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Day court- middle of summer. Nesta Archeron walked through the palace- she had spent the last week reading through the library for information related to Koschei and his potential weaknesses. Elain and Azriel had sent her in the right direction, but with the risks to Elain to leave the Night Court territory- she had volunteered to come do the research in their stead. Cassian had insisted he tag along and now she knew why. He was forcing her to take a break, take a night away with him under the stars.
She adjusted the pack on her back one last time. She had been sober for nearly two years, but there were more temptations here than she had expected. Helion kept his researchers well stocked with what used to be her drug of choice. She had nearly run from the library when she realized. The only thing that kept her here was the promise she made to Azriel that she would find answers to protect Elain. He needed her to help him protect Elain- something he had struggled to even ask.
She heard the rustle of wings and smiled at the site of the Lord of Bloodshed strutting towards her- his own pack secured, excitement in his step. The last time he had taken her out in nature had ended in disaster, but this time was different. This time she knew where they stood and was sure in their bond.
He met her with a kiss, tucking her into his body, pulling her right into her spot. She loved so many things about him, but this had to be her favorite. The moment that they came back together. They would talk about his training and her research as soon as they got out to the glade.
“Hey, Ness.”
“How long is the flight?”
“Not far. It smells like rain.”
She settled into his arms as he launched into the air. She enjoyed Day Court, nearly as much as her home. If Cassian could be convinced to leave- this was where she would want to live and as she looked up at him, he knew it. She stared out at the clouds- dark clouds seemed to be rolling in- lightning streaked across the sky.
Cassian landed in the oasis as the rain finally unleashed. She found herself smiling as he put her down and he frantically started to build their tent. Or at least he tried to. She put down her pack next to his, grabbed his hand, and pulled him into a dance. His hands hung limply at first and then found her waist as he spun her around in the intricate dance that had once set him into a jealous rage.
She moved with him, sending water arcing up around them as they spun- him pushing her to the absolute limits and she loved every moment of it. As the dance finished, they both stood, panting, with satisfied smiles on their faces. Cassian. Her Cassian.
“Oh my Valkyrie- what is that look for?”
“I’ve never danced in the rain before, Cass. Thank you for…”
His lips claimed hers again- not in a welcome, but in understanding. She still struggled to express herself with him so many times, but he always met her where she was. He always walked with her in the discomfort- because there was a time when he hadn’t. There was a time when he stayed away and it had nearly taken her life. He never wanted her to doubt what she meant to him and in these little moments- he proved it over and over again. And she loved him for it.