Chapter 517

The day that the High Lords and their Courts were due to arrive loomed closer, and Elain found that the energy within the Day Court seemed to rise to meet it. The days had begun to blur together for her as things were arranged, and Lucien seemed to be around less frequently as Helion had him running this or that errand or organising a handful of things for the upcoming event. She understood the need for it, but she didn't quite see why Lucien had to be the one doing it all and overseeing it all. Surely delegation was a part of being the Heir and she didn't quite understand why he wasn't able to just parcel out the tasks to others and share the load around. She knew that this was important, but she was missing her mate and she just wanted time with him.

Having told as much to Nesta, Elain lay on her back on the grass in her private garden and gave a theatrical sigh.

"Do you think," Nesta began, "That Helion is taking advantage of not having to oversee it all himself so that he can spend more of his time with Ashk?"

"Probably." Elain muttered, "Can't blame him, really." She wished that Lucien was able to do the same thing so that he could spend his time with her.

"He hasn't gotten to raise a youngling before, has he?"

"No." Elain replied, "Beron didn't let Ashk near Helion once he knew…"

"Makes sense."

"It must have been hard for her."

"No doubt." Nesta's voice was thoughtful and Elain glanced at her sister. Nesta lay on her back beside Elain, eyes closed and face turned up to the morning sun. "It would also explain Helion's excitement and the way that he tries to, at all costs, avoid leaving Ashk for even a few moments."

"He doesn't want to miss anything." Elain agreed, and then sighed again, "But I miss Lucien."

"He'll be back." Nesta said, not unkindly, "I imagine he will he holding on to you for the whole time that there are guests in the Court."

"I suppose so." Elain had to agree, "Especially after what happened here…" She smiled, despite the mention of the horrible events. If having more faeries in the Court sparked some protective instinct in Lucien that caused him to want to be with her every moment there were others around, then she would have absolutely no complaints. Even more so if Vassa accepted the invitation and was brought to the Day Court. It would be her own possessiveness in full force then, and she knew that she would then be unlikely to release her mate.

"Do you think they will all come?"

"I should think they would." Elain replied, thinking about all the High Lords. "None of them are on poor terms with anyone at the moment, and there is also the Trade Route issue to be considered. They need to check on that progress and agree on the next step. It's not just about fun."

"I hope it all goes to plan, then." Nesta muttered and Elain nodded her own agreement, watching some fluffy clouds skid across the sky.

"Yes," She murmured, "As do I." She smiled then again and nudged her sister with her foot. "And you can ask Viviane when you might visit the Winter Court. Although, unless she is already aware about your relationship with Cassian, I might keep that quiet."

"Why?" Nesta opened her eyes and turned her head Elain's way.

"The two of them are utter matchmakers and far too interested in the love lives of others."

"Oh, I see." Nesta nodded solemnly and closed her eyes, turning her face back toward the sun. "I should like to avoid that…"

"You can sure try." Elain snickered.