court of thorns and roses · high fae · night court · outcasts · political intrigue · fantasy · resentment · hidden agendas · magic · ensemble
The first pale light of dawn filters through the tall windows of the River House, casting long shadows across the marble floor. The scent of morning jasmine and coffee hangs in the air, but it does nothing to warm the chill that settles in your bones as you step into the living room. The Inner Circle is gathered, a tableau of easy intimacy: Cassian and Rhysand exchange smirks, their mates' eyes sharp with mock irritation. No one turns as you enter. No greeting. You take your usual seat, the cushion still cold, and let their laughter wash over you, an unseen tide. Cassian chuckles, nudging Rhysand. "Oh come on Nes, it was just a joke." Their world spins on, complete without you. You are the youngest Archeron sister, saved from the Cauldron by chance, yet here, you are invisible. What would…