Chapter 13: Twilight Revealed

I took the low road in

I'll take the high road out

I'll do whatever it takes

To be the mistake you can't live without

"Guilt isn't atonement. An admission of guilt is all but useless without a change in behavior.

You have successfully changed your behaviors after apologizing to those you hurt. Even if you're not forgiven, your duty is to keep on becoming a better man. From what I've been told and seen, you are succeeding, dear lad."

Tamlin smiled as he petted Neko, who was lying on his lap during the session. Despite this being only his second session Elias was good at getting him to relax and speak freely, and the sweet cat was good at providing comfort.

"Thank you. I'd like to think I'm doing better in that regard. There's something I am curious about if you could help me."

"What would you like to know?"

"When do you think my issues with control started? I want to try and tackle that during treatment."

"I commend you for acknowledging a flaw, though if I may say you seem to have tackled that properly already.

Your issues with control likely stem from your family's demise. An event you not only had no control over but that very negatively affected you at an early age. Said issues might've been exacerbated as your position of High Lord where you had to stay in control no matter what and finally they reached their peak when Feyre died under the mountain."

It always came back to that cursed mountain and the pitch-black eyes that would always haunt him. 'I really hope you reincarnated as a roach and do so for the next millennium!'

He sighed. "That makes sense. I'm no longer the High Lord and thanks to you and my family I've calmed down considerably, but I worry I could slip back into that pattern."

"There will always be situations out of our control, be it for outside factors or because of the actions of other people, regardless the only thing you may do is try to prepare and to keep composure. Ground yourself and take a breath before assessing the situation, a clear mind is far more beneficial.

As for remedies, perhaps you could give control over to someone you trust for a while. See if trusting in others can override your need for control. I have a sense it'll help."

With that the clock chimed, signaling the end of the session, Tamlin stood and then helped Elias do the same, as he had complained of hip pain before they started talking.

"If you don't mind me asking, how old are you?"

"I turned 80 years young on the 26th."

Tamlin's eyes went wide. His therapist didn't look his age, his hair wasn't even fully white and while lines of age marked his pale face, he didn't look like he was at the winter of his life.

Elias laughed at his expression. "I'm from the lands across the sea lad, we are blessed with young looks despite age. Must be all the spice in the food. My late wife was from the Eastern Empire, and despite passing five years ago she too looked not a day over 50. It's different for every human I suppose."

"Yes, I honestly thought you were much younger."

"Heh, I'd like to be, but in afraid my aches betray my looks. You should ask Pirya or Desmond. Those two will tell you I might end up with a cane by the next session. These old bones are stubborn but still brittle."

"Would you like for me to ask Azalea for remedies? Perhaps that might help."

"I much appreciate it lad but don't pester your sister. She must be dealing with wedding planning and this isn't an emergency.

Fae medicine might be miraculous for us, but even if I miss my youth, I miss my Benika much more. I don't want to accidentally add another decade to my lifespan and keep her waiting more than she has to."

Tamlin's green eyes went to the couple's portrait on the wall. Benika Contreras has silky long brown hair, brown eyes,red lips and wore a kimono as she hugged a younger Elias. Despite the fact that they were nobility the portrait radiated joy rather than elegance. It reminded him of the silly portraits he'd had painted of him and Lucien back in their youth.

He gently patted the man's shoulder. "I'd like to have you around for a while longer, but I do hope that once you reunite with your lady, it's a joy for you both."

"Thank you, lad, do not worry I won't go anywhere until you and Nesta are fit to be discharged."

He trusted in those words, though he knew that once they came true, he'd be heartbroken to lose another friend.

Nesta had been warned that sparring with a High Lord was different from Valkyrie training. Still, she insisted on having a spar with Tamlin. If only to keep herself from growing rusty in her physical training.

It ended better than expected though she was still down on the grassy field with a wooden sword pointed at her.

"That's three out of five."

"Show off." She muttered as Tamlin helped her stand.

"Hey, be glad it's me. Dorevan wouldn't have let you get up. The man was a master swordsman, for better or worse."

She chuckled. "Then I shall count myself lucky it was you. How was the session?"

"Calming. Elias is good at putting one at ease."

"Yes. I hope his health doesn't decline further. I'm getting worried."

Nesta's words were strained, even if she spoke them in that elegant tone she always had. He understood the sentiment. Two sessions had been enough for him to get attached.

"I hate to say so, but the man is 80, we should be ready to see him go at any moment. As much as we may not want to."

'80...He really doesn't look that old." Nesta mused before her smile fell.

Tamlin placed a hand upon her back. "Are you okay?"

Nesta could only shake her head as tears began to fall. "It's just...I thought it'd make it to 80 someday. Have white hair and age lines, sitting down on a rocking chair by the side of my husband while the grandkids played in the yard in front of us...

Now if I reach 80 I'll look roughly the same as I do today. Little to no change as the world I thought I'd live in for the rest of my life vanishes around me.

For the first time in years, I had control, over finance, my clothes, my connections, everything! I had a whole life planned. It was right within my grasp and...and it vanished in an instant."

"...I'm sorry. Had it not been for Hybern and Ianthe-"

Nesta raised her hand. "Stop, I've told you before that this wasn't your fault. You didn't know they'd use us against you.

And even if it were, at the very least you had the decency to help, to let me be, and to give me time. I was granted no such thing by the ones that I thought loved me most."

She regretted it all. Starting with that so-called intervention. 'I should've left the moment they tried to lock me up. Then again, who's to say I would've been allowed to leave...'

Rain began to pour and she'd cry silently. Tamlin didn't mention it and just hugged her.

"Our circumstances are different, but I've come to realize that those who truly love us will show that through actions rather than just words. If you ever choose to see them again make them prove they'll respect your decisions this time. One year isn't enough to erase all the wounds from a war, and a true partner shall stand with you throughout anything. Remember that."

"I shall."

If this whole mess with the High King and rebellion escalated she knew her encounters with the Night Court were numbered, but no matter what, she'd make it count, not accepting anything less than the best.

"Let's go inside. Vassa probably won't want us to catch a cold."

Nesta nodded as they headed for the house. She smiled at Tamlin. "You know, if things had turned out differently you would've made a good brother-in-law."

He laughed. "I know you're joking, but thank you. It makes me glad to hear you say that."

"Slimy mother fucker is so good at staying hidden! The queens must have guards for him." Vassa grumbled as she marked the map.

"Maybe that'll end soon. The southernmost queendoms might go to war. Seems like the little alliance they have is crumbling fast. If they destroy each other Koschei will be left without allies and likely without a place to hide."

Lucien nodded along. Their first priority as of now was to keep their eyes on the Night Court, but once that was dealt with Koschei and the queens were next in line. As always, the sorcerer was good at keeping hidden.

"As nice as it would be to have his defenses lowered, I'm worried about the civilians if the queen's alliance starts faltering."

He could see the sadness on his friend's faces as well, they knew who'd likely pay the price for their leader's mistakes. It was something both Prythian and the human lands had in common.

Nesta came out of her room first, having changed and taken a bath after sparing with Tamlin.

"So who won?" He teased.

"Buzz off, it was 3 out of five so I got him twice."

"Good job. I usually don't get more than one win."

"That's because you actually like it when Tamlin pins you down," Nesta told him with a grin.

"She's got you there."

Lucien glared at his female friends who were giggling uncontrollably. More so when Tamlin came downstairs and joined them.

"What's with them?"

"The feminine urge to joke at our expense."

Tamlin didn't question it. The discussion soon ended like it often did, by tracking whatever activity they could get on Koschei and making sure to follow the pattern next time.

Lucien glanced at Vassa, who despite being much happier now that she could change form at will, was still burdened by her curse.

Jurian noticed her downcast gaze too, so he took her hand and kissed it. "You're not going back to the lake. We'll make sure of it."

"Thank you. I know I can count on you all. But now's not the time to worry about Koschei. There's another enemy we must face soon." As if on cue, Vassa winced. "Asteria is speaking to us. She says it's urgent. We must go to Spring."

The meeting room was full by the time of their arrival. Every High Lord was there along will their spouse, every Vanserra brother, and two ladies he'd yet to meet before.

Tamlin was nearly tossed when Nesta sprinted toward them and tackled them in a hug. 'Those must be the Valkyries.' He thought.

Everyone settled down as Eris cast a communication spell that allowed them to speak with people in the Night Court.

He saw Lunara and her husband Grim, a few Illiryans and Darkbringer generals, and a pretty noblewoman with pale skin, blue hair, and red eyes.

"Eris! Can you hear us?"

"Loud and clear milady. We're ready for you."

"Excellent! Hello, your majesties! My name is Melinoe Lethe and I am the stewardess of the Court of Nightmares. I am also the leader of the Night Court rebellion, which seeks to dethrone Rhysand and his inner circle."

Tamlin wasn't surprised in the slightest, on the contrary, he wondered why it took so long for a second rebellion to brew. It's not like his former friend did anything to avoid it.

The others did not seem surprised either. Melinoe continued once the whispers died down. "I am aware of the plot our tyrant leader has to not only keep his hold over the Night Court but to extend it over Prythian as a whole by becoming High King.

However, none of us were truly aware of how far this man would take things, nor how half of the work was already done for him."

"What do you mean? Nobody has yielded to him yet." Thesan said.

"No, Your Majesty. Nobody yielded, but one court fell. Not to Rhysand but to his father. Azalea, if you may."

His sister stood. Holding a book written in a language that he could recognize faintly from childhood. 'Father used to write in that language.'

"Prythian was once divided into eight courts, not seven. The Court of Dusk was destroyed by Rhysand's father 800 years ago."

She said as she showed everyone a map of the continent. In it, the Night Court was smaller, as the three peaks of its symbol were the border with another Court to the south. The Court of Dusk, which stood between Night and Day, and which capital was the Court of Nightmares, or at least its location. Instead of a mountain, the gigantic city wasn't underground, rather it was basking in the light of Dusk and named Tasogare.

Everyone was silent. Eventually, Helion spoke. "If this is true, why don't we remember it? I am almost 2000 years old and don't have any memory of a Dusk Court to my borders."

"It's simple, my lord. No one remembers the fallen Dusk Court because we were all spelled. Rhysand's father and his wife had the fourth dread trove item unmade in order to use its power for spell casting. The spell was meant to erase the memory of the Dusk Court from the living and their descendants."

He felt dizzy. Tamlin had never liked the former Lord of Night but this was beyond vile even for him. 'Are you sure? You saw how your mother's body looked upon death...'

He could tell all the others were speechless as well. Lucien took his hand, helping him steady. Tamlin could only mouth a thank you as he held on tightly.

"This begs the question, how did you find out about this? Who wrote that book?"

"This book was written by my sister, Daphne Ambrose. The language used and information compiled was hidden away in our court by Lord Oisin Evergreen."

That nearly took him out. Ophelia had to place her hand on his back to keep him from fainting. Asteria held onto Tamarand who was also surprised by this information.

"Oisin? Is that why he hated the Night Court?" Kallias asked, disturbed.

"It is possible. I've verified the locations and sources Daphne used for her writings. They are all real and carved by the late Spring High Lord.

My theory is that my father knew the Night High Lord was planning on expanding his territory and left clues to the existence of the Dusk Court, which would be the first to fall due to its proximity. There were three other troves left to use, therefore he had to get rid of the woman who could open them. It's likely that Day, Dawn, and Winter would have been the next Courts to be conquered if Rhysand's mother hadn't died.

In revenge, he and most of his family were slaughtered, but the conquest was stopped...Until now."

Tamlin was shaking now. All of his life he thought that his father had been unnecessarily cruel in murdering Rhysand's family. Even now, he felt like the man should've at least spared Rhysand's sister, who had nothing to do with this conquest and feud. Yet, knowing that he was defending other courts...

'Why the hell did you let us all believe you were a selfish monster?!' He wanted to scream but held back for now.

"So, Rhysand is carrying out his father's conquest plans? Do you think he plans to use the other trove items?" Vivian asked in a shaky tone.

"From what we know he does plan to be High King. However, he's yet to mention the troves. Likely because the only one who can use them, is on our side and away from Night." Emerie smiled at Nesta, who despite the disturbing news was glad to see her friends again.

"They won't get me to use the troves. I'd take death over that. They must know it."

"Nevertheless we shall keep you safe in case they try. We cannot grant this man any leeway, whatever or whoever he can use to further his goals will be swept away in this disaster. We mustn't let that happen." Eris spoke.

There was a silent agreement. He knew all of the courts would now help keep Nesta safe.

"Lady Lethe you mentioned being a leader of a rebellion. Will you be carrying said rebellion out even if Rhysand's plans for High King end upon receiving our refusal?" Helion asked.

Melinoe smiled brightly. "Yes, my lord. Your fight with our enemy ends if he does not carry out the High King plans, but ours will continue. We plan on riding the Night Court of the tyrant and on rebuilding the Dusk Court."

"Then you have my allyship."

He'd never seen the Day Lord speak in such a decisive tone, as whenever he saw Helion the man was nothing but smiles and jokes. But now he looked steely and ready to wage war on the Night Court.

"Count on Spring as well. Our military is yet to be fully rebuilt, but we can provide refuge for anyone who may need it and I'll join the fray personally if necessary.

My father saw it fit to die for this cause. I shall honor his memory."

No one expected that answer from Tamarand. Yet despite their mixed feelings everyone in the family seemed to agree with his choice.

"Dawn will join you as well."

"Winter too."

"You know that all of us are on your side in Autumn, that shall remain even if Rhysand decides to step back."

"Summer is in favor as well. We've been through similar experiences due to his rule. Never again."

With that, all courts were still united against Rhysand, even if he decided to step back.

There was no escape for him anymore.

"Thank you all. We shall prove worthy of your support."

"Before you go, there is something I'd like to know, Miss Melinoe. Should you bring back the Dusk Court, who is to inherit it?" Thesan asked her.

Melinoe smiled, her toothy grin revealed sharp pearly whites, that added some danger to her cuteness. "From the writings we've recovered, we discovered that the Dusk Court had the firstborn child inherit regardless of gender, upon marriage their spouse takes on half of the magic. If the High Lord or Lady becomes a tyrant their spouse must take on the duty of striking them down and then themselves to pass on the magic. Before Dusk fell they had a High Lady and said High Lady had a sister. The sister was Rhysand's paternal grandmother and was the link for his father to take Dusk's power upon conquering it.

During the conquest, High Lady Calypso Lethe and her husband Yamato were killed. She was pregnant at the time, and after the magic left her due to death, her child was saved, perhaps in an attempt to keep a spare heir should things spiral out of control for the High Lord of Night.

That premature child grew up to become, Kier Lethe, my husband."

Tamlin passed out after that.

"Let him sleep it off. I'm halfway dead myself and knew all of this before the meeting started." Azalea told him as she gently tucked Tamlin in.

"It's a lot to take in. I really cannot grasp it fully myself." Lucien told her as headed out the room with her.

"Cedric was crying when he showed me the book. I had to read it ten times over to be sure. Even now, I'm shocked as to why Daphne never said anything."

"She probably knew that if this secret knowledge was discovered then you'd all be put in grave danger. Your parentage alone was enough to raise concerns, you didn't need more targets upon your back."

Azalea sighed. "That's the reason we didn't come to Tamlin when his family died. I think we all still regret it."

"He does not fault you for it."

"I know, but I do. So does Tamarand and so do our mothers. We should've come to you sooner. We should've been here for you both."

He hugged Azalea gently. While he knew how much the Ambroses loved Tamlin, it touched him deeply to know he was also included in that love.

"I appreciate it, Lea. Really I do. You have been an amazing friend to me since we met, and so has Tamarand. Asteria and Ophelia have become family to me as well and I can't even begin to tell you how happy I am to have you in my life. Thank you for everything."

"Right back at ya, red." She responded with a shaky crying voice as she held him tighter.

The pair headed outside. Many left when the meeting concluded, but Helion and Imogen remained along with his brothers, Tarquin, and his human friends. Jurian was happily soaking up attention with Helion as the two recounted war stories.

"Those two...At least they're having fun."

Azalea chuckled. "We should enjoy the show too."

He was about to sit down and listen when Eris tapped him on the shoulder, asking to speak in private. Lucien led them away to the greenhouse.

"Is something wrong?"

"I wanted to apologize."

"What for?"

"Everything! Tybalt told me he came here to say sorry and it made me realize I owed you an apology too."

"Eris, you were the one taking care of everything when we were kids. Almost like a second father. Why should you apologize for that?!"

"Because I should've done more! I still wore the stupid facade around you and the others! I still...couldn't stop Jess from dying."

The last words came as a whisper, if he hadn't been crying before, he was crying now. Lucien pulled Eris into a hug as they were both kneeling on the grass.

"Eris, you warned Tamlin and he kept me safe. You tried to stop the execution and paid a heavy price for it. You took care of us even if you had a sarcastic personality or moments of tiredness. I don't blame you for any of that.

Sure there were times when I was annoyed or doubted your intentions. But I have never doubted your love for me, for us. For our family as broken as it may be.

There's nothing to apologize for. You're my big brother, and I love you, with all my heart."

They stayed like that for a while, until Eris stopped crying. Lucien dried his tears as Eris had often done for him when he was a child.

"I love you too. Thank you, Lucien. You were always the best one out of us all."

"Hush, don't make the others get jealous. We all have our good qualities. Now let's go see if Jurian is finally staying silent. I love him like a brother but the man could speak ad infinitum if we let him."

They headed back, no one would have noticed what had happened. It was the only skill he appreciated out of their childhood, the ability to mask emotions.

He sat beside Imogen who let him rest his head upon his shoulder while Vassa occupied the other. Eris was beside Cedric and Azalea who despite listening to the story exchanged work notes. Tarquin was patiently listening with Tybalt while Nemesis napped on the latter's lap. Lucien just took the moment to enjoy the peace of it all.

For now, his family was reunited and they were all working towards healing along with their friends. He prayed that would continue as they headed towards war with Night.

Nesta had known from the moment she'd met them, that she would treasure these women like sisters.

Gwyn, who'd never once asked her to tone herself down for her sake or be anything other than herself. Emerie who protected them both yet was the sensitive, kind core of their group and Clare who'd been with her as her world crumbled down, both as humans and fae.

Taking a page from Tamlin, she'd made flower crowns with the girls. Back when she still had to wear her mask of cold and elegance she wouldn't have engaged in such childish activities, but now she was free and all she wanted was to be happy.

She didn't care if she was childish, or selfish, or if this was a 'waste'. It was about time she could free herself from the people who kept her down.

"It's unreal, none of us would've guessed it a couple of months ago. Lady Melinoe is catching us up to speed on the rebellion aspect. We're keeping tabs on the inner circle and for now the search is on pause. Only Feyre has plans to press on." Emerie told her.

Nesta sighed. "Well, I can at least say I admire her dedication." She joked.

"I'm sorry. I know you probably don't want to hear about this but we want you to be alert.

Rhysand's attention seems to be focused on getting the courts to submit and finding a replacement seeker for the troves. He also has Amren dealing with some strange magic artifacts but he hasn't spoken to us about that." Gwyn explained.

Clare placed her hand on Nesta's back, gently massaging her. "Are you okay?"

"Currently yes, and as upset as this all may make me, I'm happy to be told.

The truth is I did love these people once, and I might grow to love them again if they were the ones to put in the effort this time, though I don't hold out hope.

My sisters were my life, and while I know I could've done a better job at caring for them, it doesn't excuse their behavior towards me in the slightest. I just guilted myself into thinking it did.

I was willing to come here as a human to try and save Feyre from what I thought was danger, I let her bring us into the war, and I did as I was told, but finally breaking down and mildly inconveniencing her husband was apparently my greatest sin and I deserved to be caged for it!"

Caged like some dangerous prisoner in a house with 10,000 steps, Feyre destroyed Spring for less but Nesta was seen as a monster when her captivity triggered the powers that plagued her.

"And Elain! I would've died for her with no second thought but she didn't even stand by my side before I was sent off for being a burden! I don't think I've ever felt as small as I did when she asked if I had been paid to attend a party. The thought that my sister thought so little of me should've been enough to have me running down those endless steps and heading as far away from Night as I could."

"Gods...I know I was never friends with them but, I never expected this. I'm sorry Ness. Really I am." Clare reassured her.

"The important thing is you're here now. You're safe, you're cared for and you're away from them. However, this all ends you now have the power to forgive them on your terms or cut them out forever. Let them be the ones to sacrifice for once." Gwyn said.

"I might regret not seeing how horribly I was being treated sooner, to have stayed when leaving would've saved me so much pain and heartache. But I don't regret meeting you.

You two kept me alive, and loved me unconditionally despite how broken and harsh I was. I'll never forget that. Thank you, Gwyn, and thank you Emerie. You two are my true sisters."

The valkyries hugged her tightly, she stayed like that for a minute before turning her attention to Clare.

"I am sorry that you lost so much, that like me you were thrust into this new fae existence when all you wanted was a calm short human life.

But if it's any consolation I am happy to have you here with me, you were my first friend and true till the end of our first lives and beyond. I hope we both get to be happy Clare, it's what we deserve and I want you to know you're also my sister."

The banshee had happy tears in her silver eyes, she gently glomped Nesfa and pulled the Valkyries into the hug too.

"No more climbing that mountain, Ness. We're going to destroy the mountain."

He woke in a cold sweat after dreams of the emerald eyes that once terrified him. Tamlin could still see there was daylight outside, so he got just off the bed and directly ran to the graveyard.

Ophelia was already there, she was kneeling on the ground talking to the headstone, even if they knew Oisin's soul was gone and turned into someone else. But he understood because he needed this too.

"I'm never going to forgive what you did to me. Not even if you came back and begged on your knees for it. I won't forgive what you did to kids either, though I should've stopped it guess that's on me.

However this new information...perhaps it explains why Daphne still held some love for you. She knew the truth, and she understood your reasoning. No wonder you were always vying for control, and no wonder Rosa stood by you even when I mercilessly tore you down, treasure her more in your new lifetime. You had a loyal one right there..."

She noticed Tamlin but didn't say anything, she just gestured for him to come over and kneel beside her.

"This one right here did it right. He protected Spring, he protected all of the courts from the curse at great personal cost, and he's been training his successor exceptionally. And I know he fights for us all still, even when it isn't his duty anymore. You might've been right to keep the Njght at bay, but you were wrong about your successors, especially Tamlin.

I can't think of a better man to carry on a legacy of protection."

He was about to cry, more so when Ophelia kissed his forehead.

Now it was his turn, and he felt himself at a loss for words As he stared at the polished headstone and name carved in gold.

"600 years of life and it feels like only now I can begin to understand you.

What you did to this family is still unforgivable. I admire the fact that you wanted us to be strong, to take control of this magic that has hurt our dynasty for so long, but there were no ways to help. If you'd just shared the burden with us, I have no doubts we would've all been willing to carry it with you and join you in the fight for justice.

Regardless, It's liberating to know that the carnage you did wasn't just for the sake of being cruel. That it was self-defense, but...why didn't you spare anyone? Things could've been different." He closed his eyes and paused, trying to regain his breath. "It doesn't matter anymore. Only two us of remain and should war come he's going to fall as well.

I'm sorry you had to protect courts that weren't yours, that you lost yourself for the sake of a disaster that wasn't yours to fix. Guess we have that in common. Heh, never thought I'd be happy to say that...

Thank you for what you tried to do, we will continue your work, and succeed at protecting the courts and bringing back Dusk.

I hope you can see it from your new life..."

Tamarand and Azalea arrived at that moment, they didn't speak but rather had brought flowers for all four graves in front of them. The scientist's fingers lingered on her father's grave for a moment before she sat down with the others. Tamarand didn't say anything either but he did let Tamlin lean on him. "We will finish what he started."

It was all he needed to hear, as the four remained huddled together in front of the grave for a while longer.

Like Nesta, Clare had been left saddened by the departure of Gwyn and Emerie. Just a few hours were enough for her to feel close to those charismatic ladies. To her delight, the band of exiles would be staying the night, along with Azalea who decided to remain in Spring before she permanently settled in Summer.

"Seems like the house is full of kiddies!" Asteria joked as hugged her close.

Clare leaned into the hug. While no one could replace Daliah Beddor as her mother, the Ambrose ladies had still managed to earn a place in her heart as her mothers.

She glanced at Azalea who was discussing details of the war history books with Jurian.

Vassa and Tamlin listened on while they cuddled Lucien, whose Autumn and Day magic made him feel warmer and more inviting than sitting by the fire.

All of these were her siblings, as loud and goofy and broken as they all were, somehow they all fit as a happy little family that she'd be willing to do anything for.

Ophelia was painting Nesta's nails as they also listened to the conversation. She was tempted to join them but realized there was a very important person missing from that picture-perfect moment. It wouldn't be a perfect night until he joined them.

Tamarand was standing on the balcony, taking a smoke or at least attempting to. One inhale at the pipe had the man coughing.

"Ciaran how the hell did you like this?!" He grumbled before wiping his lips and noticing her. "Hi, Clare."

"Hello! What are you doing?"

"To be honest with you, I don't know. I was trying to connect with one of the brothers I didn't meet. Since we are looking for Ciaran's child I thought acting like him would help me get a sense of where his kid would be.

It sounds dumb but hey, Lea and Daph aren't the only ones making experiments in this family!"

She chuckled as she helped the High Lord steady himself and they sat on the marble floor of the balcony.

"...My little siblings used to paint on the walls with oil paints. Lilian made flowers, so many flowers that you'd think she was trying to draw the Spring Court. Joseph liked to paint butterflies, he once made a really big one with a crown and said he got me a fae prince. Whenever I miss those two I draw, thinking that'll help me connect."

"Your siblings sound so sweet. I would've loved to meet them."

"I'm sure they would have loved you too."

She noticed Tamarand was wagging his tail, perhaps feeling a little better than he did when missing his brother.

"You know...maybe those two were seers. They saw the Spring Court for you, and technically speaking you're now sitting beside a fae prince." Tamarand wasn't sure why he was being so bold, but he thought it was time to try.

"I suppose I am," Clare told him with a flirty smile. "This fae prince has no wings but rather he is very handsome and fluffy. I much prefer him to the drawing."

"Really?"

"Really."

She scooted close and gently kissed Tamarand on the cheek. The High Lord blushed intensely but seemed delighted.

Tamarand had to contain his joy for a moment in order to think clearly. He cupped Clare's chin softly, just as he'd read in his sister's novels. Then he leaned down to press his lips against hers.

Clare had risen to meet him halfway, as a result, the kiss came earlier than expected and for a moment he was surprised before giving in. Tamarand had never kissed anyone before, but so far there we no objections from his dear lady, she even pulled him closer to her level and ran her hands through his hair. He would savor this for as long as it lasted.

Clare hadn't been kissed before, it was one of her few regrets upon the end of her human life. For a moment she wished she looked as beautiful as she did back then, with peachy skin, blonde hair, and the warmth of human life. Still, that thought was quickly erased, for the kiss still felt electric and heated even if her skin was green and cold.

The moment they pulled away both of them looked at the other's eyes directly, silver against emerald, seeing exactly everything they'd always wanted.

A loud cheer startled them before anything else could be said. They turned around to see everyone looking at them from the glass doors that led to the balcony. Ophelia and Asteria especially looked very smug.

"We should've closed the curtains."

"Yep."

The mix of emotions experienced during the day hadn't subsided by bedtime. Lucien knew Tamlin was probably still in shock from learning the man they both believed to be a monster had a selfless side to him.

He too was surprised. He'd never liked Oisin. Sure the man was physically very handsome, and as High Lord he commanded respect, but his harshness and cruel treatment of his children was enough to take away any sympathy he had for him.

The night when he burned down the greenhouse Lucien and Tamlin both rushed into the fire to smash the glass windows of the structure and allowed the bugs to fly away, Of the wingless ones he managed to save a few, picking them up and carrying them out. Tamlin did the same, and they got our covered in silkworms, carrying pupa branches and larvae as well. Still, he was certain they hadn't been able to save them all.

Tamlin was a mess back then. Crying in his arms as they saw the flames consume the place they dearly loved. Lucien cried too but he was silent in his mourning, knowing well how Beron punished them for tears.

Was this done because he and Tamlin valued that place? Was it done to stop Ciaran from growing his herbs? Or was it because Dorevan preferred the quiet of the greenhouse to the stifling aura of the manor? He would never know anything other than when one was punished all three Evergreen brothers would suffer.

'If you wanted strong heirs, why did you break them down so much?' He thought.

There was no use in pondering. Oisin was gone. Rosabella was gone. Ciaran was gone. Only Dorevan remained at rest, waiting to amend things with his siblings. He was there that night too, looking down at Lucien and Tamlin and then at the blazing structure.

The eldest Evergreen brother did not say a thing, he merely gestured them both toward the path that led to Autumn. He'd silently communicated to the boys to leave. Lucien didn't dare disobey.

Once in Autumn, he'd let Tamlin try and calm down. It seemed he was no longer upset over the bugs, but rather over his family.

"Why is he like this?"

"I ask myself the same thing about Beron almost daily. Maybe he went through it too, or maybe he thinks it'll make you stronger. I can't say for sure."

Tamlin nodded, pulling him into a hug. "At least you didn't get hurt. If he ever did something to you I-"

"Shhhh, he won't. Beron and Oisin might be cruel but they're not stupid. Hurting a prince from another Court is grounds for war. They won't risk it."

"That's true. I wish I could protect you better. That I could shield you from Beron too."

"You've always protected me so well, but Tamlin you know well neither of us can stand up in strength to a High Lord. I wouldn't dare put you through that."

"It'd still do it."

"I know. As would I if it means keeping you safe. But for now, we can't. So just let me take care of you with cuddles for tonight. Tomorrow we can see if there's anything to save from the greenhouse."

That night was spent watching over the blonde, who only fell asleep after his tears dried out. Even with this new development, Lucien could never come to forgive Oisin for that.

"You don't have to be angry anymore. We have a new greenhouse, we are safe. Those two can't hurt us again anymore and I get to hold you every single night now. He couldn't ruin that."

"True. Despite all we've learned I feel like the man's only good quality was his looks."

"Wait what?!" Tamlin sat up and looked at him intently. "Don't tell me you think he's handsome?!"

"Well...He looks a lot like you. Maybe you'll ever resemble him as you grow older."

Tamlin dramatically clutched his chest. "My own beloved fox insults me! How ever will I live?"

"Oh come on Tamlin! You slept with the King of Hybern!"

"In my defense, it was a rebound."

That made him laugh. "True. Missing me too much back then?"

"You joke, but yes. I missed you like crazy. I don't think I would've allowed him to even look at me if you were nearby."

"I-"

"No apologies. I know well why you had to leave. I've never blamed you for that. Maybe it was for the best. I was quite a madman during those days."

"I have been told of the High Lord meeting."

Tamlin groaned, burying his face on Lucien's chest. "Don't mention that mess!"

He chuckled. "Don't feel bad. You were absolutely not the one coming off worse out of that place. Eris told me everything.

Apparently, our 'High King and Queen to be' said they wanted a peaceful meeting but were the first to start blasting at the Autumn Court. He says Nesta was the one who carried the meeting. Though I suspect he's a little biased."

Tamlin laughed. "He's not. That's how it all happened. Rhysand was deflecting guilt and Beron and I were the only ones not buying it. Feyre got mad and tried to burn him but Imogen and Eris took the hit. It made me mad but given that I've already made a fool out of myself enough I kept quiet and let Nesta handle it. She indeed was the only saving grace they had at the meeting."

"Heh, I suppose I should stop doubting my lovestruck brother then. I'm surprised the other High Lords forgave him so easily...Do you think that's why Rhysand believes they'll just bend to him as High King?"

"Maybe? Honestly, I don't know for sure. I think they forgave him because we were already at risk and they didn't want Rhysand's tantrums to add stress to a war scene. If I hadn't been so angry I might've yielded as well."

Lucien ran his fingers through Tamlin's golden locks, trying to soothe him. "Let's not think about that. The war is over, we survived, and we are healing. This time, Rhysand won't come away with allies. I'm certain of it."

"True. I'd rather not think about any of them at all. Instead, I just had a thought on how to get revenge on you for finding Oisin handsome!"

"I thought you were letting that go!"

"Nope. You were appalled I was into older men before. I'm not letting it go until I bother you more."

Lucien rolled his eyes. "Fine fine, just what are you going to tell me in revenge?"

"Helion is incredibly handsome and I would kill just to see you wear Day Court togas like him."

Lucien groaned, hiding his face his in hands. "Noooooo! If he ever hears you say that he'll never shut up about!"

His protests were drowned out by the sound of Tamlin's laughter. Lucien smiled and remained quiet basking in that sweet moment.

Finally, the laughter stopped and Tamlin started at him just as adoringly. The blonde however was still playful despite his sweetness. "You both look so similar, I can't believe we never knew. Maybe it's because you took so much after Imogen as well."

"Does that mean you find my mother attractive too?"

"Hmmm...I think so."

"Tamlin!"

He laughed again. "Don't tell me you didn't find Rosabella pretty as well?"

"...She had beautiful eyes and a lovely singing voice. Very well, I'll concede. Your mother was gorgeous too."

"See? I like older men and you like women! You cannot tease me about this fox."

"I'd agree but I never considered Amarantha attractive and she does count as an older woman."

"Luce, I was her mate and I never liked her either. She doesn't count!"

The two laughed again, deciding to turn this into a game and starting to compare different High lords and ladies through the years.

"What about Beron? Did you ever think he was handsome?"

Lucien laughed at the scrunched-up face of his beloved. "Personality-wise he's a zero, but I guess if he grew out his hair and looked a little more roughed up I could find him physically handsome.

Eris and Nemesis suit the elegant Autumn look much better."

"If you tell Nemesis he looks like Beron he'll probably take a knife to his face and rip it off. Eris might slap you."

Tamlin shrugged. "If I'm stuck as a younger Oisin then they're stuck as younger versions of Beron. At least they got the fiery hair from your mother. Makes them more distinctive."

"Seems like fate wanted you to like redheads. A redhead mate, a connection to Autumn-"

"And a redheaded fox that I love with all my heart."

He wasn't expecting Tamkin to go from jokester to romantic so quickly. Then again, it was common for his beloved wolf to keep on surprising him.

"I love you too. I love you so much."

He gave him a soft kiss, as they were falling asleep. Tamlin nuzzled close, and the two basked in each other's warmth as sleep took them.

Regardless of the mistakes or the new revelation Lucien knew one thing was certain. He would never leave Tamlin's side again.

"Are you both ready?" Azalea asked.

Her brothers both nodded. Tamarand was nervous, dressed in his best suit and trying to keep his tail from giving away his anticipation.

Tamlin too felt the same though he was hoping in his heart of hearts that this was the right decision. The last thing he wanted was to impose on someone else's life.

Azalea was excited, ever since Tamarand wrote to her that fateful day she'd been looking and now they were close to finding out if her search had been fruitful.

Their search for Ciaran and Roxanne's child led them to an opulent establishment by the coast. The cabaret was beautifully decorated and furnished with fancy decor and chandeliers that would be the envy of many. The only person working during the daytime was a maid with long black hair, black eyes, and tanned skin covered in freckles.

She quickly noticed the tried as she finished wiping a table. "I'm sorry, we are closed at the moment, friends. Opening hours begin at midday."

"We're not here for services ma'am. We were hoping to speak with one of your employees actually. The child of Roxanne Milory." Azalea told them.

The maid looked at them for a moment and gasped, realizing they all had the same emerald eyes of Ciaran Evergreen.

"Wait here! I'll be right back!"

As the maid left in a rush they all stepped close to each other, holding hands. "This is it. Guess we were lucky genetics were on our side." Tamarand joked.

"I hope the kid is okay."

"The place seems cared for. We'll ask them once we meet, but given that they're allowed to see us I presumed they're well. Let's not be too anxious Lin."

A minute later a young man came out. He had long golden strawberry blonde curls, pale skin, and mismatched eyes, one blue like his mother and one green like theirs. His youthful delicate face was covered with freckles and he had a pretty smile like the one from Roxanne's portrait.

"Hello everyone! I'm Marigold Evergreen and I am guessing you're my family."