious for someone who will have to rule us." She heard an unknown voice speaking. This was probably Cresseida's brother.

"That anxious girl just passed the test you gave her with perfect marks. Don't be so rude Varian." Cresseida told her brother.

She heard footsteps approaching, then felt someone moving the hair out of her face. "Get a room ready Cress. It's late for her to travel on her own."

"Very well, come with me Varian, I doubt Azalea wants to see your frown after waking."

"Hey!"

The sibling bickering grew distant as the door to the library closed. She heard a chuckle as Tarquin whispered in her ear. "You can stop pretending to be asleep."

"Heh, not even my mothers could tell when I did this. How did you know?"

"Your breathing wasn't slow and rhythmic."

"Medical trick. Nice."

"I've been reading up on such topics. You shouldn't be the only one looking for common ground in this relationship."

For all the formalities and the little teasing they had this afternoon, this small gesture truly touched her. Her intuition already told her that Tarquin was a good man, this served as further proof of it.

"That's very kind of you. Thank you. It makes me happy to know I'm in great hands. I hope in time I'll prove the same to be true for you."

He looked bashful but very happy. "Trust me, you're already exceeding all of my expectations. It was...so very nice of you to wait for me. I appreciate it."

"My pleasure."

Lucien woke up to one of his favorite sounds in the world, for a moment he thought he was dreaming. Not caring that he was still in his silk pajamas he rushed down to the ballroom and was greeted with the sight of Tamlin playing the violin. Asteria played the piano beside her wife who was playing the guitar.

The former High Lord was focused on his music, and Tamarand was dancing with Azalea who seemed to have mastered all of the moves her brother was still stumbling with. To his surprise, Nesta was dancing with Clare too both of them smiling brightly.

Once the piece concluded and he put down the violin, Tamlin noticed Lucien. "Finally up handsome?

"Yeah, I heard you playing. I thought you didn't do it anymore."

"I didn't, Tamarand insisted. I'll get back to the fiddle soon but don't ask me to touch the piano."

He knew why. Lucien still remembered the day they learned to dance. The ballroom was empty save for them and their mothers. Rosabella sat in front of the beautiful piano, playing a soft waltz as Imogen gently instructed them on how to dance.

Tamlin was far more nervous than him, even if they both tripped and clumsily spun on occasion. Thankfully Imogen had the patience of a saint, allowing them to make mistakes so as long as they improved a little each time. Tamlin mastered the art before he did.

"It's easy, just look at me. Move with me, Lucien."

That was all he needed to hear. His eyes were fixated on Tamlin's beautiful emerald gaze, he let the blonde pull him closer and lead him through the piece. It was thanks to Tamlin that he mastered dancing that very same day.

Regrettably, they wouldn't dance that piece again, because when Rosabella died, Tamlin had sworn off the piano forever. He was surprised he could bear to hear it now.

"I could take over violin duties if you want to dance with Lucien. Clare, you dance with Tamarand." Azalea suggested.

The girls all smiled at each other as they carried out their plan without waiting for an answer. Nesta practically shoved him into Tamlin's arms, not that he had any complaints.

Tamlin smiled as he caught him, looking rejuvenated by the mere fact that he got to play some music.

"Shall we?"

"We shall."

Everyone got ready to play again. After all these years Lucien still remembered how to stand and how to hold onto Tamlin.

Tamlin hadn't forgotten either. One arm was around Lucien's waist and with the other he held his hand.

They both remembered this song, as it was the first one they'd danced together all those centuries ago. As soon as the first notes began so did their dancing.

Lucien noticed out of the corner of his eye that Clare was far more patient and affectionate with Tamarand than his sister yet her slightly romantic approach seemed to work well for him. 'Hmmm, maybe those two could be good for each other.'

Meanwhile, Tamlin was absolutely mesmerized by Lucien. Even with messy hair and rumpled pajamas he still looked like a prince, he pulled him close as he did when they were young, and his heart began to beat fast as he was pressed chest to chest against him. Just how did he ever let him go he would never understand.

Lucien felt the change in his heartbeat, he was worried for a moment until he saw Tamlin's adoring smile. Even during their disagreements or harshest rage Tamlin never stopped looking at him as if he was divine. Why did he ever leave his side he would never come to understand.

Tamlin carefully ran his fingers through Lucien's red locks as they continued the dance. The redhead blushed, almost missing the next step of the routine. 'It's almost as if we really went back.'

He shivered as Tamlin whispered in his ear. "Look at me. Move with me, Luce."

That was all it took for him to be washed away by a nostalgic calmness.

The gentle touch, the scent of cinnamon, the russet gaze that often steadied him through painful moments, that gentle touch that kept him from oblivion, Tamlin could live a happy man if allowed to stay in this moment forever.

His slow and steady healing was a process that would likely take longer than the court's restoration. The difference between the man he was now and the man that almost died was noticeable even to those who didn't know him. And it all began when he woke to see Lucien beside him, exhausted from bringing him back to life.

No matter how many times he broke apart the redhead put him back together, Tamlin wasn't sure if there would ever come a day when he could repay all of this.

Lucien was so lost in the moment that neither he nor Tamlin noticed when the music stopped. Only a laugh from Clare brought them back.

"You two forgot the rest of us existed." Azalea teased.

Neither of them denied the accusation.

Nesta had spent this last dance idle, but examining the ballroom. "I wonder, Spring should host a gathering sometime soon? You all told me you want a strong alliance with other courts, maybe a party could help with that."

"It's not a bad idea. Though it might be best to wait until Summer joins us." Ophelia told them.

"If they join us." Azalea corrected. "I must pass two more tests before I'm to be accepted as Tarquin's bride."

"Not if when, I'm certain the High Lord likes you. Especially since you refused to move an inch until he came back safe and sound." Tamlin told her, smirking.

Azalea blushed and looked away. "I was worried! And that's not enough to make a man fall for you."

"I think it is," Lucien told her as he remembered all the times he returned to the manor and was greeted with a gorgeous smile and loving hug courtesy of Tamlin.

Nesta smiled as she glanced at Clare going through the dress closet with a big smile on her face.

"Lady Asteria is so talented! I just love everything she made for me!" Clare beamed as she picked a white dress from the hanger.

"She's very sweet...It's funny to think that this would be something we would've begged for back in the mortal lands."

Five, four, perhaps even three years ago she would've wanted nothing more than a gorgeous manor and pretty silk dresses. Now she had it, but her humanity was gone.

Clare too despite her smiles and friendly disposition still carried a hidden sadness within. The banshee sat beside her on the bed, placing a hand on her back. "I won't lie and say I'm not enjoying it. Now that I left the mountain, these lands don't seem like a prison.

Still, I'd give it all up to be back home with my family. I know you do as well...but we can't go back. I can't expect this green to turn pale again, or for the mansion to still stand, or to see your father waving at us as we left for the flower fields to forget the strife for a little while. Those days are gone, they've been gone for years now. We need to accept it."

She knew. She'd accepted it, and yet a part of her longed for those days even if they hurt, even if she now knew that the sacrifices she would've made for her younger sisters would not be reciprocated, that the man she once loved was an absolute monster, and marrying him wouldn't have been an escape but rather a different strife. Maybe all she wanted was to be human again.

But she wasn't, she would never be again, now she was a fae, a fae with Illiryan blood...'Why am I always doing things like these for people who aren't worth it?' She wondered. No, it was fine. At least now she could advocate for her friends. 'I wonder how they are...'

There was no use dwelling on the past. Here and now fate had brought her dear Clare back, and she was safe. The Ambrose family had taken her in and she too was safe alongside them, Tamlin and Lucien were together and safe as well...' All that's left is to look after the Valkyries.'

A knock on the door startled them. Asteria peeked in, carrying a tray of fruits "Girls, are you hungry? We got some fruits from the Day Court and I thought you might want some."

"Thanks! These look so yummy!" Clare quickly dug in, while she hesitated.

"Nesta, are you well? Would you like me to get you something else?"

"No, no! I'm just thinking...Asteria, you're half-Illiryan. Is there any way I could contact a specific Illiryan woman? There are two friends back in the Night Court I want to speak to but I fear a letter could be traced."

Asteria smiled at her mischievously. "There is something we may try. You told me you shifted your body to be more Illiryan suited, right?"

"Yes." She muttered, a little ashamed of having done such a thing. Perhaps now at least she could have a use for it.

"Years of evolutionary experience led to Illyrian women developing mind-to-mind communication. My late daughter had a theory that said mind powers could be polished over time but the overwork and isolation of the camps didn't allow it. For now, we'll have to make do."

Asteria sat on the bed with them, taking Nesta's hands in her own. "I shall recite the spell, but you'll be the one reaching out to your friend. Now, close your eyes. Clare dearie, be sure to give us a shake if anything goes wrong."

The girls nodded. Nesta obeyed and closed her eyes, she could hear Asteria's voice as she spoke in a soft yet deep tone.

"Spirit to body, body to mind,

As I chant undo the bind!

I pray now that I may find, a way to reach my comrade's mind!"

She could tell the lighting of the room changed even if her eyes were closed. Nesta felt as if she was floating, and could even see the inside of Emerie's shop.

Her friend was standing on a stool putting some dresses on display, as Gwyn swept. Perfect, she could speak to them both.

'Emi!'

"What the-" The Illiryan almost cursed as she tripped off her stool. She remained on the floor for a moment before standing. "Nesta?!" She asked out loud.

"Emi, you've gone mad! Nesta isn't here!" Gwyn told her as she helped her steady herself.

"No, no she isn't but I heard her. She's speaking to me!"

'Yes, it's me! I'm so happy to be able to speak to you!'

"Gwyn she's talking to me! It's Nesta she's okay!" Emerie beamed. "You had us worried sick! What happened?!"

"Nesta if you're really in her head you better tell us everything!"

She did, not daring to leave out a single detail. From the days of her human life to the unknowingly nightmarish time at the Night Court. She could see her friend wince upon hearing it all.

"Oh, Ness...I thought-"

'Everyone did, it's not your fault. You two are the reason my story didn't end much sooner.'

"She says we are the ones who helped her through it." Emerie communicated to her redhead friend who was already in tears.

"It's not enough! We all trusted him! I thought you were happy I- If I had known I would've ended him!"

'Gwyn, it's okay! I even fooled myself into thinking this was fine. Don't blame yourself. I'm fine, and in time we will all be, should we take them down.'

Before Emerie could relay the message to Gwyn they heard the bell of the shop ring. Nesta's blood ran cold as she saw Cassian stepping into the shop.

He looked as if he hadn't slept in weeks, disheveled and worried. A small part of her heart ached by seeing him this way, but that pain vanished as she remembered everything he'd said, everything he put her through, and everything he and his High Lord were planning for these lands.

"Gwyn? What's wrong?" Cassian asked

The redhead looked as if she was about to vomit. Emerie turned her around and gently shoved her toward the storage room.

"She's been having horrible stomachaches since Nesta disappeared...Do you have any news?"

"No. She's not in Dawn or Day. I was hoping you two might have heard from her."

Nesta had never been more grateful for her friend's ability to lie perfectly. "I'm afraid not. There are no letters, and she hasn't visited us either. Perhaps you should check Winter again."

"I'll tell Rhys. Tell me if you hear anything. Thanks, Em."

"You're welcome."

She kept the facade as Cassian left only dropping it when the man was fully out of sight and away.

'He looks like shit.'

"He's been a mess since you left. Though now that we know why, I refuse to feel any sadness for him.

The entire inner circle is looking for you. He even said he'd march down to Summer despite the bounty on his head."

For two years she wasted away in between bottles of wine and bodies she could no longer remember. All she'd wanted back then was what he did now. Show that he genuinely cared, and all that bastard did was show her his coldest, cruelest side along with occasional sensuality. He let them lock her up, he let her tumble through a thousand steps, he screamed that he was shackled to her, and yet that fuckin bond made her forgive it all, but she wouldn't anymore.

It was clear that if it came down to her or Rhysand he would always choose his High Lord. Nesta refused to be anyone's second choice less of all his. He could steal her away from Eris for a dance but he would never defy his rulers for her nor would he protect her in the face of death...maybe if she stayed he would've been the cause of it.

Nesta's eyes fell on Gwyn and Emerie. The two people who actually helped her gain some clarity and stay alive. Had it not been for them she'd still be shattered, but now at least she could begin to feel whole. 'Damn mating bonds, damn all of that, they're my soulmates.'

'I won't go back to Night. Not until this matter is settled for good and I may go back without being caged again, but I will keep in touch despite that.

The two of you are the only sisters I have left and I'm never parting ways with either of you. For now, don't let anyone else know where I am, act as if I hadn't spoken. Just know that I'm safe and cared for and when this all ends there are plenty of people I want you to meet.'

"We love you too. Stay safe, we will hold the fort until you come back."

Abruptly the spell was broken and she was back in her room at Spring. "It is done. They are well and the Night Court is still oblivious." She kept calm for all of two seconds until Asteria gently wiped her tears and Clare hugged her.

"Don't worry darling. You'll be with your friends soon enough, both them and us shall keep the Night away from you."

Her childhood best friend and her mother figure both held her until her tears ceased. She felt so gently cared for that the bitterness of seeing him again washed away in an instant.

Once this conflict ended, she would rest, with all of them by her side.

"Eris, we have a situation."

"Cedric I swear to the Mother if Nemesis is setting your lab on fire just toss him out the window!" Eris roared.

The eldest Autumn prince was exhausted from having to deal with High Lord's duties, miraculously his brothers chose to help him and they all divided their share equally, as it was still uncertain which one of them would be the High Lord should Beron pass. He was currently in the throne room, trying to organize the court's plans for the next few weeks.

The sixth Autumn prince looked as tired as him, his waist-long orange hair was tied in a messy bun, his glasses out of place and his lab coat wrinkled and stained with potions. His brother wasn't what frightened him but rather what was behind him.

Feyre and Cassian were standing there. The High Lady of Night was stoic, slightly tired but masking it well, meanwhile, Cassian looked like a wreck. 'Good, you deserved that.'

"Leave them to me, go back to the lab."

Cedric did as he was told, leaving his brother with the Night Court visitors. For a moment he felt the room grow cold, but that soon diminished as he kept his mask. 'You know what they're here for. Fight it.'

Eris smiled and approached. "Lady Feyre, Cassian, it's been a while. What may I help you with?"

"Cut the shit you know why we're here!" Cassian roared at him as he got too close for comfort, he kept him away with a flame.

"Keep your distance Cassian. I'm afraid I don't know what you all want from me. You'll have to be specific."

"My sister vanished from the Night Court without a trace. We thought she might've come to you for aid."

Aid. Yes, that was fitting, he had to aid the crying woman who materialized in front of him and his mother in a torn wedding dress. He had to calm her down as Beron roared and terrorized them both until Imogen finally did what they all wanted to do centuries ago. He had to shield her from seeing Cedric stab Tybalt through the heart as he was ready to kill him for the High Lord's powers that unbeknownst to them were still dormant within Beron's sleeping form. He had to aid her by getting his female cousins to lend her dresses and keep her company. He had to aid her by keeping her away because he knew this would happen.

"As you can see, Miss Acheron isn't here. Nor would I do such a thing if she was, your husband and I have an alliance after all. My duty would be to return her not 'aid' her, as you say." His tone was always serious yet playful, he knew it began to grate on them all.

"Eris, this is serious. My sister is missing and we haven't found her! Do you have any idea where she might be?"

"My lady, I haven't the faintest idea of where your sister is."

He felt the pull, from Feyre. She was desperately trying to claw at his mind, so he would let her. Let her know he was analyzing the situation, let her know he was suspecting Nesta to be in Summer if she was escaping her marriage. It worked, as he could see the blue-grey eyes of the High Lady narrow as she took that information as fact.

"How can we be sure he's telling the truth?! He wanted to take Nesta for himself a year ago!" Cassian protested, no doubt he wouldn't trust him.

"Take? I have no need to take anyone, people either chose me or they don't. Miss Acheron didn't choose me, and unlike you, I wouldn't dare fault her for that."

"No, you'd just fault Morrigan instead."

The mere mention of her made his blood boil, mostly out of shame. Yet Eris remained calm. "I'd appreciate it if you didn't mention her in my presence."

"Fault Morrigan? Get a fuckin clue, you overgrown bat! Eris isn't the worst out of us and you should know that by now."

He saw Nemesis standing at the entrance. The second prince of Autumn glared at the visitors with his glowing red eyes. Unlike other times, he made no attempt to hide his anger, he was making his way towards the Illyrian warrior until Eris shook his head at him. "Nem, don't. Not now."

"Tch. You never let me have any fun, brother!" Nemesis pouted his eyes went to Feyre then back at his brother. "Why are the political failures here?"

"They're looking for Nesta Acheron. She's gone missing." He ignored the jab at the Night Court despite finding it funny, they however seemed deeply slighted.

He could tell Feyre was trying to get into his brother's mind, a part of him would pity her if not for the deep anger he had for the High Lady. It took work to keep from grinning as he saw her face grow more horrified. "My lady, stay out of his mind. It's a wretched place if I may say so."

"Shut up Eris, I'm just insane what's your excuse?

Anyway, I don't know where Lady Death is, check Summer she might be avoiding his ugly mug." Nemesis turned around and walked away with a grin, after seeing Cassian attempting to attack and being held back by Feyre.

"I apologize, he does not internalize any of his thoughts," Eris told them while trying to keep from laughing again. If he didn't inherit the High Lord's powers perhaps his sibling could be a comedian.

"Forget it. Just send word if Nesta comes here. I dread to think what would happen if Beron woke and knew she sought refuge here." She told him.

Was that a threat? He could never tell when it came to the Night Court. Neither he nor his brothers would dare reveal anything, and Feyre wouldn't be so stupid as to help Beron rise again when he knew that man hated her and her husband and would never be their ally. Still, if she was willing to destroy a Court and try to be High Queen, perhaps there was a chance she would sink that low.

"That would be quite a disaster if true, but rest assured my ladyship that won't happen. If Nesta came back to Autumn I would be the first to contact you and so would my brothers. I've sworn you fealty before, you may count on that."

She was fooled for now at least, and soon they left the room as quickly as they came. He'd followed their sight until he couldn't feel them in the Court anymore.

"They're gone?" He nearly tripped upon hearing Cedric's voice as he slipped through the wall.

"Your alchemy tricks never cease to scare the fuck out of me!"

"Now's not the time for compliments. We must warn Nesta!"

"I know, after Summer they'll set their sights on Spring. I have to go see her."

"Wait! What if they follow you?"

"They can't. In our alliance terms I made it so that they cannot follow me. I have to be the one to warn her. You're in charge while I'm gone. Don't let Nemesis break anything."

"Yes yes go warn your betrothed while giving me an impossible task," Cedric grumbled sarcastically.

Eris ignored the remarks and winnowed to Spring as fast as possible. He appeared in the garden, thankfully Nesta and Tamarand were there, laying on the grass and slightly dazed.

"Is just...strange. why you kept it?" Nesta slurred before giggling.

"Mama says I shifted in utero and came out with them, I didn't shift them as a baby or a toddler or even a teen, so the wolf ears and tails stay until I pass!" Tamarand answered as he tilted his head on the grass. "Fuck Daphne was right there is an archer in the starry sky. He's cute!"

"Not this again!" Nesta mumbled sitting up, she finally noticed him and smiled. "Eris!" He was not expecting her to stand up and go for a tight hug.

"You're drunk, darling." He teased her.

"Not drunk! Buzzed! Mama only let us drink diluted wine." She pouted. He thought she looked adorable.

Tamarand stood up, a little wobbly but functional. "She was having a bad withdrawal from being forced to quit abruptly. Lea is easing her into sobriety to keep the withdrawals at bay."

"Good. There is something important I must tell you."

"Beron woke up?" Tamarand asked seemingly sobering up instantly, even his tail and ears twitched upright.

"No. They're looking for Nesta, they already came to Autumn. We succeeded in pushing them towards Summer but after that-"

"They're coming here." Nesta finished for him, clinging tightly to him and burying her head upon his chest. "I can't put the court at risk."

"No, none of that Ness! If you want to stay you stay and we fight for you. Say the word and Lea will have them dancing like puppets in an instant!" Tamarand affirmed.

She shook her head. "No, I know you'd all fight for me if you had to, but I don't want you to. Too many people are putting themselves at risk for me. This can't go on.

Either I go back or...or I go to the human lands."

That suggestion made him hold on tighter, he didn't even want to think of how painful it would be for her to go beyond the wall.

"You can go back with me. Cedric already misses you, and Nemesis called Cassian ugly thinking it would've made you laugh. Now that they've checked Autumn it's likely they won't come back again."

She raised her eyes to look at him, silver against amber. He could see that her eyes were sparkling with tears, that she was sincerely smiling at him with such precious joy that Eris wanted to melt on the spot.

"I want nothing more than to back to Autumn with you, but until the Night is dealt with I'm not putting any of you at risk.

If the boys go back to the mortal lands, I'll go with them."

Her mind was made up, and unlike Cassian, he wouldn't dare fight her for it. "If that's the case, let me help you pack."

Tamlin yawned sitting down on the bed. He was used to letting servants pack for him, and while they'd acquired a small and dedicated staff for the manor, he opted to do certain things himself from now on.

'How silly. I shouldn't be thinking like that. Tamarand won't drive away all of his staff.'

Despite his progress, and the joy he was experiencing, Tamlin couldn't let go of his mistakes. He still remembered the uprise of his sentries and the mass exodus of all his former servants. Even Alis walked away without a word. And why shouldn't they have, back then he'd dare become what he swore to never be, a copy of his father.

He shouldn't have drunk so much cherry wine with the others. Booze made his mind all the worse.

"Tam?"

Lucien's voice brought him back to reality. The redhead wobbled into the room, sitting on the bed beside him. "What's wrong, handsome?" He asked in a drunken yet sweet tone.

Tamlin smiled, he missed seeing his friend be a little reckless with the cherry wine. Even in a drunken state, Lucien looked beautiful. 'You're a dream come true.'

He didn't answer immediately but rather helped steady his friend. "I was just thinking of how badly I handled everything years ago."

"Not again. Tamlin you can't keep torturing yourself!" The redhead quickly turned him around and began braiding his hair. He remembered how much Tamlin loved feeling his hands on his hair when he was stressed.

The blonde sighed. "How could I ever forget Luce?! I drove everyone away! My court, my servants, my friends, and my bride away! You're the only one who remained and still you had to leave me for a time!"

"I left because I wanted to help Feyre and to meet my mate. I didn't leave because I wanted to be away from you! It was torture to not see you every day. To not know if you were well. Had I known this caused you so much pain I would've never left, or at least I would have returned to your side permanently after the war."

"No. You have every right to do as you please, to see the world, and to...bond with your mate. I'm glad you're doing things that would've otherwise seemed impossible or even foreign to you.

I just wish it hadn't come at the cost of breaking what we once had."

He still remembered the greatest mistake of his life as if ha just happened. It was the night when he thought Feyre and Lucien were having an affair. He'd stayed behind with the redhead when Feyre left his room. It didn't take long for him to end up pinning Lucien to the wall and wrapping his hands around his wrists. The redhead had no escape nor did he try to.

"Just what do you think you're doing?!" He screamed at Lucien who didn't even flinch.

"She came here and was disoriented! What did you think we were doing?!" Lucien wasn't one to yell, not even when enraged but he would not forget how his russet eye glowed with rage by merely being accused. He used to think that volatile anger was an admission of guilt but was soon proven wrong.

"Don't play games with me Lucien! I didn't get her back just so that you could take her away from me!"

Lucien scoffed, not wanting to look at him after the High Lord used his full name. "You really are losing your mind, Tamlin! Otherwise, you'd know that I would never dare hurt you!"

The retort was deserved and effective. Neither had called the other by their full name outside of official court events and Tamlin thought his full name sounded wrong coming from Lucien's lips.

But what pained him most was the accusation, because he'd forgotten. He'd forgotten that the man in front of him was the only person in the world that would never hurt him, not emotionally nor physically.

He let go of Lucien and stepped away. The redhead checked his own wrists to find red markings upon them, tears began to form in his eyes. He was hurt.

"Luce, I'm so sorry."

He tried to step closer again only for Lucien to step back into the wall, still not looking at him. "Don't. Just don't. I don't want to hear any more apologies.

You don't have to worry about me and Feyre. We are not deceiving you, we are not involved, and we shall never be. That I can swear to you upon anything, maybe prove to you with time if my word means so little to you anymore.

If there is anyone in your union that I ever wanted, it was not Feyre. You should know that well.

We can forget this all in the morning. I just want to be alone now. Please Tamlin."

He finally looked up at him, pleading with a look that shattered Tamlin's heart into a million pieces. Silently he left, staying by the shut door for a few minutes before being able to block the soft sobbing that he heard on the other side and walking away.

"I will never forgive myself for hurting you! I should've died the moment I dared do such a thing!" Had he been sober he would've kept his mouth shut.

He felt Lucien's arms wrap around his chest. The redhead rested his head on his shoulder. "Tam, please stop. You have to forgive yourself for this, you need to, because I've already forgiven you."

"How?! How could you forgive such an atrocity?! I put my hands on you, Luce! I made you cry! I hurt you! How can you forgive me for failing you?!"

"You could never fail me, Tam. I'll admit I was hurt back then yes but I knew it wasn't you. I knew that all we had been through was finally taking its toll. You weren't in your right mind, neither was I...and she took advantage of it all.

What happened to distance us was by design. Feyre wanted revenge and we both stupidly let her get it because we were falling apart. I'm not letting anything or anyone distances us again."

Distance, not breaking. To Lucien they were never broken, he never once thought about breaking the bond between them, of abandoning him, of losing him. Tamlin didn't know what he did to deserve him.

"I'll spend the rest of my days trying to make you as happy as you've made me by just existing."

Lucien laughed and Tamlin wished he could drown in that sound. "You wish to make it up to me, Tam?" His innocent tone didn't match his gestures, as Lucien's hands traveled further down Tamlin's chest and he gently bit his ear before whispering into it. "Let me see that beautiful raging expression of yours again."

"Luce?" Tamlin asked, feeling the air leaving his lungs as his skin turned hot. Lucien had to be drunk too, there was no reason for his actions otherwise.

"Yes, sweetheart? Are you going to pin me down again? Remind me of how much I absolutely adore your glowing green eyes and fangs? Whenever you get mad it drives me wild Tam. Oh so wild."

Tamlin shivered as Lucien's voice awoke things within him that had been dormant since the war's end. The gentle caress of those rough hands, his soft lips now traveling down to his neck, that scent of cinnamon that tempted him every night, Tamlin couldn't resist anymore. He turned around and let himself be selfish just this once.

His eyes fell upon Lucien's, emerald on russet and gold, both of them darkened by lust. He didn't hesitate to crash their lips together. Neither of them would remember this by morning.

Lucien always kissed as if he was hungry, be it a minute after a previous kiss or a longer period of time, but tonight he kissed desperately, clinging onto his neck, his clothes his hair, onto anything he could to keep himself pressed against him. "Mhm...You still taste so good." He mumbled as he nearly ripped Tamlin's sleep shirt to shreds.

Tamlin too was famished for the familiar taste of those gorgeous lips. It had been four years since their last kiss, in fae years that was merely a blink of an eye, but to him, it felt like an eternity. He let Lucien mark his neck and chest. The redhead was eager to please but more so to kiss him until they were both gasping.

"My turn," Tamlin told him as he flipped their positions, pinning Lucien underneath him. The redhead moaned and smiled as he stared at Tamlin's dominant expression, he looked just like he did that night minus the rage.

"That's it, that's the gorgeous face I want all to myself. It took all of my self-control not to pin you down onto the bed and ride you until sunrise. Just...How could she give you up?! I'll never understand."

"I don't want to talk about her right now. My attention is on you. Let me savor you."

He smiled, giving Lucien a soft kiss on the lips. The redhead let him lead, allowing Tamlin to slip his tongue into his mouth and taste him until they couldn't breathe.

Lucien gasped when they let go and Tamlin nibbled on his lower lip. "Ah! Why do you always do that?" He asked in such a delightfully needy tone that it took all of Tamlin's self-control not to take him then and there.

Tamlin's eyes shone with lust, he locked his lips upon hearing him. His voice turned deeper and raspier and he could feel Lucien shiver underneath him as he spoke. "Because you're so fuckin delicious to me, darling."

He left marks whenever he could, relishing in the sounds Lucien made whenever his fangs gently sunk onto his skin. "Tam! More, kiss me more, bite me more! I need you!"

"If you want more, address me properly, my beloved Luce."

"My lord, please kiss me once more."

He did as asked, relishing hearing his old pet name in Lucien's needy voice. He began to feel lightheaded. It seemed like the wine was taking its toll. Lucien too was sleepy no longer begging but rather pulling him close and kissing his forehead.

"I wish we hadn't been cursed. Maybe then I'd be your husband and could kiss you like this every day." Lucien confessed in a sad yet wistful voice as he fell into a deep drunken slumber.

He knew he'd never say this when sober. That he'd forget it when the sun rose, still Tamlin savored that confession until sleep began to claim him too.

"I love you. I'm never going to stop loving you..." He said to no one as darkness took him and the wine began to blur his memories.

"As sneaky as it is for us to meet whenever the High Lord is gone, I can't exactly guarantee my husband will always be absent too!" Melinoe told Eris as she locked the door to her study.

Eris winced, he didn't want to think of what would happen to the steward's second wife if their meetings were discovered.

The Court of Nightmares was still as unpleasant as ever, but at least the Lethe household held some light and beauty, courtesy of its new lady.

Unlike Gwendolyn who was closer to Kier in age and shared his golden hair and brown eyes, Melinoe was closer in age to Morrigan, her skin was pale, her hair was light blue and ankle length and her eyes were blood red just like those of her father Thanatos. She only wore black and was chirpy when spoken to but in a manner that resembled Nemesis. He dreaded to think what would happen if those two ever became chaotic friends.

"I was careful not to be seen, and as far as I saw your husband is busy talking to his associates. We have some time to spare."

"Very well, what did you need me for?"

Eris took out a wooden box, inside it there was a necklace and earrings set made of onyx and obsidian. "The Court of Spring raided Amarantha's lair and found these. It's the only jewelry belonging to the Night Court."

"Don't these belong to the late mother of the High Lord? Why would you give them to me."

"Touch the gem."

She did as asked. Quickly pulling her hand back when the item burned her. "What...Oh. Oh, I see."

"It's only a theory, but I think the deaths of Rhysand's family were orchestrated by Amarantha. She must've asked for the jewelry as proof, and to carry out this plan."

Melinoe looked at him, still skeptical. "Trapping souls in jewelry is a difficult process. Why do so with people who weren't even her enemies?"

"They were Oisin's enemies. That would be enough reason to try. It's not like she hadn't done it to Jurian before."

"If the souls of Rhysand's family are indeed trapped in here then he would do anything to get them out and bring them back." She grinned deviously, understanding what the prince was proposing.

"Precisely. Should he be given these things by his dearest cousin-in-law and convinced of this theory then he'll focus all of his attention into bringing his family back and he will pay the upcoming uprising no mind."

"You are a genius, my friend! I'm so lucky to have you on our side!" Melinoe beamed as she hugged him. He'd let her, the creepy yet cute lady had become something of a baby sister to him during their time as allies.

"Thank you, Mel. I'm hoping to break as many chains as possible until my life's end."

"We shall break them all soon. The dreamers, Illyrians and Velaris spies are all ready to bring down the Inner circle of our Nightmares."