Court of Aether and Shadows (Crowned Monster Trilogy #1)

27. A New Day For New Temptation

A New Day For New Temptation

~ S PARROW~

I studied my reflection in the mirror, still getting used to the academy uniform Celeste had helped me into.

It was unlike anything I'd ever seen in the human realm — a masterpiece of magical tailoring that seemed to adapt to my every movement.

Then again, I didn’t get the privilege of attending school, let alone wearing a uniform of this quality.

Just thinking of the hint of envy I carried back then, watching teenagers walk in groups, laughing and gossiping in colorful uniforms that proved they were attending some of the most prestigious schools in the country.

Sometimes I’d envision what it would be like.

To sit in the classrooms and learn about our vast world. It felt odd now to finally wear what I’d always wished to experience all those years ago, even if it was just a day.

I’m going to go to my first academy…ever.

The jacket was crafted from what Celeste called "twilight silk," a fabric that shifted between deep purple and absolute black depending on how the light hit it.

Silver threads woven through the material created patterns that moved of their own accord, sometimes forming constellations, other times flowing like liquid starlight.

The high collar was trimmed with runes that glowed faintly, supposedly to help channel and control magical energy.

"The uniform is enchanted," Celeste explained as she adjusted the pleated skirt that fell to just above my knees. The skirt was made of the same material as the jacket but with an overlay of crystalline mesh that caught and refracted light in impossible ways.

"It will help stabilize your power while you learn to control it."

My attention was drawn to the new tattoo on my inner wrist that had appeared after my first night in the Twilight Court.

A skull wreathed in flames and starlight.

It seemed to pulse with its own inner light, especially when I felt like I was expelling some sort of energy like magic. I hadn’t been able to ask Aetheron about it, but I wondered if this academy would be able to decipher what exactly this marking is and the significance of its arrival.

Though, it looks like a tattoo…

"Celeste," I asked, touching the mark gently, "do you know what this means? It appeared after... well, after everything."

She paused in adjusting the knee-high boots made of what appeared to be living shadows. Mysterious looking while proecting a classy elegance if you asked.

"That's not for me to explain, my lady,” she confessed with a shy smile, though her eyes seemed to warm up at the possibilities ahead. ”But I'm sure you'll learn its significance in your studies."

Speaking of studies...

"About that. What’s this about…my academic partner?" I began, trying to sound casual, despite the idea of having to “work” with someone else.

Group projects weren’t something I was good at — or group missions like trying to kill an onslaught of druggies but with a team of cocky assholes who can’t differentiate a dummy from a shooter aiming a gun back at them.

With the idea of starting new in this world, I didn’t want to fuck up my chances by being forced into a group of preppy individuals who thought they were the shit.

"Will it be someone I know? Perhaps Liam or Solaris?" The names brought a flush to my cheeks that I tried to ignore. I hadn’t seen those two since the little chaos that happened at the dining table, which was a tad entertaining.

What worried me though was Liam’s whole behavior since arriving here. Or…I guess after I obviously slept with Lord Aetheron and left him hanging. Maybe it did look bad after all, but when I mentioned it to Aetheron with the offering to apologize, he dismissed it.

A Queen sees no need to apologize to those unworthy of her humbling grace. You did nothing wrong in seeking pleasure in the arms of someone you trust, especially in our Court. If he wishes to enjoy your sweet taste, he can take the lead and stand on what he desires to claim as his.

His words seem to echo in the depths of my mind, just like his final statement.

Sharing isn’t a problem with me, but one would have to prove their worth in taking care of a piece of my heart in my absence. If he can’t do what’s requested, he’s simply wasting my Queen’s essence.

That was the one thing I’d never get tired of.

Aetheron’s unapologetic confidence in loving and supporting me.

It made me excited to learn even more about him, but for now, I had to focus on the task of attending this academy so I could stay and discover more of this world and those embedded in it.

Celeste's lips curved into a knowing smile as she fastened the final clasp on my uniform — a brooch shaped like a crescent moon that seemed to hold the actual element of starlight within its silver curves.

The shimmers were haunting to look at as the shift between silver, purple, and turquoise was enhanced with tiny specs of gold shimmer.

"Your partner will be female," she announced, smoothing down my jacket's lapels. "Lady Aurora from the Aether Court. While Lords Liam and Solaris will indeed be attending the academy, they'll be taking...different paths to get there. For everyone's safety," she added with a slight smirk.

Everyone’s safety?

I’m sure this had something to do with the whole wolf thing. Maybe to go to this academy, we’ll have to go through a portal, similar to the rift that brought me into these lands.

They could need to shift in order to get there. Or maybe they have to go through their specific world?

I hated the idea of not being sure, but I had to be patient with myself. This wasn’t a “they taught you in school” type of scenario — as if that even applied to me.

Just the reminder made me recall Vincent’s authoritative voice and how he enjoyed scolding us with silly remarks like that.

Knowing a good majority of us didn’t get to walk into a school building unless it was for a mission that paid some big dollars.

The uniform's sleeves ended in fingerless gloves that merged seamlessly with the fabric, creating channels for magic to flow freely while maintaining control.

Small crystals were embedded at each major chakra point, their colors shifting between the four courts' signature hues — shadow black, aether gold, void purple, and elemental green.

The sight made me realize how much I need to unravel this new reality. How my curiosity craved for answers to the never-ending questions building in my mind.

"The academy itself," Celeste continued, "sits at the Convergence. The one place where all four courts' territories meet. It's built on neutral ground, protected by ancient magic that predates even the separation of the courts."

She led me to a larger mirror, allowing me to see the full effect of the uniform. The back of the jacket bore an intricate design — four symbols representing each court, arranged in a circle around a central crest that seemed to shift and change as I watched.

"The Council of Elders maintains the neutrality," she explained. "Four in total, one from each court. They ensure no single court can dominate the academy's teachings."

She pauses when there’s a beep sound, encouraging her to walk over to a clipboard as it seems to project a hologram. I can’t understand the symbols being projected, but it seems to be important with Celeste’s heightened concentration.

“One second, Princess.“

She reviews whatever has been received, and bobs her head in understanding before she returns to me.

“There seems to be a change in partners,” she reveals.

“Change?” I’m not sure if I should feel relieved or more nervous.

“Yes. I guess it was requested by the Lord of Aether Court. It seems as though Aurora wasn’t being very cooperative with the idea of being partnered with one from the Twilight Court.” Celeste’s expression tells me this Aurora lady has some history known through other courts.

“Intriguing,” I admit with a tedious smile. “Not like I care much, I guess. Who is her replacement?”

"Lady Nyx from the Void Court," Celeste reveals, adjusting the crystalline buttons on my jacket that seemed to contain tiny galaxies. "She's quite... unique, even among the Void dwellers. They say she can walk between dreams and reality as easily as we walk through doorways."

I found myself intrigued by the prospect of a Void Court partner. From my general understanding, those from the void court had many similarities to Twilight. It didn’t make them buddy-buddy in nature, but I guess having a few similarities could encourage friendships rather than enemies.

Something about the idea of being partnered with this Nyx woman resonated with the new power flowing through my veins.

"The Council maintains strict rules about cooperation," Celeste continued, now braiding small crystals into my hair that would help channel magical energy. "Each Elder brings centuries of wisdom from their respective courts. The Twilight Sages, led by Moira, are masters of shadow and ancient knowledge. The Solar Sentinels guard the laws of light and truth. The Void Watchers maintain the boundaries between realms, while the Elemental Guardians ensure natural balance."

She paused her work to gesture at the academy grounds visible through a holographic image that kindled to life from a gestured wave of her hand — a sprawling complex that seemed to exist in multiple realities simultaneously.

Different sections of the building reflected each court's architecture: obsidian spires for Shadow, crystal towers for Aether, void-dark domes for the Void Court, and living architecture of vines and trees for the Elementals.

"The academy is structured in circles," she explained, pointing to each section. "Outer rings for basic studies, inner rings for advanced magic. At the center..." She paused meaningfully. "Well, they say the center holds magic older than the courts themselves."

Magic older than the courts themselves…

"Each circle of the academy represents different levels of magical mastery," Celeste explained as she made final adjustments to my uniform. "The outermost ring focuses on basic control. That’s most likely the section you’ll venture through for a few weeks. It’s rather massive regardless, with plenty of unique structures and castle infrastructure. Learning to channel your power without accidentally tearing holes, in reality, is one of the essential focuses at this stage."

She gave me a meaningful look that made me wonder if she knew about my dramatic arrival through the rift.

"The second ring delves into court-specific magic. The third..." She paused, her hands stilling on my shoulders. "The third ring is where things get interesting. That's where students learn to blend different courts' magic. Very few make it that far."

Why wouldn’t they make it to the center?

It was a question to ask, as the list of many continued to grow in length, but I was more intrigued at what the middle of these circles withheld from us students.

"And the center?" I asked, hoping to project my drawn interest in the idea of magic older than the courts.

"That's the Convergence Heart. They say it's where the first magic was born, where reality itself was shaped." She checked the time using a crystal that caught starlight in impossible ways. "And speaking of convergence, Lady Nyx should be arriving any moment now."

“How would you kno?—”

As if summoned by her words, the air in the room began to shimmer with otherworldly energy — encouraging my words to trail off as I sensed the shift. The temperature dropped several degrees, and the shadows in the corners seemed to deepen and swirl with purpose.

"Remember," Celeste said quickly, "Void Court nobility have... different customs. Don't be alarmed by?—"

Before she could finish, reality itself seemed to fold inward; a tear ripping through the atmosphere near the door, creating a sort of rift that was charged with immense energy.

What the fuck?!

Through the tear stepped a figure that made my breath catch in my throat. If this was Lady Nyx, she was nothing like I expected.

She emerged from the fold in reality like a goddess stepping out of cosmic dreams. Her hair cascaded in waves of twilight — shifting seamlessly from deep purple at the roots through various shades of pink, creating an aurora of color that seemed to dance with her every movement.

Most of it was swept up in an intricate updo held in place by what appeared to be pins made from crystallized starlight, but several strands fell loose, framing a face that defied conventional beauty.

Her eyes were what truly captured me — swirling pools of purple, blue, and pink that moved like living galaxies being born and dying in endless cycles.

They seemed to hold entire universes within their depths, and when they fixed on me with striking intent. I felt a jolt of recognition that I couldn't explain, but I’d never met this woman in my life.

The traditional academy uniform had been completely reimagined on her form. Instead of the expected skirt, she wore tailored trousers that hugged her curves before flowing into boots that seemed made from condensed darkness.

Her jacket, cut in a masculine style but fitted perfectly to her figure, was adorned with silver chains that clinked musically with each movement. The whole ensemble was a beautiful rebellion against convention, yet somehow looked more right than any traditional uniform could have.

Her neck was adorned with intricate tattoos — cosmic designs that seemed to move of their own accord, constellations, and nebulae that shifted and changed as if responding to her moods. Multiple earrings lined her ears, each one appearing to be made from different celestial materials — void crystal, star metal, cosmic ice.

"So," she said, her voice carrying harmonics that made my newly awakened power surge in response, "you're the one everyone's been talking about."

Something about her presence called to me on a level I didn't understand. It was different from what I felt with Aetheron, or even Liam and I dare say Solaris. This was something else entirely — like recognizing a part of myself I never knew was missing.

Exhilarating and frighteningly but did this mean something? Did I have a connection with this woman in some way?

"I see that look in your eyes," Lady Nyx said, a knowing smile playing on her lips as the rift behind her began to crumble until the only remnants of its existence were sparkles of black and purple that rained down onto the floor.

She moved closer, her scent hitting me like whiplash — like starlight and midnight flowers, with an underlying hint of something wild. I couldn’t even grasp if “Starlight” had a scent until falling into these realms, but I guess the best thing to compare the aroma to was a sort of flower that you could only smell at night and in a unique garden of sorts.

"You're feeling it too, aren't you?” she hums in delight, the previous energy that cloaked her voice now absent. “The pull."

Holding myself from answering right away, I nodded, unable to find words that didn’t make me feel like an oblivious fool. Considering my circumstances, I was being rather harsh on myself for not being able to articulate and connect in conversation.

However, I also didn’t like how vulnerable all of this made me feel.

As if everyone had the upper hand.

I observed carefully as she circled me with a predatory grace. The galaxy swirls in her eyes seemed to intensify as she studied me.

"Figured as much," she chuckled, perching casually on the nearest table in a way that somehow made the formal academy uniform look rebellious. "Being an Omega is complicated enough without adding Void wolf energy to the mix."

Void wolf? Wait…is she like the others?

"You're... a wolf?" I managed, surprised by this revelation. Somehow, she didn't fit the aggressive, territorial energy I'd witnessed between Liam and Solaris. "Like…um Liam and Solaris. Wait…you probably have no clue who I’m talking about.

Rarely do I feel flustered around anyone, yet my thoughts seemed to scramble with this woman’s presence. It was similar to when Solaris entered the dining hall yesterday, or when I’d been saved in the forest thanks to Liam.

I’d accepted with this Omega status that maybe it made me respond oddly in the presence of male wolves. Maybe specifically “Alpha” wolves.

She is a girl though and I’m not in romantic competition, but then thinking this way feels hypocritical.

Just the thought made me want to pout my lips in misery, but I couldn’t assume I would be every wolf’s romantic fascination all because of this “omega” status thing.

Ugh. This Omega thing keeps coming up!

"Surprise!" She grinned, flashing teeth that were slightly sharper than humans. "Speaking of those two hotheads, Solaris sends his regards. He's probably my best friend. Well, when he's not being an absolute pain in the ass about territory and dominance."

Her expression turned mischievous.

"Liam was supposed to be here for your orientation too, but..." she examined her black-painted nails casually, "let's just say he's nursing some bruised pride along with other... bruises."

Bruises?!

"You fought Liam?" I asked, both concerned and oddly impressed. Liam wasn’t the type to insinuate fights, but maybe he was in a foul mood today which influenced his level of patience.

Which is probably non-existent…

" Fought implies it was a fair contest," she smirked. "I simply reminded him that being an Alpha doesn't make you invincible. Especially when you're dealing with Void magic."

“That’s impressive,” I confess in awe, leaving her grinning at my praise. Her mentioning this Alpha status also made me wonder if she was one as well, but that could have been a “male” title while this Omega status was for females.

"Cypress doesn't need to know I'm technically the strongest," Nyx said as we walked through the room, her boots making no sound despite the crystalline floor. "Our Earth wolf thinks being connected to all four elements makes him special." She rolled her galaxy eyes, but there was fondness in her tone.

The way she moved was mesmerizing — part predator, part cosmic dancer. Every step seemed to bend reality slightly, leaving trailing echoes of void energy in her wake.

"So there's four of you?" I asked, trying to understand the complex dynamics at play. "You, Liam, Solaris, and Cypress?"

"Mmhmm," she hummed, casually stepping through a shadow and reappearing on my other side, leaving me in surprise. "Each representing our courts. Cypress commands earth, water, fire, and air. Solaris brings that irritating sunlight and healing. Liam has his shadows and stealth. And I..." she grinned, showing those slightly-too-sharp teeth, "I control the void itself."

The perfect balance.

"Is that why you're the strongest?"

I had to know because the idea of her being the only female in their group and overpowered felt motivating to me.

Her galaxy eyes sparkled with mischief.

"Let's just say it's hard to fight someone who can literally fold space and time. Poor Liam learned that lesson today. He thought his shadow walking could match my void stepping." She laughed, the sound like wind through crystal caves. "He's probably still trying to figure out which dimension I left him in."

“D-Dimension?” I gasp in shock.

“Now, Lady Nyx,” Celeste spoke up. “That’s not nice.”

“True,” she agrees with a wink and shrug. “But he deserved it for being a grumpy douche so early in the morning. We all had to get up at the ungodly hours to get ready so he can’t possibly think I’ll have the tolerance to deal with his jealous foolishness.”

She twirls around, threads of black and purple wisping around her like fine fabrics of silk. There was something about her casual display of power that should have frightened me — or anyone in my predicament frankly — but instead, I felt drawn to it.

To her…

That same pull I'd felt with the others, but different somehow.

More... complementary.

"You feel it too," she said, not a question but a statement as she was suddenly inches from my face. It made me blush immediately, but she carried on as if my embarrassment at our closeness meant nothing in this heightened moment. "The connection. It's different from what you feel with the boys, isn't it? More balanced."

I nodded, relieved she understood.

"Like..."

How would I describe all of this?

"Like finding a missing piece of yourself," she finished. "That's what happens when an Omega meets their pack members,” she reveals and leans back, giving me the space I didn’t realize I was desperately needing.

If it wasn’t for my lungs screaming for air, I wouldn’t have acknowledged how long I’d been subconsciously holding my breath.

“Each connection is unique, but they all complete you in different ways." She paused, studying me with those universe-deep eyes. "The boys probably haven't explained any of this, have they? Too busy posturing and marking territory?"

"Not really," I admitted, feeling bad for throwing them under the bus but it was true. Plus, I hadn’t met this Cypress guy yet . "Everything's been so... intense and very fast."

Nyx snorted, a surprisingly inelegant sound from such an ethereal being.

"Males. Doesn't matter what court they're from, they all think with their-" She gestures to her lower region, gesturing in a circle. “You get what I mean.”

My lips curl up as I realize how friendly she is. Now the idea of us potentially being partners doesn’t seem as daunting.

“We should make our way to the portal before we’re late,” Lady Nyx confessed, looking over to Celeste. “Will the Lord of Twilight and Shadows disdain me accompanying the Princess to the academy?”

“Not at all,” Celeste announced. “I’ll gladly inform him of your intentions, Lady Nyx. Feel free to make your way to the portal entrance with the Princess.”

“You don’t need to call me Princess, you know Celeste,” I admit with a shy smile as I try not to blush too hard. “I appreciate the help this morning. You helped tame my worries. Thank you.”

“Acknowledging royalty in my midst is only respectful within the walls of the Twilight Court, Princess,” she points out as she bows her head my way. “Especially with the company. Please have an eventful day with plenty of opportunities to gain knowledge and appreciation of the various courts.”

We say our goodbyes before leaving the room and heading to the corridor that will lead us to the portal master.

“I like her,” Lady Nyx admitted as the door behind us closed.

“Me too,” I agree with a wide grin. “She was the best out of the other maids who have a lot to say with their eyes.”

Lady Nyx’s musical laughter echoed against the tall walls as we headed down the stairs. “Can you blame them?” she practically purrs as she looks over her shoulder to take me in. She’s practically floating down these stairs as if she’s walked up and down them for years. “You’re a wondrous sight to feast eyes on.”

I have to be overstimulated or something because the simple compliment attracts a layer of blush along my cheeks that only makes Lady Nyx further grin in delight.

“Watch your step,” she encouraged with a wink of her galaxy eyes before she looked away. I almost stumble just at those words, but manage to silently curse and correct myself.

No need to embarrass myself because I’m suddenly smitten with a woman…

Surprisingly enough as we approached the opened space that hosted the portal entrance, Lord Aetheron and Kaelon stood waiting, their shadows filling the space with familiar dark energy that made my pulse quicken.

The Portal Master himself seemed to fade into the background, despite his obvious power. I wasn’t expecting to see either individual this morning after breakfast because I knew they had to be accommodating their schedules on my behalf and had plenty of things to do.

I mean, they’re running an entire Court. That’s like being a President back in the human realm.

Yet, seeing their presence invited a sense of calm while my heart seemed to swarm with relief with their company.

“Good Morning,” I greeted upon arrival. Aetheron doesn’t hesitate to break away from Kaelon to greet me — his hand easily cupping my left cheek before he leaned down to place a soft kiss in greeting.

“Celebrate another awakening in our rising Starlight,” he greeted which I had to assume was a unique way of saying Good Morning in Twilight Court. “You look stunning, Sparrow.”

“R-R-Really?” I’m far too red while I can’t help but peer up into his eyes as he remains close. “I don’t look silly?”

“Not at all,” he reassures me as his eyes soften so handsomely. His shadows don’t even hide their delight as they dance around us, making it seem like we’re in our own world. “The uniform complements you wonderfully. Are you excited?”

“Nervous,” I confess. “But…I’m glad you’re here,” I dare to confess. “I know you’re busy.”

“Never busy enough to not support my Queen,” he assures me before placing a reassuring kiss on each temple. His hand traces along my cheek before he lowers it entirely so he can move to kiss the top of my head.

He pulls back to stand next to Kaelon once more, his shadows reluctantly following as I realize they’ve been swirling around an energy of twinkling threads of illuminating white. I’m assuming that my aura playing its role as it dances effortless with the shadows, making such a distracting yet uniquely beautiful display of power.

Ever since we had that intimate night, it’s been a lot easier to see how our energies blend so effortlessly.

Like Ying and Yang.

"Lady Nyx," Kaelon said pointedly, his galaxy eyes narrowing at her casual stance. "You forget yourself before the Lord of Shadows."

Nyx's laugh was like crystal wind chimes in a storm.

"Oh, I forget nothing," she said, meeting Aetheron's molten golden gaze without a hint of submission. "I don't even bow to Lord Thanatos of the Void Court, and trust me, he finds it more amusing than offensive."

She glanced at me with a wink.

"Besides, I think we all know who the real power in this room is, even if she doesn't realize it yet."

With deliberate grace, Nyx swept into a deep, theatrical bow — not to Aetheron, but to me. Her multicolored hair cascaded forward, the galaxy swirls in her tattoos pulsing with barely contained void energy.

"My lady," she purred, before straightening and throwing a mischievous glance at Kaelon and Aetheron. "There. I bowed. Just not to who you expected."

A rich chuckle escaped Aetheron's lips, his molten golden eyes dancing with amusement. I thought he’d be mad with her rebellion, but I’m coming to realize how calm and joyous Aetheron normally is.

"I should have known. Lady Nyx's...reputation precedes her. The Void Court has quite the collection of stories about their most troublesome wolf."

"Troublesome?" Nyx pressed a hand to her chest in mock offense. "My Lord Aetheron, I'm wounded. I prefer the term 'creatively defiant.' Besides," she shrugged, her uniform's chains tinkling like starlight made sound, "what else can you expect from such a rare creature as a void wolf? We're practically required to cause a little chaos. Otherwise, existence gets so dreadfully boring."

Her galaxy eyes sparkled as she continued.

"And let's be honest. All these stuffy court politics could use a good shaking up. When was the last time anyone had any real fun around here? Present company excluded, of course," she added with a meaningful glance between Aetheron and me that made heat rise to my cheeks.

I couldn't help the giggle that escaped me.

"She has a point. A little chaos can be... refreshing."

Nyx's face lit up with delight at my support, not hesitating to stand next to me and lean in to look up at Lord Aetheron and Kaelon.

"See? Your queen gets it. This is why we're going to be magnificent together." How she said it carried weight beyond the playful tone, hinting at destinies yet to unfold.

Her confidence in our partnership and potential friendship really relieved me that this was already going smoothly.

"Well," she spun suddenly, her movement leaving trailing echoes of void energy in the air, "I should check in with the Portal Master. Technically, I didn't use an approved entrance to get here."

Kaelon's galaxy eyes narrowed suspiciously.

"Then how exactly did you enter the Twilight Court? Our borders are heavily warded."

Nyx's grin turned positively wicked.

"Oh, you know... that little rift you all so carefully sealed earlier?" She winked at me, mischief written all over her playful expression. "Quite the dramatic entrance you made, by the way. I approve."

The silence that followed was absolute.

Kaelon's mouth actually dropped open slightly, while Aetheron's shadows coiled tighter around him.

"You... came through the rift?" Kaelon managed finally. "But we were monitoring it. We would have sensed?—"

"Would you though?" Nyx challenged playfully. "Void wolf, remember? We exist in the spaces between spaces. Your monitoring only works if you're looking in the right dimension."

She started walking backward toward the Portal Master, each step somehow bending light around her.

"Besides, I wanted to see what all the fuss was about. Had to make sure my new favorite Omega was being properly taken care of."

The protective note in her voice was subtle but unmistakable. Despite her playful demeanor, there was steel beneath — a wolf's determination to protect what was hers. At least, that’s the best way I could describe what came to my head.

"Now then," she clapped her hands together, the sound echoing strangely through multiple dimensions, "shall we get on our way so we can get started with today's admission? I promise to use the proper portals from now on." She paused, then added with a grin, "Well, mostly promise. Let's say I'll think about it very seriously."

Something told me that was a lie.

Still, it made me grin far too wide.

"I'll ensure Lady Nyx completes the proper documentation," Kaelon announced, his galaxy eyes promising strict adherence to protocol. She didn’t seem to mind as she shrugged and began to skip away. As he followed the void wolf, I could have sworn I heard Nyx say something about "paperwork accidentally falling into a void rift."

Once alone, the nervous energy I hadn’t realized was brewing tightly in my chest and bubbling to the surface.

"I'm not sure I'm ready for this," I admitted, fidgeting with the starlight crystals woven into my uniform. I was speaking my thoughts out loud, something I didn’t normally do when I felt this way.

Something as simple as school shouldn’t have made me feel this anxious but maybe because this was a big deal to me.

I want to do this right. Not to fuck up…or let people down. What if I screw this all up and end up having to return? No…there’s nowhere to return to if I go back. There’s no one to return to.

Nothing as welcoming as it had been here in the Twilight Court.

Just the idea of going back to being the “non-existent” sniper everyone enjoyed using for missions but nothing more made my hands feel clammy.

Aetheron crossed the space between us with fluid grace, his shadows dancing around us both.

“Breathe, little Songbird,” the depths of his calming voice infiltrated through all the building doubt, my eyes immediately seeking his. I’m sure he can see the panic in the depths of my pupils. How much fear I’d buried for so many years, finally coming out at the idea of not being good enough.

"You look beautiful," he said softly, his golden eyes taking in every detail of my academy attire.

I felt confused by the change of subject, but then, maybe this was his way of distracting me. To get my mind off how frightening all of this change is for me.

How difficult I’m struggling adapting to all of this, despite the excitement surrounding it all.

"The uniform suits you. Though I suspect you could make anything look regal."

The compliment brought heat to my cheeks, but it was the way he looked at me that made my heart race as I began to focus my attention on him and not anything else.

His attentive gaze always made me feel so vital to his life. He stepped closer, his hands coming up to cup my face with infinite tenderness.

"May I?" he whispered, his thumbs stroking my cheekbones as his eyes dropped to my lips. He didn’t need to ask permission, and yet he did.

Knowing closeness could trigger me.

Yet, knowing I yearn for his closeness.

For his touch.

For an escape…even just a few seconds.

The gesture made my heart swell. Even now, after everything, he still asked. Still made sure I was comfortable, acknowledging that I was still adapting to all of this while still forging my own path.

"You may—," I started to say, but the words were caught by his lips meeting mine. The kiss was intense yet brief, somehow managing to convey both passion and restraint.

Allowing myself to dwell in passionate touch, his shadows wrapped around us like a protective cocoon, making the moment feel intimate despite our surroundings.

When he pulled back slightly, his eyes had taken on a hooded molten quality that made my knees weak.

"Before you go," he groans against my lips and moves back enough to reach into his jacket, "I have something for you."

“You do?” I whisper in surprise, the act completely unexpected. I try to think of when was the last time I got a gift, but nothing comes to mind. Even during the holidays, I never got anything of sentimental value from anyone in the Underground.

You’re lucky to have roofs over your heads. Gifts and this Merry Christmas shit is nothing but a scam to make money. Maybe Vincent’s influence was a bad thing in some departments.

From within his jacket, Aetheron produced what appeared to be a bracelet that caught and held light in impossible ways. The band itself was crafted from what looked like liquid gold, but as it moved, I could see shadows dancing within its metallic surface.

"This is more than mere jewelry," he explained, his voice taking on that deeper resonance that spoke of ancient magic. "Each charm represents a different court, bound together by magic older than the realms themselves."

As he held it up, I could see the intricate details of each charm.

A shadow crystal for the Twilight Court, somehow containing actual darkness within its facets.

A miniature sun that seemed to pulse with its own inner light for the Aether Court.

A spiral of void energy that bent light around it for the Void Court.

A living gem that shifted through elements – earth, air, fire, water – for the Elementals.

But it was the central charm that truly caught my attention.

A perfect replica of the academy itself, each tiny spire and dome crafted with impossible precision.

Together, it was a stunning piece of jewelry that held far more value than anything I’d ever owned.

"The bracelet will bond to your essence," Aetheron continued, his fingers brushing my wrist in a touch that sent electricity through my veins. "In times of peace, it will blend into a tattoo – a mark upon your skin that pulses with power and heeds protection. But in moments of danger..."

He trailed off as he fastened it around my wrist. I gasped as I felt it merge with my being — the sensation was hard to describe and yet rooted knowledge told me it was set to fulfill the purpose given.

The metal seemed to melt into my flesh, transforming into intricate patterns that swirled and shifted like living ink.

"It will manifest physically," he explained, tracing the newly formed marks with a gentle finger. "Drawing upon the power of whichever court is nearest to bring you to safety. If possible, it will return you directly to me. If not, it will seek out the nearest haven that will protect you long enough for me to return to your side."

"It's beautiful," I breathed, watching the patterns shift beneath my skin. "I’ve never carried anything of such value. I mean…I don’t know if I should bring it to school. Plus…I’m not that important to have this level of protection. Wouldn’t others think it’s a bit... excessive?"

His golden eyes darkened slightly.

"You are precious to more than just me now. It saddens me that no one from the mundane realms could have showered you with reminders of how vital and precious you are to the world,” he quietly confesses, sounding disappointed.

Liam comes to my mind for a moment, but I flick the thought away, feeling no need to judge him when I’m sure he is going through his own problems.

“The wolves have sensed you. Other courts will soon follow. And while I trust your growing strength..." He paused, cupping my face once more. "I refuse to take chances when it comes to your safety."

I swallow the lump forming in my throat, trying my best not to get teary-eyed with the display of devotion. The intensity of his protective instinct should have felt stifling, but instead, it made me feel cherished.

This wasn't about controlling me — it was about ensuring I had the chance to grow into whatever I was meant to become, in a way that still shielded me from the unknown threats desperate to harm me for their own reasons.

"Thank you," I whispered, leaning into his touch. "Not just for the protection, but for understanding that I need to find my own way, even if it's dangerous and puts me in harm’s way."

His smile was both tender and fierce. "My brave little Songbird," he murmured. "Always ready to fly toward adventure. Just remember…now you'll always have a way home."

Home.

He’s my home…and this Court that embraces me.

Aetheron pulled me close one last time, wrapping me in his arms before his lips found mine in a kiss that felt like a promise.

"Have fun," he murmured against my mouth. "Despite all the politics and protection, this should be an adventure worth having."

"About that," I said, reluctant to step out of his embrace. "The boarding arrangements..."

Now that I thought about it, I’d probably have to stay on the academy property with it being neutral ground. I doubt they would allow us to go back and forth through the portal.

Walking through portals seems to be a privilege more than anything.

"You don't have to stay at the academy," he assured me, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. "I can arrange for you to return to your chambers in the Twilight Court whenever you wish. Some place familiar to rest and...reflect." The way his golden eyes darkened at the word 'reflect' made heat pool in my belly.

Yes, reflect…not enjoy hours of fucking…goodness. I’m gonna have to ask about how birth control works here.

"I'd like that," I admitted, then frowned slightly. "But how will I let you know? How does anyone communicate in this realm? I saw Celeste with a hologram device earlier, but that seemed rather special."

His answering smile held a touch of mischief.

"Think of who you wish to contact and channel your energy. Your shadows or twilight, in this case. They'll form a hologram that allows direct communication."

Oh! So that’s how she did it.

This already seemed so uniquely interesting, leaving me hoping there were books that aided with the process of learning all these unique techniques with our elements.

"That's incredible," I breathed, already imagining the possibilities. Then a thought occurred to me that made me blush. "But what if I call at an... inconvenient time? Like if you're in meetings, or the shower, or..."

Aetheron's laugh was rich and deep, his shadows dancing with amusement around us.

"My love," he said, pressing his forehead to mine, his touch matched that deep vibrating power in his tone that could make me wet in seconds. "You can reach out to me any time, any moment, and I will always answer. Even if I'm in the middle of court politics or," his voice dropped to a teasing whisper, " especially if I'm in the shower."

The heat in my cheeks intensified, but so did the warmth in my heart. This powerful being, this ruler of shadows and night, would always make time for me.

Little old me.

His little Songbird.

The woman he’d appease in the depths of my dreams when life was so fucking hard…

Lord Aetheron was making it hard for me to not fall in love with him.

“Okay,” I whisper and swallow the hints of nervousness that tried to stop me from going up on my tiptoes and lightly kissing his lips. My initiative surprises him, an expression that makes my heart flutter. “I’ll keep that in mind, Lord Aetheron.”

“Aetheron,” he says with a softened gaze while his lips curl up in a pleased smile. “We are far past formalities, my Queen.”

My lips curl in a grin that matches his, the two of us sharing a comforting gaze that held so much promise.

"Come on, Star Girl! Adventure awaits!"

Lady Nyx's voice called from near the portal, where she stood with an exasperated-looking Kaelon.

With one last look at Aetheron, drinking in his eyes and proud bearing, we headed over to regroup. With a bit of small talk, we were ready to go — the path ahead encouraging our departure as it spun with haunting life.

"Ready to shake up some realms?" Lady Nyx whispered conspiratorially as we approached the portal. She fell into step beside me, her galaxy eyes sparkling with excitement.

“More than I’ll ever be,” I said with optimism while my eyes ventured forward, taking in the spinning vortex that awaited our departure.

I touched the charm bracelet which was now a beautiful tattoo on my skin, and smiled.

I won’t be alone. I’m supported. This path will lead me where I’m destined to be.

Who I’m destined to become.