Chapter Text
Chapter 63 – Arrangements
Azriel stood by the rail of the training ring, watching the young fae line up into classes under the tutelage of the mercenary trainers. Adeline stood surrounded by female Illyrians her age, and as they performed the basic stretches under the watchful eye of a short female warrior, giggles carried across the ring as the Spymaster watched. Adeline didn’t giggle, but she smiled warmly at a chattering Illyrian next to her.
She looked so much more relaxed after the meeting with the Vanserra brothers. Eris and Azriel had lunch with the two children after the meeting and conveyed the good news. Adeline asked several intelligent questions about what Eura and Justine proposed to keep their citizenship in the Autumn Court while allowing Azriel to be their primary guardian. Eris’s eyes shone with pride the entire meal, which seemed to relax the child. The Spymaster suspected that Adeline had been worried about Eris’s reaction to not being explicitly chosen. The High Lord wasted no time demonstrating how much he respected her choice and her logic.
Wilkes worked with an older mercenary and three girls his age, learning how to hold and thrust a dagger properly. Arthur strode by slowly, watching the various young fae in their lessons. Now is a good time, Azriel thought; they are in good hands for a couple of hours.
Striding back towards Forest House, Azriel checked off his mental list: lawyers first, Jeffries, General Fritz, then Sage. Now, where are the lawyers holed up…?
The Spymaster sent his shadows ahead, looking into rooms for Eura and Justine. As he entered the main entrance, the shadows whispered the location of his quarry. He stepped quickly down the hallways until he entered the library, finding the two fae studiously working, surrounded by piles of legal tomes. They worked so closely together that when their heads snapped up at Azriel’s entrance, a nectarine curl stubbornly stayed tangled with a dark lock of Justine’s.
“Azriel,” Justine said, eyes curious, “What can we help you with? We don’t have a draft quite yet for the adoption agreement.”
Azriel felt a little shy approaching the lawyer fae, yet walked to a chair in front of their working table with an expression of open neutrality. He realized, belatedly, that he had never really spent any time alone with the lawyers. Eris had always led the legal conversations between them. “I have come for some advice,” he started quietly, “that may make this process easier, or a bit cleaner.”
Eura raised a pale eyebrow, interested. “What did you have in mind, Azriel?”
Encouraged, Azriel pulled out the box in his breast pocket and set it down on the table. Both lawyers leaned forward with avid interest, but leaned back when he didn’t open it. “I don’t know how many fae know this,” he started, hesitantly, eyes fixed on the box, “but Eris and I suspect we have an unfulfilled mate bond.”
Eura’s teal eyes widened and glowed with joy. Justine’s eyes narrowed, thinking, and she refocused a moment later with a grin of wicked glee. “Does Danyl know that?” she asked.
Azriel blinked, recalling. “Yes, though he discouraged me from talking about it,” he admitted.
“That snake!” Eura exclaimed, looking at Justine for support.
Justine just snorted, grin turning to a smirk. “I’ll bet he did. That would have completely derailed his negotiating strategy.” She frowned, thinking. “Eris never mentioned it.”
Nodding, Azriel posited, “I suspect that Eris kept it to himself as we don’t actually know, and he believes I am the one who will need to extend the offer.” He felt his cheeks heating at that admission. The legal fae, however, met his gaze with interest and no judgment. Encouraged, he asked, “What would happen if I completed the mate bond with Eris? Would that make the legal concerns about the children lessen?”
Eura protested, “Azriel, mating is for life. The decision shouldn’t be made for the inconvenience of legal paperwork for adoption.” Justine’s eyes, however, regarded Azriel with calculation.
He opened the box and displayed the mating gift to the ladies. Eura gasped and reached out a tentative finger to touch the siphon ring. Justine glanced at the gift and focused her attention and smile on Azriel. “This is not an impulsive decision, is it, Azriel?” Justine’s low voice conveyed her understanding and support.
“No. I have been ready to commit for a while, but I wanted the decision regarding the children settled. Would it help?” he asked again.
Eura’s attention remained fixed on the ring. “This is exquisite, Azriel. Is this the design of the Day Court ladies who supported your relationship in fiction?”
That startled a laugh out of him, and he nodded. “Yes, I liked the symbolism, both of the support of our… um… supporters, and the superimposed flame on wings.” He gnawed on his bottom lip as Eura cooed over the ring until Justine finally gave her approval.
Eura handed the box back, and her face glowed with her romantic happiness at Azriel’s news. She brought down a legal book from the stack near her and flipped it open to the marked page. “According to Autumn Court Law, a mate is automatically recognized as a spouse from a tax and family law perspective. However," she looked up, teal eyes serious, "it does not guarantee the rights of a spouse when it comes to property or income. If an existing marriage contract is in place, it supersedes the mating rights. If you sign a marriage contract after, the marriage contract is the governing agreement." She shut the book, waving her hand in front of her face as dust billowed out from the tome. "The rest are on things that do not apply, such as if one of the parties is already married."
Azriel sighed, and his shoulders, which he did not know were tense until that moment, relaxed. Eura's smile conveyed encouragement, and Justine looked thoughtful and calculating. The curvy Dawn Court lawyer asked, "What are you going to do, Companion of Autumn? Wait for your marriage contract and this document, or…?"
He took a deep breath, tucking the box back into his jacket before meeting Justine's eyes.
"I am going to lay my trust in my future partner."
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Leaning against the rail of the training ring, Eris bumped shoulders with Arthur, who watched his mercenaries train the younger fae. Adeline worked with a tall, lanky mercenary and several Illyrian females her age on archery. The two brothers enjoyed the sight of the young fae enjoying herself in the class without her usual reserve and stubborn determination.
Arthur grunted and turned to Eris. "What's up, brother of mine?" His bass voice had a note of teasing that Eris hadn't heard in years, and he met the salvo with a grin.
"I understand you and General Fritz signed up for the first right of refusal to watch the children if we needed it."
Arthur barked a laugh, grin lopsided with incredulity. "Already? Didn't your Companion just gain custody of the children at lunch?"
Leaning in, indicating a desire for conspiracy, Eris murmured into his brother's ear. The High Lord knew now how much gossip the soldiers and mercenaries spread by sport, and he didn't want this surprise spoiled. "I am planning on setting up dinner for two at the East Vineyard estate and present Azriel with my offer of marriage." Without thinking, Eris touched the outside of his rich emerald green jacket, where the marriage gift sat in a pocket over his heart.
Arthur raised a brow, leaning back to look his brother in the eye, his russet eyebrow arched. "If that was the plan, Eris, why all of the ruckus over legal adoption agreements?" His mercenary brother looked genuinely troubled.
Eris inclined his head, indicating they should walk away from the crowd in the training ring. Shoulder to shoulder, the two brothers wandered towards the edge of the forest, ember-colored hair next to auburn as they walked. Eris explained, "My plan always was to propose after the decision on the children was settled. I just didn't plan on the children choosing a guardian in another Court."
Arthur snorted and bumped Eris's shoulder. "That Illyrian has been a surprisingly good catch, Eris, and apparently our new Candidate agrees." Arthur chuckled at his own joke, and Eris rolled his eyes, biting back a smile. "That child was ready to take you down, High Lord," the mercenary emphasized, "if you didn't make Azriel an honest male."
"She was, wasn't she?" Eris's pride bled through his tone, and Arthur chuckled again. They stopped at the treeline and sat at a rustic bench in the shade. He continued, "Proposing to Azriel does not make this legal problem go away, Arthur. It just makes it harder to argue my intent to marry. If we set a date for the royal wedding before the High Lord's meeting, it will strengthen the argument. However, we still need the agreement."
Arthur leaned back, knees wide and arms across the back of the bench, looking back over at the training ring. The pride in his eyes practically glowed at the classes of fae of varying ages learning from his mercenary fae. He knocked his knee with Eris and agreed, "We'll take the children tomorrow night. Make me proud, Eris."
Eris smiled at the training ring, watching Wilkes learn footwork for sparring. "I will, Arthur. I will."
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"Jeffries?" Azriel called out in the corridor near the offices, "Are you down here?"
The steward poked his head out of Eris's office, "Just refilling the decanters, Azriel. Can I help you with something?"
Azriel stepped over to Eris's office and leaned against the doorframe. He watched Jeffries refill crystal decanters from a cabinet under the credenza and replace empty bottles on the bottom of the drinks trolley. When the steward turned with an inquisitive expression, Azriel asked quietly, "I have a logistics problem that I think you can help me solve."
Jeffries raised a hand to indicate the Spymaster should lead the way, and they moved into Azriel's office, shutting the door and sitting in the chairs by the fireplace. The steward waited patiently as Azriel took a moment to organize his thoughts. Finally, he said quietly, "I'd like to try to offer Eris food tomorrow… to see if we have a mating bond that could be fulfilled."
Jeffries sat ramrod straight in his chair, watching the Illyrian but not offering advice yet, as if he knew the male needed space to speak. Azriel continued, "If it works, we would be… out of commission for a few days. We just got custody of the children, and, um…" Azriel felt the words die out. A little frustrated, he didn't know how to continue.
Tilting his head, Jeffries smiled and offered, "I might need a little detail on what you already have planned, and what you need assistance with, Azriel." He leaned back in his chair and waited.
Azriel flexed his fingers in his lap, eyes fixed on them, thinking. He listed, "I planned on taking up General Fritz's offer to help watch the children if the mating frenzy impacts Eris. However, that may be a few days, and I should have backup arrangements to give them breaks." He shifted, thinking further, "I don't think we should be as close to the children's rooms if Eris loses control, but I don't know of an appropriate alternative site." Azriel's lips tipped up, "And I don't believe that Lady Theresa would want us in that state in her boardinghouse."
Nodding, Jeffries pulled out a notepad and pen, talking as he wrote, "Eris inherited a few properties when he became High Lord. Each brother has one, and Eris's is a vineyard on the east side of the Court. It would make a perfect getaway for the two of you. I can have the rooms prepared and food stocked by tomorrow afternoon."
Working hard not to twist his fingers in his lap, Azriel's wings flex. He reined them back in, irritated. He'd relaxed too much in Autumn, or the stress was bigger than he acknowledged if he had to fight his usual tells this much. "Can Eris be away from his High Lord duties for that long? I don't want to disrupt any of his plans or projects…" he trailed off, and thought, or worse, the preparation for the High Lord's meeting. But would there really ever be a good time for a mating frenzy?
The steward shook his head, as if a bit disappointed in Azriel's lack of trust in his lover's planning abilities, but his lips quirked slightly upwards. "The High Lord has standing instructions for the chain of command if he is out of the Court or incapacitated. Edmond takes over the administration of the government with Eris's staff, and General Fritz is his military advisor. Connor is next in line." Jeffries continued to write. "With Edmond at Forest House both wooing you for business," he glanced over to the side as he wrote, meeting Azriel's gaze with amusement and a raised brow before returning to writing, "and Eura for himself, I just need to alert him of additional duties if your mating bond snaps."
Azriel sighed with relief. That was one task done. Jeffries continued, "As for coverage with the children, I assume you want to keep the chance of ruining the surprise to a minimum, so I can give General Fritz and Arthur breaks." The steward's cheeks pinkened somewhat as he closed his notebook, "I could entice Phoebe to help as well, I expect."
Keeping his expression neutral, Azriel nodded. "Thank you," he said simply, and stood to go on his next errand.
====================
Azriel knocked on the door of the General's office in the barracks after being directed there by one of the young fae guards. "Come in," the General's voice said crisply, and the Spymaster entered.
He'd not been in this part of the barracks before. General Fritz's space looked warm, inviting, and cluttered. Fritz looked up and grinned. "Azriel! I don't believe you have visited me yet in this office. Come in, come in," he waved his hand in the general direction of the chairs in front of his desk, both of which were covered with papers. "Move some papers aside and have a seat."
Picking up a set of papers and gently laying them on the floor, Azriel sat, grateful that the military camp seats had low backs, enough for his wings to clear comfortably. He waited until General Fritz finished his writing and moved the report aside. "How can I help, Spymaster?"
He sat ramrod straight and hands clenched in his lap as he asked tentatively, "I know this is very soon after the decision, but I thought I'd ask if you and Arthur were up for watching the children for me." General Fritz, with a broad smile, started to respond, but Azriel held up a hand, "Before you answer, this could be a multi-day request."
Still grinning, the General leaned back in his chair. "What's the occasion? Not that it matters for us watching the young fae," he said magnanimously.
This was the hard part. To make this event happen, Azriel had to tell multiple fae his plan. The lawyers knew, Jeffries knew, and soon Arthur and General Fritz would know; the Spymaster had experience with how quickly a secret could become… not a secret. He steeled himself, though, and relented. "We have not discussed it with many, but Eris and I suspect we have an unfulfilled mate bond."
General Fritz nodded, unsurprised. Azriel raised an eyebrow at him, and the General shrugged. "You two often seem to know what the other is thinking and feeling without words. It's been noticed."
Azriel harrumphed, surprised and concerned. He mentally shook himself before continuing, "I always planned on offering Eris food after the issue of the children was settled, and now… knowing that we have yet another legal battle with the Night Court about the legitimacy of the Illyrians…"
General Fritz's eyes narrowed in thought, and he brought his joined hands up to his mouth as he processed. "What did the lawyers say?" he asked, and the Spymaster was impressed that the General assumed correctly that he had consulted them.
"Matehood is as good as marriage in Autumn Court. The children would be both of ours if it succeeds, not allowing Rhysand or his lawyers any argument in that arena." He leaned back and watched the General continue to think. "If matehood does not manifest, then we are back to the original plan; very tight adoption paperwork with clauses about their Autumn citizenship."
General Fritz nodded, thought for a moment more, and then he sat up, full attention on Azriel. "Not that this has any bearing on me and Arthur looking over the children, but I approve of the plan. You have barely enough time to handle a mating frenzy before the High Lord's meeting. Of course, we will -
The door banged open and Arthur strode in, already talking, "You would not believe what my brother is up to… now…." The mercenary trailed off as he noticed Azriel sitting in front of General Fritz's desk. The General cleared his throat and rolled his eyes at his partner's antics. Arthur recovered, "Good afternoon, Azriel."
The Spymaster studied Arthur wordlessly, allowing the moment to stretch. The mercenary Vanserra managed to keep his composure. Azriel drawled, "Do tell…?" He heard General Fritz cough behind him, as if covering up a laugh. Arthur just grinned and shook his head at the Spymaster, indicating his unwillingness to spill his brother's secret, whichever Vanserra that it was.
General Fritz interrupted the stalemate with the news, "Arthur, Azriel is asking that we watch the children starting tomorrow night. Depending on the outcome of Azriel's plan, it may be a few days."
Eyebrows rose to Arthur's hairline as he continued to stare at Azriel. His deep voice mimicked the Spymaster's earlier query, "Do tell…?"
Sighing and leaning back in the chair with resignation, Azriel relented. He needed Arthur's support. "I am going to try to confirm if Eris and I are mates tomorrow night. I understand that your partner and Edmond may need to stand in at Forest House for a few days if we are successful, and help with the children." Arthur's expression turned both joyful and sly at the same time, confusing Azriel, but he continued, "Jeffries has offered to give you breaks with the children if that is too much."
Arthur laughed and rolled his eyes up to the heavens, as if asking the Mother for divine intervention. "Of course, we will take Adeline and Wilkes." He slapped a hand on the Spymaster's shoulder in support before walking over to stand behind his lover, leaning on the wall, arms folded. "I wish you luck with the mating ceremony, Azriel. It's a good idea with the current political climate."
Azriel's estimation of Arthur's political savvy increased in his mental dossier, but the mercenary was not finished. "I also wish you luck with the frenzy, Azriel," he said, russet eyes snapping with mirth. "Considering how powerful Eris is as High Lord and how repressed he has been for centuries," he chuckled, "You will have your hands full."
He made his escape from the office soon after that statement, thanking the two warriors for taking on the children. When the door closed and he started down the hall to the kitchen, he heard the two males murmuring, followed by a laugh between them. The Spymaster frowned and sent a shadow to investigate before he jogged the rest of the way to find Sage. The children's lessons were almost over.
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Entering his office, Eris found Jeffries arranging files on his desk. The steward looked up at his arrival and started down his list, "Your administrative staff will be here in a few minutes to go over the building projects - "
Eris interrupted apologetically, "I am sorry, Jeffries, but I have a request in private before we start on the afternoon meetings." Jeffries straightened and raised an eyebrow, waiting. Eris sat down behind his desk and opened the drawer containing the wrapped box with the finished marriage contract. He placed the box on the desk and said, "I am going to ask Azriel to marry me tomorrow and have him sign the contract, if he is willing."
Jeffries cleared his throat and sat down in one of the chairs before the desk, face surprisingly blank. "I am pleased to hear you are taking the next step, High Lord. Any particular plans for this… momentous event?"
Eris grinned at his steward. "You know me so well." Jeffries just sniffed and waited. "I have arranged for Arthur and General Fritz to take the children tomorrow night," he started, and raised an eyebrow himself as Jeffries seemed to succumb to a coughing fit.
Jeffries waved him on after a moment, and Eris continued, perplexed, "I'd like the East Vineyard prepared for a dinner for two and an overnight." Jeffries took out his notepad and started scribbling. Eris frowned as he noticed high color in the cheeks of his steward as he wrote. "Anything wrong, Jeffries?"
"No. Nothing wrong. I just haven't had the staff look over the property for some time. I'll ensure that it is prepared in time." Jeffries seemed flustered.
Relaxing a fraction, Eris leaned back in his chair, "Don't worry too much, Jeffries. We will probably only be in the dining room and the main suite. We will be back in the morning for our regular duties."
Jeffries continued to write and didn't look up. His steward said thoughtfully, "I'll arrange your schedule to ensure that you are not interrupted tomorrow. I'll alert Edmond that he is on standby for governmental issues, short of a war." Jeffries closed his notebook and finally met the High Lord's eye with a small smile. "I am pleased that you are ready, Eris. I'll make the arrangements and work with Sage for an appropriate dinner."
"Thank you, Jeffries," Eris said with relief. One more item off his list.
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Sage and Vidya sat at the counter in the kitchens, talking over a stack of papers during the break between lunch and dinner prep. Mercenary volunteers and a few Illyrians worked the preparation tables, chopping vegetables before the dinner rush. Sage acknowledged him and indicated he should sit on the stools in front of the counter.
Vidya smiled at Azriel in welcome. "I understand congratulations are in order, War Lord Azriel," she said warmly. Azriel's eyes tightened with the title, but he gave the Illyrian elder a respectful nod. She continued, "It is always a blessing to add children to a family, and to be chosen as a guardian is an honor." She grinned conspiratorially at Sage, "Also a point in favor of the child's intelligence. I heard about her choice and the logic she presented." Vidya turned back to Azriel, "I did not hear that she mentioned your status in the Illyrian community as an argument, however. You will need to introduce the children to the village and allow us to teach them our customs."
Azriel stared, surprised at this declaration. Vidya chuckled, and Sage rolled her eyes. "Youth," the faun baker disparaged and started stacking the scattered paperwork.
Vidya's dark eyes sparkled with humor, "You didn't think that the War Lord's adoptive children would be separate from the community, did you, Azriel? So short-sighted…" Azriel opted for diplomacy and just inclined his head, thoughts churning. I had not thought that the Illyrians would want to mix with fae without wings, he mused, more fool me.
Vidya turned back to Sage. "Thank you for sharing your vendor and pricing information, Sage. I'll take this back to the elders and see about setting up bulk ordering for the new village." She turned back to Azriel. "The elders decided that until the village is complete and we are all housed outside of Forest House, we will continue the community meals. From there, we can decide how to set up our markets and vendors for our new home." She smiled at Sage and stood. "And now I will leave you to the War Lord, Sage. He didn't come to the kitchens to find me." She walked out with grace, leaving Azriel facing Sage.
The elder faun raised an eyebrow and asked, "What can I do for Autumn's Companion and my most prolific breakfast thief this afternoon?"
Azriel chuckled, stood, and gave the baker his arm. "Let's talk in the kitchen herb garden," he suggested, and grinned when the baker took his arm like a queen. He ushered her out, holding the door for the faun, and sitting her down in the shade of a tree at a bench at the end of the garden. He sat on a chair next to her and flipped his wings out, sunning them as he enjoyed the slanting afternoon sun.
"I need your assistance," he said to the baker, "and your discretion."
Sage leaned forward, hands in her lap. "I am intrigued, do tell," she stated, dark eyes glowing with interest.
He mirrored her posture, leaning in conspiratorially. "I need to make Eris's favorite dessert tomorrow, to take to a special dinner at one of his estates. I'd like to keep this quiet, so I thought you and I could arrange a time when the kitchen could be cleared."
Sage laughed, "No need to clear the kitchens, Azriel. I can make his dessert without anyone in the know."
Azriel felt his cheeks heat as he shook his head. "Apologies, I was not clear. I am looking for a time when… um… I can make his favorite dessert." He watched as Sage frowned, thinking, then saw the moment the news dawned on her.
She grinned widely and leaned even closer. "You plan on offering him food. Food you make yourself, young Companion." Azriel's lips twitched. Another fae was calling him "young" when he had over five hundred years to his name. He nodded, confirming her suspicions.
Clapping and laughing, she bounced on her seat with joy. "I can arrange that, Companion. The best time is right after lunch cleanup. What are we making?"
He reached in and pulled out his field notebook, paged until he found the right section, tore out the page, and handed her the recipe and ingredients. She read the paper, nodded, and said, "I'll have everything ready. Come to the kitchens after you drop off the children for their training, and we'll make your special dish."
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Jogging to the training ring, Azriel noticed General Fritz and Arthur standing next to a courier. General Fritz waved him over when he spotted the Illyrian and pointed at the fae with the satchel. "Courier was looking for you, Spymaster, and I knew you would be here soon."
Azriel nodded his thanks and took the proffered package from the fae before they winnowed away. The markings on the box indicated that the mail hailed from his spy network in Hybern. Frowning, he untied the string and looked inside.
He plucked a folded paper from the top and tipped the box into his palm. A cloudy, light-yellow stone spilled out and winked in the afternoon sunlight. He unfolded the missive and read:
Spymaster -
I took the siphon fragments to various vendors and mines in Hybern, and a human called a "geologist" said that this stone was the same composition. I explained to him that it was the wrong color, but he insisted. I am sending along, as I cannot confirm. Let me know if you can verify with the Illyrians, and I can execute a contract on your behalf if they work.
There was no signature, but he knew this operative well. He frowned at the stone, holding it up to the light. Warrick approached with Adeline and Wilkes as the Spymaster studied the gem, trying to feel with his powers if it resonated.
Warrick clapped him on the shoulder. "Adeline is showing great talent with the bow, War Lord. She is catching up to her age group quickly." Azriel gave a rare smile to his new charge, who beamed up at him with young pride. The elder Illyrian continued, "Wilkes excels with the short blades, and we will start him on training on the throwing knives next." The young boy's eyes were worshipful on the Illyrian male as he conveyed his praise.
Azriel said to the elder, seriously, "I am pleased at their progress, Warrick. They have much to learn to be a full-fledged member of the community."
Warrick met his gaze with the same seriousness, though a twinkle gave away that Vidya had already informed the elder of the prior conversation with the Spymaster. "Agreed," he said, deep voice booming, "They will have to train hard to be ready for the Rite when their age group is ready."
Out of the corner of his eye, Azriel noted the children looking at each other with excitement at the proclamation. The Spymaster bit his cheek, stopping his lips from betraying his amusement and pride.
Warrick frowned at Azriel's hand. "What have you there, War Lord?"
Azriel lifted the gem to the light. "One of my operatives sent this in response to my request to find a new source for siphons. It doesn't look like a siphon, and is the wrong color, but my operative stated the mines in his territory swear it is the same type of stone."
Warrick held his hand, peridot siphons flashing in the sun, and Azriel handed the gem to the leader. "Not that it will help, as I am not the most proficient at siphon work," the elder muttered, and Azriel felt the Illyrian preparing his power to try the stone.
A bright yellow beam poured out of the stone and into the forest beyond. Warrick yelped and dropped the gem as if it burned, and he and Azriel stared at the treeline. A small hole was punched through the trunk of one of the trees, smoking. As they watched, a cracking sound reverberated in the clearing, and a tree top a few feet in shook, tipped, and fell over.
Warrick looked over at Azriel in shock. Azriel finally lost the battle of keeping his expression stoic and grinned. "Maybe a little less power next time," he said, and laughed.
Warrick's eyes widened in wonder. "I have always had to push hard to use my siphons," he said, turning his hand over to show the light green stone on his gauntlet. "It always felt like I was pushing power through a wall."
Azriel frowned, looking at the stone atop the elder's hand, and then picked up the yellow stone from the ground. He compared the gems in the light. Warrick's siphons glowed peridot, an unusually yellow tinge to the green siphon.
His mind whirled. He knew that Illyrians had a tendency to gravitate towards a specific siphon color, and many believed that the color influenced their ability to cast. But it was common knowledge that the siphons only came in three colors.
But what if they came in more hues, and we didn't have them? His thoughts collided. He, like so many other Illyrians, assumed that the power of the individual caster shaped the color of the siphon. Many believed that after the base color was chosen by the warrior, the Illyrian's magic determined the hue and the intensity. His cobalt siphon color was rare, the same as Cassian's blood-red siphons. Warrick's siphons were also unusual, the green tinged with yellow to make a peridot gem.
What if siphons came in the full spectrum? Could there be younglings we passed over in becoming warriors, not because they lacked magic, but because we didn't have their color? Azriel held up the siphon to the light, considering. Warrick moved in closer, examining the gem as well. Azriel had another thought hit him like a brick: what if the reason Rhysand kept shattering siphons was not because of his massive power, or "night magic", but because blue wasn't his hue?
Warrick's voice echoed his thoughts, "Was my magic weak because green was not my siphon color? But… yellow?" The two Illyrian warriors eyed each other thoughtfully. Warrick continued, "This could change everything." Azriel nodded and turned to wave over Devin.
The young guard jogged over, brown eyes alert, and tawny hair glowing in the afternoon sunlight. Azriel did not miss how many of the teenage trainees, male and female, mercenary and Illyrian, followed the path of the handsome guard, who remained focused on Azriel and oblivious. "Yes, Companion Azriel? How does the training vest work for flying?"
Warrick raised an eyebrow at Azriel, and the Illyrian shifted. "I haven't had much time for flying practice, Warrick, and the weighted vest helps strengthen my flying muscles." Warrick grunted, and Azriel assumed that meant flying lessons were in his future. He sighed and turned to Devin.
Handing him the yellow gem, he requested, "Would you take this to Margot, the jeweler in the village? I'd like her to tell me if this stone reminds her of the siphons, and if she has seen others like it." Devin flashed him a bright smile and took off toward the town, jogging.
The two warriors watched as he turned the corner and disappeared. Warrick said quietly, "When the stone returns, I will test the young Illyrians who have failed their magic tests and see what we find." Azriel clapped his hand on his shoulder, nodded, and turned to take the children to get ready for dinner.
===========================
Azriel entered the children's suite after bathing and changing for dinner. Adeline sat on the couch before the fireplace, reading, while Wilkes colored on the floor. She frowned and looked at the window before asking, "Is it time? I didn't realize how late it was."
Azriel indicated she should remain sitting and took the chair next to the couch. "I wanted to talk with you both before dinner," he said quietly, and Adeline put down her book. Wilkes looked up with curious eyes, but remained on the floor.
He explained gently, "I didn't want you two to be concerned after making such a big decision on the guardianship today. I have a surprise planned for tomorrow night with Eris. Can you two keep a secret?" He waited for nods from both of the children. He asked, "Do you know what mates are, compared to husbands?"
Adeline gave a girlish squeal, and when Wilkes looked confused, she launched into an explanation, based on one of her mystery books. Azriel listened, amused as she burbled for a few moments about the main character's romantic storyline and the conclusion on matehood. He did note that the description lacked the concept of a mating frenzy, and he sighed in relief as he ascertained that the book had age-appropriate romantic behavior over the prescribed time, such as embracing and kissing.
When she finished, he took out the box with Eris's mating gift and showed it to Adeline, who cooed, bouncing in her chair. He couldn't help his answering smile as he continued to explain, "I don't know if Eris and I are mates, but we think there is a chance. I planned on determining that after you two decided on your guardians, and Jeffries and I are setting up that surprise tomorrow night."
Adeline petted the ring, then asked with a little crease between her brows, "What happens if you are not mates?"
Azriel said soothingly, "Nothing, Adeline, other than Eris knows that I am fully committed to marrying him." She grinned and closed the box, handing it to him. He said, as he tucked it back into his jacket, "I will still gift him the ring, as I had it made to symbolize our relationship. But if the matehood does not take, we will get married to plan."
Adeline collected herself and sat primly, her hands folded in her lap. Azriel finished with, "If matehood does happen, Eris and I will be gone for a few days. I did not want you two to think that you are not our highest priority if you spend a few days with Arthur and Fritz."
Wilkes perked up at that. "We will stay with General Fritz while you are gone?" Adeline rolled her eyes, but he could see that she was pleased there was a plan she was comfortable with.
"Yes, and they are both looking forward to taking care of you, whether it is for one night or many."
Adeline gave one of her signature imperious nods and patted Azriel on the knee. "We will be fine, Azriel, and we will keep your secret, so you can surprise High Lord Eris."
"Thank you, Adeline. Wilkes," Azriel acknowledged, before taking them to dinner.
=====================
Eris leaned back in his chair after dinner, surprised at how contented he felt. Edmond and Arthur joined forces with their future partners, including both children and adults in the conversation. Jeffries seemed a little more jumpy than usual, but Eris attributed that to the nerves of getting the East winery residence ready on such short notice.
Arthur had presumably told General Fritz about the plan, because both males kept sending him sly looks over dinner. He mentally shook his head; his brother and his partner were terrible at keeping secrets, but managed not to give away the plot so far. The High Lord also noted a few significant looks exchanged between Edmond and Jeffries at dinner, so his brother was prepared to take over the government during the overnight trip tomorrow.
Eris squeezed his lover's hand under the table and murmured in his ear, "Mind if I take the children to prepare for bed tonight, Azriel? I wanted to talk with Adeline by herself for a few moments." Azriel agreed and dropped a kiss on his cheek.
Before Azriel could escape, Edmond leaned across the table to address the Spymaster, "Eura and I wanted to see if you had any further questions on the contract with Dawn and Rita's. Lead the way to your office, and let's see if we can get you in business tonight."
Azriel protested, and Eris watched amused as his merchant brother herded his Companion out the door, Eura following with an amused expression. Eris said goodnight to his mercenary brother and the General, and then took the children back to their rooms.
After reading a couple of chapters in their current book and putting Wilkes to bed, Eris sat next to Adeline in the sitting room. His Candidate looked on curiously as Eris organized his thoughts. "I wanted to talk with you about the decision today, and my plans with Azriel," he started, and watched, pleased, as Adeline arranged herself to listen attentively.
Encouraged, he continued, "I am very impressed with your research and logical arguments for the marriage and in choosing Azriel as your guardian.” Adeline’s face, while still attentive, seemed to gain a glow with the praise. “I wanted you to know that I heard your concerns about my commitment to Azriel, and that tomorrow I plan to offer the marriage contract for him to sign.”
Adeline looked a bit shocked, and another emotion crossed her face, before she schooled her expression to impassive. Eris pressed his lips together to prevent a smile. He’d seen that technique before, from an alluring Illyrian Spymaster. Adeline was adopting mannerisms already from his future husband.
“Don’t worry,” he soothed, as he pulled out the box with his marriage gift out of his jacket and handed it to her, “I planned on doing this anyway, regardless of the decision of guardianship. This is not a rash decision.” Eris watched as the child opened the box, and an expression of delight crossed her face at the sight of the amulet within. She touched it and watched it sparkle in the light before closing the box and handing it back.
He concluded, “Arthur has agreed to watch both of you while I take Azriel on a surprise dinner to officially ask for his hand in marriage, and offer the contract. If he accepts, which I hope he will,” he said with a soft smile, “he will officially be my Intended, and we will plan a royal wedding in a few months.” Eris tucked the gift back into his jacket, over his heart. “I didn’t want you to think we were not taking your guardianship seriously by having you watched by Arthur and Fritz in the first week.”
Adeline took a moment to collect herself before nodding and giving Eris a tentative smile. “I know you are committed, Eris. I wish you luck in your proposal tomorrow night.”
Eris thanked the girl, surprised again at the maturity she possessed at such a young age, and they said goodnight.
===========================
Eris watched Azriel slip into their room a while later from the bed where he read. Azriel quietly shucked off clothing, a slight frown of thought marring his expression, which cleared as soon as he slipped under the covers. Eris asked, "What troubles you, Azriel? Did Edmond put too much pressure on you for the contract?"
Azriel gathered a willing Eris into his arms, and his baritone chuckle warmed the High Lord's heart. "No, just an argument with a stubborn shadow. I sent one in for some intelligence, and it is surprisingly resistant to showing me what I wanted to know."
Eris looked over Azriel's shoulder to see Ciarra slip into his view, and the shade flashed the High Lord an image of Arthur. Suddenly, Eris was very grateful that the shadows were keeping quiet; Azriel would still be surprised tomorrow.
Eris resorted to distraction, bringing his lover's face to his for a kiss, and asked, "And the contracts?"
Azriel kissed his lover thoroughly before answering. "I am a part owner in a business selling sexual accessories with Edmond, Rita's, and a Dawn Court guild," he said, voice conveying wonder. "I had no idea that coming to Autumn would make me a businessfae."
Eris laughed and peppered his lover with kisses. "I didn't either, but I find the new role quite attractive." Azriel grinned and rolled them so he could lace his fingers with Eris's and press their joined hands to the mattress.
"Let's find out just how much you find that attractive," he purred and began to seduce with his
lips and body. Eris obliged and responded with great enthusiasm.
====================
The next day, Azriel's frustration and tension heightened as he handled his schedule, the children, his list for the surprise dinner, and the sheer lack of discretion from the many fae who were in the know.
Arthur and General Fritz kept chuckling and trading teasing remarks at morning sparring, not overtly giving up the plan, but not resisting the urge to keep from innuendo. Azriel did not miss the air of excitement from a few of the guards who sparred with him regularly, including Devon, who could not contain his excitement. As usual, the rumor mill amongst the guards was alive and well.
Jeffries and Pheobe shared significant looks and amused smiles with each other and glanced often at Azriel and Eris throughout breakfast. He was grateful when the High Lord was ushered away to attend to a packed schedule, leaving him none the wiser.
Everywhere he went, it felt like fae knew what was going to happen, and he shuddered. The secret was no longer a secret and was in danger of being spilled.
He enjoyed a pleasant reprieve in the afternoon, making a pear galette for dessert to serve Eris that night, and Sage kept him company, offering baking advice. Removed from the oven, the dessert looked enticing, with a flaky crust and sliced pears arranged attractively on top. His caramel sauce was appropriately sweet and syrupy, and ready to be drizzled right before serving. Sage promised that the dish, plus dinner, would be delivered to the East Winery in time for his proposal.
Azriel read his notes in his notebook as he crossed the courtyard, eyes lifting when he heard a cascade of feminine laughter from the mercenaries returning to the kitchens. He noticed with increasing ire their averted gazes and flushed cheeks when they saw him looking. Sage had also been unable to keep the secret, it seemed.
Did all of Forest House know of his plans? He entered the house, mind whirling. How would fae react if they returned and were not mates?
Azriel found Jeffries in their suite, restocking towels. "Jeffries, are there bags available that I can pack for me and Eris? I wanted to ensure we had enough clothes for several days."
Jeffries straightened with a sigh and turned to face his High Lord's Companion. "Azriel," he said gently, if tinged with slight exasperation, "I know you are not used to staff yet, but when you asked for assistance for an alternate location, I prepared the estate."
Azriel stared at the steward, confused, waiting for the answer on the bags. Jeffries sighed and placed a hand on his shoulder. "I packed for both of you and set up the estate. Clothes are available in the wardrobe and drawers for a period of five days. If you two are not back in four, I will send more and take the dirty clothes to be cleaned."
Azriel's shoulders relaxed, and he pulled out his notebook, crossing a few lines off. "Thank you, Jeffries. I can use my bags in my closet then, for incidentals." He deliberately did not mention what those would be. "Now, I just need directions to the estate so I can fly us both there."
Jeffries covered his face with a hand and sighed. "Azriel, I will ensure that Eris will winnow you to the estate. It will not only still be a surprise what you two are up to, but Eris will think it is his grand idea to treat you. No need to get there the hard way."
"How will you - "
"Azriel," he said gently, steering the Illyrian into the bedroom and out of his way, "I raised Eris. Trust that I know how to get him to do what I want."
Azriel grinned and gathered his duffels from his closet. He was glad that Jeffries didn't know him well enough to manipulate him yet. Starting with the bedside drawers, Azriel began to pack enough sex toys and lube to last several days.
==============
Eris tried not to let his frustration show as his administrative staff plowed through their packed agenda. He felt like his team was preparing for him to be gone several days, not just overnight. He understood their nervousness; this was the first time his staff would enact the protocols for him being out of touch for a period of time, but they were being overly cautious.
Quillion reviewed the building projects and the updated numbers of completed houses for the Spring Court refugees, the cidery tent city, and the Illyrians. Eris counted to ten as the administrator defined the next steps for the next two weeks.
Jeffries, his savior, knocked on the door and said, "Paige, Qullion, if it is not planned by now, it will not be. I need to steal the High Lord away so he can arrange for his evening outside of Forest House." The High Lord smiled with gratitude at his steward and thanked his staff as they left.
Jeffries sat in a chair in front of the desk, while Eris shook out his hands and arms, trying to calm his nervousness. The older fae smiled fondly at his long-time charge and said, "You will be fine, Eris. The evening is all planned. Adeline and Wilkes are already in Arthur's care. The estate is set up with dinner, and the main suite is stocked with clothing options. I placed your marriage contract in its box on the credenza in the dining room. I covered it with a cloth so Azriel will not spot your ribbons."
Eris smiled and rolled his shoulders, working to release the tension between his shoulder blades. Jeffries knew him so well. "Thank you," he said simply to his steward, genuinely grateful for his support.
"Azriel is on his way here, and you can winnow when he arrives." Jeffries stood, bowed, and left the office.
Eris stood and tried not to pace, unsuccessfully. He ran his fingers over the lapels of his dark, cobalt blue jacket, checked the fall of his creamy silk shirt, and adjusted the placement of his glowing siphon pin. He wanted to look immaculate tonight.
As he adjusted his cuffs a second time, a knock sounded on his office door, and he turned to see Azriel, resplendent in a black jacket and bold blue silk shirt, leaning on the doorframe. His lover admired the view for a moment before stepping in and capturing Eris's hand in his.
Eris slipped his arms around the neck of his Companion as Azriel stole a kiss and wrapped his other hand around the High Lord's waist. When they broke for air, Eris gave a nervous smile and said, "I have a surprise for us tonight."
Azriel raised a curious eyebrow. Eris narrowed his eyes, focusing on the bond as the emotions felt muted. He was surprised to discover a thread of anxiousness down the bond, but shook it off. He knew his lover was still not used to surprises and gifts.
"I have arranged for Arthur to take the children tonight while we have dinner at my Winery estate in the country. I think you will enjoy the view and the privacy." Eris stepped back, keeping their fingers joined.
Azriel's eyes were soft, the gold motes glowing in the lamplight. "I'd like that very much," he said quietly.
Eris grinned, and they winnowed.
=====================
Jeffries poked his head back into the High Lord's office and saw it was empty. He sighed in relief. Tonight's mission was a success.
He strode to the dining room, where Arthur, General Fritz, Edmond, Eura, Phoebe, and the children sat, talking quietly and serving themselves dinner from common platters.
"They are away," he announced, and the room broke out into cheerful exclamations.
"Thank the Mother!" "I couldn't keep my composure any longer!" "Cauldron, can you believe those two? Communication is not their strength." "Idiots in love, but hopefully mated idiots after tonight."
Jeffries stopped by Adeline and Wilke's chairs and gave each of them a slice of cake to go with their dinner. "Excellent job, both of you, in keeping the secret."
Both children beamed and basked in the praise of the adults all around the table.