Chapter 15: Rebellion Brewing

Open up my eyes

To dreams that should have died

I was made for more than this

Nightmares about Catrin were becoming more frequent and Gwyn didn't know why. Perhaps it was the looming battle or perhaps it was the fact that she was staying at the LeClair mansion tonight that led to her sleep being troubled. She saw her sister again only for the woman to lose her head in front of her and for her to wake up before the rest of the nightmare took place. She was grateful for it.

Gwyn sat up and tried to calm herself down. What woke her was the sound of a crying baby, so she put on her slippers and headed for the nursery, halfway there the crying stopped, still she went in to find Lunara gently giving her daughter an oil massage. "Hi! Sorry, did Crimson wake you? She gets colic sometimes and I have to calm her with this."

"It's fine. I...I needed to wake up anyway. Kiddo did me a favor."

Lunara noticed the look in her eyes. She finished tending to her now sleeping baby and quickly settled on the sofa next to Gwyn. "What's wrong, honey? You can tell me if you'd like."

She took a breath. "I dreamt of my sister. During the war she was killed before my eyes and afterward...the one who did it he-"

She couldn't finish the sentence before breaking down and holding onto Lunara for comfort. The priestess immediately returned the hug and stroked her hair. "Oh sweetie, I am so sorry "

Lunara let her cry in her arms until she couldn't do it anymore. Miraculously, the noise didn't wake the baby.

"Let's go to the kitchen, I'll make you some nice tea, ok?"

She nodded and let Lunara guide her to the kitchen. Grim was already there, she was surprised to see that the former General was also looking disheveled from a nightmare.

"Hey, want some tea?"

"Get a cup for Gwyn please, I'm getting some kiwi."

She sat on the dining room table letting the others serve her the snack, unable to mutter anything other than a 'thank you'.

"It wasn't your fault, honey. Know that well. This war took many, broke many in more ways than one and while I never had the pleasure of meeting her I can assure you that your sibling does not hold her demise against you."

Gwyn nodded, letting Lunara place her hand over hers. She knew the healer was trying to be comforting, but her guilt and ache wouldn't be so easily soothed.

"I just wish I could've done more. I was the only survivor and got to be brought here and protected, had I done better Catrin could still be here! Had I done better maybe other girls would've survived! If I'd been a Valkyrie back then..."

She wanted to cry again but felt Grim place a rough hand on her shoulder. "You are not to blame for the casualties of war.

Gwyneth, I was a warrior for a long time and despite my skill, I lost many people that matter to me in that conflict. For a long time, I carried the guilt too, but after therapy, I've come to terms with the losses, and know they are not of my own making. I did what I could. So did you.

You weren't a warrior, but you withstood your battle and made it alive. Now that you are safe feel free to mourn, to train, to rage or cry if you wish. Just know that you're not alone, and you deserve to enjoy your life. It's what your sister would've wanted."

"He's right, honey. None of this was your fault and you're fighting to help others from going through the same. You're doing a great job."

"Thanks, both of you have been very kind to me and Emi in the short time we've been friends. I feel very lucky to have you."

"That's so sweet of you! We're happy to help!"

"Glad to hear it. Count on us for anything you need."

She had her snack in silence with the couple until one of Lunara's fathers came in with the baby.

Cyril LeClair's skin was clear blue like his daughter's. He had long white hair, icy blue eyes, and such a fatherly disposition that she already felt close to him even though she'd met him a few hours prior.

"Guess who wanted her dad?" He asked as he handed Crimson over to Grim.

"She just wants to sleep on my chest again. Crim, this is becoming a habit." He gently scolded as baby Crimson smiled and nuzzled close to him.

"Can you blame her? You have more chest than me."

"Luna!"

"What? I'm not complaining, it's very cozy."

"You would know."

"Stop it both of you, no flirting in front of Gwyn!" Cyril scolded.

She laughed and finished her snack. "I should try to sleep again. We have to read a lot more tomorrow."

Lunara nodded. "Yes, hopefully, we find something else relating to Dusk. I'm beginning to think Oisin is the only one who tried to record their existence before his death."

"Maybe we should check with Lord Helion. He was the other border to them."

"That's a good idea. It's been a while since we've gone to Day. What do you say, Grim? Want to go to the beach with us?"

"I'd be delighted to, just be careful not to get sunburned love, every time it happens we need to tend to you."

Lunara pouted. "But I like it when you pamper me!"

Cyril rolled his eyes and left the room with her. "Those two are worse than me and Zion when we were young." He lamented. "Before you go to sleep, I wanted to give you something."

Cyril took out a rectangular box out of his pocket. It was a sapphire pendant.

"This is beautiful! But why?"

"The first rebellion against Rhysand's family was called the Emerald Rebellion. Half of Hewn City fell, my husband was a part of it and he had to flee his home to escape the High Lord's wrath. Luckily fate brought us together and in time a new rebellion rose, the one we are part of now, called the Sapphire Rebellion. The necklace is meant to alert other members that you're on our side.

When battle breaks out, you should wear it. To the inner circle, it'll mean nothing, just a fashion trend. To us, it's a mark. When Ms. Emerie comes to collect you tomorrow, I shall give her one too. Both of you are the ones in greater danger of being discovered due to your ties with the inner circle. Promise me you'll be careful child."

"I shall. They won't know it's us until it's too late."

Catrin had told her to not make promises she couldn't keep. So now she had to keep this one and make sure all Valkyries survived as well.

"You're staying in Autumn now? I didn't take Tarquin for the unforgiving type."

Amren's voice was still a sound he thought of fondly. Varian hated the fact that this was breaking him, that he didn't want to, still, he turned around to face her and miraculously kept from crying. "Actually, I am here because I need to speak with you and Summer isn't an option anymore."

She rolled her eyes. "Tell me about. I still have the stab marks from the crazy Spring bitch yet we're the ones banned."

"Amren. This isn't about them...Well, not entirely. The truth is that while I still love you plenty we cannot continue this courtship."

"Wait, what?!" She was alarmed, but not with heartbreak, rather as if a plan had fallen apart. "You're choosing Tarquin over me?! Do I mean so little to you?!"

Varian could feel his heart slowly breaking. "No, you mean the world to me, but I am not sacrificing my family for your sake!"

"Oh spare me, you could just come to Night with me until they see reason! Or you could fight him on this! Grow a spine and challenge him for the throne Summer would be ours!"

His eyes went wide with horror, although he should've expected her to suggest that. "I would never dare challenge my cousin's claim! How could you even think that?! Amren, my family means the world to me, and from the start you've tried to undermine them! If it were up to me I'd never dare choose but what you all did that night leaves me with no other choice!

I can't be with you if this is what you think of them. I just cannot...put anyone above them."

She nodded, frowning. "I should've known this was all a waste of time."

That admission was enough to break him. The final proof that Cresseida was right about Amren, about these two years he spent madly in love being nothing but part of the inner circle's plan.

"If that is what you truly think then we have nothing else to discuss. I'm sorry for everything. I wish you good luck with your endeavors. Goodbye, Amren." It took all of his strength to say those words without breaking, to look her in the eyes without tears. She didn't even care to comment on it.

Amren said nothing and didn't even look back as she windowed away. Once the room was empty save for him, Varian collapsed crying.

"I'm sorry. I thought she'd be kinder despite her anger. Perhaps it was best to let her come to you."

He was startled by Tybalt's voice. The fourth prince of Autumn came through the wall as his younger brother often did. By now, Varian was used to it.

"You really had to have Cedric teach you how to do that?"

Tybalt shrugged. "He owed me for stuffing me in the freezer. Now, come here, this isn't about me."

Varian couldn't refuse a hug at this time, not when he could barely see through the tears and his chest still ached.

"I should've listened to Cress...I should've gotten close to her! She never- she never loved me and I was ready to betray them all for her! How was I this stupid?!"

"You're not stupid for falling in love. Sometimes we don't see what's wrong in a relationship until it's too late. Amren might've been using you, but you did love her and you tried to reconcile romance and family. No one can fault you for that."

Tybalt's voice seemed like he spoke from experience, but despite his curiosity, Varian refrained from asking. There'd be time for that late when his mind and heart weren't this broken.

"No Ty, I can fault myself for that. Because if things hadn't happened the way they did then I was about to give my heart to a woman who wanted to bring ruin to my Court yet again. If Azalea hadn't gotten them banned...Fuck, no wonder they didn't tell me from the start! My own sister and cousin knew and kept quiet because they were aware I'd be stupid enough to tell Amren! The magic is right it had to be Tarquin! I would've doomed us a second time."

"Shhh, no. Don't say that! You would've been an excellent High Lord too!

Listen it's okay if you need time, if you want to cry or rage or if you feel guilty, but never feel unworthy. You're not unworthy, you did your best and truly loved her. She's the one who missed out on a man like you.

Amren wasn't the right one for you, but I'm sure in time you'll find love again. Chin up, Prince of Adriata! We have treats to help cheer you up!

Before he could ask what Tybalt meant, he was dragged to the kitchen where the rest of the Vanserra brothers were making sundaes or more specifically attempting to.

"Nemesis don't put so much caramel on it, you'll see the hat man again if you keep that up!" Eris scolded as he tried to pry the caramel bottle away from his brother.

"I'll fuck the hatman if he shows up again!"

Nemesis answered, letting Eris have the caramel and throwing almonds on the vanilla ice cream instead.

Cedric glared at them. "Don't make me lose my appetite before I eat!" He shouted while piling fruit onto his ice cream. "Oh, hi you two. How was it?"

"I'll survive." That was all he'd said.

Eris patted him on the back. "Don't let it get you down. You can stay with us as long as you like, or I can get Tarquin and Cresseida."

"No, do not burden them. I'll just bury my sorrows in sweets with you all."

"See?! He gets it! C'mon Varian educate these jerks!" Nemesis said as he was trying and failing to get the salted peanuts for his desert.

"No! Varian don't encourage him! He becomes insufferable when he eats sugar!" Cedric protested trying to keep Nemesis from the ice cream toppings.

Varian smiled and joined them. Maybe a longer stay in Autumn wouldn't be so bad.

Azalea wasn't sure what to expect when Tarquin came to the lab, picked her up by the waist and onto his shoulder, and whisked them away to his private island.

She'd been miffed that he interrupted her research but one deep kiss from the High Lord was enough to shut her up.

Currently, she floated in the crystalline sea, staring up at the sky that had turned purple, pink, and orange. She couldn't remember the last day she spent doing nothing.

A pair of strong arms wrapped around her tightly, and she didn't want them to let go. Tarquin was there with her in his mermaid form, looking as beautiful as ever.

"You looked like you were falling asleep, darling. Are you tired?"

"No sweetie. Just...relaxed." She joked. "What about you? Reconstruction is going well but I've noticed you come home late often and fall asleep on the spot."

Tarquin nuzzled close to her. "I required a breather too. The truth is I am happy things are progressing well but...I did want to spend time with you alone. I've missed my lady."

Azalea turned red, facing him and giving him a soft loving kiss. "I've missed you too, I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you."

Those adoring words seemed to awaken something in her dear Tarquin. His soft kisses turned rougher and his hands nearly tore off the transparent silk dress she wore. "I want to devour you." He whispered in her ear before covering her neck with kisses and a bite."

"Aw!"

Tarquin quickly let go and checked her skin. "I'm sorry! Was that too much?"

"No, it's fine. I'm just not used to getting bite marks."

Despite her reassurance, Tarquin shifted and picked her up bridal style, carrying her back to the beach house.

"Tarquin it's fine, you don't need to put ointment on it." Azalea protested but still, her husband-to-be kept on applying ointment to the hickey on her neck.

"I was too rough. I'm sorry. I've just been craving you."

She giggled. "As have I, my handsome lord. Let me make you something to nibble on and we can spend some more quality time together!"

"Lea, before you serve me any food there is something I must tell you. It's part of the reason why I wanted to be with you alone here and...and likely why I was so rough before.

"Okay, what's that?"

"The mating bond snapped for me."

Her eyes widened. This shouldn't have surprised her much, after all, Varian had once mockingly called her Tarquin's mate. Perhaps others could sense it before them.

Azalea's surprised expression was quickly replaced with a softer loving one. "I see. When?"

"The night of the engagement ball, when you came to comfort me after the fight with Varian. I was already suspecting it was there from the moment we met, but that night when you managed to bring me back from such a dark place...It was all the confirmation I needed.

I've wanted to be intimate with you for a while now, and it would make me doubly happy if you accepted our bond, but please don't feel pressured to do so right now. If you wish to wait I'll understand."

She put her finger against Tarquin's lips, then gently kissed him. "When I first met you I felt a pull towards you, I think it was the bond, but since we just met I figured that it was just me being overly romantic.

Then you came to visit me in Spring and...you spoke to Daphne with me. I think it snapped for me back then. It was when I decided I would marry you regardless of alliances.

You're all I've ever wanted, Tarquin Kelani. I gladly accept this bond and want to be your mate until the end of our days."

He smiled beautifully before kissing her again, the tears in his eyes didn't go unnoticed, yet Azalea didn't mention them, she quickly fixed them a nice tuna salad, making sure to serve him first. "Eat well, you'll need the energy since I'll be eating you up before the day ends." She warned in a soft yet commanding tone.

Tarquin swallowed hard, blushing profusely yet smiling at this new side of his beloved. The plate was empty in just a few minutes.

She'd barely finished her meal when Tarquin picked her up bridal style and carried her to the bedroom.

Azalea remained calm until they reached the bed. She quickly rolled them both over as Tarquin was distracted kissing her. He chuckled in protest but she placed her hands on his and kept on kissing down his neck.

"Mhmm Azalea, I was supposed to pamper you!"

"Patience handsome, I said I wanted to eat you. After that, you may do as you like with me."

True to her word Azalea was quick to undress him, and kiss him all over. Tarquin was grateful that most of his clothes had long sleeves otherwise he'd be unable to hide all the bitemarks his beloved mate had given him.

"You're gorgeous. Looking into your pretty blue eyes feels like staring into the ocean."

Every detail was committed to her memory, the messy white hair, his dark skin covered in her kisses, the way his muscles tensed at her touch, his deep groans and moans whenever she touched his sensitive spots, his lust-filled blue eyes. This man was perfect, and he was hers.

Tarquin blushed at the sweet compliment, and more so at Azalea's hungry emerald gaze. He couldn't hold back anymore.

Again he kissed her, freeing her of the silk dress she wore. He grinned at the view before him, more so when his usually flirty bride blushed and tried to cover herself.

"Don't do that. Let me see all of you."

His husky voice could convince her to do anything. So Azalea laid bare in front of him, letting him taste every inch of her as she tried in vain to keep her loud voice down. No one could hear her but Tarquin and from the feeling of his lips on her body, he was relishing those sounds.

Azalea gasped when she felt him slip a finger inside her. It had been a long time since anyone touched her, and Tarquin certainly knew what he was doing.

"You're soaked, sweetheart. Do you want me that badly?" He whispered in her ear.

"Yes! Gods! You're gonna make cum before being inside me!"

Tarquin chuckled. "I intend to, yes. Cum for me my sweet Azalea! Scream my name as you give in to pleasure!"

She shut her eyes as every coherent thought she had was replaced with bliss. Nothing other than their moans could be heard as well as the loud cry of his name.

It took her a moment to come to. Azalea opened her eyes only to be greeted by Tarquin's beautiful smile, while he kicked his fingers. "That was exquisite, darling."

"Mhmm felt exquisite too. I'm slightly jealous though, how many ladies must you practice on to be this good?"

Tarquin remained cheeky, though she could tell he was embarrassed as well. "I'm a natural darling. Aside from Calanmai duties I've had five sexual partners."

"Fast learner I see. I've had six sexual partners, don't know if Cress told you that."

"She mentioned Miss Reed to me so that I could arrange your meeting with her, but she didn't mention anything else. Not that I'd ask her to. If I am to learn anything so personal about you I want it to come from you directly."

She appreciated that. From the start, Tarquin respected her privacy and made her feel valued. Hopefully, he could say the same of her.

"I'm really glad I got the best High Lord as my husband and bedmate. Let me spoil you this time."

She climbed on top of him and kissed him, just as she sunk down into him.

"Ah!"

"Are you okay?"

"I'm fine! Just a little difficult to take you all in at once."

"Should I take that as a compliment?"

"Tarquin!"

They both laughed as Azalea got used to him and slowly picked up the pace. Tarquin's hands were at her waist pushing her down onto his cock. Azalea could only moan and feast her eyes on Tarquin's beautiful expressions. Even when drowning in lust the man was absolutely gorgeous.

"Look at you! Those pretty green eyes darkened and focused only on me, your lips parted as you drool and that messy hair, fuck you look so damn good Azalea!

How does it feel, my love? To have me ravishing every inch of your gorgeous body? To have me deep inside you?"

"So good! Mhhh, Tarquin you feel so good! I can't tell you how much I've dreamed of this! Of having my dear mate take me like this. I love it! I love you!"

"I love you too!"

One last deep kiss followed before they both came. Immediately after they rested for a few minutes before resuming. By the time they were exhausted, she was sure hours had passed.

Azalea rested her head on Tarquin's broad chest. She could feel his fast heartbeat lulling her to sleep. "Mating bonds never meant much to me. Sure, it's nice to have the universe confirm you're meant to be but it shouldn't be the sole deciding factor as to who you should be with. My mothers aren't mated and they're very happy together, Nesta and Cassian were mated and that poor woman nearly lost herself for his sake...After seeing so many different cases and circumstances I concluded that I shouldn't care if you and I were mates. Because I already loved you regardless.

But being here with you now, knowing that we are blessed by the gods and fate itself...It's a joy I can't explain."

Tarquin listened to her, kissing her on the forehead as she finished speaking. "Bond or no bond, I know I'm going to love you forever."

"I love you too."

They stayed like that content and intertwined with each other as sleep claimed them. If Tarquin interrupted her work for days like this more often she was certainly not going to oppose.

Emerie detested having to deal with her uncle, as the man had become even more relentless in his offers to buy the shop from her after her cousin died. But even if she had sympathy for the only blood family she had left, that didn't mean she'd give up her inheritance to him. This was her shop and she would keep running it until she couldn't anymore.

Once she managed to close down the shop, she headed for Velaris. Gwyn had requested her presence in the LeClair mansion, and she had good news.

Emerie marveled at the size of the structure, the gigantic mansion was made out of black marble and had Gothic-style roofs and towers. Balthazar was the one to greet her as he opened the door. "Good to see you, Melinoe called a meeting a few minutes ago, and Lunara made cookies."

"Heh, seems like I arrived just in time."

Everyone was reunited at the gardens, Lunara was sitting on Grim's lap dozing off, while he held Crimson close by as well. One of Lunara's fathers was there as well, Cyril LeClair was speaking to another Illityan guest. A middle-aged man with tanned skin, long black hair, and blue eyes. Gwyn was talking to them too though she waved when she saw Emerie arrive.

Finally, they were joined by Lunara's other father Zion. The man spooked them all by arriving as a shadow. It didn't help that despite his purple skin and dark purple hair his eyes were pitch black with white pupils. Despite his intimidating look, however, he was very gentlemanly, even pulling out a chair for her and Balthazar.

"I think that's everyone. You may begin, Meli."

Zion cast a spell that allowed them to see Melinoe. The bubbly woman smiled upon seeing them. "There we go! My adorable friends are clear in view!

Hope you've all had some time to assimilate what we discovered. I've done some digging here and found the family tree of the Lethe Dynasty but the mentions of Dusk were erased from records. What about you?"

Lunara yawned. "Gwyn and I have raided the Day Palace library, the shitlord did a good job hiding most of the stuff but he couldn't get rid of everything when things were hidden in other courts."

There were some spellbooks about Dusk oriented powers their language is very similar to olden Dawn & Winter. Gwyn found a fashion guide with lovely pieces, and finally, there was a proper map with all 8 courts, but it had some bloodstains."

"Good to hear there is something we can go off once we rebuild. What about you, Lazarus? Anything we can use from Illyria?"

The Illyrian man nodded. His voice was soft but booming. "I do not know if it'll be of use to you, but I found records of trade with the Dusk Court. One particular name stood out."

The paper was a receipt for an exchange of armor for winter attire. The trader who organized it had the name of Hikari Sakurai. It was the same last name the Lord of Dusk had.

"That means Yamato's brother was a merchant...I must find out if he still lives. Anybody who can recall anything before the fall of Dusk can be helpful towards restoration.

How is the inner circle handling things?"

"Last time they just kept bickering. Amren is being kept busy by some project and is mad Rhysand isn't putting his full attention on the High King's plans. Cassian is somewhat recovering but still trying to find Nesta on his own." Emerie paused, calming herself. She had nothing to worry about, their sister was thriving, she was well, and she was safe. "Mortigan seems to be more concerned with Feyre's health. Seems like the High Lady's been slightly ill lately. That leaves us only with Elain and Azriel in good spirits. The seer seems to be training her power and Azriel is sending his shadows to other courts. Autumn is working on ways to block them from getting any useful information."

The others sighed, probably expecting this. "Even when trying to take over the fucking continent this man is an absolute idiot. Though I suppose we should be grateful. If he was smarter he might've gotten to us now." Melinoe joked.

"My lady, battle plans are at the ready should we face a surprise attack, do wish for us to help you in Velaris or would Hewn City take it alone?"

"No Lazarus, Velaris won't be taken. The people there are not at fault for the favoritism of the High Lord. The only ones we're after are the inner circle."

"If you must know, Grim and I are in charge of facilitating a way for everyone to storm the Velaris residences of the inner circle. We won't be bringing the armies with us." Lunara explained

The Illyrian man was concerned. "Just us? I do wish to take revenge on the High Lord and keep the people out of the fray, but we mustn't underestimate his power."

"We won't, we just can't bring anyone else in. Surprise is our best element now." Grim told him. "If the majority of the armies betray the High Lord as expected then we can focus on fighting whatever else he might have saved for us."

"Wait, what would he use if the armies betray him?" Gwyn asked.

"Whatever he can find in the prison," Melinoe told them. "He doesn't keep those monsters locked up just for show. He can and will use them along with whatever he has left from his time as Amrantha's lackey.

"Well, guess I'll get to fight a chimera outside of my nightmares." Balthazar joked.

Emerie closed her eyes. Just when did things go from silly antics with her new sisters to planning a war? She didn't know. At least now she was certain they wouldn't be rebelling alone, as the rest of Prythian would face a second Night tyrant.

"The other courts shall be steering clear of Night to avoid suspicions. Once Rhysand makes his plans to take over by force known we will all reunite to talk battle strategy.

For now, we remain silent and seemingly defenseless. I'll see you all next time!"

With that, the Hewn City stewardess vanished as the spell was undone.

Zion sighed. "Looks like we all have work to do. I'll be reaching out to Dawn and try to locate Hikari Sakurai. Cyril sweetie, can you get our guests some food?"

"Yes, handsome!" Cyril said as he kissed his husband's cheek and ran off with him back into the mansion.

"Those two!" Lunara muttered.

"Those are your fathers, mooncake. That's who you get it from." Grim told her.

She glared at her husband. "Hush, my warrior! I'm not that clingy!"

That only caused the rest of the table to erupt in giggles, but Lunara seemed unbothered as she just nuzzled close to Grim and Crimson.

Emerie thought it'd be best to leave with Gwyn soon but she was quickly called out by Lazarus.

"Miss Emerie may I have a moment of your time?"

"Of course."

She just met the man half an hour ago, and normally wouldn't trust him to speak alone in such a short amount of time, but there was something about Lazarus that made ever feel safe.

"I'd like to offer my condolences for the loss of your wings. One of my current duties at the camps is to make sure clippings do not happen but I'm afraid I failed in your regard. My apologies."

"Oh. Well, I appreciate that but do not fret too much. My father was wealthy and sneaky, he would've gotten away with it regardless of interference."

She hated thinking of the man who broke her back and fingers, and put her sweet mother in an early grave. Thankfully she survived him and would survive this too.

"All the same, I am sorry we failed you. You deserved to fly high and free as all Illyrian women do.

While this may not remedy it, given that we're both in this same fight together, I thought I should be the one to give you this."

It was a sapphire pendant on a golden chain. Emerie wasn't one for jewelry, but upon having the necklace gently put around her neck she was absolutely delighted.

"It's lovely, but why this?"

"The first rebellion against the High Lord of Night was called the Emerald rebellion, this one shall be the Sapphire rebellion."

A rebellion that had been a long time coming, and she along with the other valkyries would be fighting in it.

'Mama, I hope you're looking over us, we're making sure everyone is free this time.'

"It has been said many times before, but know well that I don't blame you for any of it.

Circumstances, manipulations, and miscommunication are all to blame but you. Never you. You're my safe heaven, no matter what."

Lucien could tell him that a million times more and it would still fill him with peace.

Tamlin wiped away a few tears, nuzzling close to him.

"That was very sweet, Lucien. Now Tamlin, remember what your beloved has told you and treasure it whenever feelings of guilt arise. Next session I was thinking of bringing over your family but I'm certain they tend to be just as loving as Lucien."

"They are," Tamlin answered with a smile. Lately, he'd been feeling especially lucky to have both his beloved and family with him during his healing, without them he thought he would still be roaming around the shattered mansion as a beast.

"Then my work here is almost done. Our next session shall be our last."

"So soon?"

"Lad, you were almost fully healed when that Night Lord tried to sink his claws into you again. My duty was to help you recuperate from that and assure you it wouldn't happen again. I'm certain now that it won't, and that you're in good hands."

He was happy to know that his improvement was that noticeable, but a little saddened that he wouldn't be seeing his human therapist anymore.

"Don't fret, child. You may still visit. Only now you can do so as a friend, or if you prefer as one of my kids."

He chuckled. Despite being many lifetimes older than the elderly man, Tamlin did like the idea of addressing him as a father.

"He's adopted us all." Lucien joked. Though Tamlin knew all of the exiles were fond of Elias and of course Neko as well. Yes, they all finally had a good father. A father who sadly didn't have much time left.

Jurian had called them up this morning for Tamlin to take his session sooner than anticipated. He sounded strained, he probably knew. Priya did too, as she was sending letters to those who were once children here and lived far away now. This was the last chance they had to see their father before he passed.

"Speaking of adopted kids...Do try to calm Vassa once you go visit her. Lass tried to hide her emotions but she feels things deeply." Elias told them almost as if reading their minds.

As expected they all went to the manor to see Vassa, Nesta, and Jurian. The valkyrie had been growing out her hair that now reached a little past her waist, unbound and free to flow in the wind rather than tied in a braid. She looked much fuller, plump like Ophelia but slightly slimmer and with muscle in her arms. The once dulled tired stare that made her stand out between her two sisters was gone, replaced with bright joyful silver-blue eyes.

"Look who finally showed up! Having fun before the visit?"

"No Nesta, if we had been Luce would have more hickeys."

"As if I don't mark you up too."

"Ack! Forget what I said! You're worse than Jurian and Vassa!"

The two just laughed as Nesta led them in. Vassa was meditating, trying to keep a sphere of fire from growing too small or too large. Tamlin noticed she had cut her red curls short again, and sometimes her flames took over her human form before dissipating. 'Her fire must still need some practice to control.'

Jurian was seated nearby, reading and keeping an eye on the former queen. "How was teraphy?"

"As always, quite freeing. Elias is an amazing doctor."

He could see them all smile and nod in agreement. Not wanting to bring up the fact that the fatherly human they all loved so much was nearing the end of his life.

"We should drag half of Prythian to therapy with him. We'd have no more troubles."

That made him laugh. "I highly doubt we could've dragged Hybern to therapy. The man was way too stubborn."

"Ugh, right. The man thought we'd trust a king who doesn't even share his name. Who does that?"

"Wait, I thought you all knew his name too when we were double agents?"

"No...He told you?"

Now everyone was curious and he regretted mentioning it. At least they hadn't asked him when he was told.

"Yes. His real name was Sebastian Hybern."

"Fuck curiosity officially satiated." Jurian sighed. "I was wondering that since not even the fuckin she-devil would say his real name. Can't even trust your general, eh Sebby?"

"To be fair, in war, you can rarely trust anyone. I'm just happy I can trust all of you."

Vassa's words rang true for him. Had he not trusted Feyre during the war then maybe...No there was no point in pondering that. What was done was done, and he had to live with the memories. At least now he wouldn't make that mistake again. This time things would be different.

"Maybe if we dragged the inner circle to therapy they wouldn't be such cunts." Esta muttered.

"Cassian would try to fist fight Elias."

She laughed. "He would, but I think Elias would defeat him with a glare."

"Oh, that would be priceless!"

They spent the rest of the afternoon like that. Joking and laughing at their enemies' expense. Somehow it calmed him down to act this way rather than worry about battle.

Tamlin didn't notice that Lucien's grip on his waist had tightened.

"You're going to go blind if you keep staring at that thing." Nemesis teased.

Eris was still in shock after Tamarand himself came to deliver a portrait to them, one where his father was younger, surrounded by friends and in the embrace of a beautiful woman he'd never seen in his life.

He wanted to know, wanted to ask but who could he go to other than Beron himself who was still comatose? The staff might know but would remain silent in fear of consequences should Beron rise again. Maybe his mother knew, but he didn't think it'd be wise to bring Beron up when she was finally free of him. More so if she wasn't aware of this woman and had she been there was a way for her to escape her hellish marriage years ago.

"I can't understand...For so long I thought that I would never get to see this man smile. Even at his best and kindest moments, he was distant and cold and here he is smiling with nothing but joy and showing love to people who are likely dead! Nem, just what happened to him?"

Nemesis shrugged. "To be honest with you. I don't fucking care.

Sure if he's there with the Dusk royals and with the Evergreens looking all happy maybe he was once a good man that got fucked over by life. But I can't bring myself to be sympathetic towards him when all he's done is make our life as hellish as his maybe more. I can't be sympathetic or even curious when all that would do is prove that we weren't enough for him, that he took his bitterness out on us, and that we'd never once seen that man smile.

We didn't ask to be born and got fucked over by the damn family drama. I couldn't give less of a shit if he did too, could've broken the cycle..."

He understood what his brother meant. He too was disappointed by this. Maybe their father wasn't a completely irredeemable monster but became one and even his kids were not enough for him to change. 'When was any of us enough?'

Cedric came through the door with Tybalt in tow. The pair had been doing research regarding the portrait.

"Library has no records and Lady Joreen does not recognize her either. Maybe we can ask Lord Thesan's mother if we go to Dawn."

"That should wait. We have to focus on taking Rhysand down. I'm really curious too but for now, let's put the matter to rest."

The others agreed, and they all stashed the portrait away. Eris decided that if Beron woke up then would ask him.

But despite his curiosity, he didn't want that man to wake up.

It had been difficult for Lucien to keep himself contained during their visit to the mortal lands, more so when they returned to Spring and spent their afternoon helping Tamarand with diplomacy lessons. But now that night had fallen upon the court and he had his beloved Tamlin moaning under the cold shower as he overstimulated him for the sixth time, Lucien could release everything he'd been holding back since his possessiveness took hold.

"Luce!" Tamlin moaned in pleasure as he shuddered and came again. Seven times now his beloved fox had him screaming his name.

"I love it when you moan my name like that."

Tamlin chuckled, he didn't expect Lucien to suddenly be so possessive but given the discussion they were all having at midday he gathered the redhead might be feeling a little jealous.

"That's the only name I intend to moan in such a way." He teased. "You need not worry about Sebastian."

Lucien knew Tamlin had that smug smile to make him jealous, that the blonde adored it when he was possessive and rough just as much as he did when the inverse was happening. Still, Lucien gave in to temptation, tightly pulling on Tamlin's long gold hair, bringing him close so he could speak in his ear.

"Don't you dare say another man's name when I'm the fucking you! The fact that he told you, that you were the only one he was the tender with, he wanted you as his husband! But no, I'm the only one who'll ever get that honor! Do you hear me?! I'm the only man who'll ever get to call you husband!"

Tamlin moaned in bliss as Lucien thrust deep into him as he stroked his already dripping cock. He couldn't hold back anymore and moaned loudly as he came for the eighth time along with Lucien.

Lucien could feel Tamlin grow tired in his arms so he helped him turn, now the blonde faced him, with absolute adoration and bliss in his green gaze.

"Tam? Was I too rough? Are you ok?"

"I'm fine, just tired. I forgot how hard you fucked me whenever you were jealous. I missed it."

Lucien chuckled. "Oh love, all you need to do is ask. I'll do whatever you like just to see you this enamored."

Tamlin smiled, kissing Lucien's hand. "As delightful as it is to have you, I want you to know that you're the only man I've ever loved and the one I want to spend forever with.

If things had been different I would've been willing to marry another to keep Prythian safe, but you're the only one my heart wanted."

Lucien helped him as they both washed themselves clean, he kept giving soft kisses to Tamlin as he washed the soap away and they both let the cold water soak them. "It's precisely because I know how much you would've given up for us that I worry.

Had he been able to claim you and keep you as his husband, I would've spent my days trying to free you."

"Sounds like a waste."

"No. Not for you. I'd do anything to keep you safe."

Tamlin smiled. "The feeling is mutual, my love."

Once their shower was done, Lucien picked Tamlin up and carried him to bed. "Since I was so rough, I'll be spoiling you for the rest of the evening."

"Lucky me. I'll return the favor come Calanmai."

"Oh, darling. I can't wait."

Melinoe Lethe was no stranger to the rumors about her.

That she wasn't half as poised as her predecessor, that Keir only chose her for her beauty as the ditzy woman didn't have much else to offer, that her parents were ashamed of her even though she married a much better match than what they wanted, and that for all the good grace she had from the female members of the court that she protected one day the High Lord would strike her down and they'd all laugh.

That last one did bother her. As she would choose any other painful death than to let the man she loathed more than anyone else strike her down, what would keep her worried would be those she often helped and to the surprise of many, her husband who'd she'd grown to love despite it all. But she wasn't going to let rumors deter her from her plans. Not when those who spoke of her would have to eat their words when she freed them all from the chains Rhysand's family put them on.

"You're spacing out and I'm only now spelling you," Cedric told her as he placed his equipment on the table.

"Sorry. I'm just nervous." She confessed as she lay down on the bed, looking at the device that Cedric placed beside her.

The Autumn Prince had offered to be her medic for the time being. This way they could pass information efficiently as no one suspected the quiet antisocial man, and their collaboration could keep Keir happy, as the steward believed that if one of the Autumn princes was on his side then maybe the grudges Morrigan sewed would be repaired. 'Bless him for being so optimistic, but I doubt Beron would ever forgive us.'

"Thought Keir might join us."

"Rhysand is trying to intimidate him for the umpteenth time this week. He wants the Darkbringers but even if he gets them I had them all unanimously agree to rebel. Keir does not know, so he'll play his part of the stern negotiator well."

"You're good for him. He might've caved if you weren't encouraging him to stay strong." Cedric commented as she lifted the top part of her dress and let him place his hand upon her tummy. "Now that Rhysand showed that he's willing to twist his words getting the steward's trust will prove difficult."

Oh, it made her rage. To remember that during the war Keir tried to get them all to be received in Velaris. And they thought he succeeded until no establishment would serve them at the behest of the High Lord, not even the slums would help. The only estate that defied Rhysand was the LeClairs. At least meeting them was the one good thing Rhysand's lies caused.

"Heh. I'm sure he claims we're the fools for trusting him yet he's always the one needing us...Fuckin' prick."

For all the suffering, she knew she was lucky. Her stepdaughter didn't rescue any other dreamers but she made sure to keep them dreaming, she had the wealth, she had the will, and f things went well, then she'd soon have the power to make all those dreams come true.

Cedric's hand glowed grey as an image appeared in the square device beside them. It was an image of her internal organs. The prince moved his hand until it settled on her womb.

"Congratulations, Milady. You're with child."

Her red eyes turned teary and she smiled. "I'm having a baby?"

"Yes! You have been blessed with a child!"

She couldn't help but sit up and hug the prince. He let her, until she had to settle back into her calm elegant role, which shattered as she saw her husband come into the room. He was covered in red gashes, and she knew just who made them.

"Keir!" Melinoe rushed to his side, as he had difficulty standing. She carefully helped palace him on the bed with Cedric's help.

"I'm sorry, my darling." He muttered as he winced in pain. "Ultimately I caved."

She took his hand and kissed it. "It's okay, my lord. You've withstood enough. Let us heal you."

"He said not to-"

"I do not care. We shall heal you. His word means nothing in this city."

Keir seemed hesitant but stayed quiet as both she and Cedric tended to his injuries.

Once he looked better, she tenderly placed her hands on his face and kissed him.

"My lord, the Mother has finally blessed us with a child."

He was surprised. His brown eyes quickly filled with tears as he sat up and placed his scared hand on her tummy. "Are you sure?"

"Positively sir, my spells never fail," Cedric answered for her, before bowing and preparing to leave. "Congrats." He said as he walked away leaving them alone in the room.

The pained expression her husband had upon arriving was now replaced with happy tears and a tender smile. He kissed her tummy and pulled her onto the bed with him. "Our child...we're having a child! Oh, Meli, I love you."

"I love you too, Kei."

Soon a new rumor would spark. That of the stewardess of Hewn City who bore the child of their leader, and for said child and said man she'd engage with battle with the inner circle of Night.

A battle she would no doubt win.