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lucysstoryworld · 1 year ago

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The Veil Whisperer | Azriel x Reader (1)

Summary: The aftermath of Bryce Quinlan's arrival has stirred up some trouble for the Night Court. After weeks of trying to resolve the issues on their own, the inner circle of the Night Court are left having to consult a dangerous female to complete the job much to Azriel's dismay.

Themes: Love/hate relationship, enemies to lovers kinda.

Warnings: CC3 SPOILERS, NSFW from the get-go, canon-typical violence, angst.

No use of (y/n). I might have gotten some info wrong about acotar and can't double check bc I gave my friend my books so pls be aware of that. I would also massively appreciate any criticism! I'm trying something new and would definitely appreciate any pointers of any kind!

Words: 3620 | Part Two Here

Azriel stood before his High Lord and Lady, frustrated and exhausted. Irritation was rippling off him in waves, his shadows swirling as though there were snakes poised to strike. Azriel was poised as though he was going to strike. The fresh spring wind had melded into the sweltering summer breeze since he had last been in Velaris. Gods he wished he could sit on one of the many balconies of the River House, with a whiskey and book in his arsenal. The feeling of the sun on his wings, the sweet scent of Elain’s garden being pushed around by the wind and the faint sound of Nyx cooing close by felt like a dreamscape away.

“So there’s nothing,” Rhys stated, more than asked.

Azriel felt his muscles tighten and his fists close. More than anything, he felt the tiredness weighing on his eyes as he furrowed his brows. The actions were so slight that, to the normal eye, they would go unnoticed. But to Rhys and Feyre, the actions were as obvious as the sky being blue. “Not even a trace,” He started, reigning in his annoyance. “My spies have tried, their connections have tried, I’ve tried and I can’t even pick up a hint of a track.”

Azriel wished he could go back in time and make Bryce undo whatever it is she did to the Prison during her impromptu visit. Azriel had spent the last number of weeks cleaning up after her. Or attempting to at least. Azriel watched as Rhys assessed the weight of his words, observed as he and Feyre spoke mind-to-mind.

Feyre lifted her chin. “So what we are faced with is that this is not something we can resolve…” she looked hesitantly toward Azriel, trying to lay the words delicately. Feyre very rarely saw Azriel so wound up. There had been glimpses in the war, like when Elain had been lured away by the cauldron. But this was a different ball game. Bryce had stirred up Prythian in her desperate attempt to save her world. Feyre could not fault the girl for that, no matter the swagger Bryce flaunted. But, they had been cleaning up, Azriel had been cleaning up the chaos she left behind. “Not on our own at least,” She finally finished.

Azriel struggled to move past the feelings of failure with his High Lady’s words. Though his bones were aching, his wings seemed heavier and heavier with each tick of the clock and his shadows now swirling lazily as if they were the embodiment of his exasperation, Azriel couldn’t help like feeling he could have done more. Like he could dig that little bit deeper to give his brother and Feyre some semblance of information. Anything, if it meant they wouldn’t have had that slightly disappointed look on their faces.

Azriel did not acknowledge Feyre’s words, instead picking a spot on the wall behind both of them. A pawn, ready to be ordered to their next position. Rhys could see his brother recessing. He remembered the time he saw Azriel again after the first wars, that same demeanour being mirrored right before his eyes. “We will discuss what to do later. You’ve been gone awhile, brother. Rest for a bit,” Rhys declared, and rested a hand on Azriel’s shoulder. A sliver of guilt snaked up Rhys’s spine when Azriel seemed to deflate slightly, as though he was prepared to go back into the field if he was ordered to. Azriel finally met the High Lord’s eyes, a silent thank you and apology all twisted into the gentle nod. We are grateful, Az,he whispered into his mind.

With that, Azriel left Feyre’s study. Walking the halls, Azriel debated saying hello to the members of his family that were in the River House. One would think that he would have been excited to see them. Typically, he would have. Though, this mission was particularly gruelling and with no result, the thought of disappointing anyone else on that day was the very last thing he wished to do. So, Azriel stopped in his tracks and winnowed to the House of Wind. Usually, he flew home so he could enjoy the sight of his home after a long mission like this but, it was an effort to keep his wings from dragging on the floor.

***

Steam billowed in the grand bathroom, so thick it was hard to determine where the steam began and Azriel's shadows ended. The aforementioned Illyrian warrior breathed a silent thanks to Nesta and her power for granting the House a consciousness. The bath was already drawn with various oils diffusing into the air by the time he left his knives down in his room. Slowly, Az began to peel his leathers from his aching body. Bit by bit, the articles fell away revealing the constellation of scars mixed with tattoos. Azriel stood bare before the mirror, studying the reflection before him. His eyes skimmed and paused a different points, though they were sure to keep clear of his hands. Scuffs of mud clung to Azriel's legs from the trenches he had to almost wade through, along with a few almost-healed scratches he acquired that morning. A few past battle wounds decorated his torso, the newest being from the arrow that had pierced his chest the day Nesta and Elain were Made. Averting his eyes, Azriel focused on his face instead. As if just taking his eyes away could take away from his failures of that day. Failing his High Lady and failing each of her two sisters was something that would take a few more years to be at peace with.

Azriel admittedly looked like shit. His hair was much longer than when he left, and he had done a few rough chops in the time that passed. Darkness underscored his eyes, and his skin looked like it had aged a few decades, if that was even possible. Azriel lowered himself into the almost blistering bath. A sigh loosed from deep within his chest, relief prickling across his skin like wildfire. Stretching his wings out in the water, his muscles relaxed from the weeks of pent of frustration. Azriel scrubbed gently, almost massaging his worn out body. The lavender and honey soap clung to the dips and bumps of his body. Gladness was all Azriel could feel. Finally, he felt like he was home. No disappointment or worry, just the pleasantness and serenity that Velaris promised. Azriel supposed the only thing that could possibly complete this scene would be a loving mate, massaging his scalp with her soft luscious legs wrapped around him from behind. Maybe she would kiss his neck, or whisper how much she loved him in his ear. The thought sent a rush of blood between his legs, arousal beginning to cloud Azriel's mind. Azriel gripped himself and began to pump slowly, thinking of how her body would push against his back. His head rolled back as he imagined her soft tits against his wings, her nipples grazing against the sensitive area close to the base. Suddenly, his hands were hers. Her fingers would be wrapped around his cock, stroking away his tough day as she kissed and nipped at his neck. Closer and closer, she would take him to the edge of ecstasy, running her thumb over the head of his cock. Shivers rippled through Azriel's body as he neared completion, his toes were curling as he felt his head became light. His mate would begin to lick at the spot on his neck that drove him wild, and her other hand would reach to lightly caress his wings. The thought of the sensation sent Azriel careening through his orgasm, spilling into the water around him.

With laboured breaths, Azriel got out of the bath. While he needed release, it seemed to highlight just how lonely he was feeling. How he wished the cauldron had blessed him with Elain that day, instead of matching her to Lucien. But alas, like always, he was not worthy of such a fate. Drying off, Azriel heard a slip of paper land on the vanity nearby. A letter from Rhys. Padding over to it, it read that there was a family dinner that evening to celebrate his return and have a discussion with everyone over what to do. Confirming his attendance, because with his dear brother it was always a choice, Azriel let the paper vanish into thin air. Until then, he was going to crawl into the mass of satin sheets and plush cushions that were seemingly screaming his name.

***

Rhysand or Feyre must have brought everyone else up to speed on Azriel's mission before he arrived because no one had asked about it and they were already three courses into dinner. He momentarily caught Feyre's eye, questioning her with a single glance. His High Lady merely winked and smiled, then returned her attention to the cooing babe in her arms. Trust Feyre to take care of their family in ways they didn't know they needed. Azriel allowed himself to sink in to the idle chatter, striking up a conversation with Nesta and Cassian, who looked as though they were about to have a domestic.

"I'm sure you'll be able to hold your own against me in a couple decades, Nes," Cassian teased and looked to Az for backup.

Nesta caught the bothers' exchange and directed her cutting glare to Azriel. "Well?" She calmly demanded, though like always, there was a cool fury ready to strike.

The Shadowsinger raised his arms, "Maybe when you can reanimate a skeleton and kill a Middengard Wrym with it, then perhaps you'd be able to hold your own against her," Azriel quipped, earning a satisfied humph from Nesta. Cassian chuckled, squeezing his mate's shoulder.

Mor, in true Morrigan fashion, used the allusion to recent events to bring up the topic that had been looming in the air since Azriel arrived. "So... how do you think we should tackle the escaped prisoner issue?" She asked everyone. Everyone halted their conversation, waiting to see what the others came up with. Azriel dipped his head slightly, embarrassed at his lack of answers.

Rhys sighed deeply, his brows knitting together. He kept his eyes trained on his hand, which was currently being toyed with by Nyx. He studied it for a moment, wishing he could be as innocent and oblivious as his son. "I was thinking that there might be one person left who would have the knowledge to track them," Rhys started. He was unsure, not enjoying the idea of what he was about to suggest.

Azriel seemed to catch on and he couldn't help the scoff and eyeroll. Elain looked between the two brothers, "What?" She asked, wariness prickling down her arms. Elain had never seen Az so tired and irritable than this evening. It had to be bad, for Azriel to act so animated compared to his usual demeanour.

"Nothing," Azriel nearly spat, "It's nothing because we are not going to see her."

A collective realisation occurred across the original members of the inner circle, and more confusion within the Archeron sisters. Everyone's reaction was different. Mor frowned, Amren remained unsurprisingly indifferent and Cassian puffed a breath out of his cheeks. "Amren, will you explain please?" Feyre asked, clearly not in the mood for dramatics.

"The 'her' they are referring to is a female gifted with a magic long since purged from this world," Amren explained. "She is known in this land as the Veil Whisperer. The Veil Whisperer has been known to exchange services in return for hefty bargains, some of which has left those who have availed worse off than before they struck the deal."

"This sounds like it is ill-advised," Elain replied, rubbing her hands over her arms.

"It is ill-advised," Azriel affirmed, sticking Rhys with a hard glare.

Squaring his shoulders, Rhys did not yield. "Does anyone have a better solution?" He asked everyone, though his eyes remained on Azriel's.

"I hate to say it, Az, but Rhys could be right. We are in under our heads here," Mor added. "I don't like it either, but what other options do we have?"

"Why don't we ask our friends in other courts? Maybe Helion could offer us something we don't have?" Nesta questioned.

"We didn't tell any of the other courts about Bryce's arrival or what she did when she was here. We would have to explain that in order to explain why we are in this predicament." Cassian's words breathed a sense of awareness across the table. Of course they couldn't ask for help. Not without creating tension and distrust with their friends and fraying what little lines they had with other courts.

"So we are on our own in this," Elain began tentatively. "If we do attempt to solicit this Veil Whisperer, who's to say she will accept the job?" Azriel felt gratitude towards the middle sister for the support.

"Rhysand has only had dealings with the Veil Whisperer on a very limited amount of issues. Each time, her price is different than what she is typically known for," Amren's voice was unforgiving.

"I have only heeded her services a handful of times, for very specific reasons," Rhys told the sisters, Nyx's eyes began to lull as he nestled into his mother's chest. "I asked her to hide my mother's ring in a place that would be hard to get it out of."

Feyre's lips straightened into a line, and she met Rhysand's eyes, and damn... if looks could kill, the High Lord would be dead five times over. "I thought you put the ring into the Weaver's cottage yourself," Feyre stated, a slight hiss in her tone as her jaw clenched.

Cassian had to conceal his grin as Rhys looked at Feyre apologetically. "Not exactly," his brother began, and a barely muffled snort erupted from the general. "You remember that my mother wanted it to be a challenge. The only person I thought could be creative enough to hide it would be her... and I was right," Rhys explained and shot his brother a glare, returned only by a smug Cheshire smile.

"So you let this Veil Whisperer do your dirty work then." Trust Nesta to not pass up the opportunity to gain the upper hand.

Cassian outright cackled at his mate's criticism, "Nes has got you there, brother!"

"No, Nesta," Rhys challenged. Things had not been completely amicable between Rhys and Nesta since she gave away the Mask to Bryce. "I do not let her do my dirty work. Let's not join in on discussions you couldn't possibly have any understanding on."

"Rhys," Feyre warned.

The warning went unheard, as Nesta tipped her chin -- a tell-tale sign that she was about to enter battle. "No, what understanding could I possibly have. Surely no one else in this room has superior knowledge to their High Lord," She spat. Tension began to thicken in the room, like a fine soup. "Well, unless that 'understanding' matches your own. Gods forbid anyone truly disagree with you... Rhys." Nesta's eyes narrowed and when she saw her words had hit their mark, a smirk tugged at her lips.

"Well, now that we're totally off topic," Mor drawled. "Anyone fancy another drink?"

"She's right," Feyre sighed. Rhysand broke his staring competition with Nesta, anger coiling in his gut. "We need to make a decision on if we are going to approach her or not."

"What price does she typically demand?" Elain questioned.

"For my mother's ring, she demanded a specific tea." Rhys looked at everyone but skipped over Nesta. "I thought she took mercy on me. But no, this tea comes from a particular plant that grows in the Bog of Oorid, and happens to be protected by the Kelpies." Everyone looked reasonably put-off, Nesta particularly whose mate pulled her hand into his own. "Not to mention that it is poisonous in its plant form so I had trek back to the Whisperer's dwelling feeling like death warmed up."

Elain frowned, her mind trickling through her knowledge to determine which plant could have possibly debilitated the High Lord of Night. "She didn't tell you that it would do that?" Elain already knew her answer.

"No," Azriel finally spoke. "The Veil Whisperer is a master of manipulation. Everything that leaves her mouth has an ulterior meaning. Lies hidden within lies. You won't know the truth unless she wants you to. Not telling Rhys about the tea was her way of showing that she can down him in ways he would never even think of, without even a touch of her magic. She is a snake and jumping into this with her is stupid," He finished with a grunt.

"Have you ever seen her magic?" Nesta asked the table.

To the sisters' surprise, everyone shook their head. Nesta raised a brow at Amren, thinking out of anyone she would have seen it. "I do not enter into bargains with the likes of her," Amren stated as though it was obvious. "And I have never been in her presence. She does not participate in war, under any circumstances. Though I have heard that she works with other... deities. A rumour, but a dangerous one to float in these lands." Everyone remained silent at that little bit of information, not entirely sure on how to digest it, let alone comment on it.

"All this being said... I don't see any other viable option," Mor declared. The lack of argument was agreement enough.

"So how should we go about this?" Feyre asked. She hated instances like these. As High Lady, she should be able to provide solutions for her friends and family but her overall lack of old age inhibited her in these niche situations.

"The Veil Whisperer lives in the Middle. Azriel and I will go there tomorrow and ask her if she wants the job."

Before Azriel could even protest his involvement, Amren cut in, "She will want this job. She will gain information that she can work to her advantage, and that says nothing of her asking price. Tread carefully, boy." The warning was not taken lightly. Rhys dipped his chin, though his mind seemed a million miles away.

Feeling his social battery wearing quicker than usual, Azriel declined any offer of further drinking and decided to return to the House of Wind. Though he gave the excuse of being tired, which he was, he caught the look in Elain's eyes. The look that screamed that she could see right through the excuse. Whether it was her seer abilities or that she had come to pick up on Azriel's subtle giveaways, he was unsure. Feeling the need to fly off some of his stress, Azriel made for one of the balconies. Though the aforementioned middle Archeron sister followed him to the terrace. "You don't have to go. You can stay and talk, if you wish." The kindness and observation rattled Azriel's chest. He had never experienced a female be so attentive and caring toward him before. Not one he also cared for anyways.

His shadows began reaching for Elain, slithering and weaving affectionately. "Thank you, Elain. I'm okay for now, I will sleep it off. But I appreciate the offer." Well, it meant something to him but that didn't mean her gesture was enough for him to emotionally offload onto her.

Frowning ever so slightly, Elain's shoes clicked on the polished marble as she shortened the gap between herself and the Shadowsinger. Gingerly, she reached for his gloved hand and squeezed gently. "I hope you know that I truly mean that. There is nothing so severe that it should be shouldered by you alone."

Azriel brushed her cheek with his free hand, unable to stop the smile that tugged on his lips. "And I truly appreciate that, thank you Elain. Your kindness is beautiful, I truly hope it never pales." He said by way of a goodbye and backed away from her blushing face, stretching his wings. He could tell she wanted to stop him but he launched himself from the balcony before she had the courage to respond. Azriel felt like an ass, pushing her away when she was trying. He often found himself slipping under Elain's spell of sweetness and beauty, yet something in the back of his mind always reeled him back to reality. He desperately wished it wouldn't, he ached for the companionship both his brothers had. Though it seemed the Mother had different plans for Azriel... if she has any at all Azriel often thought to himself.

Azriel pushed all thoughts from his head and soared higher and higher, testing his limits as the air thinned around him and became harder to fly through. Up and up, closer and closer. Then, his wings stilled and curled around him. The descent was vicious, the earth was pulling Azriel down with a fury. The air whipped past the Shadowsinger, and finally, his mind felt empty. In that moment, Azriel was nothing more than a drop of rain from a cloud, falling from grace. Opening his eyes, the lights that dusted Velaris like golden glitter inched nearer. And just as they went from specks of stardust on the ground to discernible buildings and faelights dotted along the river, Azriel finally opened his wings and levelled off. Adrenaline coursed through his blood and finally shook the cobwebs that felt adhered to his bones. Azriel soared across the sky, allowing his thoughts and feelings to ebb and flow through him.

And when he eventually touched down, Azriel felt prepared for tasks laid out before him. Felt prepared to come face-to-face with the Veil Whisperer.

Part Two Here

#azriel x reader #azriel shadowsinger #azriel x you #azriel angst #acotar azriel #morrigan acotar #cassian acotar #amren acotar #cc hofas #acotar #a court of thorns and roses #nesta archeron #feyre archeron #acotar fandom #a court of silver flames #nessian #elain archeron

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1800naveen · 6 months ago

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I feel so bad for people who read Acotar for the first time and talk about how they love Tamlin just for some dumbass to go

"Umm, just wait until you get to the second book!🤓"

Just wait until my foot is up your ass, shut the hell up.

Y'ALL GOTTA LET PEOPLE ENJOY THINGS, DON'T RUIN IT!!

I unfortunately was not so lucky when I first read the series BUT I still like Tamlin so...

Anyways, check out this fanart of Tamlin because I love it and they're currently reading the book series! This post below inspired me to make this post because someone commented "Girl..."

Girl....if you don't shut the fuck up🤨

(Also, if the op sees this post, I'M SO SO SORRY and I hope you have fun with the books and characters! And PLEASE stay away from spoilers.)

#acotar #tamlin #pro tamlin #anti acotar fandom

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emilystheories · 1 year ago

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The Bryce and Azriel theory.

Matching weapons, ancient prophecies, dusk, and true equals.

Before you scroll away or block (which I totally understand if you do anyway - you are entitled to curate your own experience on here!), please note that I am not trying to convert anyone to this ship. I am fully aware that most people in the fandom are in favour of Gwynriel, Elriel, Elucien, and/or Quinlar, and I 100% respect those preferences.

I am also not saying this is canon, or will be canon - it's a theory. However, I very rarely (if ever) see people correctly talk about the actual evidence for the Bryce x Az pairing, especially when they're mocking it as nothing more than a 'crackship.' Given the sheer size of this post (and the fact that it took me weeks to put together), it's no surprise that I disagree with such a sentiment.

Feel free to form your own opinion on the matter; I only ask that you keep an open mind. And if that's not possible, then at the very least, I hope this is still an entertaining read, as it breaks down a sizeable chunk of the SJM multiverse.

(So, evidently: SJM universe spoilers ahead).

[art by Gabrielle Ragusi].

To begin: Bryce's connections to dusk.

Throughout both Crescent City books, Bryce is repeatedly connected to dusk. For example:

Bryce's scent is of dusk.

One of the first things Hunt notices about Bryce is that her scent is of the "first stars at nightfall." Nightfall is another word for dusk. This is important, as SJM often uses scent to foreshadow a character's true home (e.g. Rowan's scent being of Terrasen).

"She's here," Hunt said. The scent of her still lingering on the sidewalk, lilac and nutmeg and something he couldn't quite place - like the gleam of the first stars at nightfall."

Bryce is repeatedly associated with dusk imagery.

For example, Bryce often has her nails painted in "twilight" colours (again, another word for dusk), and even her damn nipples are described as being "dusk rose."

"She examined her nails, now painted in some sort of color gradient that went from pink to periwinkle tips. Like the sky at twilight."

Bryce is obsessed with pegasuses and unicorns (which originated from the Dusk Court).

Bryce has been obsessed with pegasus dolls (i.e. Jelly Jubilee!) since book 1; they are iconic to her character. In fact, there is a unicorn-pegasus hidden on the cover of every Crescent City book (see image below).

It's then no coincidence that the pegasuses in Prythian came from the Prison Island... the Dusk Court.

"According to legend, the pegasuses had come from the island the Prison sat upon—"

"Dusk's Truth"

The entirety of Crescent City 2 centred around "Dusk's Truth," which was confirmed to be about the Dusk Court. This logically implies that dusk (and the Dusk Court) is a pivotal aspect of Bryce's storyline.

This is also why I believe that Bryce's entrance into Prythian isn't just a fun cameo, nor a brief, temporary visit (as many seem to believe) -- instead, all roads point to dusk.

"An isle of near-permanent twilight, the home world of her breed of Fae … A land of Dusk." “Dusk’s Truth,” Bryce breathed. It wasn’t just the name of this room that Danika had been talking about with Sofie."

Bryce is also connected to Prythian.

As much as people try to deny this (for reasons I still don't understand), Bryce is strongly connected to the ACOTAR world, and this has been heavily foreshadowed all along. For example:

Bryce is the true owner of Gwydion; the High King of Prythian's sword.

Crescent City 2 makes clear that Bryce is the true owner of the Starsword (or Gwydion, as it is known in the ACOTAR world).

"He snarled. "The sword belongs to Theia's female heir. Not the male offspring who corrupted her line."

But, this isn't just any sword - it's the sword of the first and only High King of Prythian.

In ACOSF, Amren states that Rhys could use Nesta's "made" swords to set himself up as High King. So, what does that mean for Bryce, who owns the real deal?

“But you, Rhysand, are not.” Amren nodded to the still-rotating weapons. “With these three blades, you could make yourself High King.”

Bryce literally glows for Prythian.

Bryce possesses a star on her chest that is a "beacon" to Prythian; its purpose is to guide people home to the ACOTAR world.

As such, Bryce literally glows and lights up for Prythian. Not Midgard. Prythian.

"The star on your chest - do you know what that is?" "Let's assume I know nothing," Bryce said grimly. Rigelus inclined his head. "It's a beacon to the world from which the Fae originally came."

Bryce possesses the exact starlight of Theia; the rightful queen of the Starborn fae in Prythian.

The star inside of Bryce's chest is that of Queen Theia's. Bryce's starlight is Theia's starlight. It's even suggested that Bryce possesses the same powers that Theia once did (though, she hasn't yet accessed said powers). It's for this reason that many believe that Bryce is the reincarnation of Queen Theia.

“I thought Theia’s light was forever extinguished.” “So did I. I thought they’d made sure she and her power died on that last battlefield under Prince Pelias’s blade.” His eyes glowed with ancient rage. “But Bryce Quinlan bears her light.”

But Theia wasn't just any old queen. Instead, she was the queen of the Starborn fae in Prythian (with it being hinted that she once ruled the Dusk Court).

As such, I find it hard to believe that the land (and the Cauldron) won't recognise this; that Theia (Bryce) has come home at last.

“I remember the last Starborn Queen, Theia, and her powers.” He seemed to shudder."

[art by AnaSebag].

Putting two and two together; Bryce is likely the future High Lady of the Dusk Court.

At the end of CC2, Rigelus confirmed that Bryce's bloodline - the Starborn fae - not only originated from Prythian, but specifically lived in a "land of dusk."

"An isle of near-permanent twilight, the home world of her breed of Fae... A land of Dusk."

Putting all the clues together across both the ACOTAR and CC books, this is likely in reference to the Dusk Court. ACOTAR readers will know this as the Prison Island (which was suggested to be the "eighth court").

"Rhys told me once that this island might have even been an eighth court.”

In linking with this, when Nesta visits the Prison Island (Dusk Court) in ACOSF, she senses that "something great" had once existed here, but seemingly vanished. However, she then states that the land "still waited for it to return." Many agree that this is in reference to Bryce and the Starborn fae.

"The very land seemed abandoned. Like something great had once existed here and then vanished. Like the land still waited for it to return."

However, now that Bryce has indeed returned to the Dusk Court (or is about to in CC3); I believe that her presence will awaken the Dusk Court once more, and what was vanished, will return.

As foreshadowing of this, recall this scene in CC1:

"The gentle illumination danced on Bryce’s hair as she ambled down the stone path, night-blooming flowers opening around her. Jasmine lay heavy in the twilight air, sweet and beckoning." "Bryce didn’t flinch as he dropped into step beside her. “I wanted some fresh air.” She admired an unfurling fern, its fronds lit from within to illuminate every vein." "She continued past beds of night crocuses, their purple petals shimmering amid the vibrant moss. The garden seemed to awaken for her, welcome her."

Bryce is walking through a garden. As she continues walking, flowers open around her, and ferns unfurl in her presence. Hunt remarks that it's as if the garden "seemed to awaken" for Bryce.

And the kicker is; as this was happening, Bryce was walking though the "twilight air." This scene occurred during dusk.

Let's also not forget that the star on Bryce's chest is that of an eight-pointed star; the symbol of the Starborn fae (the same symbol engraved on the Prison Island floor, as shown in ACOSF). As a comparison, that's like Rhys having the Night Court insignia branded on his chest... it's rather overt foreshadowing.

“Well,” she said with a sigh, “that’s new.” Indeed, just visible down the V-neck of her T-shirt, a white splotch—an eight-pointed star—now scarred the place between her breasts."

Combined with the fact that Bryce is the heir to the Starborn fae, that she possesses Queen Theia's starlight, that she glows for Prythian, and that even her scent is of dusk... there's no one better suited (and heavily foreshadowed) to rule the Dusk Court, than Bryce Quinlan.

"Homecoming."

As we know, Bryce has now just arrived in the true home world of her people: Prythian.

"An isle of near-permanent twilight, the home world of her breed of Fae... A land of Dusk."

The instance of returning back home is known as a "homecoming."

"Homecoming" [noun]: an instance of returning home. (e.g. "she spent most of the day preparing for her husband's homecoming.")

And, that's exactly what SJM (curiously) labelled this image on her Pinterest board for Bryce.

Many believe this image to look like Bryce and Azriel (especially when SJM could have labelled it "Bryce and Hunt," which she happily did for the other photos on her CC Pinterest board...), and thus, the Bryce x Azriel theory begins.

The knife and the sword.

In the first Crescent City book, we are told of an ancient fae prophecy; "when knife and sword are reunited, so shall our people be."

"It's another of the Fae's countless inane prophecies," Bryce muttered. "When knife and sword are reunited, so shall our people be." "It's literally carved above the Fae Archives entrance - whatever the fuck it means," Ruhn said."

We now know that this prophecy is referring to Azriel's knife (Truth-Teller) and Bryce's sword (the Starsword). Keep in mind that SJM could have connected this prophecy to any number of characters, but she specifically chose Bryce and Azriel.

Additionally, we are also told that the knife and sword need to stay together in order to activate their full powers. Given the importance of these weapons in defeating the Asteri/Daglan, this suggests that Bryce and Azriel will also need to stay together in some capacity.

"Ruhn shook his head. "The sword doesn't work like that. Aside from being picky about who draws it, the sword has no power without the knife."

[art by itswibell_art]

Azriel as Starborn.

The Starsword (Gwydion) is a Starborn weapon, as only those with enough Starborn blood can wield it.

"Ruhn shook his head. "The sword doesn't work like that. Aside from being picky about who draws it, the sword has no power without the knife."

Given that Truth-Teller is the twin to the Starsword, this suggests that the knife is also a Starborn weapon. And, the fact that Azriel can wield it, implies that he too is Starborn (or at least connected in some capacity).

This is further substantiated in CC2, in which we learn that the Starborn fae aren't just those with starlight powers, but shadow powers too. This was confirmed by Cormac, who stated that the ability to wield shadows (and teleport through them) was once a gift of the Starborn fae.

"But Hunt didn't so much as sniff as he asked Cormac, "Where did you inherit the ability from?" Cormac squared his shoulders, ever inch the proud prince as he said, "It was once a gift of the Starborn. It was the reason I became so... focused on attaining the Starsword."

In fact, Cormac believed that because he could teleport using his shadows, this was an indication that the Starborn bloodline had resurfaced in him. However, this wasn't true; he had "some Starborn blood," but not enough to be "worthy of the blade."

"I thought my ability to teleport meant that the bloodline had resurfaced in me, as I've never met anyone else who can do it." His eyes guttered as he added, "As you know, I was wrong. Some Starborn blood, apparently, but not enough to be worthy of the blade."

But, do you know who can also use their shadows to teleport...? Azriel.

And, do you know who else has been "deemed worthy" and can wield a "Starborn blade" (i.e. Truth-Teller)? Azriel.

[art by cludi_a_]

Bryce + Azriel = Dusk Court.

The crux of this theory is that with their matching weapons and connections to the Starborn narrative, Bryce and Azriel represent the two halves of the Dusk Court.

This is because dusk is the crossover between the light and the dark.

This is further exemplified by SJM's own definition of dusk, as seen in Throne of Glass:

"Nightfall. That was when Maeve had told Erawan to meet. That liminal space between light and dark, when one force yielded to another."

As such, Bryce is light, and Azriel is dark. This is evidenced by their powers:

Bryce's power is pure starlight.

Azriel's power is pure shadows (in comparison to other characters, who have shadow powers + something else).

Further, and perhaps most importantly; Bryce and Azriel's weapons also symbolise this same dusk imagery:

Bryce's sword (the Starsword), glows with a GLITTERING, WHITE LIGHT (as if symbolising starlight).

Azriel's knife (Truth-Teller), glows with a DARK LIGHT (as if symbolising shadows).

"It was its twin. The Starsword began to hum within its sheath, glittering white light leaking from where leather met the dark hilt. The dagger - The male dropped the dagger to the plush carpet. All of them retreated as it flared with dark light."

Bryce (starlight) + Azriel (shadows) = Dusk.

And I mean, look at that dusk imagery on the CC3 cover (when the previous two covers were just solid red and black...).

(I'll also point out that the sword and knife are featured on this cover, with the knife right over the woman's heart...)

Alpha and Omega.

Further, Bryce's sword and Azriel's knife - together - is described as "Alpha and Omega."

"The male dropped the dagger to the plush carpet. All of them retreated as it flared with dark light, as if in answer. Alpha and Omega."

This term means "the beginning and the end."

"Alpha and Omega" [noun]: "the beginning and ending."

Which, is also a term that SJM often uses to describe love, or mated couples. For example, Feyre and Rhys:

"and saw and smelled that bond between us, until our scents merged, and I was his and he was mine, and we were the beginning and the middle and the end."

And this quote here, from Throne of Glass:

"She would find that love again—one day. And it would be deep and unrelenting and unexpected, the beginning and the end and eternity, the kind that could change history, change the world."

Additionally, when the weapons are finally together at the end of CC2, it's said that Azriel's knife glowed "in answer" to Bryce's sword.

"The male dropped the dagger to the plush carpet. All of them retreated as it flared with dark light, as if in answer."

They are matching halves.

Bryce and Azriel as rulers.

Given everything mentioned thus far, I believe that Bryce and Azriel are destined to become the High Lady and High Lord of the Dusk Court.

But, I actually think it goes one step further than this, and it has to do with Bryce's likely rule as High Queen of Prythian. As proof of this:

SJM is drawing from Arthurian mythology, and Bryce is King Arthur.

Throughout both Crescent City books, there are a number of nods to Arthurian mythology. Most obviously is Avallen Island (where Cormac lives), which is likely inspired by the renowned Avalon Island.

In fact, Ruhn retrieving the Starsword from the Avallen caves (and being "deemed worthy" to "pull the sword from its sheath") seemingly parallels King Arthur being deemed worthy of the famous sword, Excalibur, and thus being able to pull the sword from the stone.

"That your son, not you, stood among the long-dead Starborn Princes asleep in their sarcophagi and was deemed worthy to pull the sword from its sheath."

However, as mentioned previously; CC2 makes very clear that the Starsword belongs to Theia's "female heir." The Starsword belongs to Bryce.

As such, I believe that in this series, King Arthur is actually represented by Bryce. And, as further proof of this, consider Rigelus's words at the end of CC2; that Bryce's star glows for those she chooses as her "knights."

"It also glows for those who you choose as your loyal companions. Knights."

Just like King Arthur's own knights; the famed Knights of the Round Table.

King Arthur was the High King of Great Britain. And, Prythian is in the shape of Great Britain.

Putting two and two together, could this suggest that Bryce will become the High Queen of Prythian?

2. Bryce has the High King's sword.

As mentioned previously, Bryce is the true owner of the Starsword (Gwydion). The same sword that the High King of Prythian once wielded long ago. That alone is heavy foreshadowing.

3. Bryce is repeatedly foreshadowed as a queen.

For example, Hunt often notices Bryce's queenly demeanour:

"She spoke with the imperiousness of a queen. Hunt could only rise with her."

And even the contact name for Bryce in Hunt's phone is "Bryce Is a Queen."

Ruhn also implores Bryce to become queen:

"But you have to live, Bryce. You have to be queen."

To which Cormac agrees, stating that the decision to lead their people forward, will be up to Bryce:

"But after today..." Cormac's words grew heavy. Weary. "I think the choice about whether to lead our people forward will be up to you now."

Additionally, SJM often uses the phrase "lifted their chin" when someone is signifying their authority (e.g. "she lifted her chin, every inch the queen"). Then when Bryce meets Feyre and Rhys, the same term is used:

"So Bryce addressed the two of them as she lifted her chin. “My name is Bryce Quinlan.”

And most of all, is Ruhn's final words to Bryce:

"Her brother pulled away. And Ruhn said, shining with pride, “Long live the queen.”

(Speaking of Ruhn, recall his prophecy from the Oracle; that the royal bloodline ends with him. Considering that he is connected to both the Valbaran and Avallen royal houses, this suggests that there won't be any 'queen positions' left for Bryce to take in Midgard. But, there might be in Prythian...)

4. Bryce has Queen Theia's starlight (and likely her same powers).

Again, as mentioned previously, Theia ruled in Prythian (with some even believing that she was High Queen).

If it's bloodline alone that determines who would be High King/Queen (as Amren appears to suggest in ACOSF), then again, as Bryce is the true heir to the Starborn fae, placing her at spot #1.

5. Bryce glows for the ACOTAR world.

The star in Bryce's chest glows for Prythian. She is a beacon for Prythian. That's queen symbolism right there.

6. Bryce is a main character.

It is a well-known fact that all of SJM's leading ladies rise to power; Aelin as Queen of Terrasen, and Feyre as High Lady of the Night Court.

And, although I have heard some solid theories suggesting that Rhys or Lucien may become High King... it's also a well-known fact that SJM loves a female ruler (especially when Prythian is already so overly patriarchal).

Bryce, however, would be perfect.

[art by Gabrielle Ragusi]

7. Lastly, and perhaps the most important of all: Bryce is foreshadowed to unite the worlds.

Notably, the last High King (Fionn) rose to power because he united the people of Prythian.

"A millennium of peace followed, and the lands were divided into rough territories that were the precursors to the courts—but at the end of those thousand years, they were at each other’s throats, on the brink of war.” His face tightened. “Fionn unified them and set himself above them as High King. The first and only High King this land has ever had.”

Bryce is foreshadowed to do the same, as per that same ancient fae prophecy; "when knife and sword are reunited, so shall our people be" (and, this is where Azriel comes in).

Although this prophecy can be interpreted in a variety of ways, I believe it to mean that Bryce and Azriel will reunite the Starborn fae, lost across two worlds (Midgard and Prythian). A unification of people... just as Fionn once achieved.

Now, it is theorised that Bryce and Azriel will continue this legacy, as High Queen and High King. In doing so:

Bryce will represent the Midgardian fae, Azriel will represent the Prythian fae.

Bryce will represent starlight, Azriel will represent shadows. Light and dark. Dusk.

Together, Bryce and Azriel are two halves of whole. Alongside their weapons - which are also matching halves - you can't get anymore equal than that.

As mates are supposed to be.

A common rebuttal to this theory, however, is the belief that Azriel "doesn't have what it takes" to become a High Lord or a High King -- that he is inferior to other contenders (such as the likes of Feyre and Rhys).

Yet, I'd argue that the one character who could match up to Feyre and Rhys (and has foreshadowing hinting as such; power-wise)... would be Azriel. For example:

With Feyre (ACOSF):

“Give me some credit, Feyre,” Az said. “I can keep hidden well enough.” “We take no risks,” Feyre said, voice flat with command. “Pull all your spies out.” “Like hell I will.”

With Rhys (ACOFAS):

“And what would you have me do, then? Disband the largest army in Prythian?” Az didn’t answer. I held his gaze, though. Held that ice-cold stare that still sometimes scared the shit out of me."

“You sure about that?” I asked quietly. Azriel’s Siphons guttered, the stones turning as dark and foreboding as the deepest sea. “Where did Lucien go.” I straightened at the pure order in the words."

Az nodded knowingly. He’d always understood me best—more than the others. Save my mate. Whether it was his gifts that allowed him to do so, or merely the fact that he and I were more similar than most realized, I’d never learned.

With Rhys (ACOSF; the bonus chapter):

"Azriel stiffened. Let his cold rage rise to the surface, the rage he only ever let Rhysand see, because he knew his brother could match it."

Similarly, it is also argued that Azriel would "never leave the Night Court." Yet, take it from Azriel himself; that he too is not sure where he truly fits in.

"I don’t really know where I fit in anymore,” I admitted, perhaps only because the wind was screeching around us and Rhys had already winnowed ahead to where Cassian’s dark form flew—beyond the wall. “I’ve been alive almost five and a half centuries, and I’m not sure of that, either,” Azriel said."

Combined with Azriel's disdain for the Illyrians and their culture (and the fact that when Az refers to the Illyrians, he will often say "they/them" as opposed to "we/us"...) could it be that something else is in store for Azriel's future?

Especially when we know Azriel has always been so curious about what lies beyond...

"At the far end of the room, a little dais led into a broad raised alcove flanked by more books—and in its center, a massive, working model of their world, the stars and planets around it, and some other fancy things that had been explained to Cassian once before he deemed them boring and proceeded to ignore them completely. Az, of course, had been fascinated."

Bryce and Azriel's beast forms.

If Bryce and Azriel are indeed set to become High Lady and High Lord of the Dusk Court, then they will presumably possess beast forms.

To expand on this, in a recent Marie Claire interview (August 2023), SJM stated that her favourite place to write is her desk, where she's surrounded by the things that remind her of the current book she's writing.

SJM: "I like to write at my desk, where I'm surrounded by lots of little items that remind me of either the book I'm writing, or things that just make me happy."

SJM then mentioned that when writing House of Flame and Shadow, she kept a vintage My Little Pony pegasus figure that was the inspiration for Jelly Jubilee.

SJM: "While writing House of Flame and Shadow, for instance, I had a vintage My Little Pony figure with me that was the inspiration for Bryce's beloved Jelly Jubilee!"

Then, when SJM announced the title of Crescent City 3, we were offered a glimpse of her desk, and sure enough - that vintage My Little Pony figure is right there.

But most importantly, this tells us that the items featured in this video aren't just random, but are instead (part of) the inspiration for House of Flame and Shadow.

Which then begs the question; what is the Godzilla toy hinting at? Well, the only connection I have been able to make... is to Azriel.

As proof of this, recall that in ACOMAF, Azriel's Siphon is described as being the "great eye" of a "half-slumbering beast" from a "frozen wasteland."

"I watched the light shift inside the sapphire Siphon instead, as if it were the great eye of some half-slumbering beast from a frozen wasteland."

This description matches Godzilla almost perfectly; who is an ancient monster, often slumbering at the bottom of the ocean, and also often frozen within ice.

And, if Azriel's Siphons are supposed to be reminiscent of the "great eye" of this beast, then it's perhaps no coincidence that Godzilla is famed for his blue, glowing eyes.

Similarly, Godzilla's atomic breath manifests as blue fire (which is what you can see coming out of the mouth of SJM's own Godzilla toy).

Coincidentally (or perhaps not), Azriel - and specifically his Siphons - are repeatedly described as blue flame.

"The shadows deepened around Ariel, his Siphons gleaming like cobalt fire."

"Azriel caught his eye. Rhys nodded. The Siphons atop his scarred hands flickered like rippling blue fire as he reached for the Attor."

"Illyrian lines buckled. Azriel sailed closer and closer to them, Siphons trailing tendrils of blue flame in his wake."

In linking with this, I have also theorised that Bryce has a beast form, and that hers will be a unicorn-pegasus (as outlandish as that may sound, it's one of my most well-received theories; link here).

Thus, I believe that the pegasus and Godzilla toys on SJM's desk in the CC3 reveal video, are symbolic of Bryce and Azriel.

Bryce and Azriel meeting for the first time.

When CC2 first came out, people started shipping Bryce and Azriel based on their first interaction alone. Some even noted that Azriel acted in a particularly uncharacteristic manner towards Bryce; he touched her repeatedly, and seemingly showed more emotion (or rather, a lack of composure) than what is usual. For example:

"He hissed, and then a strong hand clamped on her shoulder, hauling her up and twisting her to face him."

"The male’s hands were gentle but thorough as he fitted it tightly over her eyes."

"He set her down, taking her by the hand."

"He caught her, and sighed. She could have sworn he sounded … exasperated. He gave no warning as he hauled her over a shoulder and tromped down a set of stairs."

(It is argued that this is because Bryce is a danger/threat; but if that was true, then why would Azriel take Bryce to the townhouse?)

To me, the last line is the most significant. Azriel is usually calm and collected. He is polite and respectful towards women. Yet within only a couple of minutes, he is already frustrated and "exasperated" with Bryce, and he immediately chucks her over his shoulder.

[art by Paint Faery]

And speaking of parallels to other couples, Azriel and Bryce meeting for the first time seemingly shares many parallels with Feyre and Rhys meeting for this first time:

As well as parallels to Elide and Lorcan meeting for the first time:

And although this is more of a fun tidbit (one I acknowledge is definitely a reach), it's interesting that in ACOSF, we are told that mating ceremonies are commemorated using black ribbons.

"But all that mattered, she realized, was the male who would be standing with her, first as they swore their vows, then as they offered each other food, and then as their friends and family bound their hands together with a length of black ribbon, to remain until the mating was consummated.

Then, this is what Azriel does as soon as he meets Bryce...

[art by witchlingsart]

It's also interesting to note that when SJM was asked about her "favourite part" of HOSAB (in an interview with Entertainment Today), she answered the "penultimate chapter," where "a lot of major things come together for Bryce."

Interviewer: "What is your favorite part of House of Sky and Breath?" SJM: "The penultimate chapter - where a lot of major things come together for Bryce!"

SJM is referring to the very chapter mentioned above; when Bryce meets Azriel and the Inner Circle.

Bryce was "yanked" into Prythian.

Speaking of the penultimate chapter of HOSAB (and the events leading up to it), we know that Bryce originally intended to travel to Hel. However, her journey to the underworld was interrupted, as Bryce was instead "yank[ed]" into Prythian.

"It was the last sound Bryce heard as the darkness within the Gate swallowed her whole. She fell, slowly and without end—and sideways. Not a plunge down, but a yank across."

The definition of "yank," is pull, or tug. And, it is a word frequently used when SJM is describing the mating bond. For example, with Feyre and Rhys:

"No sign of him. No pound of beating wings. But the tug yanked again in my mind, my gut - a summoning. Like some servant's bell."

As such, fans of the Bryce x Az ship often speculate that Bryce was "yanked" into Prythian, right at Azriel's feet, because of their (yet to be discovered) mating bond.

Mor and Azriel = Bryce and Azriel.

It is widely accepted in the fandom that SJM initially intended for Mor and Azriel to be endgame (before changing this in ACOWAR). Not only is this because of the way Mor and Azriel interact in ACOMAF, but SJM's Pinterest board also strongly hinted at their pairing, for example:

With this in mind, consider that whenever Azriel's shadows were around Mor in ACOMAF (when they were likely supposed to be endgame), they lightened and faded in her presence.

"It was almost enough to distract me from noticing Azriel as those shadows lightened, and his gaze slid over Mor's body."

"Azriel, who kept a step away, whose shadows trailed him and seemed to fade in her presence."

Curiously, in the final chapter of CC2, Bryce doesn't mention Azriel's shadows once (when in comparison, she always noticed Ruhn and Cormac's shadows...). As such, could it be that Azriel's shadows lighten and fade in Bryce's presence?

Consider also these points connecting Mor/Azriel to Bryce/Azriel:

In ACOMAF, it's mentioned that Mor's family once ruled the Prison Island. However, we now know that the Prison Island is most strongly connected to Bryce; the Dusk Court.

In ACOMAF, we learn that Azriel's knife is called "Truth-Teller." Many speculate that this was also evidence of Mor and Azriel being endgame (as his knife was "Truth-Teller," and Mor has the power of "Truth"). However, now Truth-Teller is connected to Bryce and the Starsword.

Additionally, if we know that SJM once believed Mor and Azriel to be compatible, then it's worth noting how similar Mor and Bryce are:

Both Mor and Bryce have very similar personalities. In fact, if you're into MBTI (and are familiar with Personality Database), you'll note that both Mor and Bryce are said have the ESFP personality type.

Both Mor and Bryce are physically described in the exact same way. An example of this is outlined below:

"[Mor] wore a gown of pure white, little more than a slip of silk that showed off her generous curves. Indeed, a glance over her shoulder revealed Azriel staring blatantly at the back view of it, Cassian and the stranger already too deep in conversation to notice what had drawn the spymaster's attention. For a moment, the ravenous hunger on Azriel's face made my stomach tighten."

"Bryce Quinlan leaned against the large ironwood desk in the center of the space, her snow-white dress clinging to every generous curve and dip."

Although these comparisons in itself aren't a slam dunk of any sort (as evidently, Azriel is attracted to lots of different body types/people/personalities), I just can't help but wonder if SJM did a copy + paste with Mor and Bryce for this very reason...?

[art by mftfernandez and wictorian_art]

Speaking of personalities...

Although Bryce and Azriel have only interacted for a single chapter (yet are already causing waves with that alone!), some readers have been contemplating their (potential) compatibility.

More specifically, it appears that Bryce frequently mirrors Azriel's dark and cold demeanour. For example:

"The sprite crawled off her arm and floated in front of her, arms wrapping across her round belly. "You can be cold as a Reaper, Bryce."

"Bryce said quietly, her amber eyes full of cold fire, "I'll find them." She met the Archangel's gaze. "And then I want you to wipe them off the fucking planet."

"Bryce's face remained cold as stone. Colder. Males approached, saw that expression, and didn't venture closer."

"The last gift of the synth before it destroyed her. Yet in her eyes. ... he saw no haze of insanity, of self-destructive frenzy. Only cold, glittering vengeance."

"That icy look—their father’s look—passed over her face. The sort of look that told him there was a wild, wicked storm raging beneath that cold exterior. And the power and thrill for both father and daughter lay not in sheer force, but in the control over the self, over those impulses. The outside world saw his sister as reckless, unchecked—but he knew she’d been the master of her fate since before he’d met her."

In line with this, there have been frequent discussions within the fandom that Azriel needs "healing" or "curing" from his darkness; that he needs to "change his ways." But, what if instead, Azriel needs someone who can match, and embrace his darkness?

And what if that person is Bryce?

(Speaking of 'embracing the darkness,' I find it interesting that Azriel "is a freak," as confirmed by SJM herself. With that in mind, let me remind you that upon first meeting Bryce, Azriel put a knife to her throat and then blindfolded her...).

[art by brielyasmin]

The Little Mermaid: a hint to Bryce and Az?

I know this is a popular Gwynriel theory (with extremely valid evidence to support it!), which is exactly why I haven't spoken about this connection before, as I don't want to offend anyone.

However, I am going to briefly mention it (only once) right now, and suggest that The Little Mermaid retelling SJM has alluded to, may in fact be Bryce and Azriel.

To first demonstrate this: there are several similarities between Bryce and Ariel (the mermaid).

Bryce and Ariel both have red hair (in comparison, Gwyn is canonically more of a brunette, with "coppery-brown" hair).

Ariel's story is about her journey from life underwater, to life in the human lands (where she meets Eric). Bryce's story involves her journey from Midgard, to Prythian (where she meets Azriel).

However, upon arriving in the human lands, Ariel's voice has been stolen; she cannot communicate with Eric. Similarly, Bryce arrives in Prythian and does not speak their language; she cannot communicate with Azriel.

In Ariel's story, the main antagonist is Ursula, a witch. Bryce also knows (a rather suspicious) witch... Jesiba.

[art by Morgana0anagrom]

Further, many in the fandom have already pointed out that SJM saved a variety of 'The Little Mermaid' inspired photos to her Pinterest. However, SJM specifically saved these photos under a Pinterest board titled "Story Kernels," meaning that we have no idea whether it's in reference to ACOTAR, CC or both (or neither!)

Some believe these photos to be reminiscent of Gwyn, but, when you compare these photos to the Pinterest images SJM saved of Bryce... the resemblance is most certainly there as well.

However, some may argue that "Bryce has no real link to mermaids" (in comparison to Gwyn, who has water-nymph heritage; though, that's different from being a mermaid as well).

But I disagree. Recall that in CC2, Bryce seems to rely on other people to "charge up" her power (such as Hunt and Hypaxia). However, I don't believe that is the true manifestation of her abilities. Instead, Bryce hints that she can feel a "giant cloud" of power inside her, one that she can't yet access.

"Bryce sucked in a sharp breath. “I can feel it—like, this giant cloud of power right there.” She ran a finger over the eight-pointed star scarred between her breasts. Starlight pulsed at her fingertip. Like an answering heartbeat. “But I can’t access it.”

The bulk of Bryce's power came from the Gates in Lunathion. Power that was donated by thousands (perhaps even hundreds of thousands) of different beings every time they touched the Gates. And given that the civilians of Midgard herald from different worlds... the variety of this power is staggering.

And it's exactly this power that I believe Bryce can feel (as the "giant cloud") but can't yet access. The evidence for this is engraved into the Gates themselves; "the power shall always belong to those who give their lives to the city." Just as Bryce did.

"The quartz Gates were memorials, though she didn’t know for which conflict or war. But each bore the same plaque: The power shall always belong to those who give their lives to the city."

As such, I believe Bryce's true power is that of the four houses of Midgard; she is Earth & Blood, Sky & Breath, Flame & Shadow, and Many Waters. It's similar to Feyre's power (but x 100).

(And, look again at the cover of CC3 and tell me it doesn't align perfectly with this...)

We even see this in canon when Bryce is making the Drop (after obtaining the power from the Gates):

"But his princess fought for every bit of progress upward, her power shifting, traces of everyone who’d given it to her coming through: mer, shifter, draki, human, angel, sprite, Fae."

"She was sea and sky and stone and blood and wings and earth and stars and darkness and light and bone and flame."

Thus, I believe a good chunk of Bryce's arc in CC3 will be about unlocking this power. And when she does... she will have access to the power of House of Many Waters (the highlighted quotes above emphasise this).

There's even a section of Bryce's ascent (during the Drop) where she thrusts upwards with a "mighty tail." I believe this is a mermaid tail.

"Her power shifted, dancing between forms and gifts. She thrust upward with a push of a mighty tail. Twisted and rose with a sweep of vast wings. She was all things—and yet herself."

And to tie the 'Little Mermaid = Bryce x Az' connections together even further; what's the likely title of the next Crescent City book?

House of Many Waters.

(And as a bonus fun fact: recall that the items on SJM's desk seemingly hint to the inspiration behind HOFAS? Zoom in and you'll see a Little Mermaid cup...).

Hades and Persephone too!

If you scroll back up to the Pinterest photo SJM saved as Mor and Az and reverse-image search it, you'll discover that it's actually an image of Hades and Persephone.

(So no, Feyre and Rhys weren't the only couple inspired by Hades and Persephone).

Similarly, the above Little Mermaid inspired photo that SJM saved (top left)? Also of Hades and Persephone.

The story of Persephone is that of a woman who once lived on Earth and was taken to the underworld. There, she eventually fell in love with Hades, the ruler of the underworld.

[Hades and Persephone art by oblivionsdream; it's giving Bryce and Az...]

Similarly, the final chapters of CC2 detailed Bryce's decision to use the Horn, and travel to Hel; the underworld. In doing so, she was taken to Azriel; someone who is heavily theorised to be a Prince of Hel (or connected to Hel, at the very least). As evidence of this:

The Princes of Hel are repeatedly connected to the cold. For example, when Apollion reaches out to touch Bryce, it's said that his touch was like "ice so cold it ached."

"[Apollion] reached out a hand, and Bryce flinched as it touched her. Truly touched her, ice so cold it ached."

Then Feyre touches Azriel for the first time, it's said that his skin was like "pure ice." (The similarities are uncanny!).

"But my attention drifted to Azriel, who took my still-offered hand and rose. The scars were rough against my fingers, but his skin was like ice. Pure ice."

However, this isn't the only instance. Instead, Azriel is repeatedly and consistently linked to being cold/icy/frozen. For example:

"I took Azriel’s hand, and his rough fingers squeezed mine. His skin was as cold as his face."

"There was an icy rage in Azriel I had never been able to thaw."

"Azriel’s dark breeze was different from Rhys’s. Colder. Sharper

"Azriel tucked in his wings and left without another word, stalking through the house and onto the front lawn to sit in the frigid starlight. To let the frost in his veins match the air around him."

We also know that Azriel is "different," and that even Rhys has "no explanation" for Azriel's shadowsinger abilities.

"Az is different. In a lot of ways." His tone didn't invite further questioning.

"Though the cobalt Siphons were proof that his Illyrian heritage ran true, even the rich lore of that warrior-people, my warrior-people, did not have an explanation for where the shadowsinger gifts came from."

Thus, if Azriel is indeed connected to Hel (a storyline far more prevalent in the Crescent City series than the ACOTAR series, by the way), then one could logically assume that his mate will also be someone connected to Hel.

Who do Hel's armies strike for? Bryce.

“Hel’s armies shall strike at your command, Bryce Quinlan.”

Who has Aidas (the 5th Prince of Hel) been watching over? Bryce.

"The cat’s whiskers twitched. I told you. Come find me. Her eyelids drooped—a final descent toward sleep. Why? The cat angled its head. So we can finish this."

Who is Apollion's (the 7th Prince of Hel) "greatest opponent?" Bryce.

I also find it interesting that when they meet, Apollion refers to Bryce as "Princess," and Bryce refers to Apollion as "Prince." I understand that Bryce is the Princess of the Valbaran fae, but the way they spoke in this scene felt more like Apollion and Bryce were on equal footing...

“Princess.” The voice was like Hel embodied: dark and icy and smooth.” “Prince.” Her voice shook.”

Many people in the fandom have been theorising that Prythian (and the broader ACOTAR world) is a layer of Hel. Could it be a missing 8th layer?

And if so, if Bryce and Azriel are set to rule Prythian (as High Queen and High King, as per this theory), wouldn't this make them both also Princess and Prince of the 8th layer of Hel? Ruling from the Dusk Court... the 8th court? Signified by an 8-pointed star?

(This is ultimately why I ship Bryce and Azriel: their epic story potential is unlike anything we've seen before).

As further proof of this, recall the connections between Bryce and Theia (with many believing that Bryce is a reincarnation of Theia). Although Theia's backstory is still shrouded in mystery, at present we can deduce that:

Theia lived in Prythian, and had two daughters with an unknown man.

She then travelled to another world; Midgard (unwillingly), and allied with the Princes of Hel.

She was then said to have a relationship with Aidas, a Prince of Hel (as she was said to be Aidas's "great love").

(Fun fact: Aidas is another name for Hades).

Compare to Bryce:

Bryce lives in Midgard, and is currently with Hunt.

She then travels to another world; Prythian (unwillingly), in search of the Princes of Hel.

As per this theory, she will have a relationship with Azriel, a (theorised) Prince of Hel.

History is repeating. Rigelus even notes the similarities himself:

"Rigelus sighed dramatically at their stunned silence. “This all seems very familiar, doesn’t it? A Starborn queen who allied with a Prince of Hel."

Twilight of the Gods: SJM's multiverse series?

"But Bryce won't forget about Hunt!"

"She's not going to skip off into the sunset with Azriel in just one book! All of this is too much!"

I agree. I don't believe any huge shipping revelations will be made in CC3.

Instead, things will be much more tame to begin with. Perhaps Az will be the one to guide Bryce around Prythian (and they'll figure out their matching weapons, and the origins of the Dusk Court - both together, and alongside other pivotal ACOTAR characters). I believe Bryce and Az will develop a friendship, and that will be all (sort of like Aelin and Rowan, and their dynamic in Heir of Fire).

(That's not to diminish the significance of their interactions, though. If this theory is correct, then Bryce's POV may be the first to include Azriel at the forefront - no other character within the Azriel ship wars has had this opportunity yet).

Then, if Bryce and Azriel are indeed true mates and endgame, then I think that will be explored further down the line in what I predict will be SJM's multiverse series; Twilight of the Gods (which, as per the latest SJM publishing news, seems to be looking veryyyy likely; more information here).

"Twilight" is also another name for DUSK. Given everything I have already discussed, I am sure you can see how I believe that Bryce and Azriel's story (if they are indeed endgame) will be explored in this series - Twilight of the Gods (if it does indeed come to fruition).

Interestingly, both the Crescent City and Twilight of the Gods Pinterest boards are full of Sailor Moon imagery, and it appears as if Bryce (and her powers) have also been modelled after Sailor Moon herself. Knowing this, this image (which was also found in the Twilight of the Gods Pinterest board) is particularly interesting...

The sword? The multiverse-esque aesthetic?

This is fundamentally what the Bryce x Azriel ship comes down to: the promise and intrigue of a multiversal romance.

And don't you think SJM has considered this too? I find it hard to believe that SJM (the queen of fantasy romance) spent 5+ years planning out a crossover between her worlds, and didn't once stop to think about the possibility of a multiversal romantic pairing.

I mean, even back in 2015 SJM admitted to thinking about "crossover fanfic" with her own characters...

Moderator: "So, speaking of fandoms, different fandoms, um obviously you have ACOTAR, which is different from the TOG series. If both worlds could collide, which two characters would get on really well?"

SJM: <giggling>

Moderator: "Get on really well, not get it on really well" (laughs).

SJM: (laughs) "In my head I already have like, crossover fanfic (laughs). Like, is it fanfic if I'm writing it, or is it ultimate universe, canon things?

So, knowing all of this... why pair Bryce and Azriel together?

Most people in the fandom agree that Bryce and Azriel are connected in some way. I'm hoping that this post has made clear this connection even further.

But here's the thing: if we can all agree that Bryce and Azriel are connected, then why? What's the reason? And why not connect Bryce with other characters instead? Why Azriel specifically?

The two explanations I have heard are:

"Bryce and Azriel are cousins/related."

We already have the Ruhn and Rhys reveal, so why add another? I also don't see how Azriel could be related to Ember Quinlan or the Autumn King... (I also feel like Bryce's descriptions of Azriel's "tall, muscled body" and "gentle but thorough hands" is a lil weird for cousins...)

"Bryce and Azriel will be just friends."

Whilst I don't deny the likelihood of this, I also think that Bryce has the potential to become close friends with Nesta, Rhys, Feyre, Mor, Cassian (and many of the other characters). "Just friends" still wouldn't explain why SJM chose Azriel over everyone else (for example; why not make the prophecy around the Horn in Bryce's back and the remaining 3 Dread Trove items that Nesta can wield...?)

Instead, whenever there has been this much build-up or this much foreshadowing of a pairing... it's usually a sign that they are something special. Something more akin to mates - endgame.

[art by m_bohnet]

After all, consider things from Azriel's POV.

Sure, he has been busy with Mor and Elain and Gwyn (as people often tell me in response to this theory), but what happens when a beautiful woman from another world shows up, carrying the matching sword to his most prized knife? What happens when these weapons start glowing for one another in unison?

Don't you think Azriel would think something of this?

And, don't you think that if Elain or Gwyn had a sword that was the matching half to Azriel's knife (and a significant prophecy to boot!), it would be used as irrefutable evidence that their ship is endgame...?

But what about Hunt?

It's an opinion that earns me no favours in the fandom; but despite liking Hunt, I have always been sceptical about his relationship with Bryce (and am not yet convinced that they'll be endgame). This scepticism predates CC2 (and isn't just a feeling I conjured up in the hope that Bryce x Az will be endgame, as certain people assume).

For starters, both the Asteri and Apollion need Hunt and Bryce together to operate the Horn, and this is concerning.

To put it simply, Hunt was bred (for reasons we still don't yet know). However, as a result of Hunt's breeding, he possesses power that works with the Horn. In fact, CC2 makes clear that Hunt's lightning is the best source of power to "charge up" Bryce (and more specifically, the Horn).

“Your teleporting works when your power gets charged up by energy—considering what I heard about how quickly you ran out of steam with Hypaxia, Hunt’s is the best form of it.”

Bryce has the Horn in her back.

“Don’t think for one moment that Aidas and the Prince of the Pit have forgotten the Horn in your back. That Thanatos didn’t have it in mind when you spoke to him.”

To explain it in simple math terms:

Bryce + Hunt = fully operational Horn (they are like lock + key).

Apollion + Rigelus = both really want the Horn.

Apollion + Rigelus NEED Bryce + Hunt if they want a fully operational Horn.

In fact, we see Apollion egging Bryce and Hunt on to explore their powers more, and Rigelus fully admits to luring Bryce and Hunt to the Asteri palace at the end of CC2.

"Hunt’s blood iced over. “That was why you lured us here?” he found himself demanding of the Asteri, even as he roared with outrage at Bryce’s offer. Rigelus said, “I couldn’t very well snatch you off the streets. Not such notorious, public figures."

What's more, Bryce killed Micah, and Hunt killed Sandriel. The Asteri have punished (and killed) civilians for far less than that, but not only do the Asteri keep Bryce and Hunt alive, but they actively encourage their relationship together (and no one really questions that...).

"We also trust that this favor will serve as a reminder for you and Hunt Athalar. It is our deepest wish that you remain in the city, and live out your days in peace and contentment." "Fear gleamed in Hunt’s eyes. In her own, too, Bryce was sure. Nothing was ever this easy—this simple. There had to be a catch."

I just can't help but think of Maeve. She used her power to manipulate fate, leading Rowan to believe that Lyria was his mate instead of Aelin (for her own selfish gain).

Could it be possible that the Asteri, just like Maeve, have been... meddling with mating bonds for their own agenda - to use Bryce and Hunt for the Horn?

(Recall that in her latest interview, when asked if Bryce and Hunt's mating bond was the same as Feyre and Rhys's, SJM said "pass").

This leads to my second point.

The mating bond is a little strange between Bryce and Hunt.

I know this is a contentious subject, but there are enough people in the fandom who have stated a similar opinion for it to warrant suspicion. No one ever questions Rhys and Feyre's mating bond, nor Nesta or Cassian's, nor Aelin and Rowan's. But many don't buy Bryce and Hunt's mating bond.

In part, this is likely due to the nature of how it was initiated; after only knowing each other for 5 months, Hunt suggested calling each other mates because they couldn't find another term that fits. It happened randomly, and Bryce seemed to come up with a million different excuses initially; it just felt lacklustre in comparison to other mating bond reveals.

(That's not to invalidate Bryce and Hunt's clear affection for each other though - mating bond or not, their love for one another is more than evident).

“I thought that’s what this thing between us is.” “We’ve known each other for, like, five months.” “So?” “My mom will throw a fit. She’ll say we should date for at least two years before calling ourselves mates.”

But for me personally, it comes down to Bryce and Hunt's power (and the Horn). Again, using Throne of Glass as an example, when Maeve messed with Rowan's mating bond, she admitted that she didn't suspect Rowan and Aelin were mates once they met, because their carranam bond (which involves the sharing of power, as Bryce and Hunt do...) was masking the mating bond.

"I’ll admit I did not anticipate it. That I had broken Rowan Whitethorn so thoroughly that he did not recognize his own mate—that you were so broken by your own pain you didn’t notice, either. And when the signs appeared, the carranam bond washed away any suspicion on his part that you might be his."

Instead, the only indication that Aelin and Rowan were mates, was that they could feel each other's pain.

"Maeve ignored her. “Well? When did you know?” “At Temis’s temple,” Aelin admitted, glancing to Manon. “The moment the arrow went through his shoulder. Months ago.”

This is objectively absent in Bryce and Hunt. Not only that, but in the Bone Quarter, Bryce seems to question the validity of the mating bond herself:

"Hunt's lightning had stopped. Where was he? Would a mate know, would a mate feel-"

Which again, you have to wonder; if SJM is trying to sell Bryce x Hunt as endgame to her readers, why include this?

Further, even if Bryce and Hunt are mates, we don't yet know how this works across worlds. Given that the Cauldron (supposedly) assigns mating bonds in Prythian, and Bryce's "true world" is also Prythian, does Bryce have an additional Cauldron-assigned mating bond in that world too...?

Maybe that aligns with this tweet from SJM:

The Oracle.

In CC1, Hunt visits the Oracle, and she tells him to "keep well away from Bryce Quinlan."

"Do yourself a favour, Orion Athalar, and keep well away from Bryce Quinlan."

The Oracle could presumably see into Hunt's future, and could see whether he and Bryce live happily ever after. If this was the case, and the Oracle could indeed see such a happy outcome, then why would the Oracle say such a thing...? Why warn Hunt like that?

Similarly in CC1, Aidas reveals to Bryce that although the Oracle was blinded during her visit all those years ago... he wasn't. Aidas was there too, and he saw Bryce's future.

"Aidas had nearly vanished into nothing when he added, the words a ghost slithering through the room, "The Oracle did not see. But I did."

Yet in that exact same scene, Aidas turns to Hunt and has no idea who he is, asking "who are you?"

Hunt kept perfectly still as Aidas studied her. Then his eyes registered Hunt. He blinked—once. As if he had not really marked his presence until this moment. As if he hadn’t cared to notice, with Bryce before him. Hunt tucked away that fact, just as Aidas murmured, “Who are you.”

Thus, if Aidas has seen Bryce's future, and Bryce and Hunt are indeed endgame (and he is in her future)... then why didn't Aidas recognise Hunt?

Hunt's future.

If this theory is correct, and given that we have two beings with foresight (the Oracle and Aidas) hinting at Bryce and Hunt's ominous future... then what could possibly happen to Hunt

Theory 1) Hunt may die.

This theory has been around even since the HOEAB days, and is well-known by most (so I won't expand on it too much). However, the basic premise of it boils down to Hunt's birth name, Orion, and Orion being famously killed (often by his lover) in mythology. Perhaps this also explains the Oracle's warning to him.

Recall also the quote repeated again and again (often by Hunt);

"Memento Mori. Remember that you will die. They now seemed more of a promise than the mild reminder from the Meat Market."

Similarly, knowing what happened to Sam in Throne of Glass, I find this parallel to Bryce and Hunt a little uncanny (and is exactly what we mean when we talk about death flags...).

[Sam and Aelin]: "I can wait," he said thickly, kissing her collarbone. "We have all the time in the world." Maybe he was right. And spending all the time in the world with Sam ... that was a treasure worth paying anything for."

[Bryce and Hunt]: "Assuming I live through it, you mean." "Assuming you live through taking on the Archangels and Asteri, what then?" "I don't know." He gave her a half smile. "Maybe you and I can figure it out, Quinlan. We'll have centuries to do it."

2. Hunt may become an Asteri weapon; an (unwilling) villain.

In fact, it has recently been theorised (such as in this post here) that Hunt may already have acted as an Asteri weapon in the past, and may have even had a part to play in Danika's death. As unbelievable as this may sound, consider these two quotes.

In HOEAB, Hunt remarks that his victims always said the same words; "please."

“Please.” It was always the same word. The only word people tended to say when the Umbra Mortis stood before them.

Then, this is the only audio we hear of Danika right before she dies:

"And then someone was roaring—a feral wolf’s roar. “Please, please—” The words were cut off. But the hall camera’s audio wasn’t."

To that people would say "Hunt would never!" And rightly so. However, consider that:

Hunt didn't know Bryce when this occurred.

Hunt was already tasked with killing one of Bryce's friends; Fury. Twice. The only reason it didn't happen was because someone higher up halted the orders.

"Micah had even ordered Hunt to kill her. Twice. But she had too many high-powered allies. Some, it was whispered, on the Imperial Senate. So both times, Micah had decided that the fallout over the Umbra Mortis turning Fury Axtar into veritable toast would be more trouble than it was worth."

However, regardless of whether this theory is true or not (as sure, perhaps the wording could be coincidence), one cannot deny the connection between the names of Hunt (Orion) and the Asteri; all named after stars and/or constellations.

In fact, Sirius (the 7th Asteri), is known as Orion's hunting dog in mythology.

And Rigel (as in Rigelus), is the brightest star in the Orion constellation.

Consider also Rigelus's words to Hunt; "I thought we were friends, Orion," and something just seems... off.

(Though, I'd be happy to be proven wrong, as Hunt is one of my favourite SJM males. Just because I think an awful thing could happen, doesn't mean I want it to happen).

What about Gwynriel/Elriel?

Another topic that I won't touch on in too much depth, as I'm sure that most people are already familiar with the points for and against these ships.

The only thing I will say is that things change. What ships appear to be canon or strongly foreshadowed in one book can totally change in the next. SJM has said as much herself (as outlined in the FAQ section on her personal website):

"Will [my favourite couple] be endgame?" "No spoilers! In all seriousness, while I do have ideas for all my currently contracted books, I would never guarantee any plot points or pairings until each book is written. I've been surprised by where characters have taken me before!"

But we also know this is true based on the Throne of Glass ship wars that raged on back in the day. If we were to time-travel back to 2012 and 2013 (when the first two TOG books were released), we'd see people arguing as to whether Aelin (Celeana) would end up with Chaol or Dorian. There was no third option.

And then in the third book, Rowan was introduced. But even then people denied the possibility of his romance with Aelin, instead siding with Chaol, with arguments such as:

"Rowan already has a mate!"

"Rowan and Aelin are probably just related and nothing more!"

"Rowan and Aelin are from two different kingdoms, it would never work. Chaol is back home in Rifthold waiting for her!"

(Sound familiar...?)

It was also argued that Chaol and Aelin would be endgame instead, given the mate-adjacent language that was used between them:

"Far inside of her, she found a golden chain that bound them together."

"The rest of the world quieted... she looked at him and realised she was home."

"She knew his every move and he knew hers, as though they'd been dancing this waltz together all their lives."

"It somehow felt as if it had always been Chaol, even from the beginning, even before they'd ever met."

But nope -- in the third book, Aelin stumbled into a foreign land and came face to face with Rowan; her true, fated mate.

In fact, this speaks to a certain SJM pattern I have noticed:

Aelin is forced to leave Rifthold for Wendlyn (oh no!)... but then she meets Rowan.

Chaol and Nesryn are forced to leave Rifthold for the Southern Continent (oh no!)... but then they meet Yrene and Sartaq.

Feyre is forced to leave the Spring Court for the Night Court (oh no!)... but then she meets Rhys.

Nesta is forced to leave the human lands for the faerie lands (oh no!)... but then she meets Cassian.

Now, Bryce has been forced to leave Midgard for Prythian (oh no!)... and she falls right in front of Azriel. He "gently" blindfolds her, grabs her hand, chucks her over his shoulder, and their matching weapons start glowing "in answer" to each other... and this is supposedly just a crackship?

And I get it; there's already Bryce and Hunt. And Azriel and Gwyn. And Azriel and Elain. However, I do think it's interesting that at present, the two biggest debates within the fandom are:

Are Bryce and Hunt truly mates/endgame?

Will Gwynriel or Elriel be endgame?

If any of these ships were a slam-dunk guarantee... these debates just simply wouldn't exist. Point is, with SJM (and especially with the multiverse opening up)... the possibilities are endless.

And, the promise of Bryce and Azriel is just one of these possibilities, but it's my favourite one of all.

After all, stars cannot shine without darkness.

(P.S. Some of these points were first identified by my friends - so credit and a huge thank you to them! ❤️)

#acotar #crescent city #bryce quinlan #azriel acotar #sjm multiverse #sjm theory #sjm crossover #bryce x azriel #bryceriel

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anarchiii · 10 months ago

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Twin Flames-1 —ACOTAR x TOG AU

Part One | Warnings: angst? | Witch!Reader x Eris Vanserra

Summary; Y/N had been born from a great darkness, and yet her soul burned brighter than any Firewielder. She didn’t care for someone who would try smother those flames, she wanted someone that would set them alight. . .

Note: this is an AU it’s not in the books.

Masterlist / Series Masterlist

Disclaimer; a fair amount of spoilers, people!!

Happy @erisweekofficial ,everyone!! ❤️

Eris’s POV

The Heir had never been one to look up to the stars and wish like some, but he’d always wanted things to turn out better, he wasn’t stupid enough to let hope fester in his heart, Beron had made sure of it, and his mother. . . She wasn’t around enough to affect anything. Locked up in her rooms for the foreseeable future.

He’d always silently hated that Lucien had gotten his happy ending—then again, he deserved it, his brother had always been the best one, so empathetic and patient, nothing like himself, though he couldn’t help it, not when Lucien came over with his lovely mate, going on about how happy he was, he couldn’t help the jealousy that arose within him. Turning him into a lonely and pathetic creature. Forced to watch everyone prosper while he wasted away, and he had no one to blame but himself.

It was true that the hateful and evil mask he put on was a mask, but, over time he had became the very thing everyone believed him to be, it was pitiful, he’d read so many stories of people that had suffered so greatly but had overcame their hardships and survived, becoming better people than they ever could’ve imagined, and yet, even as a child, Eris knew that would not be him. He would never know love and respect. No, that was not what he was here for.

Instead he helped people in his own wrong way and saw to it that they were better, going behind his High Lord’s back and helping their enemies, and after all that. He’d barely gotten a thank you. He couldn’t blame them, though, not at all, the Night Court especially, they knew him to be the male that’d stripped The Morrigan down and left her to die in his own lands, a nail imbedded in her stomach, the male that had tried stealing their High Lady’s sister away, to be a wife for no more than breeding and owning. When they didn’t realise he just wanted someone to love. That was all he’d ever wanted, all he’d ever let himself want for.

But his story was not one that ended in a happy ending, no, he was the beast the knight would slay to save the fair maiden, no more than a hurdle to overcome, a monster with a terrible fire that burned in his blood, burned his very soul. . .

Y/N’s POV

She couldn’t stop the shuddering of her breath as she took in the now empty battlefield bathed in the blood of enemies and allies alike, she would never get used to it, the fighting, the bloodshed, the hate, Y/N was born for battle and yet it terrified her, she had no idea how Aelin Galathynius did it. How she fought like an absolute warrior and smiled a minute later. Perhaps she would never know, the Queen had always unnerved her, she was a mystery never to be solved, though, that didn’t mean she didn’t respect her, no, when the young woman came off the field, she only bowed, she was not her Queen but that did not mean she wouldn’t fight for her. Hell. This entire army was brought together because of her. The world could finally breathe because of her.

A strong hand clasped her shoulder, pulling her from her thoughts and bringing her back to the world, the sun was blaring, melting all the snow and making small waterfalls form from the cliffs of the Staghorns, she turned around to find her Wingleader staring at her, Manon’s black and gold eyes shining with poorly hidden despair, she couldn’t blame her, not when her own held the same expression.

She nodded to Manon in thanks, neither of them saying a word, she couldn’t bare to look at Abraxos who lingered behind his rider, Y/N cleared her throat, saying, “I’m going to go for a walk, alone.” She didn’t wait for her response before leaving. Walking down the many stairs of the castle, winding turns and long hallways, she didn’t say anything to Aelin’s court members as she walked past them, non of them seemed to want to talk either. Good.

She was soon out of the great castle and then through the gates and out onto the field, Orynth looming behind her, its stones mockingly clean, it took her a long time to reach Oakwald, she had no Wyvern to carry her anymore, Adries was riding high with the other eleven creatures who hadn’t survived, Abraxos the only one left, if she wasn’t wound up in her own misery then she would’ve felt bad for the beast, but sorrow was seemingly staying for a while.

Stray branches and leaves crunched beneath her boots as she walked through the forest, the trees whispering secrets older than time itself, the wind howling names lost to history, it was a artefact in itself, it was famous for the creatures that dwelled in its lush canopies but no one talked about the sentience the place held, like it was watching your every breath and movement, it was terrifying and yet, oddly comforting.

She spotted no white stags but that wasn’t unusual, the only one she had ever seen had been mere hours ago when Aelin Ashryver Galathynius had entered the battle riding one in golden armour fit for a empress, a goddess.

Surprisingly, the forest was not silent, birds sung their songs and the deer still went about eating leaves, it was peaceful, and nice to know the world hadn’t stopped, everyone and everything moved on eventually, some quicker than others, maybe in a few years she would admire the beauty of Oakwald—she had loved nature so dearly when she was younger, when everything wasn’t so dark,—she wanted to look at the ducks waddling by and smile as they had a swim in a nearby pond, she wanted to look at the flowers already blooming through all the gore and wonder in amazement, she wanted.

She couldn’t help the tears that fell, she had lost so much, how was she supposed to go on without them? She felt that flame inside her flicker and sputter but persevere, something she couldn’t seem to do, her Grandmother had always despised that light, how even when she tried smothering it—it only burned brighter, the old hag was probably smiling in her grave to know what she had wished for so many years was happening, she was breaking, ever so slowly.

The sun was falling, setting the sky into hues of deep orange and yellow, clouds forming and blocking the view, she didn’t go home, though, just kept walking, trying to clear a mind that couldn’t be cleared, soon, mist was shrouding the forest in mystery, tiny droplets of rain fell. Hitting the emerald leaves and falling off them. It was quite serene, actually. Like the entire world was heading to bed. Her as the moon’s only witness.

She felt so small, so insignificant under it’s light, it was a lovely feeling, nocturnal animals ventured out of their dens into the night, the little glow of their eyes the only sign they were there, still, she didn’t go back. What was left for her there? She had no lovers, no family, friends or children, she was alone in a world full of people, alone.

She doubted anyone would miss her, maybe she could run away and start a new life, purge all her past memories. . . It was tempting, very tempting, and— what was that? She spotted something shiny hiding beneath jewel coloured leaves, as Y/N got closer, she realised it was a ring. A simple silver ring. It was oddly pretty, in a way a plain blue sky was pretty, nothing stood out but it still caught her attention, she bent over and picked it up but as she did, she slipped on some moss and went face-first into the ground.

She closed her eyes and groaned at the feeling of her nose screaming out in pain—the scar on her jaw mimicking the feeling, the ring was warm in her hand, like it bore an inner fire, her body felt so heavy that she couldn’t help but lay there, perhaps in the morning she would figure out what to do, nothing would harm her, so there was no reason but to keep to the floor, Y/N did need sleep, so why not get it?

Y/N dreamt, she had the instinct feeling of falling but didn’t stir, she felt herself land on something hard and cold and did all she could to grab on, this may be a dream but she’d be damned if she died in it. A dream.

Eris’s POV

One of his hounds barked in the distance and he had enough sense to inspect, the autumn leaves crunched beneath his feet like the crackling of flames, he’d never gotten sick of the eternal autumn, it was his home, no matter what had happened in this place, it was forever be his, in some way, at least.

The dog, Hazel, released another sound, piercing through the silence, setting all the other dogs off, he sighed, shaking his head as he got closer, there was no point telling them to be quiet when they wouldn’t listen, anyway.

Eris walked into the clearing where all his animals gathered, there was nothing, positively nothing of interest or significance, just a plain old spot, though that didn’t stop the smoke hounds as they jumped around and circled a particularly tall tree, this was abnormal for even them, something was off, he caught the faint scent of blood and metal on the wind, but found it led nowhere.

He noticed little scraps of clothing hanging from low branches, the material was similar to that of the Illyrian’s but different in a way, hopefully he wouldn’t find that Shadowsinger or haughty general dead in his forest, not that he wouldn’t be delighted in that, a bird cried out in the distance and he looked up to see it, only, it wasn’t a bird he saw.

No, it was a person, hanging from a branch high up, her bloody blond-silver hair hung limp, a strange red cape covering most of her body, perhaps she was dead, and perhaps that was a good thing.

Yet he couldn’t hide his shock when something fell from her hand, it shined faintly as it fell right into his palm, he did all he could not to hiss in anger as he found it was his ring that he had lost two weeks ago, the one his mother had given him, that little thief.

The End.

Note: so uhh. . . No idea where this is going, no pressure- 😬

-Taglist

@cynthiesjmxazrielslover

@azrielslittleslut

@shadowsingercassia

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smarthamartha · 3 months ago

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I read acotar and wrote an 84 page review JUST to prove I hate it

So ACOTAR is insanely popular and honestly... I. Do. Not. Get. It. My friend S (29, f) gave me a brief synopsis after she wrote her Master thesis on series YEARS ago (She studied literature and I still hope she'll post her work online one day) and I have been using that to form an "opinion" on the ACOTAR series.

My boyfriend told me I shouldn't use her opinion as my own, even though S and I like most of the same stuff. But yeah, I mean... fair. So, I decided to read it so I could form an opinion myself.

I used an audiobook on YouTube because I didn't want to spend any money, but also because I wanted to listen to it while doing chores and by using an audiobook my boyfriend would be slightly forced to listen along to it. I suffer, you suffer with me, boy!

I really didn't know much about the book, to be fair. I was aware that the main character is called Feyre, that the relationships in this book are questionable, that it's about fairies and that later books are spicy (this one should be fine), that Maas has a masters degree in creative writing and that there is a "riddle" that is really easy to solve.

Just to prove a point, I wrote a chapter by chapter review. I am a thorough queen. It's 84 pages long in my notes app. I couldn't post all of them as screenshots, so my general review of the book are photos, the chapter by chapter thoughts, comments and concerns can be read below.

Spoiler alert: I hated it (and so did my boyfriend)

Chapter 1

- "I strung my bow" HO IS U KATNISS?

- Girliepop, less thinking in fancy words and more shooting

- Drink every time "wolf" or "fairy" is mentioned

- Girl has (except for an internal monologue the length of a movie) no physical reaction to seeing a monsterous wolf

- Tiny girl skins giant wolf NO PROBLEM

- Ok was fine

Chapter 2

- Mean/evil/ungrateful (step)sisters trope?

- Feyre is obviously the youngest daughter

- Maas is trying to make Feyre likeable by making her sisters absolute asses

(it's not working)

- "We're SO poor"

- "if it weren't for ME" 🙄

- Feyre has a superiority complex and is projecting this onto her sisters

- No money for tea so Feyre decides to drink yucky warm water... How about ypu either drink cold water or try and find some herbs or flowers or something 😅

- There would be no food or money if Feyre didn't hunt. HO IS U KATNISS?

- The "gentlemanly" fingers of her father

- You're poor WE GET IT

Chapter 3

- The concersation with the acolyte reminds me of Christians pushing their beliefs on others even though they said they were not interested. Even more so when they keep insisting they just "have to come over once just to see"

- Feyre taking about the skin of her sisters being shreddable... girl that's psycho 😂

- poison from at least 4+ monts ago may eventually kill or cripple (??) the mercenary?

- first mention of (loveless and quiet and frankly quite boring) sex

- Feyre asks herself if she's still going to be able to do the shmexy timz when Isaac is married 😂 GIRL WHAT

- Isaac took a contraseptive brew... progressive i guess?

Chapter 4

- Tiny girl plans to fight big beast with a table knife or a (rusty) nail

- And why do we think the fae are allergic to steel?

- treaty says: "a life for a life" which humans apparently forgot... (has no-one ever double checked? Cuz this sounds like gaslighting to me)

- What is the thing with Maas and ribbons?

- Again, Feyre is surprisingly calm and ready to attack

- a life for a life... Plz send Nesta you clearly despise her

- "ok FINE I'll come and join" 🙃

- "Bruises are easier to hide than poverty" ?????????

- *dramarisc* "Feyre don't go you are the only person who can care for us how will we ever surv- kbyeeeee"

Chapter 5

- The wolf is gonna be a guy isn't it?

- I'm pro locking Feyre up in a dungeon with only water and bread... but knowing this book it is probably going to be a sex dungeon so... pass.

- 50 shades of beast

- This chapter is just as long as the road that took them to the wall... surprisingly short.

Chapter 6

- HOLD UP is this a beauty and the beast retelling? Beast kidnaps girl?

- AGAIN WITH THE RIBBONS?

- you grew up with chants and songs about fairies so you know not to eat or drink anything... yet STILL nobody double checked the treaty? Idk seems like an oversight

- Yep, the monster IS a dude!

- "My captor or savoir, whatever he is" girl are you confused? Definitely not the second one 😂

- FINALLY a physical reaction! Breath!

- Girl still has some fight in her

- There is one with a fake eye, cool! Is he a fairy pirate?

- Wowowowow wait... she is being bathed, gets a haircut and is being plucked like a chicken? ✨️spa day✨️

- No but seriously though... Nobody seems to know what Feyre is doing there so maybe the dungeon isn't such a bad idea?

- Why is everyone like "She only needed a single arrow to murder him. So yeah let her run wild, no biggie!

- Another physical reaction! Trembling!

- "I tried not to cringe at the warning" yeah well I am trying not to cringe whilst reading this book

Chapter 7

- "Your skills with females" GOOD GRIEF

- "Because killing us is easier in pants" 😂

- Feyre is being asked about her hobbies. Her answer is "No I don't have them" because she can't explain her paintings to them. What kind of monstrosities those must be then. (Ok yeah I know about the paint quality but besides that...?)

- "The fae can't lie" yeah but somehow I DON'T BELIEVE IT

- "A shared look between the two males" men. Men. Is the word you are looking for.

- Feyre looks at herself in the mirror and basically describes a skeleton. She is worried Tamlin won't have any compliments for her because she's not perfect (like he is, according to her)... ok is this what people think young girls who have to hunt to keep their families fed and out of poverty are concerning about?

- "Fairy bastard" oof Feyre, shots fired

- Masks being fused with faces due to a curse is frickin' cool, I love it.

- The sickness ok yeah I kinda dig it

- Why is Feyre scared the blight will cross the wall? There is no magic there? It won't do anything to her family... right?

Chapter 8

- Distrust from both sides

- Tiny girl wants to attack 2 "males" who can turn into giant beasts with a table knife (part 2)

- Was busy doing other stuff but eyes were rolled

Chapter 9

- honestly I don't know why but these characters are SO BLAND

- I like Lucien and his creepy eye though

- "I admire your balls, Feyre" lol

- Ok but WHY have the past 6 chapters been about the exact same thing. "Should I stay or should I escape?" - "You can/may but we'd rather you didn't" and again and again and again...

- SO CAN SHE LEAVE OR NAH?

- I sense Feyre is gonna do something stupid

- Yep, love Lucien and his magical eye

Chapter 10

- Yo the bogge is pretty scary and I love it

- I get it, feyre. I, too, am curious about Luciens' eye

- Tamlin control yourself you emotionally unstable fairy bastard

Chapter 11

- Oopsie Daisy that's not pappie

- Feyre you're repeating yourself again! - We're on chapter 11 and you've talked about the treaty what feels like 27 times. Yes we know how you got there... I WAS THERE WHEN IT HAPPENED!

- Ok we have seen 3 monsters so far, but is anything going to happen with them or...?

- My GOD this book is frustrating

- Feyre talks about Tamlin as him being a "natural born predator" 🚩

- *sigh* YES FEYRE WE KNOW YOU HAVE TO STAY THERE

- Something interesting happens but it turns out to be a dream... what is this? The fight in beaking dawn?

Chapter 12

- RIP Bogge

- I sense sexual tension between Tamlin and Lucien tbh

- Feyre talking about her survival instincts is killing me 😂

- Yep, there is that superiority complex again

- Also there we have that "boohoo poor me" complex again

- Yes Tamlin is a vicious beast who can kill anything in his way, we know

- So ehm... guess what? This chapter is literally more of the same stuff we already know... (again, what a surprise)

Chapter 13

- A WEEK!? IT HAS ONLY BEEN A WEEK?

- Feyre basically can't read nor write... taking note

- Ok she is learning, good for you

- The mural sounds cool

- My friend sent me a picture of the map AND IT'S THE BLOODY UNITED KINGDOM?

- I ADORE the different courts, though

- Feyre has some big feelings about a children's book

- "I was still a child, unfinished and raw" ick

- Feyre doesn't mind writing with ink in Tamlins books, because he is rich so he should be able to replace a few. The nerve. Is that how we treat other people's posessions?

- Lucien... don't give her any ideas...

Chapter 14

- Prettyyyy

- I am listening to an audiobook and the reader keeps pronouncing "mural" the same way as "suriel" and it is annoying me.

- MY BOWELS TURNED WATERY 😂

- Tamlin is a high lord confirmed (I prefer Lucien tho)

- "I tucked away my fear" Where? In the pocket of your big girl pants?

- "Human woman" When the Suriel knows better than the Fae. (Well, Tamlin sees Feyre as his posession, but "human woman" is still better than "female")

Chapter 15

- I really am digging the monsters

- "my bones groaned" ???

- Tamlin to the rescue

- Soooo grounded or nah?

- Feyre constantly wants to alarm her family... but what are they gonna do? What difference does this info make to them? Feyre, you are CONSTANTLY moaning about the 'fact' that you are the only capable person in your whole darn family (or at least in your eyes), but now they should know about this thing that:

1) doesn't influence them

And

2) they are unable to do anything about....So why even bother?

Chapter 16

- People "produce like rabbits" and the fae are rarely able to produce "younglings"... yuck, really, use normal words and descriptions

- "I never looked lovely a day in my life" oh Feyre you are such a teenager

- Dun dun duuunnnnn the fae CAN lie (oh how i am not even slightly surprised)

- "ofcourse we can lie, how else do we get them to trust us?" ...... HUH? 😂

- Iron WON'T kill them, and irony probably won't either... cuz they are that oblivious to common sense *ba dun tsssss*

- Yet again Feyre just so happens to do the impossible as a human and everyone is bamboozled (except for me)

- Is he coming onto her? The girl who murdered his friend? I still find this SO WEIRD that this is her 'punishment' for involuntary manslaughter BUT OK

- Tamlin changing the minds of Feyres family is so friggin intrusive i hate it

- Again: all of this could have been avoided if someone double checked the treaty, no?

- *Sigh*

- Feyre wants to paint, ok girlie do your arts and crafts

- Heck yeah a gallery

Chapter 17

- OMG! Somethings new is happening!

- "She took my wings" gave me chills

- Yeah yeah she took your wings (Sarah J Maas is constantly repeating herself... both to fill her chapters without actually adding anything of value to the plot, as well as just repeating literal text. I hate it)

- Poor fairy

- Feyre be lying again, or is making promises she can't keep

- RIP Summer court fairy you will be missed

- Ok wow what, this was honestly a good chapter compared to the rest

- What a breath of fresh air

Chapter 18

- Liquid starlight sounds ABSOLUTELY MAGICAL i want it

- Lucien is... NOT GAY? 😭

- Human killing fae? Sure, come and live with us. Here, beautiful dresses and even servants, just for you! Fae crossing border from one court to another? Death! Death to you! Tamlin with his double standards

- Low key love Luciens backstory, still think it should have been a boyfriend tho

- "I took pride in myself that my fingers didn't tremble once" looool

- They are... going in the water

- Yep, clothes are already off

- Oh Feyre 🙄

- Idk what it is but the chapters seem to be getting slightly better, but maybe it's just because I have lowered my standards. Or have I weirdly been getting into it?

Chapter 19

- Feyre paints for weeks on end and nothing looks remotely decent

- "It was a mating present"????

- "He said, caressing my bones" wut?

- Sexual tension

- Crossing "releasing a breath i didnt know I was holding" off of my book cliché bingo

- He... purred 😵‍💫

- He flipped and landed on his feet... Tamlin is a cat confirmed

- The poem 😂😂😂

- It's giving Ken singing Wonderwall to Barbie

- "I dont like losing so i took it upon myself to become good at them" you are talking about writing limericks... being nearly immortal must be boring AF (I am not saying writing poems is boring, but honey you have all the time in the world and THIS is the best you can do???)

- His poetry is as good as her painting

- The "mating bond" makes marriage insignificant BIG YUCK

- Feyre THE FIRST THING your brain does is go to the question if there have ever been mating bonds with humans and Fae?

- Tamlins father was a Tyrant but because they were mated tamlins mother never said anything bad about him... how awful is it to realise your perfect person is a horrible person?

- Fate be like: ✨️here, an abusive relationship for you, for the rest of your long and very fucking miserable life✨️

- I thought this was like a "true love" thing but it seems like it is an unexplainable attraction like "imprinting" in Twilight? Which makes 0 fucking sense and is hella concerning imo...

- What if you're stuck with someone who has an alpha male type mentality like ew

- What if the person you are mated with is a pedophile?

- Do people think this mating thing is romantic? Because that is fucking INSANE and NOT in a cutesy positive romantic exciting sort of way

- I have so many questions

- Lucien what the hell 😭 You are so gay for Tamlin and you're jealous now but you don't even realise it it's so sad

- This evil lady better be the big bad because where the hell is this book going

Chapter 20

- Ominous requests to stay inside

- This girl never listens, does she? 😅

- "The most beautiful man i'd ever seen" oh come on 🙄

Chapter 21

- "The monsters have been let out of their cages tonight so I'm free to roam wherever I like" what the heck is going on?

- "I hated feeling like a disobedient child" THEN DON'T DO STUPID SHIT

- "Tam will allow great and terrible magic to enter his body and the magic will cease control over his mind and body and soul and turn him into a hunter. It will fill him with his sole purpose, to find a maiden." But nobody knows who the maiden will be. Sooooo basically... rape?

- A path to a cave with fairy females ready to be his mate, but HOW do you know it is going to be one of them? Also- this is not te same 'mate' as the strong love bond? This one isnt permanent??

- He does this EVERY YEAR? They ALL do?

- "Once he made his choice we're free to mingle" Jezus fucking christ it's an orgy

- Oh shit they do this MULTIPLE times a year then?

- "She had come to the hill on her own free will" is the bare fucking minimum of consent, Sarah

- Called it. He wants Feyre. Ofcourse.

- "He reeked of magic"

- HE BIT HER?! WTF

- The person reading the audioboek I am listening to has a cold and she sounds awful, which makes this chapter a little bit better (because funny), yet soooo much worse 😂

- Nopenopenopenopenope 🚩

- Is it because it is problematic or because I am probably too asexual for this (possibly both)

- He is LITERALLY a predator in this moment

- Feyre KNOWS he is not himself, but she is not scared nor does she say no, but she didn't give consent either

- Shit's gonna be awkward at breakfast

- Spicy ❌️

- Problematic ✔️

Chapter 22

- "A night of celebrating" well that's one way to put it...

- We happened to meet in the hallway so I just bit her

- Still not over the ritualistic rape

- Feyre: "Everyone snoops in this house"... something about a pot and a kettle, girlie

- Ok Feyres paintings are... fine i guess

- "You were there when they wrecked your father's legs" - "well SOMEONE had to tell them to stop" girl, please 😅

- Oh the yearning...

- Tamlin blames Feyre for not adhering to the treaty... just wait until she can read

- He's so broody

- Honestly Tamlin should just get like a hobby, he seems in dire need of stress relief. I suggest crochet or collecting stamps or something... or press flowers from the garden and make collages.

- Feyre is jealous of Tamlins many "female" lovers, with fancy titles (and oh no they must all be so beautiful).

Girl why are you:

1) surprised

2) mad/jealous/sad

3) forgetting he literally kidnapped you

4) thinking you're the first "interesting" person ever crossing his path?

Chapter 23

- What the hell is happening

- Is he gonna turn her into a fairy? Feyre the fairy? Can he do that?

- Oof a kiss, nonono says Feyre. But my door last night, it wasn't locked 😂

- Kissy kissy nonetheless

- Feyre: who saw "the most handsome man ever" yesterday, got bitten by her captor and clearly doesn't know how to feel about it all yet: "Oohhh he's so ☁️dreamy☁️"

Chapter 24

- Feyre realizing Tamlin used magic so she wouldn't see all the fairies in the court is both hilarious and sick af at the same time. You mean baby girl couldn't see other people but they could see her?

- Heck yeah chopped off head

- Night court aka dark aka evil?

- That other dude was from night court, right? You know, the most beautiful man ever?

- "This is their idea of a prank" ????

- "Omg no no you really shouldn't feel bad that you kidnapped me, you are not your family. I luckily never felt like a prisoner even though I am never allowed to go home, if I take 1 step outside a thousand different monsters will come at me, I deliberately get little information so that I remain helpless and unaware, my family no longer remembers me, my environment was enchanted so that I could not see others, I have wondered endlessly whether I will have to stay here for the rest of my life, you bit me and are trying to seduce me halfway... but you don't have to worry about all that because you are beautiful and I was allowed to finger paint so all is forgiven xoxo"

Chapter 25

- I love stories loosely influenced by the pagan calendar or phases of the seasons and the moon and the sun... connecting to nature instead of religion

- Yes to summer solstice (which ofcourse is not specifically pagan but the fae are clearly supposed to be "magical" so a writer with a religious background like Maas will obviously draw her inspiration from stuff this because ooohhh sounds a bit like witchcraft. I'm ok with it)

- Just wondering if she is gonna turn this sexual as well...

- "I am going to paint you" HAHAHA HELP

- 💃🏼💃🏼💃🏼

- Pretty

- Love de wisps, they remind me of Brave

- Oh boi they smoochin'

- Say it with me kids:

🚩 "If he kidnaps you, but is nice to you, it's still a red flag."

🚩 "If he kidnaps you, but gives you pretty clothes, it's still a red flag."

🚩 "If he kidnaps you, but lets you paint, it's still a red flag."

🚩 "If he kidnaps you, but lets you do fun stuff, it's still a red flag."

🚩 "If he kidnaps you and bites your neck and isn't quite himself from time to time, it's quite definitely a red flag."

🚩 "If he kidnaps you, but you fall in love with him, it's called Stockholm Syndrome... and yes girliepop, that's ALSO a big red flag."

Chapter 26

- Luce and Tam bicker like a married couple

- Yeah so... is anything actually going to happen with those monsters?

- Blight kills 24 people. RIP in peace

- The blight is everything except for the night court... so it OBVIOUSLY originates there, right?

- Footsteps oop

- Ayo another one of Feyres "saviors"

- Himbo

- Mr steal your girl probably

- Feyre getting all hot and bothered

- Amaranthas whore 😂

- "You DARE to put a glamor on me!?"

- Still not over the fact that Lucien isn't gay

- So many feral men

- So many emotional men

- WHAT IS SO SPECIAL ABOUT FEYRE?

I. DO. NOT. GET. IT. Just get rid of her because nobody cares...

- Why keep protecting her? This story makes NO SENSE (they probably need her for something but at least mention it n we're 26 chapters in, dangit)

- Bad boy Rhysant be like "kneel lol"

- So who is this Amarantha? Big boss lady who somehow owns a high fae from the night court? Is she badass? Like *actually* badass?

- Poof he gone

Chapter 27

- FEYRE CAN GO HOME! Is this the end of the book that doesn't go anywhere? No? Okay...

- "What about the treaty" so we're still pretending this thing exists? Ok...

- Feyre: *gets what she wants, to finally go home*

- Also Feyre: "I don't wanna" 😭

- No worries you'll be back this series has more books sadly

- They are both 'breathing' each other's names

- Seriously regretting using an audiobook for this

- Feyre and Tamlin getting steamy. Knowing her, she now has "what she wants" (Tamlin) - so now she'll probably be wanting something else... my guess is "the most beautiful man she has ever seen"

- Goodbye sex

- Feyre matching his freak scratching 'n shit

- Took a nap, did it again but this time boring

- Oh nooo she really has to gooo (sarcasm)

- Oop he said the L word AWKWARD

Chapter 28

- I want to see Feyre in this wack ass outfit

- "My paintings... they're yours" ROFL

- Girlie saw literal monsters, killed a giant wolf man, realised people could see her when she thought she was alone... but now she is in a carriage on her way home and NOW she's terrified?

- There is the L word again

- Feyre can't say it back (drama)

- A "Chateau"? Ho is u French?

- YAY mean sisters

- Plot twist they all rich now

- Sis didn't marry, feel like this is relevant

- Guess what, there is Feyres superiority complex again. Ofcourse you made a big mistake in leaving the spring court, what are they gonna do without you? (Sarcasm)

Chapter 29

- TLDR; Elain is actually an ok person, Nesta is eepy creepy odd, they don't (?) really like being rich ??? and Nesta wanted to visit Feyre but had to turn back (also Feyre I am so over being in your head...)

Chapter 30

- Feyre meets Isaac again (this better be something for the plot and not more filler)

- "He looked so human" girliepop imma say it one more time, you're annoying, stop it.

- "When I left he was a boy and now he blossomed into a man" Sarah please 🙄

- All these riches are unnatural, magical, fake... how are you ok with this and not worried everything will go to shit when the blight grows stronger?

- Oop Nesta

- Daddy issues

Chapter 31

- Something with consequences to your actions, Feyre... a girl is probably dead because of you

- Ok this setup is actually good, would you look at that

- There is that superiority/savior complex again Feyre, have you learned nothing?

- Soooo... what are you gonna do when you're there?

- Yet again they be like "kbye"

- GIRL stop whining about Tamtam, he is a walking and talking red freaking flag 🚩

- "Even if i had to tie him down to listen" 😂

- Hello? Where y'all at?

Chapter 32

- "I gave myself one minute" ooh gurl have you been to therapy? Cuz that's what you learn in therapy 🤩 Is Feyre secretly a self-critical person who likes to work on herself? Hahahaha nah, this girl is so full of herself but "hides" it behind a few minor "insecurities" aka "AM I BEAUTIFUL ENOUGH FOR A FAIRY?"

- Alis ayyyy

- So Amarantha IS the big bad (finally, after 32 chapters this story is finally going somewhere, I am delighted)

- "You want the truth, girl" ALIS I LOVE YOU, YOU SASSY QUEEN 😂

- She took Tampon to some underground cave court. Ok. I guess i know where Feyre is going

- Please let her be a giant bat or something

Ok, this is confusing so let me list it for my brain:

- Amarantha came 100 years ago

- Fought next to the king for 50 years

- She a bad beesh and not the fun kind

- Amarantha loves her sister

- Sister is also a bad beesh but falls in love with a human

- human man is, as to no-ones surprise, an actual asshat

- BETRAYAL

- A ball... in her honor? Didn't we JUST learn she was a very cruel person?

- Amarantha be like "curse you all"

- "Stole their powers from where they originated inside their bodies" and "Plucked like an apple" ??? Huh

- Amarantha been holding a grudge for wayyy to freaking long

- SHE is the blight

- Oh OFCOURSE Feyre was the solution 😂

- "Had you not have been so blind for your own heart" BRUH KIDNAPPED HER what are you on about

- Tampon be like: slavery bad

- Amazon be like: get in my bed

- Tiny: ew no lol

- Amygdala: aww 😭 you made me big mad

- Also: I lust for you (ick)

- "Bile rose in my throat" girl me too

- Guy just doesnt like girl so she gives him a reason to...

- Another ball... who goes to these? Who likes this fuck ass mad woman?

- Oh Tammy, that was a shitty move

- *hates people herself* Y'know who imma let you help break the curse? A human! Suuuure, give him a reason to connect with humankind again

- What a... ridiculously complicated case

- A human can save you BUT it has to be a girl BUT she has to hate fairies (y'know, Feyre... the kid with the fairy name? Sure) BUT she would also want/be able to kill a fairy BUT not just any one, one of your court BUT it actually has to be without knowing what she's doing and without provoking BUT she has to be courted afterwards BUT really it just has to resemble my sister's suffering ok...

- Oddly specific, I friggin' hate it.

- THE TREATY WAS A LIE, OBVIOUSLY

- poor Tam 😭😂

- She had to say I love you?? 😂 oof girl

- I am laughing my ass off this is so dumb. Like, I KNOW this is a fairytale retelling but geez Louise make it a little interesting het is so lame

- Am I supposed to feel bad for Tam?

- I'm convinced that Maas wrote Feyre's story first and then thought "Ok shit that's oddly specific I just have to write the curse exactly as it happened to Feyre because otherwise it doesn't make sense lol" like, i'm 100% sure that woman based Amaranthas story on Feyre and not the other way around, and it shows...

- Amarantha has so much potential to be an interesting character but she's so flat and cartoony it's actually so very disappointing

- Tamlin wasn't allowed to say anything to Feyre? Idk if that makes it better tbh

- Some of my friends who have read the book praise Maas' world building. How? Huh? What? Is THIS Amaranthas incentive? Is she mad because of her sister? Or because Tandem won't do the devil's tango with her? Is creativity in the room with us? It's giving "Imma put you all to sleep because I wasn't allowed to come to the baptism", also her SISTER is the one who got betrayed, not her? Kill all people bc my sister endured something traumatic and my himbo wouldn't sleep with me? Bitch please get a grip. (Talking to Sarah just fyi)

- I am ACTUALLY real fucking mad, I had *some* expecting for this book, but it is actually just shit.

- I have so many questions about this

- They couldn't say anything so they had to lie. Where does the "fairies can't lie" thing come from then?

- "Yeah go ahead and cross the border and hope someone kills you lol" (stupid)

- Also, how many fairies have been killed? By hunters and older women? I thought they were very hard to kill? Feyre I got some sad news for you that's gonna break your egocentric little heart

- They didn't just escape when they realised it was a farmer who was gonna kill them? 😂 aren't they like giant beasts? Don't you need ash wood or immense brute strength or something? Yikes.

- The children of the blessed came over the wall BUT not as brides BUT they were all killed by... blah blah and blah stop yes but-ing your story makes no fucking sense.

- Review ❌️

- Rant ✔️

- "All you had to do is say that you loved him you stupid stupid girl" .2 seconds ago you said she couldn't have known, why so angry suddenly?

- 3 DAYS 😂 WHY DID YOU LET HER GO THEN

- Does he *actually* love her or no because if no, double ew

- Yeahyeah lethal and vicious and oehlala tralala 🙄

- What is this with locked up powers, are we ever gonna see them again?

- Dumb, dumb, stupid, dumb

- I am over it tbh, can I rage quit this book?

- She keeps powers locked up? But she has her own dark powers also?

- Zense? It makes zero.

- There is Feyre again, she's gonna save the world with the power of stubbornness and being really fucking annoyed

- "Your flesh is paperthin" you mean skin?

- Her wild brown hair like glistening mud 😂

- FEYRE 🤦🏼‍♀️🤦🏼‍♀️🤦🏼‍♀️

- Feyre wholeheartedly doesn't believe in fate... nor cauldrons

Chapter 33

- Feyre on a mission

- Yeah girlie you do you boo kbye

- "I took several breaths" another one for the bingo

Chapter 34

- Again with the groaning bones

- Amarantha isn't a timeless beauty, ofcourse... cuz she's evil

- "To paint her, would have driven me to madness" OK FEYRE

- "Obviously, Amarantha purred" oh please

- Feyre still trying to break the oddly specific curse is sending me 😂

- Ok Almond is already getting on my nerves, she is not intriguing whatsoever, with her white, perfect teeth 🙄

- Eye ring? It's Luciens eye, isnt it?

- It's giving that giant eyeball ring from the Sims every townie is wearing

- "I have never seen her before"

- "Even now he is trying to protect me" *sigh* leave him be.

- "She fingered the bone on her necklace" nope, not a good enough reason to use the word "fingered"

- Feyre has watery bowels again

- A riddle and his curse will be broken

- One task every full moon. Ew. Is this some lycanthrope kink thing?

- Yes! Throw her in a cell!

- Ok, go for the riddle, the terms are flimsy so just agree and figure it out, you smartass

- Jk, Feyre keeps doing dumb shit so... eh

- still confused about their faith and that wack ass couldron

- Prediction: She won't figure it out until the very last minute

Chapter 35

- Oh sweet, sweet Feyre... they can never make me like you

- "How can you be so foolish?" Yeah well...

- "Well I'm here now" lol

- Ok sure someone else's eye not Luciens

- Maas is suddenly shifting the tone of this book and I am honestly wondering who this is for? It previously was a YA tbh

- "I tried not to look up at Claire's rotting body" honestly best line in this whole chapter

- "Humans all look alike to me" Que!?!

- "Tonight tonight, my plans I make, tomorrow tomorrow, the baby I take. The queen will never win the game, for Rumpelstiltskin I MEAN FEYRE is my name"

- For fucks sake, stop purring

- What is this conversation for again?

- *sigh*

- Riddle time

Ok, a little context: a friend who told me about ACOTAR, has told me about this riddle before I read the book. So yes, going into it I knew the answer of the riddle.

However, this is basically how our conversation went:

* The riddle goes like this: "There are those who seek me a lifetime but never we meet"

- Love. The answer is love.

* "And those I kiss but who trample me beneath ungrateful feet."

- Oh no wait...

* No, no, that's it, you got it!

- Really?

* Yep

- ... oh

*Want me to go on?

- Nah.

So ehm... yeah. Make of that what you will

- Feyres brain immediately going to diseases is hilarious to me

- Here we go from savior to boohoo help me I am so human and mortal and stupid and probably not very attractive and I probably won't find the solution because I have never known "love" in my entire life

- Back in the dungeon, lots of time to think

- Wondering why Feyre didn't ask for Amarantha to write it down, but then again her reading is shit sooooo

- Time for the full moon

Chapter 36

- Ok so... Feyre is literally *just* a toy

- "Hunt this"

- This world has sandworms like Dune or that giant worm from spongebob

- Finally some action

- "It was blind" aha

- This is actually a good chapter, well done!

- Big ass scary worm has a teeny tiny nose somewhere apparently cuz it can smell

- "She is building a trap" smort

- "She has just become invisible" nice

- "My knees and ankles groaned" girl maybe you should go see a doctor

- "Anyone could have done that" sure, Almond, sure.

- Back in your cell, you

- Soooo... why did we do this during a full moon? Was it a were-wyrm?

Chapter 37

- Broody handsome dude creepin'

- "I'll heal your arm for 2 weeks of you"

- What is it with all this "you owe me so I'll own you"-shit?

- Feyre establishes that evil hot guy does evil things

- "For Tamlin I would sell my soul" Feyre, stop saying dumb shit. I'm serious.

- Big fan of Feyre locked up in a dungeon (although wondering when she'll do something stupid again)

- Aaaaaand... there it is 🙃

- HE GAVE HER A TATTOO??? Dude did you just mark her like a cow or a pig?

- Oh noooooo... shocking jow much I do not care for Feyre, Tamlin, this shadow guy... tbh the only character like is Lucien.

- Oh Rhys... so dark and ✨️mysterious✨️ (barf)

- No. Just... No.

Chapter 38

- Cinderelli Cinderelli...

- Oh look it's him again 🙄

- "Each of us has a beast beneath our skin, roaring to get out. While your Tamlin prefers fur, I find wings and talons to be more entertaining"

- Look, I KNOW this is supposed to be some kind of "look how cool and magical we are" thing, but honestly... it's just giving beastiality

- I am now imagining Tamlin in a fursuit and Rhys flapping his arms with sheets of black plastic pretending to be a bat... help

- "His powerful male body" yes yes ok thanks for confirming he is, in fact, a man

- Showoff... why does it remind me of a kid in school acting mysterious yet interesting?

- "Admirable or stupid" the answer is the second one, Riverdance

- Feyre still can't figure out the riddle

- "Cheating are you?" Well if there are no specifics given it is indeed not cheating

- YES BUT she said we can't help you so we won't (says the dude who helped her heal) - Popular mean girl from high school says we can't and I'm cool and want to stay cool so listen up or I might not be cool anymore

- "Here, a gift. For having the balls to even ask" 😂

- "He purred as he walked out" ew

Chapter 39

- "I gobbled it down" Feyres inside beast is a turkey

- The tattoo blinked 😂

- First a free tattoo, now free bodypaint!

- Prisoner gets makeover and a very shmexy dress, makes perfect sense!

- Yeah Riddler, how DARE you objectify me (I mean I objectify you too but that's different)

- Also, consent? Yeah never heard of her

- This book is so incredibly cringe, dang

- What is this chapter??

- "I did such a foolish thing" yeah no shit

- "We made a bargain" ok how many times are they going to repeat this or explain it as if we weren't literally there?

- Feyre be like: "Rhys with the wings and the talons, lurking behind that beautiful, flawless surface" bla bla hubba hubba 🙄

- "That handkerchief he called a dress" lol

- Great, drug wine

- Lucien be like "HeY i WaS gOnNa CoMe YoU jUsT hAd To WaIt" 😾

- Oaths apparently mean nothing to these people...?

- "I barked"

- "Just a week every month, for the rest of my life"... girl, sleepovers at Rhys is low key the personification of you being on your period - inconvenient, painful and probably bloody

- Hilarious how this girl is being co-kidnapped/parented by two men...

- "There was a tall, handsome..." YES FEYRE JUST LIKE EVERYBODY ELSE HERE parently, keep it in your pants

- "The summer court fairy cringed" SAME

- Feyres watery bowels at it again

- RIP he dead

- The last part of this chapter wasn't that bad, it just establishes what we already knew about Amarantha. But ok sure, it's fine I guess.

- Every single hot dude is a walking and talking red flag. Tbh, Rhys is just as bad as Tamlin. Feeding her spiked wine and letting other people do stuff to her? Wtf?

Chapter 40

- What was the point of these trials again? Fun for Amarantha?

- Lucien is literally the only character i don't find insufferable

- Feyres "one is bad cuz it's solitary so it's Amarantha and two is tamlin and me and three is too many like three sisters" 😂 girl you're going cray cray

- Just pull a lever, Kronk

- I, too, would like a tattoo that would help me cheat on tests

- If you're pure evil... how are you suddenly 'honest' in a game? Just cheat? Make sure it's all rigged? Pull any lever - ur ded hehe (no but seriously why give Feyre a chance to win at all?)

- "He licked away a tear" 😵‍💫 BRO WTF

- "It was disgusting" well look at that, I am finally agreeing with Feyre. How far we've come.

Chapter 41

- "... and her pincers are not so kind"

Me: *snorts*

"The other creature snorted that pig noise"

Me: woah wtf 😂

- "I trusted Nesta" DO YOU NOW?

- The descriptions in this chapter are actually pretty good and I must say it's been a while since I enjoyed something in this book

Chapter 42

- "What I felt for him was wild and hard and burning" 🙄

- Biting again

- "Our bones danced" *sums up some random dances as if Feyre knows anything about dancing "no *broody* it was a death dance" lmao I can't

- Fairy sex obviously is wild animalistic sex

- SWEET JEZUS STOP PURRING

- "His eyes flickered" ✔️ bingo

- So many things groan in this book... bones, doors, fae...

- "Forcing himself into me, in the space where I still could taste Tamlin" WTF 🚩🚩

- (talking about Rhys and Amarantha) "How it would hurt to be enslaved by someone like that" oy Feyre, YOU ARE.

- Ohhh, you're groping and mouth fucking her JUST to make Tamling angry! Hahahaha ofcourse it's aaaalll good now

- Rhys, you disgust me

- "Feyre, for cauldrons' sake" 😂

- Also Rhys be like: "Oh but I am not touching you below so it's fine"

- "It is the only way to convince him I was on your side. Believe me, I would have loved nothing more than to enjoy you" maaaaaan get a grip

- "Beyond the obvious? And he gestured to his perfect face" oh he is so fucking full of himself I'm over it

- "My father killed Tamlins father, and his brothers" oh how I did see this coming

- "What a mess." This book? Yes.

Chapter 43

- "She pouted" Omg!! I know who Amarantha reminds me of! It's king George from Hamilton 😂 she is just as (not at all) scary and intimidating as him! Only difference is - King George is also a big baby, but he is still somewhat silly (like his dance) and that is the only thing that is likeable about him. Amarantha is just "fear me for I am an evil sex goddess/queen and my wrath will rain upon you" but all I feel is like "Ma'am you should try therapy and stop bullying others. You should learn to work on yourself, maybe then people will actually like you"

- Final test: murder

- One of these victims is gonna be someone she knows, right? Probably Lucien, Tamlin or one of her sisters

- Honestly at this point I do not care if Feyre dies. Nor do I care about her internal monologue and 'struggles' tbh.

- RIP fairy 1

- No way back now, Feyre.

- Ofcourse it's Tamlin

- Thankfully it's not Lucien

- *Feyre rambling*

- All this in the span of... a few seconds?

- *Feyre only now contemplating suicide*

- Put 1 and 2 together, girliepop...

- Tamlin is a vampire confirmed