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A Court of Shackles and Glass

Chapter Two

Word Count : 5.6k

Warning(s) : Brief mentions of depression

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Lyphon

There's something calming about laying in a field of grass and small flowers, listening to the soft hum of the wind and the occasional gentle melody from..whatever sings here. Everything smells so nice and fresh here. There was nothing but darkness and chains in the prison, so to be able to do this, to be here, outside of the wretched cursed cube, feels like a miracle.

I soak in all the sounds and smells and the feel of anything, wind or grass. It's all so refreshing and..different. There are some places like this back home, but most places are crawling with creatures that could absolutely hunt and kill you. Plenty of the plants aren't all that nice too. So to be somewhere so peaceful and safe feeling, it almost feels like a miracle.

I close my eyes, letting my eyes rest a little. Despite wearing a bandage around my eyes, it can still be a little bright for me. Light and red still bleeds past the bandages. While it may be dim, it's a slow process, getting used to the light again. Lucien, the male who smelled of apples and a burning hearth, had been kind enough to give me a bandage for my eyes. We're both hoping I adjust quickly so I can use something else. Tamlin, the High Lord of the Spring Court, where my prison was place apparently, had been generous enough to give me a guest bedroom in his manor, which doesn't seem to be in the greatest condition based on how much rubble is on the ground and how poor the quality of some of the house feels. I suspect it was much better some time ago, but right now just based of touch, it feels like it's seen much better days.

The grass shifts beside me, like someone stretching out as they sit down. I turn my head slightly. The smell of the rain and earth greet me, followed by a sense of something powerful and great being there.

"Good afternoon, High Lord. What brings you here today?"

High Lord Tamlin sighs a little quietly. He's been asking me a few questions every day, learning more about my home and family, having anyone willing search through any records that could verify anything I've said. I warned him that I'm not sure if Prythian ever kept any records on my family or any trades or alliances or even enemies. My home Court has long been forgotten I'm sure, and we never really tried to reforge any relations with Prythian. Naturally this makes me incredibly suspicious, possibly insane looking. However, appearing in a buried prison that looks like it wouldn't belong anywhere in Prythian sort of helps my case.

"Tell me about this End Court of yours again, everything."

"Very well. It is miles above the Night Court, you likely won't find it on a modern map, perhaps a very ancient one if you like to keep those around. The terrain varies, but it is mostly made of forests, mountains and great rivers or lakes. There is a cliff facing Prythian that my siblings and I would sit on the edge and watch any approaching ships and visitors. The inhabitants also vary, however majority are beasts, and not the kind it's easy to win against. There's even a colossal dragon that towers over the Court when it wishes. Lucky us my sister, ever the beast tamer, befriended him. That being said, there are Fae that live there. Mostly in towns since the forests aren't always the friendliest.

"My family has been the rulers of the Court since the beginning. That being said though, there are at least two other figures in the End Court that hold power in politics. Technically the Court is, or was, divided into three different territories. A third was ruled by a creature known as 'The Emperor'. He's known for his shapeshifting capabilities and immense power. He doesn't even need a spellbook to cast spells or curse someone. Half was ruled by my family or at least the High Sovereign. And the final sixth is ruled by another creature known as 'The Sorcerer'. He too has great power, however he doesn't tend to get involved and most of his territory is fairly empty creature wise. In..not very recent events, The Emperor decided he would allow the High Sovereign to rule his people, so long as they never forgot to respect him and that he rules a third of the Court. And that, High Lord of Spring, is the End Court in it's barest of bones."

The High Lord hums, staying quiet for a few moments. If he really wanted to know everything, I'm sure we'd be here for a few days, going through it all, and I don't even know everything.

"The End Court, do you believe it was created with the rest of the world? By the cauldron?"

It's a question I wasn't fully expecting..and not one I really have an answer too, but I can't give him nothing.

"I...don't know. Probably. It's what most of my family believes, but it's not clearly stated in any records or history books we have. I've asked my Great Grandfather about it and he..was incredibly vague, I didn't really get an answer from him. I do know that once he did mention he suspected that the End Court originally acted as another version of the Prison, the one found in the Night Court. And my family was it's wardens. It would make sense, but I honestly don't have much proof of it."

High Lord Tamlin hums again, taking in the information. I sense he's getting a little annoyed with the less than proven information though, an annoyance steadily building at the more I tell him, the more people come back with nothing to confirm my answers. If I'm not careful, or I can't prove anything, I could very well be endangered.

"So then, what exactly do you have as definitive proof of these claims? No records have been found of anything mentioning or discussing the End Court nor anyone with the last name Mortis, aside from one man, many many millennia ago."

"That, is likely my Great Great Grandfather. Many called him 'The Knight',  but he was far from the virtuous kind you might imagine. The Mother sent him to the End Court. Either as a death sentence, or a way to control him. Either way, he's still alive and perfectly capable of reliving his bloodiest days."

I almost chuckle, he was one incredibly feared man while he was still in Prythian. But I wave a hand in the direction of the trees in front of us, a squirrel, or at least a formally living one, comes running over, eager to be pet and fed and played with. I can hear the disgust in High Lord Tamlin's inhale, the slight increase in his heart rate. The smell of death and rot follows the animated squirrel, who I pet happily. The smell is not pleasant, but it brings me a strange comfort. And it's a relief at the success of this squirrel. I feel as if all skill I had with my powers has really gone down the drain, all the lack of use really coming in to hit me like a charging drake. I've started going through the forest on walks, joining some in hunts, searching for anything dead, anything small. And so far, this is the second successful squirrel. It's depressing to think of how I was able to raise armies, how my siblings could take down legions, and that now we're all likely husks of our past selves, all because our pathetic, moronic cousin imprisoned us just to stand a chance against us. Even if he's dead I won't let him rest for long.

"Anyways, it would be much appreciated if you asked around about my sister and brother. They too were imprisoned, I don't know where, else I would've made a specific request. But they're both my older siblings. Achlys is the oldest, he was a general back home and he was skilled with any metals or earth, by that I mean stone and dirt. He's a bit more on the...lively and zestful side. My sister on the other hand is named Gyn and she's excellent regarding anything with cells. Father focused on teaching her how to rule a Court...which makes sense. Like I think most Courts, the High Sovereign is chosen usually chosen through magic and based off power. She's the most powerful, and we've had one or two High Ladies before her. She's quiet, but smart..although she can really get exhausted just by being around someone. They'll both confirm what I've said and I'm sure they could even take you to our home, they were always stronger, and faster to learn and adapt."

I take a few breaths and clear my throat, I've already spoken more than I normally would and my voice is turning hoarse because of it. I'm little tense at the silence though. I know there's always a pause for when the High Lord of Spring is thinking through everything, absorbing the given information. But I already feel like I'm starting to walk onto a tight rope, what exactly can I give him that will prove everything? I'm hoping Achlys and Gyn have better luck than me, that they're already twice as strong and well trusted by whoever found them.

"Achlys and Gyn?"

"Yes. They're both older than me and...you'd feel the power difference, it's a little hard to ignore..my sister is compared by my family to my Great Grandfather and his Father a lot, power wise. Although, if you're really feeling bold, you could always send a ship, maybe journey there yourself?"

"Not happening."

I hum, it was mostly a joke, but it would be interesting if he actually liked the idea and considered it. Without another word the High Lord stands, walking away.

"Nice chatting with you..." I whisper, in some ways he reminds me of Great Grandpa, in the manner of a cold and pure business attitude, stoicism, and a need for something definitive to prove something..most times. In a way it's almost nostalgic for me, although a bit tiring. Lucien's company is a bit nicer, at least he's good at talking to people and understanding their emotions and motives. It reminds me of my own siblings and how they have different and similar traits of their own. Achlys is great with people, but sometimes cannot read a room for the life of him. Meanwhile Gyn is good at reading people and understanding them, however can be bad at social interaction.

I sigh, silently praying and wishing for their safety, their success, and that they find me.

Gyn

It's incredibly warm in the Summer Court, and bright. Definitely very bright. The Court is beautiful, truly, I have no doubt about that. However..in Adriata I have quickly learned there is a lot of gold, or very bright, reflective surfaces. Mostly water, which is deathly blinding for me on a good day. But there is also a lot of shiny, bright gold and white stone. Looking outside honestly feels like I'm kissing any eyesight I had goodbye. Permanently.

That being said, Tarquin, the High Lord of the Summer Court and the one who'd originally had the prison opened and me freed, has been incredibly kind and considerate, he even gave me a room underwater that stays dark most of the time. And he does his best to shield me from any light he thinks may be too bright while I'm outside my room. In return he's asked for information, which it's only fair I give him. To both of our surprises servants had found very, very old records that had mentions of the End Court and trades done between the two Courts. They'd even found an old map, though it does need a little updating since it's from when Grandfather was a child. But either way, it was a very pleasant surprise for everyone.

I hum quietly as I ascend the stairs towards the dining room. I tend to at least try attend every meal, it was tougher at the beginning of the week, when I was still weaker and needing practice and healing, sometimes servants would actively try to debate with me on not eating in my room. But it's easier now, my eyes are better, almost fully healthy now. Though, back home it was never really this bright, except on the cliff, where all you would see is the vast, sapphire sea and bright sky, if it wasn't too cloudy. Speaking of the sky, I've yet to see even a hint of a cloud anywhere between Adriata and the horizon. I can recall Tarquin laughed when I brought it up, stating bad weather was a rare occurrence for Adriata or the Summer Court in general, which managed to surprise me.

The servants bow their heads a little as I approach, pulling open the lovely doors to the dining room. I smile, thanking them by name. I did my best to learn everyone's names, though some servants had gotten too startled or were completely convinced I was tricking them and didn't give me a name. I still thank them regardless. My humming falls silent as I enter the room, shielding my eyes with my hand and smiling as Tarquin looks up. He grins.

"Good morning, Gyn. Did you sleep well?"

"It's getting a little better each night. Slow progress, but still progress." I take a seat, wings already shifting to get in the most comfortable position possible, despite the chairs not being made for those with them. Tarquin hums, taking a sip of whatever it is he's drinking.

"I had commissioned you a chair, by the way. Everytime you sit down I can't help but notice you look incredibly uncomfortable. It should be finished by the end of the week."

"That's too kind of you. Neither of us know how long I'll actually be here for, and besides, I'm used to this. I've met many who have never even considered getting chairs or stools for those who have wings."

"I'm not sure why you struggle to just say 'thank you' so much. And besides, you promised you'd visit. And for while you're here I don't want any of my guests uncomfortable. So I commissioned you a chair. I don't care if you leave tomorrow. Just say thank you. Don't tell me I've wasted my time and money on you."

I wince. I guess that was a bit rude, wasn't it? Mentally I scold myself. Manners and responsibility were the two things Father focused on the most when I was a child, it seems suddenly I forgot both of those things and needed reminding.

"I'm sorry..yes, thank you. It's very generous of you."

"See? Was that so hard?" He chuckles, stabbing his fork into half of a strawberry.

"...a little."

He laughs at that, going back to enjoying his breakfast. Sighing, I serve myself a few things, nothing too much though. We both eat in silence, either lost in our thoughts or listening to the crashing of waves. Occasionally Tarquin glances at me, clearly curious and wondering something, but it feels more like he's trying to solve a puzzle. He only speaks once we're both done eating.

"So...you've talked to me about your Court and what's it's like living there, yes? What about your family? Would you be willing to tell me about them?"

Slowly I nod. "Yes. I can tell you about them..um, ugh where do I start. Well, I have two brothers, who I believe I've already mentioned. Achlys, my older brother, and Lyphon, my younger brother. Our Father had been the acting High Sovereign until there was an accident and my Great Grandfather took over again. My Father passed away..a while ago, and it was soon after his death my Great Grandfather announced the next High Sovereign would be chosen soon. It was that night that my cousin, Ulysse had drugged us with a very heavy dose of something meant to keep abilities in check. With a small force he had dragged down to where the prisons were, the chains slithered out like snakes and one by one we were dragged into the prisons, sent off to wherever for however long."

Tarquin, leaning forward a little as he listens, a sympathetic look in his eyes. It's a little surprising, but it's nice someone is actually interested in what I'm saying. So I continue.

"Before everything that happened Lyphon had a lover and three children..I'm hoping they're all alright. The kids were fairly young when we were basically kidnapped, so I do hope they don't hate Lyphon when he comes back. I know his spouse was very understanding and loving, so I doubt they'd let them hate him." I hum, almost going deep in thought. "But I'm sure everything is alright, they are all strong and capable. And I'm sure my Great Grandfather will take care of them too."

Tarquin smiles softly, waiting patiently for a moment to see if I'll continue speaking. He speaks once he's sure I'm finished.

"I'm becoming curious about your Great and Great Great Grandfathers. Your Great Grandfather certainly seems to play a large role in your family.."

"..yes. The history of the Court and my family might or might not be necessary, but I'll still tell some of it anyways. My Great Great Grandfather...was..how do I put this. He..was a conqueror, a warlord that excelled in waging war and slaughtering thousands. He was a force all feared, so much so the Mother sent him to the End Court as a means of distracting and trapping him..my Great Great Grandfather is someone even the Emperor fears, and many say he was once meant to die like anyone else, but Death refused his soul, so now he can never die." I almost shudder at the thought. "No one in my family, but my Great Grandfather have seen his actual appearance. I can remember learning how everyone in my family, once they become between 10-15 years old, they're summonded by him. There's a tower he stays in, and my Great Grandfather brings you there. You'll be judged by him and you're either deemed a 'Knight's Child' or not. Very few of us have actually been deemed a 'Knight's Child'."

I'd met my Great Great Grandfather once, in person. The moment has never left me since. Nothing could have prepared me for him, his icy hands and vibrant, crimson eyes that just carve their way to your soul. It felt like the rawest form was suddenly exposed and being examined by the reaper. I'd never frozen so bad in a moment, I'd never felt a fear so carnal before, nor would I later in life. Some might laugh at the rumours, the tales of him, the creature he could become when high off bloodlust. But when come face to face with him, suddenly all courage bleeds out from your body and you're nothing but a pathetic mouse or insect under the eyes of a titan who had every right to kill you on the spot.

"Gyn? Is everything alright?"

Tarquin waves a hand in front of me a few times, making me jump slightly as I snap back to reality.

"Yes, sorry, just got caught up in a few memories, that's all."

"Are you sure? You'd gone rather pale and you..almost looked afraid."

"Yes, I am fine. My Great Great Grandfather was just terrifying to meet. Nothing happened, it was really just his prescense."

He frowns, but relunctantly nods.

"Anyways. My Great Grandfather is really important in the family. He's been basically someone we all look up to, but truly respect. He's on the colder side, but he can be loving in his own way. We have similar or matching abilities, so he was the one to train and teach me since no one else could fill the role. He's been ruling the End Court for some time, and we all trust his judgement, though he can be a bit blunt about it. And...I'll admit he's a lot like his Father, he's powerful, very much so. If he wasn't in the End Court, I'm sure he could or would have followed in his Father's footsteps.."

Tarquin hums, smiling a little.

"It sounds like you admire him."

"Admire, respect, whatever you want to call it. I do love my Great Grandfather, he's done a lot for me and helped me in many ways. I owe him a lot, honestly."

He chuckles at that, leaning back in his chair and taking a sip from a well made goblet with the style of crashing waves and seafoam. I smile, starting to dig into my chosen foods. Everything is always excellently cooked and appears both beautiful and delicious, this morning is no exception.

"I like speaking with you, Gyn, and I do enjoy your company. Would you tell me about your brothers and Father?"

I nod as I swallow a mouthful of a pastry, seriously who makes the food? It's incredible!

"Sure. Achlys is my older brother. He's older by about 12 years and he is quite...he's something else. He reminds me of fire in the way he burns with passion while being warm with love and care. But like fire he can be quite dangerous and chaotic. He makes an incredible general, but he has a bloodlust I've only seen in some of my family members. I respect his capabilities, but I also know he can be hot headed and hold a grudge, especially when family or friends are involved.

"Lyphon, on the other hand, is opposite to that. His attitude towards others is cold and harsh, something like a blizzard or some sort of winter storm. He has his own way of showing his appreciation for those he loves, and no he is not secretly some mushy, lovey dovey softie behind closed doors. He can be judgemental and ruthlessly correct any mistakes, even small ones, however he can understand you if you merely explain to him your motives or cause for purposeful 'mistakes' and everything is done out of love and a need for perfection from fear of something going wrong and someone getting hurt.

"As for my Father...well he was interesting while he was still alive. When I was a child he had me attend lessons preparing me to become the next High Sovereign since I was somewhere between 10 and 12. He would never give me even an inch with anything. He was strict and seemed to love teaching and encouraging responsibility and independance. I could beg for hours just to be able to play with Achlys, demand why he was never in lessons, why he could have anything he wanted and I had to do hours of homework and chores to even get a sliver of what free time he had. It was always the same answer 'you will be High Sovereign one day, your strength bleeds through you into the air like dust. You must be prepared for that day.' But he never answered me whenever I demanded why I had to be taught so young. He merely would mumble something about children being impressionable."

I sigh at the memories. I resented every lesson and night of dreaded, rotten homework made up of false. fictional reports, documents in need of signatures, and emergency events. For a while I envied Achlys, but eventually I gave up, merely looking down and going about everything like nothing mattered anymore. I had given up on the idea of having any sort of free time or fun, my childhood had been ruined and taken from me because my Father deemed it 'neccessary'. But...there were moments where Achlys shined, 'kidnapping' me to go have fun and explore and get me away from the evil paperwork. There were even days where I myself ran away into the woods to spite my Father, to get away. But that was a different time, and many things happened then.

The mood feels as if it's dipped a little, Tarquin watches carefully, almost studying me. I clear my throat.

"Sorry, that was a bit much..and biased. My Father wasn't terrible. But um..do you have anything planned today? I'd hate to keep you from anything important."

At that Tarquin smiles.

"Fine, I'll let you get away with that one. But actually no, today I am completely free. I was thinking I could give you a tour? Since your eyes seem to be better."

I smile, nodding.

"That sounds like a good idea, thank you. Though I'll probably need a wide brimmed hat.."

He chuckles. "That can be arranged."

Achlys

The hearth stays dead, I refuse to let it live. While the warmth of the fire would be nice, comforting almost, I'm ready for that light. Heavy, thick curtains hang from the windows, blocking out all light. Sunlight, moonlight, doesn't matter. Both are too bright. Starlight is..bearable, but the moon isn't usually fully gone from the sky or dark for very long. So the curtains stay shut all day and all night.

I hum softly as I play with the metal that makes my bedframe. Fenix, ever eager to hold things above my head and demand I pay him back with lives, gave me a room with many things made of metal. While most might find this place too cold and uncomfortable, almost insulting, I find it to be a sickening gift. Constant training and practicing has kept me exhausted the past week, but it's good. I'm improving quickly, growing back to my full strength. Soon I'm sure I could even leave on my own, venture out to find my siblings, maybe play hero. Their prisons were also solid metal, ancient and powerful metal, but still metal. And they're all massive too. It would be easy to find them and drag them up and out of wherever they are.

My humming stops as I sigh, a little heavily. That would be nice, wouldn't it? Swooping in and saving my siblings and being seen as their awesome big brother again, be seen as a hero in their eyes. The relief in their eyes when they would see me at the entrance to their cells, happily sputtering how they're relieved I'm okay and how I've found them. Yeah...that would be great.

I can remember many times I would rescue you them from whatever at home. Lyphon would go exploring in the woods alone, brave and strong, but not nearly as familiar with the creatures as me or Gyn. Wouldn't you know he's pissed something off and it's about to try to kill him for it, but I would swoop in last minute, getting him back home and going back to either calm or knock out or kill whatever it was. As for Gyn..well Dad really could be stupid. So focused on raising the perfect High Sovereign, so stupidly blind to how depressed he had made his daughter. I could remember how desperate she was to just have a smidge of the childhood she was supposed to have. So I did what I thought could help, I'd 'kidnap' her and take her to Great Grandpa's for however long and we'd have fun. Great Grandpa understood everything and he would never give us away, he even helped us a few times. Those were fun days, thrilling too. Dad would be livid when we returned, but I always managed to get her out of everything, and myself sometimes. It was always worth it, hearing my sister finally laugh and giggle, see her smile and actually react to everything, to see her look alive again. What I'd do to hear my siblings laugh again.

I close my eyes for a moment, letting the darkness envelope me momentarily. There's a strange peace in the silence of ones bedroom at night. And one that allows me the peace and time to think properly. Ulysse had mentioned Prythian as he laughed at us. Assuming he was laughing that we'd all be stuck here in prisons, that narrows down possibilities. There are only 7 Courts in Prythian. My gut tells me that we're not all in the same Court, that would be too risky for him. So that narrows it down to 6, then 5 if I figure out where one of my siblings is.

Ulysse knew some of our biggest fears based purely on incidents that happened when we were kids and the stories that were told. So, going off me as an example and good starting point. My prison was placed in a cave, a large, deep cave. I've hated caves since I had to fight a wyrm hiding in one, a vicious, massive wyrm that reeked and nearly ate me. So then, Gyn hates deep, dark waters. Twice she was dragged down into the deepest lake and forced to escape before something or someone captured her and kept her at the bottom. There's water everywhere, it surrounds Prythian, but only one Court is really known for its water, and why not put her somewhere she'll be surrounded by it 24/7? She'll have been placed in the waters of the Summer Court. Lyphon..is trickier. He's terrified of being buried alive after the Emperor used him as leverage and buried him in a coffin in the family cemetary. We only got him out because of interference from our Great Great Grandfather. I'm doubting he was placed in the Night Court due to it mostly being mountains. So there's only 4 Courts left. Spring, Day, Dawn, and Winter. I'm really hoping it isn't Winter. But the list has definitely narrowed down.

Huffing I open my eyes, a new determination in them. Sitting up I examine my bed briefly. It's a four poster bed, each corner holding a metal ball the size of my fist. Concentrating on one of them, I restrain the urge to reach for it and touch, that would make this too easy, the metal begins to twist and take a new shape. It stays quiet, much to my satisfaction. It only takes a little while before it stops, now appearing to be a simple, but strong flame. I nod, onto the next one. 

It takes me a total of two hours for me to finish changing all four metal balls into perfect, sharp shapes. One corner fire, another a tree made of flowers, the third a clam with a pearl in the center, but sharp teeth protecting it. The last one a dragon egg hatching with a small dragon peeking out. I'm panting a little, exhausted but definitely happy with the work. They're all perfect, not a single mistake. I grin as my energy slowly returns within a few minutes. My stamina is returning. Soon the earth will tremble with every step I take, I'll be returned to my normal self, and my siblings will have a protector again.

Heaving a sigh I flop back onto the bed, head hitting the pillow and eyes closing. That's when it will be better, once everything is back to normal. Once we're home..and that sewer crawling dustmite pays for his betrayal. Yes, it will feel alright again. But until then..

Pieces of metal fly towards me, smoothly they fall and gently land in my palms. Somehow, these are easier to make than the actual shapes around my bed. The points form sharply enough you could stab someone with it. Perfectly shaped little holes form to make room for gems. They all form to fit our heads without discomfort. Once I'm home, I'll forge proper versions, but for now, once I see them again these will do.

Opening my eyes I check my work, just as I imagined. Three crowns, each unique to their own soon-to-be wearer. Harsh, sharp points join around in a circle for Lyphon, a crown that could be compared to daggers being placed in a circle to create it. Detailed, bone and vertabrae like pieces form elegant but sharp jewel, tear, or leaf shaped arcs around in a tiara form for Gyn. She'd definitely appreciate it and its detail. As for mine...one a true king, a true warrior would wear. A more traditional style, but a mighty one nonetheless.

I hum content as I sit them next to me, shutting me eyes to sleep. Soon. I would find them soon.

~~~

Hello, thank you for reading. I hope you're having a good day/night. Please remember to take care of yourself.

~~~

P.S. This fanfic is available on Quotev and AO3

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A Court of Shackles and Glass

Chapter Three

Word Count : 7k

Warning(s) : Descriptions of corpses, blood, and possible gore/violence.

Previous Chapter | Next Chapter (coming soon..)

Lyphon

There was something to be admired about my siblings and their strength. I could sense them from a mile or miles away when we were all at our height of power, though none of us really knew it. I’m sure even now if they entered the Court there would be some slight change, some shift and a little more silence from the wildlife.

Achlys and Gyn truly were ‘The Knight’s Children’. I’d barely been a child when there had been a massive war between several Courts and some far off kingdom. It was a mix of who was against who and the alliances are a little foggy in my mind, but there was one thing that truly stuck out.

One of the Courts managed to form an alliances with our Court and rather than sending out large armies to crush our enemies like usual, Great Great Grandfather had appeared to personally order Achlys and Gyn out into the heart of the battle. He had some sick sort of humour and aura when he arrived. I nearly threw up and passed out, I was terrified for both of them. But our Great Great Grandfather only laughed at my reaction and winnowed us to watch from above. He wasn’t surprised by what happen, but everyone else was. Achlys crushed opponents using their own armour, killed them using their own weapons. He turned every metal thing they had on them against them. And when he seemed to get bored, he either buried soldiers alive or crushed them with boulders made of crystal. Meanwhile Gyn flooded the field with our enemies blood and turned the rest into trees and flowers. That battle had finished within 10 minutes, maybe less. It was horrific.

And then we all went home like nothing happened. Well, Great Great Grandfather challenge me to become as powerful as them, to become their equal. I never fully reached their power, but I came close enough that I was rewarded for my efforts.

For ages and ages I practiced and trained out of pure terror and drive. I didn’t want to disappoint my Great Great Grandfather who clearly saw something in me. But I also wanted respect from my older siblings. So for centuries I perfected my skills and powers, pushing myself to the limit until I couldn’t anymore. And then, when another war came and we were summond by our allies, I was thrust into the fighting too. I never disappointed any of them that day, Gyn and Achlys almost seemed to see me a little differently too, but they kept their looks subtle and their thoughts silent.

And now..I’ll have to restart the entire process. I’m stuck in the Spring Court until I’m strong enough to winnow home again, until I can at least make myself somewhat useful to my family again. I can’t go home completely weak and useless, Great Great Grandfather wouldn’t allow it. He might have a sliver of sympathy or empathy for us, but if we’re too weak in his eyes, we’re not family. We’re something to either dispose of or forget.

Sighing I try to focus on something else, anything else. All these thoughts of home and our Great Great Grandfather are making me anxious, dreading something that isn’t even set in stone. Hissing slightly I will the thoughts from my head, eagerly breathing in the smell of the unditsturbed earth around me.

I frown slightly at the sight of breaking headstones, all barely readable with moss covering many they’ve been so forgotten. I’m aware that this cemetary is abandoned, I asked for one that was abandoned specifically, but it doesn’t stop the disgust and disappointment from seeping into my mouth like a foul poison. Was no one truly here to take care of this graveyard?

Enough, enough. I roll my neck, wincing when loud pops fill the air as I cloes my eyes. Now is not the time to be nitpicky. I have to concentrate and focus purely on my task. I’d love to rush ahead and attempt to resurrect everyone here, but that would leave me so exhausted I wouldn’t be able to move, leaving an entire field of half living creatures to wander and terrorize everything. And High Lord Tamlin wouldn’t be pleased. So I focus on one single soul, one deceased. The grave before me.

Knowledge of names and personal history can be helpful, but it’s not really that neccessary. Truly, all you ever need to do is find their soul, follow that invisible, string from corpse to soul. It’s fascinating, following the string. Some have many strings attached to them from all their different lives, some only have the one. Mates will always have a tether between them, connecting both souls for all eternity. If left for enough time, the string will be weathered, a little harder to follow, but still connected. There have been multiple times though where I attempted to resurecct someone, only to have their new body appear before me, questioning why I summoned them while they were alive and living. Strings always look the same, they never tell you if someone has moved onto their next life or not, so I’ve learned to be cautious, look for any signs of life outside the soul.

Stretching a hand out and pressing it to the ground, I search for the string, reaching subconciously for that small, invisible line tying bones to soul. It’s closer than I realize. The body must be in a shallow grave of some sort, not buried six feet below, maybe half of that. Carefully I follow the string, tugging and pulling softly until I can feel the soft ground below shift. Dirt is moved and pushed away until the pale, stained ivory bones and rotted flesh of a hand and arm push past into the open air.

More dirt is pushed away until the torso of the living corpse can sit upright. An annoyed scowl is present on the man’s face, though the skin around his face is missing a few chunks, showing off dirt stained and holey parts of his skull. His hair is on the longer and more light brown side while his eyes are a dark brown. He’s quick to glare at me, though I ignore the look completely, too focused on my victory to care.

I resurrected a whole human, fully. Quietly I stand up, moving to the next grave beside him, earning me a scoff. I move some dirt away, digging a little with my hands until I’ve dug around two feet. Shutting my eyes again and pressing a hand to the cool dirt, searching and finding the string practically immediately. This time the corpse of a woman sits up, looking around confused and grimacing at the sight of the decomposing man beside her. She avoids looking down though, refusing to see the state of her own body.

I almost giggle giddily as I repeat the process another two times. Two men and two women watching me with mixed emotions as I pant quietly. I’m reaching my limits, but four is a good number. Shakily I reach for a fifth grave. I’m becoming out of breath and the smell of death and dirt and insects and rot and mold will not leave my nose. It probably won’t for several hours. Coughing I snatch at the string, yanking it with a little too much eagerness. Unsurprisingly a hand shoots out, gripping my neck with a surprising amount of strength for a dead man. My lungs instantly loose access to air, though the smell still preasent and nearly heavy in my lungs. My limbs feel like lead, slack at my sides, though still warm from bloodflow. A slow, thumping headache creeps in after a moment. My head feeling as if burning hammers are playing drums in my head. The other bodies watch nervously, as though wondering if my death would free them or trap them eternally. Clicking my tongue I stare right back, managing to open my mouth and rasp out a quiet, ‘help me’.

One of the woman stands, wobbling over on weak, half eaten legs. Her hands prying open the wretched hand around my throat. I cough as air fills my lungs again, I nearly double over. Most of the headache recedes and I watch the arm flail around, swatting and clawing at the air. The woman retreated back to her grave, content to lie down and avoid looking over here. It would seem the only thing alive for this grave is the arm, everything else is still dead. So then 4 corpses and an arm. A good start.

With a grunt I wave my hand, silently commanding them to bury themselves again. I smile softly when the command is successful. I still had enough to do a mental command as well then. Leaning back and resting my head on a headstone, I snap my fingers, all the strings being pulled taught again as the souls rejoined the afterlife, whatever it is.

Gyn

The uniqueness of my family and our abilities has never been lost on me. I’ve always been aware of how different we are compared to everyone else. It’s not necessarily bad, but it’s noticable and not many perceive it as good.

I’ve been told before that none of us felt..like regular High Fae, and to be fair, we’re not. Our lineage and family tree is more mixed than most and in the way that I suspect some were convinced into making deals for power sakes. The goals of my Great Great Grandfather always speak for themselves, clear through the silence.

While there are plenty of differences for others to focus on, many have stuck to prescense and powers. From all my years of being alive I’ve yet to meet another creature with our powers. The first word ever used to describe our powers has always been ‘gorey’. It’s a fair assessment, especially for me. I’m the third in my family to specialize in the manipulation of cells. Not just blood or bones specifically, but cells, the very thing keep so many of us alive and moving and thinking. The complexity of cells is fascinating to me, so at least I wasn’t really bored when studying biology. And as helpful as it can be, being used to create new life or healing many, many people, the fact that it can be so terrifyingly deadly is always what’s focused on.

I’m not sure if it’s my natural expression, or my prescense even, that makes people think, convinces people, that I fully wish to kill and harm everything around me, and I will if I want to. I never really had the intention or the wish to slaughter everyone, even if the chance presents itself. Even in wars I was hesitant, and whenever I was given the opportunity I would ask my enemies if they truly wanted to fight me and die or live a more peaceful, quiet life. Everyone around me disapproved of what I was doing, they scoffed and would mock me. Achlys would demand what the hell I was doing, he never too far and mocked me or called me horrible names since he knew that I wouldn’t be able to handle it coming from him. But I could see it in his eyes, the ugly envy that made him silently demand why he couldn’t be given such a destructive gift, why I was ‘wasting’ it. And I never fully answered his questions, until he snapped and yelled at me. I was stuck staring at the floor, wishing I would just cry like a normal person. And I could say was :

“Why can’t I try to save just a sliver of people? Why can’t I try to give some happiness and peace to souls who never wanted their lives thrown away like the garbage their treated as? Did you even bother pause and look at the world around you, in the heat of everything?

”You never notice their fear, how their hearts pound and their breathing quickens as we approach. For fuck’s sakes Achlys, we’re living death to them! We embody reapers coming to tear out their souls and laugh as we break their bodies. Is it really so bad that I stop and give a choice to some. How many in my garden are actually miserable, how many want to leave. Tell me that. And tell me when have I ever trapped anyone in my garden, refused to let them leave. Believe it or not, I hate their fear.”

Achlys never asked after that..he must have really listened since during any war or battle he always brought me a small group of soldiers afterwards, all brave enough to have some faith in us. I’m definitely glad that my brother is so understanding, I’d probably be hopeless without him.

Anyways. Lyphon’s powers aren’t what I would call ‘gorey’. Yes, he raises the dead, but what do expect from a corpse? Unless they’ve died yesterday, it’s not going to be a pretty sight. Achlys’s powers aren’t gorey either, he works with metals, earth, and stone. It’s more how we all choose to use these powers. Course if we’re fighting someone or an army a lot of blood with spill. The blood will stain our hands red over and over again until our skin matches the colour of the blood beneath. But that’s the way it’s always been, and I doubt it will change.

Sighing through my nose I roll my neck and open my eyes. My room is a very comfortable, wonderful room and a place I’d love to practice in. However, I don’t want to scare any servant checking in on me. Nor do I want Tarquin to watch me practice in case he becomes worried or looses some trust in me to paranoia. Not that I think he would ever loose trust in me because of this power, it’s more I want to be better prepared for when I do tell him. I can’t try to demonstrate something and let it go horribly wrong, unable to fix the problem I made. Plus I don’t need the immediate pressure of eyes on me right now. There’s too many things that can go wrong.

So, with that being said, I’d gone exploring for the past week, hunting for any place that would work for privacy and calmness. And I found the perfect beach yesterday. It’s a good distance from Adriata with white sands and soft, gentle waves that could lull me to sleep if I let it. And at night the waves and sand glow with any movement or weight put on them. Unfortunately I told Tarquin I would return by dinner, which is normally at 6, so I can’t really stay late today. And sunlight is better for reading. I want to master a few things before attempting to change my eyes in any way.

I brought a few anatomy books and one about meditating and keeping calm. The anatomy books are for reminders, I already know everything, but I’d like a bit of a recap just in case. And the mediatation book is just so I don’t freak out or have a meltdown. Having a panic attack when something goes wrong won’t help me, so learning breathing exercises and routines to keep calm is a good aid.

Humming softly I close my eyes again, letting myself search through my body, refamiliarizing the feel of each type of cell when they’re healthy, checking for anything concerning. I only open my eyes once I’ve made sure that everything is in fact healthy and functioning correctly. As tempting as it is to close my eyes again, I focus on watching my hands. In the past I always used my hands as practice do to their simplicity, other times I was just having fun, making the ends of my fingers and nails turn into claws or talons instead.

For old times sake I decide to do that, slowly having my nails grow until they’re long and pointed but slighty curved and thicker. I let the nails grow around my fingertips until it looks like the ends of my fingers are sharp, white talons. Humming I reverse the process, which goes smoothly, to my relief.

It seems quick, rushing to try this next thing, but I’ve already practiced enough and from what I remember this shouldn’t exhaust me too quickly. I could be wrong since when I tried doing this for the first time in my life I had already built up plenty of stamina beforehand. I suppose I’ll be using this moment as a comparison for later.

There was one other thing that I brought with me, a small, miniscule really, jar of a few teeth. Disgusting sounding I’m sure, but they’re my own and it was an easy process, pain free. I just had these ones fall out and then some grow in their place. Simple and easy.

Grabbing the small jar, I take out a tooth, placing it in the center of my palm. I sigh, closely my eyes to take a few deep breaths. This always required more focus, even if I’d done it a thousand times before.

I start small, changing the shape of the tooth into a ribcage, letting it grown into a full skeleton of a bird with the muscles and ligaments following soon after. The body grew as exhaustion slowly crept up on me. Before I could realize everything was finished the now living bird in my hand hopped two or three times, chirping a little and singing a few notes. My eyes fly open, widening at the image of a beautiful, living swallow. It’s head, back, and wings were all a stunning blue that faded into a silver going into it’s tail. It’s underbelly was white and soft looking. It’s eyes were so dark but fixed on me as it watched curiously.

I was successful. I made a small bird, grew it from a tooth. Soon I could make something bigger, maybe a dog or a bear. Or even a horse. But start small, I’m already getting tired, which is what I get for only going on walks for a week and neglecting to practice. Giggling I pet the small bird, it’s feather were soft and smooth. It chirps a few times, flying to stand on my shoulder. What a day, I’ll need to start practicing on the way here. Based on the sun it’s around an hour till dinner, so now is a good time to leave.

I pick up my books and jar, humming softly and then grunting as I stand, brushing off any sand on my legs. The swallow sings along to the humming, much to my delight. Turning I head back to a path that leads up a sort of steap hill. The beach is only accessible through the path since there’s sort of a cliff or wall of dirt blocking it off. That or you jump down, but I wouldn’t recommend it since it’s at least a 10 foot drop.

I’m almost panting when I reach the top. I huff, feeling shame build up at the realization that I’m probably not as fit as I’d like to think. That or I was using too much air to hum. I’d rather the latter honestly.

At the top I look back down at the beach, at the cool blue waves. It really is a haven in the Summer Court sometimes. I sometimes wished I could stop time and just enjoy where I was a little longer, I definitely wish I could recreate a place like this, visit whenever I like and just rest. Though maybe later in the day, midday is way too hot. Cloudless sky with a hot ball of fire just glaring down at you, not great. And I’m moon pale, one of these days I’ll be lobster red and wincing at every muscle movement as I apply aloe verra to my burned, tight skin. Honestly I’m not even sure if Tarquin burns, I wouldn’t be surprised if he didn’t. I wouldn’t be surprised if no Summer Court citizen had ever burned in their lives.

The swallow chirps, hopping a few times and drawing my attention. Curious I look at it, watching as it flies off my shoulder and onto a familiar one. With a start I realize the little bird landed on Tarquin’s shoulder. Tarquin was here. What was he doing here? Did he see anything?

The High Lord chuckles quietly, petting the bird a few times before turning to me.

“Afternoon, Gyn. How was your practice? I’m hoping you thought it went well.”

His smile is gentle, something akin to a soft breeze or a quiet sunrise. I almost feel stupidly tense, like why am I so tense about him knowing anything? But another small part of me is restless and anxious, demanding to know how much he’s seen and knows. Still, I don’t want to make it seem like I don’t trust him, that could hurt or insult him and he’s been nothing but kind and understanding. Really this fear is probably for nothing. But it’s not quick to go away and I only barely make myself look less upset.

“It went well..I’m making progress. I-” I pause slightly, swallowing my words and briefly looking away at the grass. “I don’t want to sound rude, or defensive..but what are you doing here? I thought you would be busy in Adriata till dinner.”

There’s another quiet chuckle.

“You don’t, you’re being reasonable. I wasn’t as busy as expected today, and I had some free time. So I decided to try and find you, and wouldn’t you know it, you found the glowing beach.”

“The glowing beach?”

“Yes, me and my cousins would come down here at night sometimes to swim or have some fun. Usually we had to sneak out, but it was fun and beautiful. It was like our own secret place that only we knew about. And here you are, practicing here. You picked an excellent spot. If I was anyone else I probably wouldn’t have found you.”

My eyes widen a little, drifting to look at the beach again. I can almost imagine a teen version of himself, Cresseida, and Varian just running down the path towards the waters, diving in and later dancing and singing around in the sand, probably bringing bottles of alcohol and getting drunk. The thought makes me hum, I almost smile.

“Yeah…I don’t want to..ruin any good moods, but how much did you see? It’s not that I don’t trust you, it’s more that I just- I…I don’t want you to be afraid of me or concerned everytime I try to use my abilities.”

He’s silent for a moment, timid breezes attempt to fill in the emptyness. The swallow chirps occasionally, Tarquin petting it he while thinks, considering something. My gut tightens, my fingers curling into my hands to create tight fists that turn my knuckles white. My eyes flick from sand, to grass, to sky. Why do I feel like a child caught breaking a rule, about to be scolded by a too calm parent?

“I..saw everything, or at least what I think is most of what you were doing. The claws, this cute little bird.” Somehow, I’m sure my heart has plummeted into my stomach. Tarquin seems to notice, my face must really love to tattle my emotions. But he moves closer, a little bit like he doesn’t want to startle me, or make me uncomfortable. He stops a foot away, maybe closer.

“But I’m not scared of you. I’m not sure I could be. Concerned..a bit yes. I don’t want you hurting yourself just to try and perfect what you could do in the past again. And whose teeth were those?”

My gut loosens, some burning following, but it’s better than a tight coil and a wish to disappear to avoid a possible negative reaction. My fingers uncurl and stretch or flex a few times, my nails leaving little moons in my palm, none bleeding thankfully.

“Mine. It didn’t hurt, I just had them fall out and replaced with new teeth. None of what I was doing was painful, it was just a little tiring to make the swallow..I’m sorry I was defensive before. I wanted to master a few things before showing you, that way you’d worry less.”

“It’s fine, Gyn. I should apologize too, I knew you wanted privacy, but I still came here and watched, unbeknownst to you. But I’m not afraid, and I can trust that you won’t..permanently hurt yourself.”

I’m the one that stays quiet this time. I don’t really believe it’s necessary for me to see if he’s lying, but I scan his face anyways, eyes darting around for any tells that weren’t there. I sigh a little, nodding. I’m relieved about his obvious honesty, but still a little tense about being found and observed without my knowledge. I’m going to have to focus on sight next time, sensing any life nearby. There are plenty of silent or illusive creatures at home, I used to almost constantly make sure that every sense was heightened enough to sense each and every living thing, yet make sure I wasn’t overwhelmed by it.

With a sigh I turn, starting to walk. “We should head back to Adriata. Can’t have everyone worrying over a lost High Lord, can we?”

Tarquin smiles, a bit tightly, jogging to catch up, but keeping a steady pace once he was beside me. We both fall into a comfortable silence as we head towards the golden city.

Achlys

The Forest House may be mostly underground, but it’s beautiful. Inside it’s warm and decorated in reds, oranges, and golds. Portraits and paintings hang neatly on the walls, serious and cruel faces staring down at any passer by. I almost smile.

Servants work away in hallways and rooms, cleaning and keeping their heads down. Sentries silently stand at doorways or move to their next station, staring me down as if they’re ready to kill me if I give them any reason.

Sighing softly I look ahead, Fenix is leading me to the throne room, presumably. He seemed rather annoyed that his brother found out about me and took interest. So much so that he’s asked that I meet him, tell him a little bit about why I was found in his lands.

Naturally I don’t believe for a second that he really sees me as anything more than a potential pawn or a threat that he needs to get rid of, and considering that no Court but Winter would know about us, he wouldn’t need to worry about being discreet.

Everything about Autumn is about cunning and power. Even centuries back, I can still remember Regus Vanserra. Quite intelligent that one. He was the fourth son, it was unlikely in the first place that he would become the High Lord. But he waited patiently for years pretending to be nothing but a social prince with no interest in becoming anything more. Behind his parents and brothers backs he plotted though, forming alliances with Gyn, Boreas, Esord, and Nytarur. The heirs he knew would be the next generation of High Sovereigns, and ones he did not want to make enemies of. Regus played the long game, slowly poisoning his eldest brother and Father, training to kill the rest of his brothers when the time came. And he was successful. He made his eldest brother and Father’s deaths look like heart problems, and the other two brothers died in hunting ‘accidents’. He took the title and became quite the High Lord. Part of me was glad he decided to ally with Gyn, because then we weren’t his enemies.

I’m sure that any descendant of Regus is cunning and especially good at tricking others, weaving them a web of lies that they get trapped in but leaves him unharmed. I’ll bet Gyn would agree, she was in Prythian a lot longer than me, she got to see the generation after us. And apples don’t really fall far from the trees.

Fenix and his four guards stop at a pair of well carved oak doors with golden handles and a depiction of the Autumn forest and five of the past High Lords, Regus, his father and grandfather, and who I am guessing are his son and grandson. Everyone waits for a moment, quietly standing a foot from the doors. Then they open, groaning a little as they move. Our little group moves inside, my senses are assaulted by the smell of cinnamon and something smokey. At the head of the room, sitting on the cushioned stone throne, is a male with Autumn’s infamous red hair and eyes coloured amber. He doesn’t smile or sneer when we enter, merely keeping a cool, calm face as he watches us. Around his head sits a gold crown crafted to appear like flames resting on his head. So this is today’s High Lord. He’s dressed well with colours that compliment him and jewels that match, but not too much of anything, a perfect balance that doesn’t feel obnoxious.

Our little group moves until we’ve made it just past halfway in the room. The guards salute and Fenix offers the High Lord a bow, though it’s more mockery than an actual sign of respect or acknowledgement of power. I wait for after everyone’s finished to bow myself, smiling a little. The High Lord raises a brow.

“So this is the male you found..what is your name and why were you found in my Court?”

He’s good at his acting, I’ll give him that. His tone is careful, a planned boredom. His eyes hold a steely ice that was carefully crafted probably over a matter of years. I know for a fact that the entire Court buys every look, every word. It’s just a pity that I was surrounded masks for so long it became easy to learn when one was using it, unless someone was an exceptional liar. I’ve only met few who were able to fool me. Gyn, Cosmas, and a mortal King that ruled while I was in my 200s. No one ever knew when Cosmas was being truthful, it felt like a gamble every time I talked to him. And Gyn is as careful as I am, picking up on others emotions and anything we can learn about others and then using that information to our advantage. I just didn’t expect her to use the information against me, it was fine since I got her back a century later.

I grin at the High Lord. This could be fun.

“Achlys. I had a jealous coward for a cousin who used an ancient prison to contain me, throwing me into a cave in this Court. Don’t worry, High Lord, I’m only a temporary guest.”

He’s quiet for a moment, digesting the information and deciding what to do. It’s not every day something like this happens afterall.

“Which Court are you from? I’m sure your High Lord would have no issue collecting you.”

I can’t help the chuckle that escapes me at the question. Fenix doesn’t really react, just a bit of tensing around the shoulders. The guards keep still, but a few glance nervously at me. Either they’re nervous because of my chuckle, or they think I just tried to ensure my death.

“I don’t you’d be able to. Besides, those of my Court are incredibly picky about which apples they like to keep on the tree. I’m sure I’ll only be here another month and I’ll be out of your hair.”

The High Lord narrows his eyes, hiding the curiosity and covering it with annoyance.

“And why won’t I be able to contact this Court of yours, hm?”

“Well Prythian has forgotten about my home. My Court is mere legend in your history books, if we haven’t been erased entirely. It is not found in Prythian, nor any other continent. We call it the End Court.”

There’s a glimmer in his eyes, something like…recognition. My own mask slips on, keeping the amused face and uncaring attitude. But why does he seem familiar with the name? The Court hasn’t been in contact with Prythian in centuries, but he knows of it. It would appear that I rang a bell and I didn’t know he could hear it. I’m curious about how much he actually knows.

“Achlys of the End Court..an interesting claim. And how am I to trust that you aren’t insane or attempting to deceive my Court?”

“I’m sure you can find records. We made deals and alliances with this Court multiple times. Though, I suppose I wouldn’t be surprised if those records were burned a long time ago. You have to admit though. My prison is nothing like what you’ve seen in Prythian.”

“And how would you know that?”

“Because I’m well traveled. Not even the Night Court has the metal needed to create such a thing. And most of the prisons here aren’t just enchanted large cubes that act as a power numbing cell, they’re made of stone and have multiple cells, multiple inmates, less chains, and usually more light.”

He hums, leaning back slightly on his throne.

“What else is there to tell me? Are there more prisons like this around Prythian?”

Should I tell him? With them outside Autumn they aren’t within his reach. However, that if they’ve already been found by now, he could already know about them. Every Court has their spies, keeping their High Lord well informed of everything. Instead of answering I stay quiet, raising a brow and keeping an amused face. I’m sure you already know, High Lord.

He grunts, practically confirming my theory. They’ve been found, and he knows exactly where they are. I’m sure he sent out spies the second I was found, I don’t doubt he knew of me then and got Fenix to confess of my existence, thus giving him a chance to get a closer look and attempt to give me a role.

“I’ll let you stay, however you’re under my rule here until you return home.Till the day you leave, your loyalty is to me.”

It’s a fair deal, and I wouldn’t want to cause issues for my family by causing nothing but chaos here. Naturally there a few things that I won’t do if asked and I’ll always put my family first, but for now I can play along. My siblings wouldn’t be too impressed if I started a war the moment I was freed.

“Very well..”

“Expect to summoned during the week and that you’ll join every meal while having at least two sentries watching you at all times. I don’t think I want to let a wild hound loose in the Court.”

I almost snort, I’m being compared to a dog now. Wonderful. But I’d expect nothing less of a Vanserra. First Fenix with his condescending eyes, always trying to sneer at me as if I was mud on his new boots. Now a High Lord yet to see me as anything other than a mosquito. Patience is a virtue and I can exorcise it.

If he’s expecting a response I don’t give him one. My face has gone to a neutral, just watching him. He stares back, subtly studying me. Once he’s satisified, he returns to the bored mask.

“You’re dismissed. Leave.”

He waves a hand and we all turn, this time with me at the head. Fenix lets out a low growl, not happy with the meeting or me being ahead of him. The doors open again, letting us leave and walk back into the hallway. Subconciously I lead the way, heading straight to my room at my regular pace, which the guards and Fenix scramble to keep up with. Fenix hisses, grabbing my arm and yanking. I don’t stop, but I look over my shoulder at the angry male.

“You walk behind me. Don’t think for a second that you have any power in this Court. You are nothing but a tool for me to use, do not think otherwise.”

I almost scoff, raising a brow at him before shrugging him off.

“I don’t like slow walkers. And I’m heading to my room anyways, calm down.”

The Autumn prince snarls a curse and snaps his fingers, two guards grabbing onto my arms and yanking me backwards. Hissing, I almost go to kick one of them. Fenix walks in front now, motioning for them to follow. Both guards kick my legs, forcing me to my knees, before walking, dragging me with them. A little rude of them. Clicking my tongue I stand again, matching the pace of the guards, who glare and attempt to kick my legs out again. It fails when I move quick enough to dodge and then on at a time.

The one on my right snarls, punching me in the gut. I cough a little, but stay standing. Fenix stops at a door, pulling it open and walking outside into a courtyard..of sorts. Sentries off duty train with wooden and metal swords, sparring or beating a punching bag like it killed their spouse and owes them money. In the center though, is a post. One with several metals loops attached, like something you would tie a rope through or hook something to. Fenix tosses a pair of cuffs to the guards, the left one catching it and snapping one around one of my wrists.

Ah..I see where this is going. Either way at least some of my blood is spilled. I’m either going to be flogged or I’ll be mobbed. Of the two, I would prefer the former. Less broken bones, typically only one area is targeted. Not like Fenix really cares, he’s just trying to teach me a lesson, make me fear or respect him to any degree.

The training sentries go quiet and stop whatever they’re doing to watch as I’m pulled towards the post. I don’t bother fighting much, there’s over a dozen men here, all with weapons on them. Normally I would use this against them. However, I don’t need to piss of a High Lord that controls fire by killing everyone here. Nor do I want to exhaust myself by using my powers that much right now. The guards are quick to loop the remaining cuff through a large loop and snap it around my remaining wrist, forcing me down on my knees and tearing the back of my shirt afterwards. Both snicker as they back away. Glancing quickly behind me I can see Fenix choosing a whip and calling a large male over, handing him the whip. I think it’s leather with some sort of dust on it. The Autumn prince looks at me, almost smug but burying it in time.

“A mutt like you needs to learn quickly that you’re nothing here and will remain that way. No disrepect will ever be tolerated. 50 lashes.”

I almost roll my eyes but I brace myself anyways. Gyn isn’t here to act as my healer, this is going to hurt since I still feel pain. I can hear the whip unravel, some anxiety builds. This isn’t the first time this has happened, it’s not the first time I’ve been punished using whips or tools specially made to counter High Fae’s instant healing. Doesn’t mean I enjoyed any of it though.

There’s a quiet swish before the whip strikes my bare back, a fiery sting following quickly after. Fenix knows what he’s doing, he makes the whipper wait a moment before another strike. I wonder if this will scar permanently or if Gyn can return my skin to normal, even when healed. I wonder briefly if either of my siblings have to face something like this, and I pray to the Cauldron they don’t have to. I keep still as they continue to strike my back, thankfully not hitting the same spot twice, but I can feel warm blood trickling down my back and sticking to what remains of my shirt, gluing it to my skin. My abilities numbed a while ago, around lash number 10. They must coat the whips in faebane for maximum pain and scarring then.

At 40 lashes my punishment is interrupted by the arrival of another Vanserra, one of Fenix’s brothers. At least I think that’s who he is. His hair is long and red, eyes brown with a cunning, almost morbidly curious look in them. He watches me for a moment before moving to stand next to Fenix, who looks rather annoyed by the interruption.

“What do you want? I’m busy at the moment.”

“I heard something was going on in the Sentry Courtyard, so I decided I would come and see what all the commotion was about. What is this exactly? A misbehaving servant?”

Fenix is quiet for a moment, glaring down at me.

“Yes..that’s exactly what this is.”

“Really? I thought he was Eris’s guest. I don’t think he’d be impressed to find out you’ve taken a whip to his back. He might take one to your back.”

Fenix’s scowl deepens, disgust grows like a mold in his eyes. He snatches the whip from the sentry’s hands, pulling his arm back and swinging it forward with most if not all his strength. The whip strikes my back swiftly, leaving a fresh, wretched pain and trail of blood in its wake. I hiss at the feeling, fire spreading once again with a ferocious sting.

“He’s not a guest.”

His words are filled with venom, enough that I’m gritting my teeth and leaning my head on my arms. Mother save me, this isn’t going to end that quickly. Mentally I sigh, of all places I get sent to Autumn. I’m really feeling like I’m fucked.

~~~

Thanks for reading, feel free to give feedback. Enjoy your day/night.

~~~

You can find this fanfiction on Quotev and AO3. On Quotev I go by Ciar, on AO3 I go by Gyra (they're different because some names are already taken).

The thing is, Tamlin should have the ability to grow any kind of plantation. He should be able to clench his fist and cause an entire forest to shoot up from the ground. He could snap his fingers and where there was once an army is now a rich, dense wood with bodies and scattered limbs spilling out from the roots.

And Eris should be able to cause decay, whatever he touches begins to wilt. He can reduce any life to rot. Wave his hand and entire Court's crops is gone. He should be able to clench his fist around an entire Kingdoms food supply and have self-proclaimed Gods wrapped around his finger.

Kallias should be able to reduce an entire land to a desolate wasteland of snow and ice with a single glance. If he raises his eyes to the sky the sun should be blotted out with darkness and the world should be reduced to freezing temperatures and sudden deadly frosts.

Tarquin should be able to entirely consume land with the sea. Taking a small puddle and turning it to a devasting flood. He should be able to drown entire Courts, and swallow islands and countries with a sweep of his arms.

Helion should be able to reduce a land to scorched earth, withering corpses. He should be capable of shining the sun down on a people and causing things to instantly turn to ash in the wind. With a single command an entire continent could be absolutely nothing but an empty corpse.

Rhysand should be able to drain the light from a kingdom, cursing them to eternal darkness. Leaving them in a kingdom wide blindness and watch as people slowly succumb to their own madness. On the battlefield, their sight is entirely taken and they die at the hands of their fellow men and weapons in blind panic.

I am not too sure about Dawn or Dusk's powers, since that is very much an inbetween. Someone figure that out for me.

But anyway, my point is, the power of the High lords should be directly tied to the magic flowing in their Courts. They should embody the very essence of their Courts, they should be raw, unstoppable power, with no one 'more powerful' than the others. They all balance each other out in some way.

welcome everybody ♥️

I am Muhammad Imad Abdel Latif Sharab

First, after an aggressive war on Gaza City and its revival, we were displaced from our 3-storey house in which I and my family of 3 members live. R😭😭

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Donate to Safe my Family, organized by Mohammed Shurrab

My name is Mohammad shurrab, and my family iam medical doctor and I have faced unimaginable chall… Mohammed Shurrab needs your support

My father's family consists of 8 members

My grandfather, may God have mercy on him, was martyred by occupation aircraft on 12/14/2023.

The one who was martyred while he was leaving the house to check on our house next to him, which could not be reached due to a brutal enemy who does not differentiate between anyone in death, went out to check on our house, which we were not in because of my displacement to Rafah, me, my father, and our families due to the intensity of the fighting in Khan Yunis, and after that A few days ago, our store in which my father and brothers work was bombed by occupation aircraft. He was working to gather his strength from it and meet the needs of our house, which no longer exists due to the bombing. We ask you to help and contribute, even if just a little, by donating to us so that we can compensate for a little of what we lost.

Many thanks to you 😢

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If you do not understand the words well, because I am not very good at English, but I ask you to help me with money so that I can compensate for even a little of what I lost, and I am very grateful to you, my dears😢🥺😢🥺😢🥺🥺😢

Etaf and her family need your support.

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Donate to Please help us get out of life's crises and the woes of war., organized by Etaf Alqattaa

Hello, I am Etaf Al-Qataa,I'm from Gaza, Im34 years old ,I… Etaf Alqattaa needs your support for Please help us get out of life's crises

Etaf is a wife and mother of 5 from Ghazzah. Last year, she and her family's home was destroyed, a long with her husband's source of income and their car.

They were displaced for 200 days, all the way induring the hellish tribulations of genocide. Luckily, they were able to flee into Egypt; however their struggles are not over.

Due to their lack of income, Etaf and her husband struggle to provide their children with food, clothing, and education. On top of that, they are struggling to pay the rent on their house as winter approaches.

In order to help Etaf's children continue their education and to help the whole family afford basic necessities, they need to raise €100,000. So far, they've only managed to raise €5,690 and their last donation was 18 hours ago.

Please help them however you can; donate if you're able and share their campaign. Every contribution will help them rebuild their lives.

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TAG LIST (DM me for removal)

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@fancysmudges @brokenbackmountain @mothblossoms @aleciosun @fluoresensitive @khizuo @lesbiandardevil @transmutationisms @schoolhater @timogsilangan @appsa @buttercuparry @sayruq @malcriada @palestinegenocide @sar-soor @akajustmerry @feluka @tortiefrancis @flower-tea-fairies @tsaricides @riding-with-the-wild-hunt @visenyasdragon @belleandsaintsebastian @ear-motif @kordeliiius @raelyn-dreams @troythecatfish @theropoda @tamarrud @4ft10tvlandfangirl @queerstudiesnatural @northgazaupdates2 @skatezophrenic @awetistic-things @baby-girl-aaron-dessner @nabulsi @sygold @junglejim4322 @heritageposts @chososhairbuns @palistani @dlxxv-vetted-donations @illuminated-runas @imjustheretotrytohelp

(sorry for the randomness of the tags, I just used what popped up. If anyone has advice on how to make a good taglist please tell me)

Restoring Life for Waseem’s Family: Rising Again 🙏🏼

🇵🇸🚨🇵🇸🚨🇵🇸🚨🇵🇸🚨🇵🇸🚨🇵🇸🚨🇵🇸🚨🇵🇸🚨🇵🇸🚨

Hello, my name is Waseem Abusafi from Gaza-Palestine. and I am 34 years old, I have a 3-year-old son named Qais, and my wife Amal Asqoul is 27 years old.

[GoFundMe Campaign Link] The full story ⬇️

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Donate to Restoring Life for Waseem’s Family: Rising Again, organized by Waseem Abusafi

Hello, my name is Waseem Abusafi. I am 34 years old and live in Gaza. … Waseem Abusafi needs your support for Restoring Life for Waseem’s Fa

The recent war has turned our lives upside down 💔. Our home and community were destroyed🥲, and we lost many family members in an airstrike. We have been forced to relocate multiple times in search of safety.

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Despite the immense grief and loss, we are determined to protect our son and rebuild our lives. We need your help🙏🏼 to evacuate to Egypt and start anew.

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Every contribution, no matter how small, will help us overcome this crisis. Thank you for your kindness and compassion.🥰

Vetted by mohammed Alanqer

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Donate to Restoring Life for Waseem’s Family: Rising Again, organized by Waseem Abusafi

Hello, my name is Waseem Abusafi. I am 34 years old and live in Gaza. … Waseem Abusafi needs your support for Restoring Life for Waseem’s Fa

We call support.

Gofme := gofund.me/bc71607a

We were attacked by homophobic people here few days ago. Our houses were destroyed, all our things were stolen, food, clothes and other basic needs one of our fellow got wounds we need your help.

Donate, share

🕊️ Please Take a Moment to Read Nadin’s Story

My name is Nadin. I never imagined I would write something like this. I’ve always been someone who kept her worries quiet, someone who believed that even the hardest days could be endured with patience and faith. But right now, I am reaching out — not because I want to, but because I need to.

I am a wife, a mother, and one of many women in Gaza trying to survive days that feel like they have no end. There was a short time — a brief ceasefire — where we thought things might start to heal. Where the sound of war faded for just long enough to let us breathe. But that moment is gone now, and the fear has returned louder than before.

My days are filled with uncertainty, and my nights with prayer. We have lost so much. Our home was damaged, our sense of safety taken from us. But through all of this, I try to keep going. I try to hold on to what little peace I can create with my hands, my words, and my love.

I am not asking for much. Just a little help to keep our lives from falling further apart. To fix the small things — a cracked wall, a leaking roof, the pieces of daily life that help us hold on to dignity.

This campaign isn’t just about survival. It’s about holding on to what makes us human in a place that keeps trying to take that away. It’s about showing my daughter — even though I won’t mention her name here — that the world didn’t forget us.

If you’ve ever felt powerless in the face of suffering, please know that even the smallest gesture can carry great meaning. A kind word. A shared post. A quiet donation. These things remind us that we’re not alone.

Chuffed

Help Nadin Keep Her Life Stitched Together

My name is Nadin I’m a mother, a wife, and just one of many women in Gaza who are trying to hold on — to hope, to our families, to any piece

I am still here. Still holding on. Still believing that people out there — people like you — still care.

Please, if you feel moved, consider supporting or sharing this campaign.