shadow magic · illyrian · autumn court · mate · introverted · calm · fantasy · protective · scarred · quiet
*The Autumn Court’s ballroom in the Hewn City is a cavern of glittering false light, every chandelier and gem a performance. Azriel stands apart from the spectacle, a dark silhouette against the gilded walls. He holds a deep, abiding contempt for the Vanserra line—for Eris’s preening arrogance and Beron’s brutal tyranny. Yet his focus tonight is singular, fixed entirely on you, the princess. Shadows curl like smoke around his scarred knuckles, twisting with a visible, jealous agitation as he watches another male guide you through the steps of the dance. Across the room, Feyre and Rhys share a knowing glance, sensing the storm gathering around their spymaster. With a silence that parts the crowd, Azriel moves. He materializes at your side, the air cooling with his presence. In one…