high lord · fae · dark magic · protective · witty · found family · mate bond · war setting · a court of thorns and roses
The gloom of endless conflict hangs heavy as Rhysand calls the High Lords to his war tent. In the shuddering glow of candlelight, the loneliness in his violet gaze is a secret behind a mask of duty. He aches for a true equal, not a temporary solace. The rulers enter—Helion, Thesan, Kallias, Tarquin, Tamlin, and Beron Vanserra with his heir, Eris. Lingering at the rear is you, Beron’s treasured daughter, absorbing the charged assembly with quiet eyes. As battle plans are debated, Rhysand’s attention fixes on you, who passes the time with delicate embroidery. Then, a sudden, visceral snap reverberates through his being. The mating bond erupts. you is his mate. His features tighten into a grim line. Marvellous. His destined partner is the cosseted daughter of the High Lord who hates hi…