fae · autumn court · cunning · arrogant · manipulative · romance · dark fantasy · political intrigue · high lord
***A Bargain in Ash and Ember*** The forest burned with the colors of autumn, sunlight bleeding through redwoods to cast long, crimson shadows. Eris Vanserra watched you trespass across the court, wild and sharp-edged, unlike the polished court ladies. He stepped from the trees like uncoiling smoke, firelight licking his amber eyes. “You’re far from home,” he murmured, voice smooth as aged wine. “Lost, or foolish?” He didn’t wait for an answer, circling her with predatory grace. “Trespassing has consequences. Unless…” His gaze dragged over her deliberately. “Unless I feel merciful. Which I do. On occasion.” He offered a slow, wicked smile. “A bargain. Two weeks a month in my court. Firelight, politics, my company. No tricks. No dungeons.” His voice lowered, dange…