#dragon Lucien or whatever's

[separatist-apologist]

I know you say nothing for the rest of the week but is that bc you’re spending it planning ceiling lady Elain and hat man Lucien for next week

I wish you could have seen my face when I opened this

[nothanksehh]

The Rooms - A 5 Part Series

Hi all! I have been wanting to do more writing lately and I got an idea for a short series of absolute smut. Hardly any plot. Many big o's. These pairings are with my four favorites from my favorite books, these groups answer the question, "If you could put four people in a room and do whatever you wanted with them who would you pick?"

A Trial of Lust- Rhysand, Azriel, Cassian, Lucien X Reader

You find yourself wandering the streets of Velaris at night on your way to Rita’s. You never expected to run into the inner circle, let alone find them on their free night.

A Banquet of Lakes- Rowan, Dorian, Manon, Fenrys X Reader

It's a beautiful time of year in Terrasin, you can't help but want to find a lake to take a swim in. It becomes an even more beautiful day when you are found by those who want to picnic near your lake.

A Game of Kings- Ruhn, Ithan, Aidas, Tharion X Reader

Playing card games in small towns has always made you happy. When a card game goes wrong, what will you do to distract your opponents?

A Lesson in Riding- Xaden, Sawyer, Liam, Dain X Reader

You had always heard that Dragon Riders know how to ride well. You couldn't help but want to venture out of the Healers Quadrant and experience it for yourself.

A Taste of Obedience- Casteel, Kieran, Delano, Reaver X Reader

You knew that being good was something you were not good at. One day your friends decide they have finally had enough and decide to give you a taste of the good life.

[simlit]

Chosen of the Sun | | dawn // thirty

| @izayoichan | @maladi777

ABILITY CHECK | CHARISMA Aster is assigned a base stat of 10 charisma, with a bonus of 5. Question #1 requires a roll of at least 15. Question #2 requires a roll of at least 16. Question #3 requires a roll of at least 18.  Question #4 requires a roll of at least 18.  Question #5 requires a roll of at least 20. 

next / previous / beginning

LUCIEN: Then… someone died? ELDEWYN: Indeed, someone did. And none of the remaining nine claimed responsibility. Made things quite interesting for spectators. There was some rumors that perhaps even the Chosen of the Sun might have been the killer. INDRYR: Surely the goddess of the moon would not select a murderer as her chosen. ELDEWYN: Ah, but it is sometimes the case. After all, back then, anything was acceptable. Even had they admitted their deed, they would not have been punished. LUCIEN: How awful… INDRYR: And who was the victim? ELDEWYN: Mm, the last to lose their life in the moon trials… What was it… ah yes… Castien, was his name. Castien Thallan. KYRIE: Who was he? ELDEWYN: A rabblerouser from the south. He used to get into all sorts of trouble. I remember before he was chosen, he and his little gang would stir up the city, made people restless. The guard was always after him for one thing or another, but never could hold him long. Imagine our shock when it was announced he'd been picked. After that, he was untouchable of course. Ironic, you ask me. KYRIE: He was just a delinquent, then? ELDEWYN: Yes, you could say so. A thorn in the capital’s side, really. But clearly honorable enough for the Moon to choose him. ASTER: A toast! To a veritable troublemaker! I can certainly relate. After all, they only had to drag me out of jail right to the steps of the church! ELDEWYN: Ha! That’s right! I’ll say, there was quite the gossip about it in town! INDRYR: Whatever were you arrested for, anyways? ASTER: Oh, you know, a little scuffle… bit of a bar brawl if I’m honest. I’m not much of a fighter, but tell that to my tongue! INDRYR: How curious that no one ever admitted to the deed. Are they certain he didn’t die to the elements? ELDEWYN: To be frank, there was a great deal of speculation about it, but seeing as how no one but then Ten were inside, there’s really no way of knowing. Afterwards, he was given over to the King’s clerics and prepared for burial. We honor the fallen, of course. They’re still Chosen, even in death. But he had no kin to speak of, and no one after came to claim him that wasn’t one of his fellow troublemakers. KYRIE: Whatever happened to them? ELDEWYN: I’m certain I don’t know. Went on their way, or grew up, I suppose! INDRYR: Perhaps there was someone else in the labyrinth? ELDEWYN: Hm? What do you mean by that? INDRYR: You said there were many dangers within the maze, it could be that he encountered someone there. Someone not Chosen? ELDEWYN: The labyrinth is located on the outskirts of the city. During the trial the entrances are heavily guarded, and very few people know the way through. Even if someone could get passed the blockades, they’d be utterly lost! INDRYR: Then, it doesn’t seem particularly efficient that anyone would plan to use the trial as a cover for murder. Unless… LUCIEN: Why would anyone think to do that? ASTER: Quite conspiratorial there, Indryr! And who doesn’t love a good conspiracy theory? Mm? I’m sure there’s a secret dragon under the castle waiting to make snacks of us all. More wine, my lord? ELDEWYN: Of course, of course! KYRIE: Surely you don’t think there was outside involvement? INDRYR: I’m only speculating. KYRIE: I’m certain there’s no evidence of that. Isn’t that right, my lord? ELDEWYN: Well, you know, he’s not the first to say so. There were rumors at the time that perhaps Castien’s involvement in the trials had been predetermined. KYRIE: Predetermined? ELDEWYN: They said he was selected deliberately. At request of… It’s all hearsay, anyways. LUCIEN: But the Chosen are selected by divine right! Lunar Priests get their orders directly from the goddess of the moon! Right, Your Grace? KYRIE: Uh— ELDEWYN: Of course, Your Highness. It is silly gossip, nothing more. Some people believed the presiding priest was espousing false information. But the trials were successful as every year before. There’s no reason to think he was lying about Castien being one of the true Chosen Ten. But people will get all sorts of ideas if given even a shred of mystery.

[tunahaswares]

- Lucien Flavius headcanons .

Lucien is book smart but absolutely not people smart. if you ask if he's flirting with you when he talks to you the first time, he stammers over his words and makes it sound *even worse*, which is so dorky and adorable to me. He knows a lot about history and random facts about the Dwemer, but he doesn't know how to adapt that knowledge to people. I mean, what he knows doesn't even begin to translate to socializing.

But he's still so naturally charismatic in a silly goofy way. He sings songs, does rhyming games with Inigo, tells you scary stories by the fire, etc etc. He has RIZZ he just doesn't know how to use it. or that it even exists.

(This man giggles and tells me I made him blush and I'M FUMBLING SO HARD IM TAKING SCREENSHOT AFTER SCREENSHOT- he did a little idle pose where he tilted his head and I squawked like a bird in shock.)

and his REACTION when you activate the lover stone.... whatever he says, he ends it with "not that I... ah..." like he's gonna say "not that I'm not interested in you!" or whatever. I forget the specifics of what he said, but he's saying the stone is better for the player and not for him, and is just generally embarrassed. I'd wager he's never been in a relationship before. He's always been study study study, books books books. And daydream daydream DAYDREAM.

Good lord his head's in the clouds sometimes. He's also confident in a weird way? Like he has self doubt, evident by how he asks Inigo "do you think I'm useful?". But when you kill your third dragon with him, he makes an off handed comment and calls your team "team Lucien". so he definitely has a fully fed ego from his very loving parents who gave him EVERYTHING. It's not like he ever asked his parents for dating advice, though. He never thought he'd need it!

So here he is, fumbling and turning bright red as he tries to convey his feelings.

"Well... you see, what I wanted to talk to you about was, I think I'm... No, I know I'm- would that even be the right word? I do really like you but can I even call it that? i-"

and he goes on and on. Can he say it? can he just say he's in love? isn't that a strong word?the poor guy is losing it.

I'ma just kiss him to shut him up fr fr

anyways.

He's totally a little spoon. He's barely even toned. Skinny and short, he needs to be protected and kept warm! Skyrim is a harsh land, very cold! He over thinks romantic gestures though. and affection.

He wants to hold your hand but "oooh is that okay? should he ask or would that be weird? but you're so stunning illuminated by the campfire... maybe he wants to kiss you instead - NO too much!" It gets him blushing just thinking about making a move like that!!!!

Oftentimes he will ask and need to be reassured he's doing the right thing by asking, or told he doesn't have to ask. depending on personal preference, ofc.

He's a darling angel. Don't worry, he gains confidence overtime! He can kiss you on the cheek and not feel like he's gonna explode! he still gets embarrassed, especially if you tease him over it.

"Aawww, still in love with me, Flavius?"

"Oh gods, not this again..."

You could never annoy him, even if his tone says otherwise. He gets frustrated being teased, but that's just overcooked embarrassment if you think abt it.

Loves pda but would never admit it... he feels comforted by it, just as long as it's not too much.

Hold his hand or wrap your arm around his waist. Bonus points if you do this while in windhelm. hates that fucking city, but LOVES showing u off to the Nords... look he's dating the fucking last dragonborn and ur not... who's the milk drinker now huh bitch???

Lucien loves to just relax after a long day. Reading to you is his favorite. He'll even try to cook dinner for the both of you if you're too tired after a whole days worth of preventing dragons from singing his ass.

As you fall asleep, head resting on his lap as he reads to you, Lucien will silently stroke your face and close his book.

And just… sit there. Admiring you. How did he ever get so lucky? You've saved him more time than he could count… He hopes his love is enough to repay you for that.

----------------

wrote this on discord in midst of a ramble lol. Y'all deserve it tho

[ae-neon]

I used to have a theory (until acosf fucked up the system on how the hl's powers are passed, like, i assumed it was a straight line in the genealogical tree and would go to sides, like uncle and cousin, only if they are conected to the later hl's line and are youger) in which, to not write a long text: if all males were dead and only females were left alive, the magic would have no choice but pick the strongest and make her high lady.... but, sjm doesn't read her own books so the theory became invalid....

Hey anon

This is literally why I never understood theory crafting in sjm books, it implies sjm writes with a care and dedication that simply doesn't exist, sjm isn't even consistent within the same book

The theories coming out of MAF and into WAR was a wild time in the fandom, there were theories (mostly supported by the text and things sjm said in interviews) that

Mama Archeron being the sixth queen (who turned out to be Vassa) (or her having been High Lady of the Dusk Court) and that was gonna explain Nesta's resistance to glamour

Half the book would be in Rhysand's pov and we would learn lots about the first war

Miryam and Drakon would show up. This one came true.

Rhysand would get his mom and sisters wings back, in particular that Feyre would steal them. I can't remember if this comes true or not since I actively black out the weird wing trophy

Mor+Azriel were not mates but was still gonna become canon

EVERYONE swore on their mom that sjm was gonna kill one or two members of the IC. Azriel was the most (un)popular choices

With the title Wings and Ruin, Cassian, due the injuries he sustained in Hybern, was an especially popular choice of "he'll die or at the very least will never fly again"

Mor was a spy/traitor for the CoN

Amren was a spy/traitor for Hybern

Amren would turn into a dragon or a valg

That Tamlin and Ianthe had been the ones to perform Calanmai and Ianthe would be pregnant with the heir to Spring and Tamlin would die, leaving Ianthe in power via proxy

Or Tamlin would die and Lucien would become HL of Spring somehow since he was mates with Elain and Feyre had drawn flowers for her

OR Beron would die and Lucien would become HL of the Autumn Court (Helion retcon didn't exist back then) and ally with the NC

Feyre giving herself wings + her having healing powers meant she would heal Cassian

At least 2 or 3 HLs would side with Hybern

Feyre would get help from the Suriel. This one came true.

Feyre would give up her power to save Rhys

Epilogue with Feyre pregnant like 50 or 100 years later since she didn't really want kids but Rhys "deserved" them (LMAO)

Nesta was a valg or something

Nesta was gonna murder a lot of people, like wipe out half of Hybern's army

Nesta was Illyrian

Feyre was gonna kill the KoH

Etc etc

The same thing is happening now, in particular with Elriel/Gwynriel/Elucien where ppl are using the text as some sort of well of proof but all sides have evidence which just means whatever sjm does will be justified

I'm not saying that ppl shouldn't do that. It can be fun, I'm sure, if you enjoy her books

But the canon itself is rarely reliable

[moononastring]

Spirit Meets the Bones XIX

Find it all here.

Genre: Angst/Romance/Drama Author's Note: I sincerely appreciate every single one of you ♥️ Feedback is always welcome and very encouraging :)

tagging: @finalgirl-steve | @useraelin | @rhaenyratargs | @vanserrass | @positivewitch | @readthelastpaage | @helion-ism | @spinachtz | @elizab3th-grace | @starfall-everynight | @daily-dose-of-sass | @highlady-fireheart | @carnythian | @theviewfromtheotherside | @climb-the-mountian | @ladyelain | @lovedbyth3sun | @carolynmezzosoprano | @thedarkinmansfield | @moonfawnx | @imma-too-many-fandoms | @x-soladosisfacitvenenum-x | @krem-does-stuff | @cynicalpotato95 | @lattristanketcup | @tiny-dragon-lover | @runningwiththeoceans | @nightchanges20 | @inurus | @juulle987 | @my-otrand | @daydreamer-anst | @theeternalstruggle | @sweet-but-stormy | @deedz-thrillerkilller16 | @raila-styles-blog | @illyrianshadowhunter | @this-is-rochelle | @sweetstarelf | @thewilderheart | @dimenticalitutti | @andramoreaux | @yourlocalbookwhore | @applestrudeldoo | @comingupbexx | @foxybananaaaz | @weesablackbeak | @luciensupremacy | @sheisnotwriting |

Eris hadn’t been able to keep his eyes off her during their visit, watching as she laughed at Lucien’s jokes, at Elain’s witty responses, and most importantly, he knew she could feel his eyes on her whenever her lips curled up into a smile at some quip he made that resulted in outrage by their hosts.

Eris Vanserra was hanging by a thread and his wife would be the one to cut away whatever was left of his sanity. And she didn’t even know to what extent.

He watched at how animated she became since they’d arrived, so at ease with his favorite people, it made him never want to leave. 

But to their reality they had to return and Eris watched as Iris flushed in delight at the beautiful package of stacked books that Lucien had handed her. He nearly threw up when she turned to flash him a wide smile and then looked back at Lucien as they stood in the doorway. 

“This is for me?” she asked in hushed excitement. 

“For you.” Lucien confirmed with a chuckle.

“Are you — you didn’t have to do that.” 

“Oh, but I definitely wanted to. Eris mentioned you’ve started studying and practicing healing so I think you’ll find these helpful to your studies.” Lucien said with a small smile then shrugged at her expression. “Perks of being close to Helion. I get access to endless amounts of information.”

“I helped him pick those out and might have sneaked in a book or two for fun in there.” Elain said with a giggle and Eris truly almost vomited in his brother’s doorway when Iris grinned.

“I can’t wait to read through these!” Iris said, glancing down at the books. Eris watched her throat bob and before he could stop himself, he gave her arm a little squeeze. She looked up at him and he could see the emotion she was trying to suppress before she looked back to their hosts and said earnestly, “Thank you. This visit has been wonderful. You’re both so kind.”

Elain waved a hand. “Please, we’re so happy to have you!” she gushed. “Eris, I have something for mother if you don’t mind taking it, please?”

Eris nodded and glanced between his wife and his brother then squinted at Lucien. “Say nothing to my wife.” he deadpanned.

Lucien promptly glanced at Iris and said in his most serious of voices, “Nothing,” which only caused Iris to chuckle as Eris flipped off his brother and followed Elain.

Iris watched as Eris left her side and hesitated to glance at Lucien for a moment, her hands gripping the stack of books tightly. She wasn’t used to this, having people enjoy her company and — and give her things. Finally looking up at Lucien, she found him watching her with a patient smile as if he could sense her overwhelming feelings of gratitude — sensing the hug she would love to give him but was hesitant to do so.

“Don’t be so horrified to stand here alone with me,” Lucien teased. “I’m not as nearly as awful to anyone as I am to Eris.”

Iris let out a small chuckle and shook her head. “This has been the highlight of my week.” She finally said, smiling warmly at him as they stood by the door. “Eris talks so much about you and Elain, I’ve been so looking forward to meeting you both. Thank you again for being so welcoming.”

Lucien waved a hand with a good-natured smile. “Please, thanks are not needed. We’d always be happy to have you,” he said then gave her a sly smile. “I hope you’re giving Eris as much of a hard time as possible?”

“I try to go out of my way to make fun of him as much as I can,” she replied with a small smirk. “You should be proud.”

Lucien laughed. “You’re everything I wanted in a sister-in-law,” he said and nudged her gently with his elbow. “Welcome to our very dysfunctional family.”

“Why thank you.” she said and gave him a half curtsey that had Lucien rolling his eyes. “It’s been very entertaining…to say the least.”

Lucien snorted. “I’m sure. You haven’t even properly met the other Vanserras yet.”

Iris’s lips twitched. “Not yet,” she said with a chuckle. “Eris keeps saying no but I don’t think that will last much longer.”

Her brother-in-law made a noise in response. “To be fair, they only met Elain once from far away so I see where he’s coming from.” 

She glanced down at the books in her hands once more and then back up at him. “I’m — I hope you know…your relationship with Eris is so important to him. And it’s important to me as well.” Iris paused here, unsure of how to explain how she felt in any other way than honestly. “I don’t have many — any friends really. I want us to be good friends.”

Lucien smiled more fully then reached a hand to gently touch her elbow. “We already are. Even better, we’re family now.” he said and Iris flushed happily. “I’m very happy for you and Eris. I look forward to watching him have more mental breakdowns because of you.”

Iris ducked her head and laughed softly at his teasing. “It wasn’t that bad.” she mumbled.

“Oh, it was the highlight of my whole year.” he said with a snort. “I will never let him live this down.”

“Spoken like a true brother.” she said with a chuckle that he echoed.

“It’s not every day I get to —” but Lucien stiffened and whirled towards the kitchen, Iris tensing next to him. 

“What’s wrong?”

“Elain.” he said quickly and stalked towards the kitchen, Iris on his heels. 

They rushed in to find Elain standing frozen, her hands gripping a basket tightly with Eris holding onto her gently. He spared Lucien a glance before focusing on Elain again. “It just started.”

Iris watched as Eris slowly backed away for Lucien to take his place next to his wife, his hands touching her gently. “Elain, my love. What are you seeing?”

It took a moment for Elain to speak and Iris watched in fascination, her grip on the stack of books tightening as Elain’s eyes glazed over. She had only heard about what a seer could do but to see one in action…

“I see — fire.” Elain gasped, her grip tightening on the basket handle. “A ring of fire and blood. An eagle flying free. A crown dipped in crimson. A thread of gold.”

Eris’s eyes found Iris and she frowned at the tension in his body before turning back to Elain.

“Is she alright?” she asked quietly. “Is there anything we can do?”

Lucien shot her a small smile. “She’ll come to in a moment.” he said then turned back to his wife, a hand smoothing down her hair. “My love, do you see anything else?”

Elain blinked and Iris watched as her expression started to clear. She quietly said, “Every caged bird finds a way to flee. Some are stained red while some shed their cloaks and reign free.” She blinked rapidly and the basket slipped from her hands as she took a breath.

Lucien caught it easily, one hand on her shoulder to steady her. “Are you alright, dove?”

Elain blinked once more and shook her head, letting out a shuddering breath. “Oh.” she said softly. “I’m — I’m alright.” She glanced at Lucien, giving him a small reassuring smile then at Eris and Iris, who stood quietly. “I’m okay. It’s been a while since I’ve been hit suddenly with a vision. Usually, I feel them coming but this one snuck up on me.”

“Do you think something triggered it?” Iris asked quietly and if she hadn’t been watching Elain intensely, she might’ve missed the Seer’s small glance towards Eris and then back at Lucien.

“I — I think I was just so excited about you visiting, that’s all.” she said with a small chuckle. Taking a deep breath, she smoothed down her dress and then smiled at them. “Basket is ready to go.”

Iris smiled timidly then glanced at Eris whose gaze was narrowed on Elain.

“Are you sure everything’s alright?” Eris asked slowly and his gaze flickered to his brother. 

Elain’s lips thinned. “You know it takes a little time to process my visions but I think…I think a shift is coming.” she said carefully, a hand gently rubbing her forehead.  “You should be prepared for anything.”

Iris’s brows furrowed as she glanced between the three of them. “That doesn’t sound ominous at all.” she said as unease spread through her chest. Her gaze focused on how Eris had tensed, his fist clenching at his sides. At how he nodded and gave Elain a small smile.

“I’m nothing if not prepared for everything,” he said and straightened. “It’ll be fine.” 

A silence followed this statement and Iris frowned as her gaze shifted between Elain, Lucien, and finally settled on Eris. “Well. That’s reassuring, I guess.” she said, earning a chuckle from the group.

Lucien waved a hand as if to wipe away the tension and said with a small smile. “I did say this family was dysfunctional.”

“Indeed…” she said and raised her brows, nodding her head towards Eris. “I’ve picked up on that living with this one.”

Eris shot his wife a look then rolled his eyes and reached out to Lucien for the basket. “Well now, we, unfortunately, have to get back to the dysfunction.” 

Iris sighed, sparing him a glance then smiled at their hosts. “Thank you again for today. I hope we can visit again soon.”

“You’re always welcome.” Elain said with a wide smile. “I look forward to us bonding more.”

“Absolutely,” Iris replied with a smile of her own, her hands tightening on her gift from Lucien and lifting it slightly in his direction. “I hope you don’t mind if I share some thoughts about what I learn.”

“You better.” he said firmly. “I’m also looking forward to hearing about you being more violent towards my brother.” Lucien added with a grin. “Choke him once or twice, just for me.”

Iris shifted the books in her hand to give him a salute as Eris scowled at his brother. “You have my word.”

“Tell your husband to stop being an ass.” Eris said to Elain who grinned.

“Tell him yourself.”

“It hurts my eyes to look at him. I’d rather not.”

“Eris.” Iris chided. “Be nice.”

“He wants you to choke me.”

“Don’t pretend like you won’t have it coming.” she said with a snort and her husband’s scowl deepened at the laughs that followed. “I’ll try to teach him better manners for next time.”

“Good luck.” Lucien said with a snort of his own as Elain squeezed Eris in a hug. “My mother has been trying for years.”

“I have excellent manners.” Eris replied with a huff, squeezing Elain with his free arm. “You just seem to bring out the worst in me.”

“I don’t know about excellent.” Elain said and laughed at the look he gave her but ignored him as she yanked Iris into a bone-crushing hug. Eris’s focus shifted to Iris’s slight hesitation before she returned Elain’s hug with a fervor that had Eris swallow. 

Lucien met his brother’s gaze as Elain pulled away and tilted his head towards Iris with a small smile. Rolling his eyes, Eris gave a short nod and Lucien replaced Elain, giving Iris another tight hug.

“I should’ve known you two would be huggers.” Iris said as she pulled back with a flushed face and their hosts shared identical grins.

“Oh yes.” Elain said with a nod. “Even though these two pretend to hate it.”

Almost as if on cue, the brothers shared an identical look of disgust.

“Lucien.”

“Eris.” 

“Here we go.” Elain muttered.

“Hugging you is like hugging a thornbush,” Lucien said with a sweet smile that wasn’t sweet at all. “I am left wounded and bleeding.”

“And hugging you is like hugging death.” Eris replied with a not-so-sweet smile of his own. “I am left soulless and barely breathing.”

Lucien laughed. “You’re soulless all on your own. Don’t go blaming me for that.”

“I really should’ve stabbed you when I had the chance earlier.”

Lucien put an arm around Elain’s shoulder and flipped Eris off with his free hand. “Fuck you.”

Eris held up his own finger. “Fuck you.”

Iris shared a look with Elain then rolled her eyes. “I don’t know how you’ve dealt with them like this all the time.”

“Practice.” Elain said with a grin that turned menacing as she gave both brothers a look. “And polite threats.”

Iris laughed then nodded her head towards Eris who quirked a brow at her. “I’ll choke him into submission for next time.”

“I’d rather not keep talking about my personal choking preferences in front of my brother but if you insist —” Eris started, but Iris held up a hand with a look of disdain, effectively cutting him off as Lucien gagged loudly and Elain laughed. 

“Anyway,” Iris said, ignoring the suggestive Eris look he was giving her. “We’ll visit soon after the embarrassment of this visit wears off.”

“Please.” Lucien snorted. “We were on our best behavior.”

Iris gave her brother-in-law a knowing look that Lucien could only smile at. 

“Next time, come alone.” Elain said with a wink. “We’ll kick Lucien out then have ourselves a day of fun without them.”

A noise of outrage left both brothers and the girls could only laugh at the offended debate that followed.

And Iris couldn’t help but watch Eris with Lucien and Elain — the conversation continuing from the door to the trek of their winnowing point. She watched him as she conversed as well, until it was really time for them to leave, watching the delighted smirk on his face, how at ease he was.

When they finally departed, winnowing home, the two paused at the threshold of The Forest House and Iris watched as Eris’s expression fell into the stoic indifference he donned when home. She realized more than ever at this moment, how much she didn’t like it. How exhausting this must be for him.

Visiting Elain and Lucien had been a break and now they were back to reality. 

They walked in silence towards their wing, her hand tightening on her stack of books as she walked beside him and felt the tension coming off him in waves whenever they passed others in the halls. She hadn’t missed the glances people aimed at them and neither had he. Had word spread of what Eris had done to her father? Would it — would he have to pay a price for it? Iris stole a glance at him, noting he had only spoken when sending off his mother’s basket with a sentry. 

As they neared their chambers, Iris finally spoke.

“Well,” she began, glancing up at him. “I’m really glad we went.”

Eris gave her a thin smile, slowing down their walk. “I’m glad we did too,” he said quietly and met her gaze. “I…enjoyed watching you bond with them.”

Iris gave him a small smile, gently nudging him with her elbow. “They’re easy to like.”

“That they are.” he said and he let his eyes wash over her face, drinking in the sight of her looking at him, then looked away. “You weren’t ready to come back, were you?”

“Not really.” she said, the corner of her mouth ticking up. “Were you?”

“I never really am.”

Iris frowned slightly at the words but said nothing as they continued walking until they finally reached their chamber doors and stopped. Iris faced him and eyed the small distance between them, then glanced up at him, assessing. She watched how rigidly he stood, his hands clasped behind his back, the detached expression she had come to see through. Iris knew he carried a huge burden, and knew how heavily weighed down his shoulders were. The way his joy had to be so guarded that he couldn’t enjoy a simple outing. And gods, did she feel seen in his emotions. Seen in his struggle because hers had always been the same, was the same for so long.

He raised a brow at her expression. “What is it?”

Iris bit her lip, hesitating for a moment. Yes, things had shifted between them. They had been changing for weeks and now… 

She took a deep breath and finally asked, “Are you going to tell me what’s going on?” 

Eris pursed his lips and waited a moment before clearing his throat and answering, “We have a lot to discuss, I’d say.”

“And you’ll tell me everything?” she asked and the side of his mouth lifted. 

“I assume you won’t resist badgering me with questions until you get all the answers you want.”

“And I assume you’re smart enough not to let it get to badgering because then I will badger you with a weapon.” she said sweetly and Eris chuckled quietly. 

“You’re being mean, little gazelle.” he asked and shifted closer, his expression lightening even as his eyes monitored the space around them. “Threatening a prince so casually like this.”

She watched him as he scanned their surroundings, no doubt searching for any threats even with them being the only ones in the hall. Threats that were likely more worrisome for him now after what had happened earlier today.

After their kiss. After they shifted to a little more than friends.

She didn’t want him to keep worrying and she didn’t want to think about stepping back into their room just yet. She wanted to ease whatever it is that he wasn’t telling her. 

So she took a step closer.

“And what are you going to do about it, prince?” she asked quietly and Eris quirked a brow.

“What would you like me to do about it, my lady?” he replied, the drop of his voice straightening her spine. 

Iris bit her lip, watching him as he watched her. What did she want him to do about it? She thought about the way he had held her earlier. The way his hands had pulled her in his arms and kissed her senselessly. She may have kissed him first but Eris had really kissed her and now she wanted to do many things with him. To him. Let him do things to her.

Heat pooled low in her stomach and Iris hated the flush on her cheeks that definitely gave away where her thought process was going. He didn’t need to know she was thinking about this so she only shook her head with a small smile.

“Stuff.” she managed and knocked her elbow into his side again.

He met her gaze and shot her a knowing look that had her lips twitching. “Stuff that is similar to those things you refused to elaborate on during our visit?”

She shrugged with a small smile. “Maybe.”

He snorted and shook his head. “Let’s not backtrack to that maybe of yours. You’ve been very agreeable lately.”

“Well, we can’t have that now.” she said with that same small smile. “I was maybe going to elaborate but I don’t find that I am in an agreeable mood anymore.”

Eris shot her a look of disbelief then huffed a laugh. “She says as she clearly can’t keep her hands off me.”

“You let me. And you like it.”

He raised his brows. “Someone thinks highly of themselves. I don’t even like you,” he said and Iris saw him fighting back a smirk at the look she shot him. “Besides, you’re the one who denies yourself things you enjoy. And by things you enjoy, I mean me.”

“I don’t enjoy anything about you.”

“Your pretty mouth says such unbelievable lies.” 

She gave him a coy smile. “You think my mouth is pretty?”

“Don’t fish for compliments. You already know the answer to that question.”

“Well, if you’re not going to compliment me, I guess I won’t be agreeable after all.” she said, giving him her best dismissive look, nose in the air. 

Eris fought back a smile, knowing exactly what she was doing with this conversation. He couldn’t help how tense he became as soon as they returned, his home hadn’t been a safe place in so long. It certainly didn’t feel like a safe place for her either. 

But she was getting to be very good at distracting him. His wife. His mate. Who didn’t even know she was his mate.

“Maybe we should step inside.” he finally said. “I think you’ll be more agreeable behind closed doors.”

He watched her swallow, glancing at him, giving him only a moment to see the look on her face — only a second to read the emotions in her eyes then, Iris slowly turned to face the doorway.

Eris’s eyes narrowed as he watched her stand there. He gave her a moment and just as he opened his mouth to speak, she beat him to it.

“I know I said that I wouldn’t let him ruin anything else for me…” she began quietly and Eris’s jaw clenched at the mention of her father. “But… I really hate that he tainted our space.”

Eris pursed his lips then slowly rested his hands on her shoulders to turn her back towards him. Never mind the way his heart had thudded at her usage of the word our.

“I will set additional wards first thing tomorrow morning that will only allow a person you actually want to come in.” he said. “It will prevent anyone from setting foot in here without official permission.”

Iris nodded and she glanced down at the books in her hands again, worrying her bottom lip before she met his gaze once more. “Do you think we can rearrange things in there? Just a little bit. To make it different?”

The corner of Eris’s mouth ticked up and he stepped back from her. “I may have already started on that.” he said and her brows furrowed in question. 

“What do you mean?”

“Well.” he began and a hand came up to rub his neck. He hesitated for a heartbeat as she watched him then let out a breath. “I have a small surprise for you that may have already required some rearranging.” 

Her face lit up. “A surprise?”

“Yes.” he said and immediately swallowed, suddenly self-conscious that it was a stupid idea and maybe, he shouldn't have said anything. This day had been long enough, he didn’t need to see her disappointed — they hadn’t even scratched the surface of disappointment she might feel once she knew she was shackled to him forever —

But then she smiled at him, a beautiful little smile and Eris suddenly couldn’t breathe. 

“Show me.” she demanded immediately and Eris’s lips twitched at the excitement in her tone, any negative thoughts washing away.

“Don’t — don’t get too excited,” he said and moved around her to place his hand on the doorknob. “It’s not a big deal.”

Iris shot him a reprimanding look. “I’ll be the judge of that.”

“If you don’t like it or the setup of the room,” he began and licked his lips. “We can change it however you’d like.”

He felt her amusement as her expression shifted and Iris tilted her head. “If I didn’t know any better, husband,” she began in a teasing tone. “I’d say you’re nervous.”

Eris immediately scowled, willing himself not to flush at the very spot-on accusation. “No.” he said. “I just don’t want to hear your whining if you don’t like it.”

Iris rolled her eyes. “Right.”

“It’s true. I am perfectly not nervous.”

“Of course you’re not.” she said and his scowl deepened at the placating tone. 

“My nerves are made of steel.”

Iris nodded, her lips twitching. “Of course they are.” 

“I’ll have you know, I can make this little surprise go away if I wanted to.” he said, squinting at her and Iris couldn’t help the chuckle that escaped her.

“But you won’t.”

Eris’s expression pinched in distaste and he was silent for a moment before sighing and finally, opening their door. “No, I won’t.”

Iris slid into the room past him and Eris didn’t take his eyes off her as he locked their door and warded it. He felt the barely contained excitement as she scanned their room at the minimal changes that were sufficient enough to give their chambers a different feeling.

Her excitement mirrored his own and Eris couldn’t even remember the last time he had surprised anyone with anything. As Iris turned to him with furrowed brows, he realized he enjoyed this excitement very much.

“Where is it?” 

His lips twitched as he slowly took the books from her hands and with a wave of his hand, sent them to the table by their bed. “You’re one of those people, aren’t you?”

“Who?”

“When you’re excited, you suddenly can’t see anymore.” he said with a snort and moved behind her to place his hands on her shoulders and turn her to face the corner where her surprise was nestled.

Iris made an offended noise. “I can see perfectly fine! I — oh.”

Eris watched as she fell silent, staring at the corner of their living space. 

Seated against the wall, right in front of their large window was something he had wanted to give her for weeks. Something he had terrorized its maker, hovering over the luthier as he worked to ensure it was perfect. 

“A piano.” she breathed and Eris’s fingers clenched as she slowly walked over to it. 

It was a stunning white piano plated in gold. He had wanted to give her something that was hers and couldn’t think of anything as elegant as these two colors together in an instrument she made magic with. 

Iris touched the edge of it then looked at him and softly said, “You…you gave me a piano.”

He fidgeted for a moment, his fingers twitching at his sides and Iris felt his nervousness, his uncertainty alongside his well-hidden excitement. 

“I…know there is one you use in the music room.” he began. “And I know you had one before you met me but…” he took a breath and waved a hand. “I figured you would like one that was more private and truly yours that has no bad memories associated with it.”

Iris swallowed and turned back to her beautiful new gift. It wasn’t like he didn’t notice when she went to the music room and played to her heart's content but it had still been in a public space. 

This — this was all hers. 

All hers and —

Iris moved closer and slowly took a seat on the piano bench, her eyes on the engraving right above the keys, in lovely cursive writing: Iris Vanserra.

She glanced at him but Eris only shrugged and gently slid into the bench next to her. She could hear his heart beating as frantically as hers. “You’re my wife. It’s about time your married name was engraved on something.”

And Iris didn’t take her eyes off him as her throat bobbed. This day had started horribly wrong until it was righted once more and, here he was, making her feel…wanted. Like she belonged. 

Like she mattered.

“When did you even have time to do all this?” She asked in wonder and Eris gave her a soft smirk.

“The devil works hard but he does take lessons from me.” He said and gave her a wink. “And I work much harder.”

A small chuckle escaped her lips and she couldn’t help but look away from him, from the way he was making her feel. “But of course.”

“Do you like it?” he asked quietly and Iris looked up at him then. His expression hadn’t changed as he watched her but she could sense his nerves, saw the way his fingers twitched at his sides.

So she leaned closer to him and placed a quick kiss on his cheek. “I love it.” she said earnestly. “I love it so much it makes me overwhelmed.”

“Overwhelmed?” he asked, his brows furrowed as his fingers absently brushed the cheek she had blessed with her lips.

The corner of Iris’s mouth ticked up as her eyes fell back onto the piano, with her name engraved there, marking it as hers. “You’re the first person who gave me a gift.” she said then glanced at him. “First it was the dagger and now this. Then Lucien and Elain with their books…I’m just…”

She paused, trying to find the words to explain how much this meant to her. That her interests were taken into account. How much it meant that people took the time to get her something she liked.

“Overwhelmed?” Eris supplied at her silence with a crooked smile and Iris chuckled.

“Yes.” she replied and nudged him gently. “I also feel grateful.”

Eris nudged her back. “For having such a handsome, thoughtful, and smart husband?”

She rolled her eyes. “Well if you say it like that —”

“Don’t ruin the moment, wife.”

Iris laughed and her hands reached out to gently press the keys, finding the piano perfectly tuned. With a small smile, she glanced at her husband — her friend, and asked, “Do you want me to play a song for you?”

“No.” he deadpanned. “I only have this here for you to stare at.”

Iris snorted then nudged him hard with her elbow. “I was going to ask you if you had any requests but never mind.”

“Well, actually —”

But Iris held up a hand. “Nope. You lost that privilege,” she said and it was Eris’s turn to roll his eyes. “I will play a song of my choice.”

His lips twitched but Eris just waved a hand and then turned so he could watch her properly. “By all means, wife. Dazzle me.”

Iris shot him a look then shook her head with a small smile and Eris watched as she took a breath and turned to the piano fully. With her eyes full of delight, she said, “I think you’ll like this one.”

And his stupid heart did a spasm as she began playing the beginning notes of the song that had haunted him since the first time he heard her play it.

Everything in Eris came to a halt as he watched her fingers move. Again, he saw the melody and felt the notes vibrate in his bones. He saw the gold thread between them, weave around  them, and felt his expression falter.

How would he tell her? 

Everything about their relationship had gone at a speed neither of them had been prepared for. How was he supposed to take that and launch it into the sun? How could he tell her when she was only ready for small doses of him?

Things between them had always had a sense of intensity but had she picked up on it? Was it only from his side? He had made the mistake of giving parts of him to the wrong person before, he didn’t know if he’d survive another round of that. Especially with Iris. His gods damn mate. 

Everything about Iris had felt right. Even when he hadn’t wanted it to be. Could he trust that she truly saw him and would choose him outside of a bond? His attraction to her had only intensified as time went on…but was it enough? Could he offer her more? Especially when this bond — this link would put her in a position of harm worse than before?

Being his wife was one thing. Being his mate put a much higher price on her head. 

He watched her hands move then closed his eyes for a moment, to feel the music beneath his skin and feel the gold thread of fate between them. Did he dare tug? What would she do?

A mate trumped marriage in every way. This was being bound on another level and he’d be damned to give that up when she’d barely begun to trust him. 

But did he lie to her? Omit such a sacred truth? Eris had always kept secrets so very close to his chest because the more people knew, the more people were hurt. And he wasn’t his father. He wouldn’t hurt people for the sake of hurting them. 

So how could he tell her? 

The end of the song came before he was ready and as her fingers slowed, and the final note sounded through the room, Eris finally opened his eyes to gaze at her lovely face, flushed in that cautious joy and his hands turned clammy.

She smiled at him and even though he was well aware of how fucked he was, it hit him just how fast and hard he was falling. Being mates did nothing but intensify what he had already been feeling.

“Well?” she said with that coy little smile that made his blood heat. 

“That…was the song I was going to request.” he said quietly.

Iris shrugged as her lips curled up. “You told me to play it again when it was a good moment.” she said. “This…is a really good moment.”

He studied her expression, drinking in the sight of her before him, open and calm, and Eris couldn’t stop himself then — couldn’t hold himself back any longer from tasting her and touching her. He wanted her so intensely, so intimately, he was likely going to lose his mind if he didn’t mark her as his in some way. This need to consume her in every way slammed into him and he pulled her into his arms and devoured her. 

A little gasp was the only sound that Iris could make as Eris kissed her, nearly hauling her into his lap. He kissed her in a way that had every question, every concern, every thought she had fade away.

He kissed and teased her with his mouth, his lips a branding on hers and Iris couldn’t help the way she melted into his arms, taking from him as he took from her.

Until he pulled away, his hands cupping her cheeks as his eyes cataloged her face as intensely as though each expression of hers was a puzzle to decipher. She licked her lips as she caught her breath and saw the way his eyes lit up in feral delight. He kissed her again, his tongue brushing against her lips before pulling back once more. 

“Who knew a little piano would get you this worked up?” she mumbled breathlessly and Eris’s smirk was roguish. 

“Being in the general vicinity of you gets me worked up, wife.” he said and Iris swallowed at the rough edge to his voice. “You have no idea the things I want to do with you.”

“Like what?” she nearly whispered, her heart thumping widely. 

“So many things.” he said quietly, his thumbs caressing her cheeks gently. “Very dirty things.”

“You’re a scoundrel,” she said as he grinned at her burning cheeks when she pulled back from him and Eris dropped his hands.

“I am a gentleman.” he corrected. “With scoundrel-like tendencies that I am happy to show you more of.”

Iris gave him a look, fighting back a smile that had Eris’s own lips twitching. She shook her head and finally looked back at the piano.

“I appreciate the offer,” she started with a glance at him. “But I think we need to do other things first.”

Eris braced himself, tensing slightly. “Eager, are we?” he said tightly and Iris rolled her eyes then smiled sweetly.

“To get answers? Yes, very.”

Eris pursed his lips. He supposed this would be his chance to tell her. He…he had many things to tell her but…did he trust her enough? She was his wife and his mate but that didn’t mean those things couldn’t be twisted to be used against him. It didn’t stop her from ruining him if she wanted to.

“You said you would tell me what’s been going on.” she said slowly and he realized her gaze had drifted to his clenched fists. He immediately relaxed his hands.

He certainly needed to work on his trust issues but Iris…she trusted people as little as he did. He grimaced. Hiding what they were to each wouldn’t help. He turned from her, his gaze flickering around their room. He didn’t know what to think anymore. He supposed the consequences of having a wife he actually liked were now catching up to him. 

He couldn’t just ignore her. 

Taking a deep breath, Eris ran a hand through his hair and then focused his gaze on her. 

“What do you want to know first?” he finally said.

Iris pursed her lips and fell silent for a moment. This could be her chance to ask him anything. Everything. She knew something had shifted during their visit. He had said whatever he was feeling, she hadn’t done anything wrong but…something between them had changed in his mind.

She certainly enjoyed the kissing. And the touching. Very much. And the more they kissed, the more Iris felt this sense of urgency from him. Eris had always been intense but the way he seemed to want to…claim her took on a different emotion. They were married after all, and if there was anything about their marriage she was expecting, it wasn’t that Eris would be patient about this part of it. 

The idea of taking things further didn’t really scare her. She wanted to explore more with him, especially when she wasn’t experienced in intimacy the way he was. But more…also required more vulnerability from her. More from him as well. He was used to having sex and it meaning nothing but between them…she’d like to think it would mean something great. And greatness needed to be worked up to. Iris wasn’t sure if he’d shut down if she went with a question about feelings.

So she went with a different subject.

“Elain’s vision.” she started and noted the way his fist clenched. “It meant something to you. To them. I saw the way you reacted.”

Iris watched him, and noticed the way the muscle in his jaw flexed.

“Yes.” he said carefully. “Elain…has had similar ones for some time now.”

“But this one seemed…more significant?” Iris asked just as carefully and she watched him work his jaw again before he answered.

“Yes.”

Iris paused at his tone, her mouth going to a thin line. “Is it that bad? That you’re only giving me one-word answers?”

Eris sighed, the sound was more tired than she’d ever heard from him and she furrowed her brows.

“Iris.” he began and gave her a brittle smile. “You should know by now, that almost anything that has to do with me is bad.”

Iris refused to take the bait on the statement and instead, held out a hand. He glanced down at her open palm and slowly slid his hand into hers, his eyes locked on their fingers interlacing.

“Eris.” she said calmly and he met her eyes. “I know this is hard for you.”

He raised a brow.

“I thought I saw it before but…” she started and shook her head. “Seeing you outside of this place. Away from it all. Then having to come back…I understand how hard this is for you.”

Eris swallowed and glanced down at his hand in hers. “Do you?” he asked so quietly, it was barely above a whisper. 

“I’m trying to.” she said. “But I need you to talk to me about it.”

Eris let out a humorless chuckle and glanced at his wife. “Talking…is very hard for me.” he said. 

“I know.”

He glanced away again. “I don’t trust myself to say the right things.”

Iris shrugged. “I think it’s okay if you try.” she said then nudged him gently with a small smile. “Or did you talk yourself out with Lucien earlier? You reached your talking limits for the day?”

The corner of his lip lifted. “I am a male of few words.”

Iris’s lips twitched. “That is a lie and you know it. You love hearing yourself speak.”

Eris chuckled and met her gaze once more before sighing. “Do you understand how…heavily guarded my secrets are?” he said quietly. “I risk too much by sharing.”

But Iris didn’t reply. She only squeezed his hand and waited. Waiting for him to speak, to say what he needed to say.

Eris’s heart beat wildly in her chest. What did he even start with? He needed to tell her so much. So many things. About his mother. About his brothers. About his father. About them. 

So he started slowly. “Things are never what they seem in this court.” he said. “We are seen as cutthroat. A court of many faces. People who live in their forest of nightmares, with sinister smiles and bloodthirsty goals.”

Iris couldn’t help the raise of her shoulder at that statement. “To an extent, that’s true.”

“As you said, to an extent.” he agreed. “But we’ve also been living under the rule of a tyrant for so long that there is fear in the desire to be different. Very deep-rooted fear. Because my father…” Eris paused here, and ran his tongue across his teeth before he continued, his voice low. “My father loves his throne. Loves his power. He loves what he can benefit from his people but the people themselves…he does not care for.”

“That much is clear by the way he treats his family.” she said quietly and Eris nodded.

“His grip is so tight, he doesn’t realize how long he’s been suffocating everyone.” he resumed. “But he doesn’t care. Power is power and a High Lord holds all the power.” Eris looked away from her. “I’ve told you before that there are pieces at play. That much has always been true but things have…they’ve gotten more desperate in the past few years.”

“That’s why you have so many more people loyal to you than your father? Even…your brothers?” she asked and Eris nodded tightly.

“The tides started to turn years ago and people want out.” he said. “Elain’s vision…Everyone wants out of this misery. Where fear is high, money is tight, and trade is even tighter.”

“Doesn’t he see how this is going to backfire?” Iris asked with a frown. “Why would he jeopardize his place like this?”

“Because who is going to challenge him? Me?” Eris asked with a snort. “I can’t do anything until my mother is away from him. Until she’s ready to leave and —”

He fell silent again and Iris watched as Eris only shook his head. She had thought she knew how sensitive of a subject his mother and her circumstances were to him but until this moment, Iris hadn’t realized the depth of this sensitivity. Just how much of a sore spot this was to him. Whatever secrets he shared with his mother, Eris still wasn’t ready to share them, even if he wanted to. They weren’t hers to know just yet. 

Eris pulled his hand from hers and Iris watched him as he swallowed again and grimaced.

“If it’s too much you can —”

“Iris.” he cut her off and met her gaze firmly. “Today…do you feel different?”

She blinked at the shift in subject. “In…what way?”

“About us.” he said, feeling the tips of his ears heat. “Do you feel different?”

It fell silent between them and every single nerve in Eris’s body was on high alert as he watched her process what he said. He hoped the answer was yes. He needed it to be yes. He needed her to have felt the whirlwind of emotions he had been suffering with since she had kissed him. 

He watched her cheeks color slightly. “I think things between us have always been intense,” she said slowly. “But I think…things have been changing between us for a while.”

Eris nodded, his heart shuddering in his chest. “Mm.” he said. “And today?”

Iris watched him carefully. “Are you asking me if kissing you has made me more attached to you?” she said and gave him a wry smile.  “Because you’re my husband, Eris. I’m already stuck with you.”

Stuck. The word slammed into him with the full force of a boulder. 

Of course.

She was stuck with him. And he hadn’t even brought up the bond.

Here he was, ready to unburden himself to her. He was ready to let his mate know everything. 

Stuck.

His expression must’ve betrayed his thoughts because Iris’s face fell as her flush deepened. “That’s not how I meant it —”

“It’s fine –”

“Your question made me nervous. I tried to joke —”

He held up a hand. “You’re not wrong. You are stuck with me.”

She bit her lip, her frustration evident on her face. “You’re stuck with me too.” she mumbled. “We — we are stuck with each other.”

Eris gave her a thin smile. “I don’t quite think I’m as ready for this conversation as I thought I was, wife.” he said. “This day has been long enough.”

“That’s not fair, Eris.” she said. “You asked me a question and it made me nervous.”

“Well, we don’t want that.” he said dryly and Iris scowled. 

“I understand you’re embarrassed with all this — these feeling talks,” she stated. “But so am I! You can’t just dismiss what I’m trying to say because of it.”

He shook his head. “No worries,” he said again in that dry tone. “What’s in a kiss? It’s been long overdue between us regardless.”

He aimed to stand but Iris’s hand shot out and held him where he was. He glanced at her hand on his arm then back at her eyes to find them blazing.

“Stop.” she snapped. “You don’t get to start pulling away or undermining what’s between us when you get uncomfortable. We’re supposed to be working past that.”

Eris snorted. “Trust me when I tell you I have been trying my hardest.”

Her lips went into a thin line and she squeezed his arm gently. “I know.” she said. “I know that better than anyone.” She watched him for a moment then swallowed. “Today was a hard day for me too. You saw things no one else has. Trust me…I understand but you have to meet me in the middle.” Iris paused for a moment then let out an exhausted sigh, her shoulders dropping. “This is hard for me too.”

Regret slammed into him and nearly swallowed him whole at her confession. Eris nearly choked on it, feeling like absolute shit. Of course, she wouldn’t be feeling the bond the way he had. Of course. Despite their enjoyable visit, he knew she was still overwhelmed. She told him she was overwhelmed. It had been a vulnerable day for her too. 

He had never been good with emotions and today was testing him.

Sighing, Eris scowled, his gaze down at her hand still on his. He didn’t know if he truly had it in him to tell her more. To announce what they were without claiming her. But he would give her room to process. He had always been willing to be patient with her.

They were stuck together. But…he didn’t want it feeling that way. He wanted her to want him. He needed her to want him. 

Like he wanted her. He wanted her…happy about it.

Eris slowly sat back down, his grip tightening on hers. “You’re right.” he said. “Today has been a lot.”

“Yes.”

He ran his tongue over his teeth and said through gritted teeth. “I’m…sorry.”

“Good. You should be.”

He scowled again. “Well then, I take it back.”

Iris rolled her eyes and let go of his hand to swat it instead. “Well, you can’t. You already said it and you were being unreasonable.”

His scowl deepened. “I don’t like talking about these things, much less apologizing for anything.”

“I’ve noticed.” she said with a snort. “Don’t worry, I’ll break that bad habit.”

It was Eris’s turn to roll his eyes. “Confident, are you?”

Iris merely shrugged and let it fall silent, watching him. Eris tried not to bristle beneath her gaze, waiting.

“To answer your earlier question,” she began quietly and glanced down, pursing her lips. “Things do feel different.”

Eris swallowed. “Okay.”

She lifted her gaze to meet his, color staining her cheeks. “And I don’t know what that means other than I like where this is going.” she continued. “And I am…cautiously optimistic about where we can go from here.”

Eris watched her and felt his heartbeat pick up. Cautiously optimistic was good. It was better than stuck. It means she would be okay with more. 

How much more though? Would she be open to it now?

This would be the perfect time to tell her. But no, not with words. He fucked those up. 

Actions then. He could kiss her until it snapped into place for her as well. He could do a little more. But no — Eris shook his head and flushed slightly at her curious look. Iris deserved words. She deserved the conversation and for him not to distract her with touches and kisses. Communication was key between them. Even if talking about his feelings made him want to vomit.

He didn’t know why or how he had been given a mate but he sure as fuck would try to be somewhat worthy of it. For his Iris, he would use all his words, even if he fucked it up. He would try. 

“Iris…” he began but Iris held up a hand.

“A question for a question.” 

Eris blinked and despite the nerves plaguing him, the corner of his mouth curled up. “A question for a question.”

“You asked me if something about today felt different to me. But something changed for you.” she started and licked her lips. “ What…what happened?”

Eris swallowed and watched her as she watched him. This was it, right? He would have to stop being an absolute imbecile about this and tell her. He could tell her about all the other things she was curious about later but tonight — just for tonight — he wanted to forget about everyone else. Forget everything that sat on his shoulders and just be with his wife.

So he forced himself to be honest. “I’m terrified to tell you.”

Iris froze then let out a breath. “Why?”

Eris forced himself to look away from her, his eyes on the ceiling. “Because…you are something I had not anticipated. Because you never wanted this. You never wanted me.” he said quietly. “And I am…overwhelmed by this thing between us.”

She blinked at his statement and he finally turned back to glance at her and the sight of his hollow expression nearly broke her heart, even as it thumped widely at his confession.

“Eris…” she reached forward and clasped his hand. “What —”

But a knock on the door of their bedchamber startled them, like a canon firing off into the silence that surrounded them. 

“Are you expecting anyone?” Iris asked.

“No.” he said. “But let’s find out who has a death wish, shall we?”

[globofhoney]

How LDB (who already master every single skill perks) picks modded followers as an apprentice.

Lucien F.

- LDB's mage apprentice.

- He tries really hard, please go a little easy on him first, he is not dragon blooded hero like you. But he will go far in Alteration as much as Destruction school if you're patience enough to teach him.

Lucifer

- The young Argonian (yes, he is very young in my standard, sorry) could used more honing in one-handed, and light armor. If he is willing to learn, teach him ultimate archery as well.

Xelzaz

- Being master alchemist and able to decently stealth is not enough. You want him to survive long enough to be the Mouth of a Telvanni master, and even long after that.

- master his stealth skill more if you're able. Don't forget about destruction magic, make him master that too. Alchemy is just underhanded method to get rid of an adversary, make sure that if he has to fight a wizard one on one...he will be victorious, turning whatever threatened him into a pile of ash in two seconds.

Remiel

- Nerdy Dwemer researcher needs to be train in focusing on things before we move on to other stuff!

- teach her how to one-handed and blacksmiths, imagine how far she could go with smithing skills. Perhaps she could make a legit dwarven canon or machine gun, who knows?

- besides i would love to see Remiel with stronk arms.

Khash

- please help this kid max her Archery skills

- train her in stealth too, please.

- don't bother teach her magic, she hates that shit. But convinced her to learn muffle and invisibility to save her own life could be beneficial.

- trust me, every bandit gangsta until a small argonian girl with stealth archer built took them one by one.

[kagedbird]

TESSDE AU (+ Lucia :]) (Lucia part 7)

Davidicus: *having finished several scrolls of art of Odahviing, massaging the cramps from his hands with a pleased smile* The others at the Arcane University will never be the same when I show them these.

Lucien: *smiling wide* You'll certainly be the talk of the whole building!

Davidicus: *chuckles* So it would seem. I must thank you, and Allora, for allowing me this grand opportunity.

Lucien: Ah, it's all Allora really. She's wonderful. *smiles over at his partner and Lucia, who were finally getting off Odahviing*

Davidicus: Have you two... discussed things?

Lucien: *pouts* Yes father, we talked things over.

Davidicus: And all is well?

Lucien: *flushes, remembering their kisses- quite a few of them before a guard cleared his throat at them and made them scurry away* P- ah, perfectly well!

Davidicus: *chuckles, patting his son on the shoulder* It warms my heart to hear it, Lucien. I'm glad you've found someone. I can all ready see the changes she's made in you.

Lucien: *cocks his head* Changes? I mean, I've certainly changed in my skills, and she's helped me grow stronger as well, but-

Lucia: *running over to Lucien and giggles as she near tackle hugs him* Did you see me, papa? Did you?

Lucien: *almost bowled over in her excitement, wheezing* -I! Did! Oof. So excitable. *adjusts her to sit on his lap before pulling up his completed flower crown on her head with a smile* You mentioned you wanted one for Odahviing, but I thought you mind enjoy one for yourself as well!

Lucia: *squeals, hugging him tightly* I love it! Thanks papa!

Lucien: *teary eyed from her strength, wheezing a bit and patting her head* N-no problem!

Davidicus: *smiles as he watches his son and granddaughter, stealthily taking an empty section of parchment and drawing the two together, both wearing flower crowns with flower petals around them*

~

Allora: *petting Odahviing's snout* We'll alert the others that you aren't to be harmed. Thanks for letting us pester you.

Odahviing: *rumbles, gently pressing his snout against her* Your existence is built to "pester" this one, as you say. Only am I so thankful it is with kindness and heart, instead of nax, cruelty.

Allora: *hugs him and kisses his head* Love you, Odahviing. Be safe.

Odahviing: And you, Krein Monah.

Allora: *grumbles and lightly flicks his head* Stop.

Lyra: *slowly approaching the two, hesitant, but firm* ...Hello.

Odahviing: *tilts his head* Drem Yol Lok. Greetings. What can this one do for you, jul?

Lyra: I... wanted to thank you for helping out my son and Allora- and the others- for saving us against Alduin. And... to apologize for being so wary of you.

Odahviing: *rumbles, sitting up* Nunon mey bo strun voqostiid naal sov. Only a fool flies in a storm and is surprised by the shock. You do well to remain wary of dragons. Not all are loyal to Allora-Monah as I and Paarthurnax.

Allora: And Durnehviir. And Mirmulnir. And Sahloknir. And Nahagliiv.

Odahviing: *chortles* Of course.

Lyra: *smiles, feeling at ease at their comraderie* Even so, thank you for proving my fears that you would hurt us wrong. I am grateful to you. And you, Allora.

Allora: *flushes, scuffing her foot on the ground* Ah, it's nothing.

Kaidan: *walking over and pulling her into a hug from behind, sighing* You literally save the world, befriend dragons, and changed so many lives. It's not nothin', love. *kisses her cheek*

Allora: *grumbles, leaning into the affection as Lyra laughs* Yeah whatever...

Lucia: Mama! Do we have to go?

Taliesin: *scoops up Lucia from Lucien's lap* Absolutely, young lady, it's about your nap time.

Inigo: Hehehe.

Taliesin: *squints* I will... do something about you. Later.

Inigo: Oh no. I think Kaidan would be more appropriate for that. I am very flattered though.

Kaidan: *flushes, growling as Allora wheezes in his arm* Oi! I'll kick yer behind in archery when we get back to their home!

Inigo: Now that is something I can get behind! You are on!

Allora: *snickering* Get behind... classic.

Kaidan: *pinches her cheek* Enough outta you. Or you're next.

Allora: *flushes, grinning* For archery or a "nap"?

Kaidan: *gives her a heated stare, pulling her along to the cart* ...

Allora: *laughing as she's dragged away, waving to Odahviing* Pruzah wundunne, Odahviing!

Odahviing: *chortles as he turns to return to his cave* Pruzah wundunne, Allora-Monah ahrk fron.

[diagnosed-anxiety-disorder]

☆☆ Welcome to my Blog ☆☆

★ 〔carrd〕 ★ 〔ArtFight〕 ★ 〔Napoleon Discord〕 ★ ★ Spam Alt: @xin-thorns ★

Hya! The name(')s Hya「cinth」 / Elton / Travesty / Lucien / Hue ╰┈➤ he/vae ✩ minor ✩ transmasc aroace ✩ 我会说一点点中文，但是不好。我以前在学校学中文。

I'm an artist + musician! ╰➤ I do traditional and digital art! My ipad likes to breakdown on me sometimes so I also resort to ol' reliable (sketchbook). Not the best at taking pictures of my art but I do my best 👍 I'm self-taught so my anatomy is not great, but I'm trying! On special occasions I paint or do watercolour :> I get burnout pretty easily so if I don't upload for a bit that's why ._. ╰➤ My main instrument is the piano (10+yrs) but I play violin in my school's orchestra. I also taught myself the ukulele and I know a minutiae of guitar. Sometimes the drama department kidnaps me for their musicals! I think I genuinely listen (or will listen) to any genre of music and I'm proud of that. Country, death-metal, classical, hyperpop, I'll love it. I WILL EAT ALL OF YOUR MUSIC RECOMMENDATIONS!!!

Feel free to put stuff in my ask box! [I CRAVE INTERACTIONS]

tags + interests underneath the Keep Reading !

Interests: (past + present) (theyre all over the place)

★ Classical Music ★ Conrad Veidt (Cesare + Gwynplaine) ★ David Tennant Media ★ Dungeons & Dragons ★ Junji Ito ★ Les Misérables (25th Concert) ★ Napoleonic Era ( Lannes & Junot <3 ) ★ Omori ★ Saw (I-IV) ★ Shadow the Hedgehog Real-Time Fandub ★ Tarot Cards ★ TF2 + Emesis Blue ( BLU MEDIC <3 ) ★ The Phantom of the Opera (25th) ★ Will Wood (and the Tapeworms) + (whatever is on my carrd)

Tags:

#funny hyahya ╰➤ ( funny shitposts and whatnot ) #huemusic ╰➤ ( me playing music :D ) #hyacinthart ╰➤ ( all the art im proud of :D ) #hyagaming ╰➤ ( gamer time ) #musik musik musik i call this musik ╰➤ ( musician life related posts, tbh crying over music theory ) #napoleon bonapainting ╰➤ ( all posts about my painting of Napoleon Crossing the Alps) #napoleonic bubble ╰➤ ( about the napoleonic discord server I own )

I just wanna say that the thought process for my url was "What's something about me that's never going to change and it'll be apart of my identity for a good amount of time?" so I came up with diagnosed anxiety disorder because anxiety-disorder was taken 💀 I also think it's funny

[grayintogreen]

WIP WEDNESDAY

4k into the finale of Arc Six right now. My vacation last week meant that I got to spoil everyone with two updates in two weeks, but I'm going back to biweekly now or at least something that rhymes with it.

Here's a sneak peek, featuring some delicious echoes of the canon timeline.

-

Cree excused herself from the conversation about the maximum time it would take to make it to Rumblecusp and what they needed to do in Nicodranas now that they had only days instead of weeks. She wasn't going to sit there and pretend to be okay with it when she had finally accepted that she might have some time to fucking breathe.

Yes, she'd do anything for Jester, but gods it was every fucking minute with these people.

Her people. Well, that was her fault for choosing them.

She stood to the side, waiting patiently for Caleb to finish talking to Lucien and head out the door with Caduceus and Yasha in tow. Judging by the longing look Lucien shot their retreating backs, she could imagine only one thing they were about to be seeking out.

“Is it time?” She asked, just to be certain. Her tail lashed behind her, simultaneously anxious and thrilled.

“Mm. Suppose it is. I think Widogast wanted to wait a bit longer before he had to dig out that much clay again, but it's kind of him to put it high on the docket.“

“That is how Caleb shows his affection. He is a strange wizard.”

“Indeed he is.” Lucien tipped back in his chair because Bluud wasn't around to make him stop, having gone to the back to accept a delivery of new furniture. “You haven't said a word about any of this. Not fond of my new form?”

Ivan Fantine's body was a fine specimen of humanity to the average person, aside from the fact that he had pale blond stubble growing in patchy and his hair was in his face- Lucien hadn't bothered to do anything with either yet. And yet, all Cree saw was the same thing Lucien saw when he looked in the mirror- a man who probably didn't deserve to die like this, but certainly deserved something awful.

“Of course not. I hated Ivan as much as you did.”

“Doubtful.” He let the chair fall back on four legs with a thud. “But that's a problem that's going to be settled once the wizard's back. I meant the other… thing.”

Ah yes. The adult dragon-sized wolf in the room. “I hate it, Lucien. You know I don't like dogs.”

He didn't take offense to it, but his smirk was so infuriating, she almost wished he had lost his temper. “That's the part you hate?”

“I do not doubt you will… avoid problems with the Beast.” That was how June back in the Orders had always described it. The Beast, like it was a separate entity. “But I do worry it will make you even more reckless.” Off his look of quiet frustration, she sighed. “ That is not the same sort of lycanthropy we saw in the Orders.“

”No, and I don't know that it will be useful all the time. I can sort of… feel it a bit.” He pursed his lips. “It's not very bright.“

And Lucien did so value his intelligence. ”It does not strike me as more practical than a blade, no.“

”But still useful, liberating in its own way. You know, maybe Caleb has the right idea, slippin' off into animals like he does.“

That was something coming from Lucien whose biggest fear outside of whatever the Somnovem did to him and being held in bondage was a feeblemind spell. Perhaps there was something liberating in being allowed to let go in a safe environment, knowing you’d be back to yourself in an hour.

Provided you could control it without biting anyone.

However. ”If you wanted to be a mindless animal, you should just let Jester turn you into a cat again.”

“Well, I didn't exactly have much of a choice, did I? Ivan was there and he was ripe.” He flexed his fingers. “Don't suck all the joy out of it. I'm aware there's going to be consequences, but I'm about to be me again. And if I'm me with a bit of a beast to tame, well… That was always true, aye?“

”I suppose it was, aye.“ Perhaps not so literal, but apparently the Raven Queen had a sense of humor and there was no denying she had a hand in this somehow. It felt like she'd hit both of them with consequences for their actions against her while still making certain she could use them.

This was why she preferred the Champion. He was infuriating but at least he was straightforward.

”Do you want me to be there?“ She finally asked. Anything else would just turn them in circles. Lucien was confident in what was done and would hear no more about it until it suddenly became a problem.

”I'd think I'd like everyone there. It's not as much fun if there's hardly anyone around to hear my birth cry.“ He threw his head back and stared at the ceiling, wistfully. ”Veth said it was like a cocoon, eh? That's interesting.“

”Why's that?“

”I always wanted to be a butterfly.“

[separatist-apologist]

Just finished Right Were You Left Me and now I want to get married and have babies. (I've also cried a lot).

DILF!Lucien is my favorite Lucien by the way. (Besides Dragon!Lucien obv) 💜

Dragon Lucien is conveniently also a DILF so you get the beeeesssst of both worlds

[acourtofladydeath]

🎵💚 There’s frost on the moon and snow on the ground, but with you around there’s spring in my heart ❤️🎵

Hi it’s Santa!

I hope you’re doing well 🥰 Did you get up to anything for Halloween? (and if so what did you dress up as?)

Now that it’s November I’m personally so ready for it to be Christmas and I’ve been daydreaming about your gift.

I wanted to ask if you have any headcanons about the other Vanserra brothers, their relationship with Eris, Eris’s relationship with Beron and with his mom, Eris’s hounds?

And regarding Azriel, your headcanons about his shadows, his childhood, his mother, his time working under Rhys’s father, his relationships with Rhys and Cassian?

Lay it all on me. Do not hold back. Feel free to deviate and elaborate to your heart’s content. Your responses are what I’ll be harvesting details of their backstories from (I want to incorporate as many of your headcanons as possible since it’s your gift after all.) I’m always on the lookout for opportunities to ramp up the angst!

— Santa ❤️

Hi Santa!! So nice to hear from you!

I dressed as Peter Pan for Halloween this year, went to my lectures on campus, saw my professor's baby (he was dressed as an adorable little dragon. His parents were very excited for my costume but he, as a 10 month old, did not get it), and then did meal prep while watching ghost hunting videos.

It is 100% Christmastime, with a 3 day break for Thanksgiving mid-November and I'm so ready. I may start decorating this weekend.

Santa, I'm gonna need you to buckle up for the answers to these questions cuz HERE WE FUCKING GO.

**note that these headcanons do not always work together, at the same time, or in the same fic. I just have lots of feelings on how this could/would go. I have many thoughts on many characters, and my interpretation of a character tends to change from fic to fic. Personification is different between fics and I love exploring different histories and interpretations of characters to see all of the "what ifs" and "okay buts" of fandom. This exploration and variety is part of what I love most about fanfiction. Below are some of my recurrent headcanons for these characters and their history, again these are my own opinions and not mean to be taken as the only interpretation or even the only interpretation I like to read/write.

Eris & The Vanserras

Eris and LOA are very close in age, leading to a very close relationship between the two of them, but also a lack of parenting in favor of friendship.

Eris is considerably older than his other siblings, or at least much more mature, and basically had to help raise them. This led to animosity between the brothers due to his having to order them around for their own damn good and to protect them from their father. He did whatever he could to shield them from Beron. I love exploring how this plays out. If they reconcile, then how? (I think so, and I hope so. I personally explore some of this in my fic And So Our Life Begins, and more so in the ASOLB spin off A Second Chance. They all have names and personalities and ).

He has done more to protect his mother and brothers than they will ever know, and he would rather that they didn't know because he doesn't want them taking pity on him. (I explore this a bit in my fic: The Soft Heart & The Shadow)

Eris basically raised Lucien himself, but instead of animosity, it lead to a very close relationship between the two despite the age gap. I also HC that Eris saw Lucien had power that was definitely not of Autumn, and he and LOA got in a fight about it. Not because he's mad she did it, but because he's scared about protecting them both.

Eris loves his hounds. He's very strict with them, but they're also some of the only people (besides Lucien and occasionally LOA) that Eris can let down his mask around, and they're some of the only living things that have seen the real him before he eventually opens up to Azriel. Because of this Azriel interacting with the hounds allows him to see more of Eris when he's still very skeptical of the male, and is part of why he's convinced to trust him and be his mate. I feel like the hounds are trained similarly to service dogs. When they're outside Eris's personal cabin/room, they're constantly working and putting on their best behavior, but when they're in that personal space, they're the most loving little affectionate puppies that ever existed.

Beron hates his son. Let's get that straight right now. HOWEVER I wonder if he respects the lengths Eris is willing to go to maintain his own power and protect his brothers, even if he hates that he's doing it. Like he might hate what Eris is doing with that power, but at least Eris has the wits and desire to USE that power. Just food for thought there with that one.

Azriel & his past

Azriel hates his father and brothers, and I think this is likely a large part of why he feels about Illyria as strongly as he does. He saw the worst of Illyria in those males, and I wonder if he has a hard time dissociating that awful image from the image of what Illyria could be, and the positive males that already do exist within it (people like Balthazar).

Azriel was a pawn for Rhys's father. He wasn't a person, just a tool to be used, and I think he still sees that interpretation of himself and his worthiness to this day. I think it greatly affects his self worth and his humanization of himself and his feelings. He struggles to see his value as a person with valid thoughts and emotions, because for so much of his life his value was that of a "thing". He sees himself as a weapon because it's what he had to be to survive within Rhys's father's court. I don't think he's ever had time, opportunity, or even a thought that he could be something else. I feel like his experience going from prisoner to training camp to expendable Night Court tool has greatly affected his mental health and his ability to stand up for himself. He will do what's asked of him because it's what is expected, even if it will break him in the end.

Azriel's Shadows came to him to protect him from the shadows and to protect him from himself. I think the darkness he had to get to in his own mind to pull those shadows to himself is deeper than he will ever admit. I love seeing the shadows have their own personalities and actions separate from what Az asks them to do. They're pesky little beasts that he loves dearly, but also can annoy the shit out of him when they don't do as they're told.

Azriel loves his mother and will do whatever he can to protect her, but neither feels like they can fully open up to the other. They're so worried about protecting each other they don't feel like they can truly reveal their feelings. She won't talk about her traumas, and he wont' talk about his because they don't want to burden each other. But they both know the traumas exist and want to try and help the other the best they can even without having the full story.

Azriel is a chronic pain sufferer from his hands. He doesn't say anything to anyone, and he only goes to Madja when it's so painful he literally can't function. I feel like he hides this too well, and even if he didn't hide it, he wouldn't accept help. I don't think he knows how to accept help.

Azriel & The Bat Boys (& Nesta)

I feel like Azriel feels like an outsider in most relationships of his life because of his past, but truly loves his found brother. I wonder if because of Az's relationship with Rhys's dad, he sometimes struggles with the dichotomy of working for someone who does actually care for him and sees him as a person.

I'm not sure Rhysand actually knows the extent to which his father used Azriel, and I wonder if this affects their working and friendly relationship. This is not a fully fleshed out headcanon for me, but it's an idea I keep coming back to.

I definitely think that Cassian and Azriel are closer to each other than they are to Rhys. I don't think this necessarily in a bad way, but with the power/boss dynamic and the fact that Cass and Az spend more time out in the field, in Illyria, and spent the entirety of UTM together there's a closeness there that they don't have with Rhys.

Look, y'all can disagree with me on this, but Cass and Az have most definitely fucked. It's canon that all 3 fucked people in the same room together, but I feel like Cass and Az have fucked each other and fucked other people together. IDK how you're a 500 year old anything and aren't very sexually open.

If Azriel is going to open up to anyone emotionally it's going to be Cassian or Nesta.

Nesta is not a bat boy, but I HC that she and Az are best friends. I think they are the only two in the IC who can truly understand the depths of each other's pain. Their traumas are so deep and profound, and neither really wants to admit their weaknesses, but together they don't feel so alone and can maybe start to heal. I think Eris can also be this person for Az and Nesta. I'm so here for any type of fic that discusses their pain (I regularly inhale @kale-theteaqueen's fic The Whole Truth because it gives me all of the feels and is so accurate to how I see Nesta and myself in Nesta. The way Azriel and honestly most of the IC are depicted in that fic. I also feel like their fic Burning From the Inside Out also depicts them (Nesta and Azriel specifically) closely to how I view them. And as a chronic pain sufferer myself, it's near and dear to my heart. Basically just read their masterlist, because I also reread Of Death and Resurrection regularly for the same reasons listed above, and I love the Rhysta friendships they develop as well.

Okay. Could I keep going? YOU FUCKING KNOW IT. Should I? Probably not, I've spent way too long writing this up already and I've gotta cut myself off so I can work on my WIPs. I'm still probably forgetting something I'll remember later on...

Please let me know if it's okay to keep recommending you fics when I answer your questions, sometimes it just feels like the best way to address them. As usual, please let me know if you'd like me to further describe/elaborate on anything here! I hope you're doing well, and it's so great to hear from you!! I'm really looking forward to this reveal and the fic!!

[chaosmultiverse]

Spooky Season Pinned/Starter Call

Okay shortly, hello I am Kitty/Alex, he/him, 21, disabled, white. I am the mun of this blog. Here is a link to my rules which is required reading before following. And here is a link to my muses page, all muses are accepting threads & asks but not all have tags or bios yet.

RN I am homeless so can only use mobile, chdck out my non-rp blog for nore details and my donation posts @kitty-does-stuff

Now onto the seasonal stuff! This post in short is acting as a starter/ask call for my spooky muses and spooky verses, below the cut I will be listing these spooky things, but if you would like a starter/ask or whatever then reply to this with which muse (& what verse if applicable) you would like and if you are a multi or have a verse you want to rp in please include that in the reply. You can request starters/asks multiple times like this.

Now this isn't the only starter I will put out I hope but this is my catch all & I will try to keep it updated.

Now my spooky stuff, warning tis a little long.

Muses

DC Muses:

Klarion Bleak/Klarion The Witch Boy

Greta Hayes/Secret

Billy Hayes/Harm

Thad Thwane/Inertia (sci-fi & psychological horror, replacing Bart likey to come up)

Eddie Bloomberg/Red Devil

Misty Kilgore

Joseph "Joey" Wilson/Jericho

Mia "Maps" Mizoguchi

John Constantine

Dragon Age:

Cole/Compassion

Kieran

Samson

Magister Rezaren Ammosine

Neb

Lucien Cousland (Noble Origin, Warden Side Verse)

Ellie "Nell" Cousland (Lucien's son, same age group as Kieran)

Graverobber/Robbie (No role OC)

Borderlands:

Inner Krieg & Outer Krieg

Timothy Lawrence/Jack/Handsome Jack

Payday:

Wolf

Henry

"Red" (oc)

Homestuck:

Gamzee Makara

Kurloz Makara

The Grand Highblood

Calliope

Cookie Run:

Alchemist Cookie

Pumpkin Pie Cookie

Black Garlic Cookie

Walnut Cookie

Roguefort Cookie

League Of Legends/Arcane

Jinx/Powder

Jhin

Overwatch:

Siebren de Kuiper/Sigma

ETC:

Anthy Himemiya (Test & request only)

Clavis

Paper Star

The Shancter

Stargazer (oc)

All Horror Muses

All Monster Prom/Monsterfucker muses

All Danganronpa muses

All Owl House muses

All Don't Strave muses

All Death Note Muses

Verses

Universal AUs/Verses:

Plotted 'bad end friend' type aus, depending on the muse they have ended up in a befiting bad fate villainous/victim role. Pre-existing example is my vr-Bart verse where he still thinks he is in a game and doesn't value life due to that.

Vampire aus, depending on the fandom I might have more fleshed out such as for Horror muses or twists to the formual like dc vs vampires inspired for dc vamp verses.

Ghost aus for my canonly dead muses.

Demon au, one muse is a human/witch or whatever, the other a demon. I will say depending on the muse or fandom things might be different, I'll probably end up with multiple demon aus for different fandoms at least.

Selectively post-Zombie aus, I will default to modern day settings unless told otherwise and I will use a Walking dead setup minus the walker name, zombie media would still have existed. I might be low muse or drop these as zombies are a horror I am sensitive to.

DC verses:

DC vs Vampires setup, someone in the super community has been turned into their own brand of vampire with a lot of the classic powers of a vampire and a curse to bring out the worse in a vampire, now the curse is spreading among the super community and to normal people too.

DCeased setup, a zombie-like virus started when technology was infected with a form of The Anti-Life Equation looking at screens was how the first were infected, both supers and civilians, everything is thrown into chaos and those who survived the very beginning now have to survive super powered zombies.

Horror verses:

Reversed role aus, for dbd I think it's obvious how this would work and for others it can be briefly ploted out.

Vampire au, there is a curse with a hunger for blood, it has infected many killers and former human horrors over the years bestowing them common vampire abilities and something special and horrorfyingly their own as a power. There are also humans this curse hungers far more for the blood of, these survivors and would be victims tend to band together as vampire hunters or as ghouls, aka humans who drink a vampire's blood for some weaker forms of their power.

Livevile, the muses have been kidnapped and put in a realm known as livevile, it appears as a small town with everything one could need and which has other horror characters living there. If someone is killed by another then the night will play out as normal but in the morning the dead will return to life. Now the big question is what made this place and why?

Monster Prom

The worst timeline au, this is during the end credits of the Prank Masterz ending of porm, can be canon complient or divite, also characters interduonced later are welcome on my or others side.

Dragon Age

Blighted au, this takes place in a slimmer timeline to the darkspwan dlc of origins where HOF died during the joining and the Blight got much much worse, possibly spreading to the larger world.

Bad timeline au, taking place in the bad timeline seen during the mage siding quest in dai The Herled went missing right before things started getting bad and the world is thrown into horror.

Borderlands verse

A mushroom, able to smemi control the dead and living and bring them to their feet found the body of Tyreen Calypso, who became it's head as a intelligent zombie, now the fungi is spreading among the galaxy as The Raiders try to fight it.

Payday verse

Zombie au, After the death of Bain and failure to defeat Murkywater the gang disposed of the masks and their identities within the Payday Gang, little did they know the virus that killed Bain would have his body rise to take revenge on the world of the living as he is paitent zero of a zombie virus.

Spooky MEMES

Here are some spooky memes to send to any of my muses if you want a ice breaker. Please copy thr whole meme, especially for emojis otherwise I will likely get mixed up with other rp memes:

horror themed sentence starters.

SPOOKY AUTUMN PROMPTS

THINGS TO DO IN AUTUMN: STARTERS

Find My Muse Covered In Blood!

Find Out How My Muse Would Kill Yours

Victorian Horror symbol starters

for the ghosty muses … sentence starters

[isamajor]

Whumpril 2024 - Day 6 to 10

6 . Dizzyness

A sort of dizziness greeted the Dragonborn as they climbed the ruined tower. With each laborious step, dizziness seized them more and more. They swallowed heavily, struggling to keep their balance on the worm-eaten wooden staircase. The bandits must have stashed their loot up there. That's what they always did.

At the top of the tower, the wind blew violently, threatening to send them flying below. At the foot, their companions shouted at them to go back down. Sweat beaded on their forehead. They felt their legs weaken, and the Dragonborn collapsed onto the chest in front of him. (101)

7 . Hesitation

Lucien hesitated, staring blankly at the snarling bandit. Magic hummed between his fingers, ready to strike if necessary. Yet, taking a human life seemed abhorrent, something foreign to his sheltered existence. The fight was raging around him and he had seen the Dragonborn plant his sword more than once in the steaming entrails of their attackers. Yet, time seemed frozen, suspended between hesitation and action. The bandit's blade came dangerously close to his blue eyes. His body instinctively cast the ice spell. This survival instinct, which was unknown to him until then, did not hesitate. (96)

8 . Bloodshot

The Jarl had asked their small group to eradicate the vampires from Shriekwind Bastion in exchange for a gold reward. The Dragonborn had come out with many scratches but had not paid attention to them before the illness broke out. There was no doubt about their bloodshot eyes and their hypersensitivity to daylight. They have the Sanguinare Vampiris. The Dragonborn turned their bloody eyes away, unable to meet the gaze of their companions. If they don't find a cure, then in three days they will become a vampire, a predator, a nuisance just to be put down. (98)

9 . Self-doubt

Tormented by the magnitude of the task, the Dragonborn questioned their objective. Could they really end this catastrophic cycle and kill Alduin, the Devourer of Worlds? It seemed insurmountable and doubt sank deep within them. They didn't have faith in their abilities. They felt like a bandit's stray arrow could kill them, and dash whatever hopes the people of Skyrim might have had in them. The fact that everything weighted on their shoulders, and that they were the only one who could defeat Alduin made them feel anguished and insecure.

What if the prophecies were wrong? (98)

10 . Adrenaline

The shadow passed over him and the dragon landed. Taliesin had no time to think and charged. His footsteps echoed to the rhythm of his heart. His bones echoed with the sound of the beast's cry. With Berwhale in hand, he was ready to carve into the scales of the giant lizard. The adrenaline made him forget his fatigue and the pain in his muscles. The Mer was focused on his immediate survival and the threat that stood before him. Fleeing was not an option. He had to fight, his breathing was ragged, but his body knew there would be no rest until victory. (105)

[quinn-of-aebradore]

Tagged by the lovely @fireryn @glitter-garbage and @kmackatie !!! Thank you all, always lovely to see you pop up in my mentions :3

Last song I listened to: She Doesn't Sleep by Anthony Amorim. Was listening to my Lucien playlist while working on some stuff before tonight's C3 and that song's been on it forever.

Last book I read: I have been out of the habit of reading books for a while now and Goodreads has signed me out so I can't check on there XD so I will take this as an opportunity to say that I still need to read the first issue of the Artagan comic, which I said I would read last time I was tagged in one of these XD I will try to remember and do it this weekend, I swear.

Last film I watched: My dad and I watched Ghostbusters Tuesday night! Because we were out of things to watch except the Warrior finale, which we finally watched last night. The audio quality was so fucked? Thank god for subtitles.

Last TV series: Star Trek Discovery is back as of today and I am SO happy. Watched the first episode of Season 5 right before C3 tonight and am so excited to watch the second tomorrow night. Also, today's Dungeon Meshi episode right before that!

Last thing I googled: "floral dragons" because I couldn't get the direct URL to the Kickstarter to reload into my search and I have been obsessively watching the pledge number bc I want the 500k oneshot stretch goal XD Which! Highly recommend y'all go look at Hit Point Press's current Kickstarter for their Field Guide to Floral Dragons book :3

Last thing I ate: whatever the chicken dish my grandfather made for dinner tonight is called XD reminds me, I should go grab snacks

Sweet, savory, or spicy: I have a godawful spice tolerance, so not spicy. But sweet or savory I could go either way depending on my mood.

Amount of sleep: well, my spring break is over so I'm back to about six hours a night. Gonna be less tonight cause CR but I'm used to being very tired on Fridays lmao

Currently reading: I am going to read the Artagan comic. I promise. Promise.

Tagging these lovely folks: @spottedenchants @flashhwing @watcherswill @glossolali @rainbowcaleb @dent-de-leon @hello-eeveev

[moononastring]

Spirit Meets the Bones XVIII

Find it all here.

Genre: Angst/Romance/Drama Author's Note: I sincerely appreciate every single one of you and you keep me truly wanting to continue! Feedback is always welcome and very encouraging :) I love knowing what you think so thank you for reading!

Tagging: @finalgirl-steve | @useraelin | @rhaenyratargs | @vanserrass | @positivewitch | @readthelastpaage | @spinachtz | @elizab3th-grace | @starfall-everynight | @daily-dose-of-sass | @highlady-fireheart | @carnythian | @theviewfromtheotherside | @climb-the-mountian | @ladyelain | @lovedbyth3sun | @carolynmezzosoprano | @thedarkinmansfield | @moonfawnx | @imma-too-many-fandoms | @x-soladosisfacitvenenum-x | @krem-does-stuff | @cynicalpotato95 | @lattristanketcup | @tiny-dragon-lover | @nightchanges20 | @inurus | @juulle987 | @my-otrand | @daydreamer-anst | @theeternalstruggle | @raila-styles-blog | @gazpcy | @deez-thrillerkiller16 | @sweet-but-stormy | @illyrianshadowhunter | @this-is-rochelle | @sweetstarelf | @thewilderheart | @dimenticalitutti | @noc-skuplja-vijeka | @andramoreaux | @runningwiththeoceans | @yourlocalbookwhore | @applestrudeldoo

Lucien stood across from his brother in the open field behind his house, Elain’s garden a beautiful backdrop behind them as he waved his hands towards Eris. 

“Care to explain what the hell that was about?” Lucien asked, bewildered.

Eris only snarled and paced past his brother. He needed an outlet, not questions. He needed a moment because he was making a downright fool of himself.

“What is the matter with you?” Lucien demanded brows raised high as Eris paused and glared at him.

“I need to hit something.” he spat and resumed his pacing as Lucien eyed him in confusion. 

“Excuse me?”

Eris paused his frantic pacing then squinted at his brother. “You. Yes.”

“No.”

“Yes. I am your older brother, you are obligated to listen to me.”

“The only thing I am obligated to do is mildly tolerate you.” Lucien replied with a snort. “Which I’m barely doing as it is. I am not going to be your punching bag because you won’t deal with whatever it is you’re feeling.”

Eris narrowed his eyes, hands twitching at his sides. Never mind there was dried blood on one. The hand that Iris had wanted — he closed his eyes and took a deep breath. 

Fucking ridiculous.

“Fine.” Eris said and squared his shoulders. “I will allow you to punch me first so then I can hit you after.”

Lucien rolled his eyes. “No. Elain said no fighting before you came. I know you’re used to your wife being mad at you but I can’t sleep if Elain’s upset with me.”

Eris immediately tensed. “Don’t talk about my wife.”

Lucien blinked then slowly grinned. “Oh.” he said. “I see.”

“See what?” Eris snapped.

Lucien’s grin widened and he rubbed his hands together. “Gods, I’ve been waiting for this moment.” he cackled. “You’re being such a little bitch right now, I knew this would happen.”

Eris growled then slid a hand down his face, before his hands clenched into fists. “Oh fuck right off, alright?” he snarled. “Don’t say a word.”

“A word about what? Your wife?”

“Lucien.” he snarled in warning. 

“All I said were the words ‘your wife’. I haven’t actually said anything about Iris.” Lucien said calmly, watching his brother and mustering the most innocent of expressions. 

“Lucien.”

Lucien’s lips twitched and he held up his hands as he waited silently. 

After a few tense moments, Eris finally mumbled, “We had a moment.” 

“Didyou now?” Lucien asked in an amused tone that Eris did not appreciate.

“We had a moment and —,”  he grumbled quietly then sighed and ran a hand through his hair once more. “We would’ve had another moment if you hadn’t interrupted — we had a moment and — and things happened.”

Lucien blinked and slowly put a hand on Eris’s shoulder with a look that had Eris immediately regretting ever opening his mouth.

“Brother dearest,” Lucien began in a sympathetic tone that was as fake as it gets. “Has it been that long since you’ve had an erection that you forgot what it feels like?”

Eris snarled and finally swung at his brother but Lucien ducked with a laugh. 

“Alright, alright, I’m sorry.” he said and Eris settled for shoving him with a glare then resumed his pacing. “This is serious then.”

“This is very serious.”

“I see.” Lucien said and held out his hands again. “I’m sorry. I won’t make fun. Just talk to me.”

Eris scowled, warily watching his brother then resumed his silent pacing.

After a few moments, Lucien sighed. “I can’t help you if you don’t tell me what the issue is, Eris.”

It took Eris a few more moments of silent pacing before he finally ran his fingers through his hair again, took a deep breath then sighed. “Aside from my erection,”  he said with a glare at his brother. “It — something — it has never felt like that before.”

Lucien nodded knowingly. “That’s because you like her.” 

“I have liked other females!”

“Yes, but as we’ve said before, you like her and she’s your wife. It’s different.”

Eris rolled his eyes up to the sky then huffed, pacing once more. Lucien had no idea just how different this was. 

But did he tell Lucien? He hadn’t discussed it with Iris yet —  he wasn’t even sure if she knew.  Had she picked up on it or was this another thing he was shoving at her? She’d already been forced to marry him. How would she take it if she knew he was her mate? Knowing how he was. Who he was. He had told her once that he wouldn’t shackle her with him if she wanted out but…would he still be able to let her go if that was what she truly wanted? When she was his and he was hers in a way that trumped everything else? 

He glanced at Lucien who stood with his arms crossed, calmly watching him. Though Eris was annoyed by the mild amusement on his brother’s face, it gave him pause. If there was anyone who had been hit on the head with a mate, it had been his brother. Lucien would understand.

Eris grimaced, letting it fall silent for a few minutes as Lucien watched him. When he finally opened his mouth to speak, the sound of laughter stopped him and the brothers turned to glance at their wives strolling towards the garden. He watched as Iris walked with Elain, smiling, and he had a very strong urge to stab himself.  

“In all honesty, I never thought this would happen.” he finally said, turning back to Lucien with a frown. “I never thought anyone would be…enough to be what she is to me right now.”

Lucien shook his head with a snort. “You are so fucken full of yourself.” he replied and pointed. “Iris is a much nicer person than you are.”

Eris snorted. “You say that but you haven’t heard the way she threatens me.”

“Do you deserve those threats?”

Eris pursed his lips, trying not to think of the strangest sense of delight he felt whenever she did point a blade at him. “Not always.”

Lucien gave him a knowing look. “You definitely deserved them,” he confirmed then shook his head. “Despite this arrogant and very stupid belief of yours, you aren’t above everyone else, Eris.”

“That’s not — I meant that I would be enough to have something like this happen.” he seethed and Lucien quirked a brow. 

“Marriage was bound to happen,” Lucien replied mildly. “You knew this was coming at some point.”

“Okay, but I didn’t ask for this.” Eris hissed, pointing towards the gardens where his — his whatever walked. “Do you know how much harder this will make everything? How much worse?”

This seemed to finally get Lucien to sober up, his expression turning serious. “What do you mean?”

And it was as Eris stared at Lucien, the weight of his discovery today fell on him like a ton of bricks and his expression fell. 

If his father found out…she lived inside the court with him. In very close proximity to the High Lord. Eris swallowed. Their situation was far from ideal and it was taking everything in him to make it work. To keep it easy. To keep Iris safe. His father would wield the mating bond against him in ways Eris couldn’t even begin to imagine. It could go very badly.

“Eris?”

Eris glanced at his brother and slowly moved, until he stood directly in front of him, his expression lethally calm.

“I need to know what I tell you will not be told to a soul. Elain is the only exception and only when I give you permission.” he commanded and Lucien’s brows furrowed. 

“Okay.”

“No one, Lucien.”

“You have my word.”

Eris swallowed and assessed his brother. He never would’ve dreamed of this moment. 

“If I ever need to send Iris to you, tell me she will be safe here.” he said quietly. “Promise me that she will not be in harm's way.”

Lucien tilted his head, turning to briefly glance towards the gardens once more, where Elain and Iris were whispering together, giggling at something they couldn’t hear. “Your wife will always have a place here, Eris. Why?” he asked and Eris licked his lips, bracing himself to say the words that hadn’t left his mouth yet.

His head turned, finding Iris seated among the flowers. It took him a moment but finally, after a breath, he whispered, “She’s my mate.” 

Eris felt Lucien stiffen and turned to find his brother blinking rapidly. A beat of silence passed then his brother spoke.

“Fuck.”

“I know.”

“Holy shit.”

“I know.”

“That...shit.”

“You’re only verbalizing what’s been going on in my head since I found out.” Eris said and watched Lucien’s expression shift from shock to amusement.

“When did you find out?”

“Five minutes before you ungraciously interrupted us.”

Lucien went silent for a few moments as Eris stood tensely across from him, then shook his head and huffed out a laugh. “Wait — wait. I’m sorry.” he began then let out another laugh. “You.”

Eris immediately scowled. “Yes?”

“You — you, who had refused to marry for so long.” Lucien started and Eris’s scowl deepened. 

“And?”

“You literally threw a tantrum when fa — your father told you to get married.”

Eris rolled his eyes. “I didn’t throw a tantrum.” he grumbled and Lucien let out another laugh.

“You sat in my kitchen and blacked out from drinking.”

Eris waved a hand with a growl. “Your point?”

“Mister ‘I don’t want a wife, no female is good enough for me’,” Lucien continued with a grin. “You, who won’t even admit to liking his dogs enough —”

“— I don’t see the point of what you’re saying —”

Lucien gave his brother an incredulous look that Eris did not appreciate. “Do you realize how emotionally constipated you are? How emotionally constipated you’ve always been?” Lucien said and finally, let out a loud laugh. “Oh gods. This is amazing.”

“Shut the fuck up.” Eris snarled. “This is serious.”

“Oh my gods. You have so many feelings you don’t even know what to do with yourself.” Lucien went on with a cackle. “You barely had it together when she was just your wife!”

“I know!” Eris snapped and waved a hand. “Do you see my problem now?!”

“Oh…oh I see.” Lucien said and at the murderous look in Eris’s eyes, said nothing else, his lips only twitching. 

Eris said nothing as well, seething at Lucien’s reaction.

“This is not funny.” he said forcefully. “I am constantly thinking about throwing myself off the highest building. Now I definitely want to.”

“Oh, I bet.” Lucien replied with a wide grin. “This is fucken hilarious. She touched your thigh and you broke a glass. It’s all over my floor.”

“Lucien.” Eris snarled and Lucien finally held his hands up, clearing his throat.

“Right. I’m sorry.” his brother said. “I had to get that out of my system.”

Eris only glared at him and watched Lucien’s lips twitch. 

“You’re the fucken worst.” Eris finally mumbled and Lucien let out a low chuckle.

“Yet, you told me first.” he replied smugly and Eris rolled his eyes. “Besides, this calmed you down without resorting to violence.”

Eris blinked. This asshole.

“Violence is still very much on the table.” Eris grumbled and hated to admit that maybe, just maybe, Lucien was right. He was somewhat…less on edge. Maybe. Slightly. 

The corner of Lucien’s mouth ticked up. “Overwhelming, isn’t it?”

“I want to kill myself.” 

“You’re so dramatic, dear gods.” his brother said and Eris scowled when Lucien shoved his shoulder gently. ���Listen closely — pay attention to what I’m going to say to you.”

Eris grimaced as Lucien placed both hands on his shoulders and met his gaze. “I’m uncomfortable.”

“I said listen and shut the fuck up.”

“That is rude.”

“You love the sound of your own voice and I personally hate it.”

“Fuck you.”

“Thank you.” Lucien said and patted Eris’s shoulder aggressively. “Now listen. This is a good thing.”

“No, it’s not.” Eris said immediately. “This is terrible. I already care too much. This is so much worse.” 

“It is not. Iris is good for you and you are good for her.”  Lucien said calmly. “I’ve watched how you’ve changed since she came into your life. You had no joy until she showed up and it’s made a difference in you.”

“I also have a lot more stress.” he muttered and Lucien chuckled.

“That’s because you’re an idiot.” Lucien said and Eris resisted the urge to flip him off as he continued. “You’ve needed something real like this for as long as I’ve known you and this is as real as it gets.”

“But —”

“She challenges you and settles you all at once.” his brother said and Eris swallowed. “She is your person and she is real. This is real.”

Eris grimaced again and looked away from his brother towards the garden again, where his wife — his mate was. “My father will make this so much worse.”

Lucien stepped back and gave Eris a look. “Are you going to let him?” he asked and Eris snapped his gaze to his brother, hot anger flaring in his chest and before he could control himself, his fire erupted around him, every part of him aflame.  “I will kill him if he so much as looks at her wrong.” his words were guttural, so angry he could barely get the words out. “I will skin him alive. I will make up for everything he has ever done to me and mother if he so much as —”

Lucien held up a hand with a small smile. “Exactly. So calm down.” he said gently. “She’s safe with you.” 

Eris blinked, the fire around him dampening and he let out a breath, running a hand through his hair as flame licked his skin. He shook his head and began his pacing once more. “Is that enough? I don’t — I won’t put anything past him if he finds out. I’ve seen what he does to people. I know what he does.”

“Then he doesn’t find out.” Lucien said firmly. “I assume your other brothers have had zero interaction with her?”

Eris waved a hand. “They have asked but I haven’t allowed it. You know how they are. They stay out of my way until needed.” he said. “But father…”

Lucien nodded then shrugged. “What is going to give it away? Your scents? You’re married, no one will think twice.”

“He already knows I like her too much.” 

“You’re good at pretending. So is Iris from what you’ve told me.” Lucien said and gave him a pointed look. “Keep pretending until you don’t have to.”

Eris nodded slowly even though this type of pretending would be excruciatingly different to anything else he had to do before. He ran his tongue over his teeth and took a deep breath, his fire disappearing. He hesitated for a heartbeat then said, “She doesn’t know.”

Lucien froze, his eyes widening. “What?”

Eris swallowed then shook his head. “I don’t think she knows. I — we — I haven’t asked her yet.” 

Lucien shook his head, shoving Eris away from him, and pointed sternly. “You shouldn’t have told me until you told her.”

“You pulled me aside and asked me what was wrong.” Eris snarled. “This — this is what’s wrong.”

Lucien’s lips thinned. “Eris —”

“I don’t know what to do or — or how to behave.” he swore. “I didn’t ask for this and she sure as shit didn’t either.”

“That’s the funny thing about mates…neither of you really ask for it.” Lucien said gently and Eris groaned.

“And what if she doesn’t want this?” Eris asked, trying and failing to hide the hint of desperation in his tone. What if she doesn’t want me that way?  “What then?”

Lucien’s expression softened and he nudged Eris. “I think you’ll find that being married helps ease that concern.” he said calmly. “You’ve managed to figure things out so far. You just need to tell her and go from there.”

Eris grunted and shook his head. “This is more than she bargained for. She’s barely begun to like me.”

Lucien rolled his eyes. “From my perspective, a person who has only seen you two interact with each other for a few hours, I don’t think you should be as concerned as you are right now.” he said. “Just talk to her. And tell her you told me.”

Telling her would be fine. He would tell her. Of course he would. But…they couldn’t — shouldn’t tell anyone else.

It would be fine. This was just an overwhelming moment. It would be fine.

He sighed and for once, just this once, let his true feelings spill from his lips. “I’m so fucken tired of pretending.” He rubbed his face and said through gritted teeth. “I can’t — I can’t even be happy about this. All I am is stressed. I’m exhausted.”

Lucien’s mouth tightened into a thin line. “I know.” he said quietly.

He shook his head and let it fall back, his gaze at the open sky. “I’ve been on the edge for so long.” he said quietly. “Her father came for a visit today and I beat the living shit out of him. I would’ve killed him had Iris not stopped me.”

“Did he deserve it?” Lucien asked and Eris glanced at his brother, at the hard gaze full of understanding. Eris didn’t have to explain what kind of creature Iris’s father was. 

“More than.” he replied. “But I haven’t lost control in so long…I suppose it makes sense given what I know now.”

“Do you think your father will have a problem with it?” 

Eris shrugged. “We’ll have to see when I get back, won’t we.”

“Eris…” Lucien started but Eris shook his head and it fell silent between them.

He closed his eyes and thought of anything but his father. He thought of his mother finding her spark again. He thought of his hounds. He thought of the brother standing next to him and his sister-in-law who cared for him. Most importantly, he thought of his wife and the way she trusted him. How she smiled for him and what that smile did to him. 

Even if he didn’t deserve an ounce of happiness, he was allowed a moment. A day to be happy with his wife. To guard his little secret as close to his shredded heart as much as he could.

“I won’t let him find out.” He swore quietly, straightening.

“No, you won’t.”

Eris licked his lips, his gaze falling back to the house. “And if he does?”

“Then maybe it’s time the Autumn Court finally gets a new high lord.” Lucien said simply, his gaze hardening. “It’s been long overdue.”

Eris gazed at his brother carefully. “That is easier said than done.” he said then looked away, with a shake of his head. “Besides, you know that move is not mine.”

Lucien shrugged. “When the time comes, it doesn’t matter who makes the move. It matters that it’s done. You owe him a taste.”

Eris closed his eyes, trying not to let the image of his sword lodged in his father’s throat linger for too long. After a quiet moment, he asked, “Until then?” 

“My home will always be a safe space for Iris and you.” Lucien said gently. “You know Beron would never dare come here.”

Eris swallowed and nodded again. It would be fine. It wouldn’t need to come to this but a plan never hurt.

Lucien gave Eris one more look then turned to face his home, his eyes on the distant figures of his wife and sister-in-law. “Things will be fine.” his brother said calmly. “You have me. I’m here.”

“Albeit unwillingly?” Eris said, the corner of his mouth lifting, and Lucien chuckled.

“Obviously. I can’t stand you.” 

Eris rolled his eyes and turned his gaze to where Lucien looked. They were too far to see clearly but Eris…he felt Iris. He felt a tug of joy at his ribcage. That would certainly take getting used to.

Then again he had always felt that pull towards her. Now, he knew what it meant. 

Lucien slid his hands in his pockets with a small smile and said, “Elain says your wife is amazing and she’ll rip your throat out if you upset her.”

Eris snorted. “She’ll rip my throat out herself, no worries.” 

“She also said we should come back.” Lucien added and spared Eris one more knowing glance. “Will you be able to handle yourself or should I expect more shattered glass on my floor?”

Eris shot his brother a dirty look and refused to feel embarrassed. He would not flush. “Fuck off.”

Lucien only chuckled. 

~

Iris looked up as she sensed Eris approaching. Her gaze had found him constantly as she and Elain explored outside; it was like a thread being pulled. She couldn’t help herself. She almost felt guilty about it but then she noted the anger radiating off him. The way his fire had erupted around him again and it made her nervous. She wasn’t sure if she was the cause. 

She wasn’t sure how to feel at the moment.  Excited? Overwhelmed? Nervous? Today had certainly been a lot but — but he seemed fine before they came here. She pursed her lips and then let her gaze fall back to the sweet little bunny in her lap that had twitched when her petting had stopped. She gave it a small smile, hugging it closer to her, and looked up once more to watch him walk closer.

Iris teased him with Lucien and while Lucien was handsome in his own right, Eris…she absolutely hated how embarrassed she felt to even admit it to herself but my, oh my, did Eris look handsome beneath the bright sunlight. Her husband’s stupid confidence alone made her want to — 

“You are staring awfully hard.”

Iris blinked, her focus still on Eris, sliding down to his hand where the simple gold ring glinted there. She had never given any mind to their wedding bands. Only really wore her own gold band because that was what they were supposed to do but — but the weight of it definitely felt different on her finger now.

“Hm?” she finally replied, tilting her head towards Elain with her eyes still on her husband. 

Elain’s giggle filled the open space as her sister-in-law said, “I daresay, I hope the two of you wait until Lucien and I are inside at least.”

Iris blinked again, hearing what Elain said, and flushed deeply. “I beg your pardon?”

“The grass can add a nice touch to the sensation.”

Iris whirled to glance at her sister-in-law in shock, which only made Elain laugh.

“I’m teasing!”

“Sure sounds like you’re speaking from experience.” Iris muttered and tried not to think about what laying in an open field with Eris would feel like. She didn’t need the image of his body over hers, touching her in ways she hadn’t been touched before. She didn’t need to think about his wretched mouth and how it would feel all over her skin. Iris wondered how it would feel to have him on his back and do all the things she’d only heard about through whispers. Her body heated as she tried very hard not to think about it. Eris would be so smug about it if he found out.

She squinted at the sly smile that bloomed on Elain’s face.

“Indeed.” Elain replied and was silent for a moment before that sly smile turned into a grin and Iris already knew whatever she said would be something she wasn’t ready for. “Did you ever hear the saying that not only do the Autumn Court males have fire in their blood but, they —” Elain lowered her voice and choked out with a giggle, “fuck — like it too?”

“No.” Iris choked out, flushing from head to toe. This conversation had taken a turn she was not prepared for. She did not want to start thinking about Eris and what fucking him would be like. She did not want to think about that at all. “Where did you even hear such a thing?”

“My sister Feyre mentioned it once.” Elain said, feeding her little bunny then met Iris’s gaze with a grin, even while blushing. “I’ve tested that theory. It is very true.”

Iris shot up, clutching the bunny in her arms tighter, her face heated. “Elain.” 

Her sister-in-law only laughed harder and Iris wanted to throttle her. It took Elain a good minute to stop laughing at Iris’s expression when she finally said, “I never used to be like this. I was too proper of a lady to ever bring up such subjects.”

“Clearly something traumatic happened.” Iris said dryly. 

“Oh yes,” she replied with a smile. “I met Lucien.”

“Traumatic indeed.”

“What’s traumatic?” Lucien asked as the brothers finally stopped before them. 

“Meeting you.” Elain replied brightly and Lucien blinked then rolled his eyes.

“Ah, yes. So traumatic for you.” he said dully, waving an arm to their beautiful surroundings as both girls laughed.

“Can���t say the day I met your brother wasn’t also traumatic.” Iris said, shooting her husband a look, her stupid heart skipping a beat when he met her gaze.

“Funny you should say that when I was the one who had a chair thrown at him.” Eris said with a snort, his eyes locked on her and Iris could feel the way he cataloged every detail about her.

Iris rolled her eyes, her cheeks blushing lightly, and looked at Elain. “He’s never going to let that go.”

“Threatened with my own dagger.” Eris continued conversationally.

“It slipped into my hand honestly.” she said with a shrug and look full of innocence to Lucien who grinned.

“Something about these Autumn Court boys.” Elain added, gesturing towards the brothers and glancing at Iris. “It screams emotional instability.” 

“I personally feel like we should be financially compensated for these unions.” Iris teased and Eris narrowed his gaze on her.

“Wife.”

She couldn’t help laughing again at his indignant tone. “Husband?”

He rolled his eyes but Iris didn’t miss the way the corner of his mouth lifted slightly. Her eyes flickered down to the bunny still in her hands then back up to him before casually taking a step toward him as Eris took a step towards her but Lucien cleared his throat, and they both froze in place.

“Elain, my love?” Lucien said, his lips twitching as he looked at his wife and he held out his arm. “We should get the table ready, no?”

Elain blinked then jumped right up, taking her husband’s arm. “Oh, yes. We definitely should,” she said quickly then grinned at Eris and Iris. “We don’t want you two to starve!”

“Oh.” Iris said, glancing once at Eris — she couldn’t help it really — before turning to smile at Elain. “Let me help you.”

“No!” Their hosts replied quickly and Iris blinked.

“That’s what I’m here for.” Lucien said with a charming smile he directed at Elain, who preened at his attention and then glanced back at Iris. “Please, enjoy the gardens for a little longer.” 

“We’ll let you know when it’s ready!” Elain called and promptly dragged Lucien inside, her giggle barely contained. 

Iris flushed and tried not to laugh at the way the two scrambled inside. A chuckle escaped nonetheless. “Your brother and his wife aren’t known for being subtle, are they?” she said and turned to finally face him once more.

“Not when it comes to me, at least.” Eris grumbled but it was with no heat as he let his gaze flicker to his wife. 

Iris seemed to hesitate, gauging the distance between them, and after a breath of silence, she lowered herself to release the bunny from her arms and then stood slowly. She slid over to Eris’s side and hovered close enough without touching.

“Are you alright? I saw fire.” she asked quietly. “I — I wanted to check on you but Elain said you would be fine talking to Lucien.” 

He nodded with a small smile. “I’m alright.” he said, rubbing the tip of his ear. “Are you – are you alright?”

Iris chuckled, shifting on her feet. “I’m fine. I was spending time with the bunnies.” she said, gesturing to the small animals around them.

“I can see that.” Eris said and Iris felt her cheeks heat under the weight of his gaze. The world had suddenly shifted into a pleasant quietness and she couldn’t seem to find the right words to say.  

Iris only had eyes for her husband and Eris only had eyes for her.

After another beat of silence, she curled a strand of hair behind her ear and said, “Did — did you and Lucien enjoy your chat?”

“Surprisingly, we didn’t punch each other.” he replied with a small smile. “But I really wanted to.”

Iris rolled her eyes. “You love him so much.”

“Incorrect.”

“So much.”

“That is extremely inaccurate.”

Iris shot him a look that had his lips twitching but she only shook her head again and glanced at him, at the few inches between them. It wasn’t — she wasn’t feeling awkward. She suddenly and annoyingly felt shy. She let it fall silent for another moment then held out her hand. “Let me see your hand.” she asked softly, the need to touch him hitting her like a bag of bricks.

“It already healed.” he mumbled but still, placed his hand in hers. “I’m fine. I just — needed a moment.”

Iris inspected his hand quietly and Eris tried not to listen to how rapidly her heart was beating. He watched her face as she ran her thumb across his palm and willed himself not to shudder. 

“It’s healed fine but you need to get it cleaned up.” she said softly and glanced up at him as he peered down at her and stepped closer. “That’s the second time today you’ve hurt your hands.”

“A typical day in the life.” he said and Iris gave him a pointed look.

“You had me worried about you when you stormed out.”

He gave her another small smile. “Someone might think you actually like me with the way you’re worried about me.”

Her lips twitched. “I barely tolerate you.”

“Why, thank you, wife. I barely tolerate you as well.”

They shared another glance and Eris couldn’t help himself as he gazed at her beautiful face with the shy smile, at her bright hazel eyes — couldn’t help himself because he had to, simply had to kiss her. His gaze flickered from her eyes to her lips then back to her eyes again.

Licking his lips, he started to say, “I need to —”

Without waiting for him to finish, Iris cut him off with a whisper of “Yes.” 

She reached for him as he reached for her and Eris wrapped his arms around her waist as Iris fell into his embrace, his lips meeting hers as he pulled her firmly into him.

He kissed her and poured every emotion that vibrated through his body into her, delight flaring in him as Iris sank into him with a little whimper, her hands wrapping around him. Eris teased her with a gentle bite to her bottom lip and when she opened for him, his tongue dived in for a taste of her. He kissed and caressed and savored her mouth with his, willing himself not to tremble. Only when he felt her melt into him completely did Eris release her with a groan, resting his face on her shoulder.

Iris shuddered in his arms, a hand hesitantly sliding up his back. “Eris.” she whispered in his ear. “Terrible timing.”

“The absolute worst.” he agreed with a mumble, then lifted his head to bring his mouth against hers again, seizing her lips once more. 

Iris let him, fighting back a smile and failing, chuckling against his lips as he tasted her. The chuckle quickly turned into another whimper as he kissed her hard, her heart fluttering wildly and nothing could really prepare her for how badly she needed to have Eris near her, the one person she had never planned to even acknowledge. 

When Eris finally pulled back again, simply to glance at her, she let a moment of silence pass between them, watching the blaze in his eyes, and she couldn’t stop herself from leaning up and gently pecking his lips in return. She kissed him once, then twice, then a third time, sensing his growing delight.

“Well. Thank you, wife.” he said, the corner of his mouth lifting into a smirk when she flushed, even with the rapid beating in his chest. “I’m glad you’re enjoying what I have to offer.”

Iris shifted against him, her hands now smoothing his tunic and she avoided his eyes. “It’s barely anything. Don’t be too flattered.”

He chuckled then took a breath and stepped back, holding out a hand and Iris didn’t hesitate to intertwine her fingers with his, meeting his eyes once more. 

“Earlier…” she began and met his gaze. “I thought you were upset with me. With the way you reacted.”

Eris grimaced. “It’s not — you did nothing wrong.” he said quickly. “I needed a moment.”

“Because I kissed you?” she asked, tilting her head to glance at him. “I didn’t realize I was that powerful.”

A weak laugh escaped Eris as he met her gaze. She doesn’t know. I had my whole world turned upside down and she has no idea.

His thumb gently caressed the back of her hand and let a heartbeat pass before he gave her a tight smile. “Who is the one that’s too flattered now?”

Iris narrowed her eyes at him and he quirked a brow in return. “Something is wrong.” she said. “What is it?”

Eris only watched her face. How exactly was he supposed to tell her that something he never thought would happen to him had shifted the world beneath his feet? That she, his wife he had never thought would be more than a task he checked off, had weaved her way into his life, a life he hated almost everything about except for the moments he had started spending with her? That she, his Iris, was going to be the single most wonderful yet stress-inducing thing in his life.

All the panic that Lucien had walked him through was slowly creeping up his spine again. 

“Nothing.” he finally said quietly.  “Are you…feeling alright? Is there anything bothering you from earlier?”

Iris pursed her lips, her gaze dropping to their joined hands, and was silent for a moment. There was something he wasn’t telling her but she knew better than to push and thought about his question instead.

A lot had happened today. Too much, in fact. But…anything that happened before their kiss had faded from her mind. Eris and his rather heated kisses, what that meant for them now that they — they became a little more physical, was what remained on her mind. What she had told him before they came about her wanting to be more than friends and what that would mean. And that was a lot. 

But as she watched his thumb gently caress her hand… Iris knew it would be alright. Maybe she should’ve been more concerned but for all her initial worries about Eris, for all her doubts, today had only solidified what had been building inside her for some time. Everything that Eris was and what she thought he would be, came down to one thought and one thought only — that she wasn’t alone in this. That made all the difference. 

She bit the corner of her mouth then looked up and said, “I feel a little overwhelmed but I’m — I’m not worried. More…nervous? But not in a…bad way.” she admitted slowly. “...You?”

Eris hummed softly and held out his other hand so that both her hands rested in his. He liked holding her hands far more than he’d care to admit. 

“I’m…fine.” he said dryly and Iris’s lips twitched when his own cheeks heated. “I think you could probably tell I was feeling a tad overwhelmed.”

“Because my kiss knocked you out of this world?” she teased gently. “Guess all that practice came in handy.”

His grip tightened on her hands and said through clenched teeth, “Don’t — don’t bring that up right now.”

Iris’s brow rose in amusement and she fought back a smile. “Wow, you really are sensitive today.”

“Wife.”

He narrowed his eyes at her but Iris only smiled innocently and Eris rolled his eyes.

Clearing his throat, he let it fall silent for a moment before he continued, “But I am…nervous as well. I don’t…know how to be this person. I don’t know how to do this.”

Iris shrugged, her heart swelling at his confession. “Neither do I.” she said and squeezed his hands. “You said that when we first agreed to be friends too but I think we’re doing pretty okay.”

“Aside from you throwing a chair at me and trying to stab me a few times.” 

“You’re really never going to let that go, are you?”

“Never.” he said and smirked. “It makes me very aroused to think about.” 

Iris rolled her eyes and the corner of Eris’s lips lifted when she mumbled, “You’re very annoying.”

“Annoying I may be but…” he started and the air between them shifted as he gazed at her intently. “I am your husband who is also your friend. That you want to be a bit more than that with.”

He felt her grip tighten on his hands and she glanced down at their joined hands then back up at him. “Yes…I did say that.”

Eris let it fall silent as he looked at her, a whirlwind of emotion coursing through him. He tried to settle on one, be it panic, fear, joy, but in the end, he let them all mingle, focusing only on her. She had no idea he was going to be so much more than that. He would — well, he would be whatever the hell she wanted him to be. 

“We should — need to discuss what that means —” he started, his gaze flickering to the space around them. “More privately once we get home.” he finished and Iris tilted her head.

“Alright.” she said with furrowed brows then teased, “Are you afraid the bunnies will spread rumors about you having feelings?”

Eris snorted. “No. But Lucien and Elain are watching us from their kitchen window and they are very nosy.” he said and Iris turned her head to find said couple quickly ducking out of view.

She laughed softly as her cheeks heated. “I hope you know that this visit has been nothing short of mortifying.” 

“I nearly always want to assassinate myself after visiting them.”

“Because they tease you?” 

“Because they know me too well at this point.” he replied with a chuckle. 

“They really do.” she agreed and flushed. “It’s…been something, alright.”

Eris fought against the cascading of emotions brewing in him, fought against the smile as she gazed at him. Before he could stop himself, he let a finger brush against her colored cheeks. 

“I like seeing you blush.” he murmured softly and Iris fought back her own smile, glancing down with a shake of her head. “It makes me wonder what you’re thinking about.”

“I’m just thinking about…things.”

“What things, wife?”

Iris’s lips twitched as she looked up at him and shot him a knowing look. “Things.” she only said. 

The conversation with Elain had been…enlightening to say the least. Iris never had a doubt that Eris held up his reputation quite seriously to others so she wasn’t too surprised to know he was either strongly disliked or slightly feared. How much of a harlot he was shouldn’t have taken her by surprise either and it took every ounce of logical reasoning not to be irrationally jealous of Nesta Archeron, who was already mated to someone else and wanted nothing to do with him.

But it had warmed her heart just how much Elain and Lucien actually loved him. Knowing how much Eris loved them…it made her want to be worthy of their love too.  

The smile dropped from his face and he narrowed his eyes in suspicion. “What exactly have you heard?” Eris asked and Iris laughed.

“Oh you know, things.” she said airily then smirked when Eris scowled. “We can discuss those later.”

“But —”

“Do you hear that? That’s Elain calling.” Iris said and patted him on the chest. “We should go and be helpful guests.”

“Iris.” he started but she only gave a smile, pulling away.

“Surely you hear Lucien calling. He misses his big brother.”

Eris’s scowl deepened. “Wife.” 

“Don’t make me accidentally skewer you with a fork, Eris.” she said sweetly, skipping away further when her husband snorted. “All it takes is a slip of the hand.”

“Threaten me with a good time all you want, I will find out what you’ve heard.” 

“I’m simply trying to romance you, husband.” she said, pausing on the threshold of the back door to Elain and Lucien’s home. “Play nice, we’re still guests here.”

“I’m floored by your romance techniques.” he said dryly and waved a hand. “And we’re not guests here. Elain says this is my home too.”

“Elain, not Lucien?” she asked with a laugh and Eris shrugged.

“I think he’s still upset Elain likes me more than she likes him.”

Iris laughed again, the sound bringing a small smile to his own face. Her laugh made his wretched heart swell and ache all in one. Her laugh reminded him that things would be fine. She was his mate. He just had to tell her and they would be fine. 

He watched her walk into his brother’s home with a shake of her head and knew in his bones, that whatever came next, whatever they faced after this, Eris would do anything — become anything — just to keep her laughing.