A Song of Ice & Shadow

Y/n paced around the living room, holding a scientific book amidst a clutter of research papers scattered about. Deeply immersed in her work, she was oblivious to the initial knocks at the door. Eventually, the persistent knocking caught her attention, prompting her to reluctantly abandon her studies. Upon opening the door, however, she found no one present "Are you kidding me?" she exhaled, as she went back to the living room.
Just as she got back to reading, Cassian's voice interrupted her concentration "Hello, y/n. Nice to see you again".
"For fuck's sake" she instinctively threw the book in his direction, a reflex action to the sudden intrusion, which he effortlessly evaded. Cassian's amusement at the gesture was evident as he remarked "A book, really?".
"Well, when someone is startled by an unexpected visitor, instinct tends to take over" she retorted, her tone a mixture of irritation and explanation.
"I did knock" he reminded, to which she replied "and I did open the door".
"Wait, you didn't know I was cloaked?".
"How would I know? Do I look like some Fae expert to you?".
"Clearly not".
"Do you enjoy pissing people off?" she asked with a serious tone.
"Sometimes" he replied, his tone tinged with smugness.
"Get a new hobby. People have more important things to do".
"We're trying to save everyone, so I'd say that is important".
"Whatever! I'm not dealing with you. Talk to Nesta. Do you know where her room is or do I have to guide you?".
"I'll do just fine on my own".
"Great, then off you go" she pushed him out of the living room and closed the door.
—
"You wouldn't believe who I just met at the Bakery, Nes-" Y/n began speaking as she entered the house, unaware of the company they had. Her smile faded when she noticed the two Illyrian males, replaced by a cold, stern expression."to what do we owe this displeasure?" she inquired, crossing her arms.
Cassian's response mirrored her sentiment, expressing his own reluctance to be there. Before any further exchange could unfold, Azriel interjected with a low, cold voice, revealing the reason for their visit "We received word from the queens".
"They've been sent here to gather information about the house for the queens. They want to know where everything is, in the smallest details" Nesta explained.
Y/n directed her question at her sister "And you believe providing all this information is a good idea?".
Azriel interjected, 'It's the only way to secure their cooperation", Nesta nodded.
Y/n stole a glance at the male before returning her gaze on her sister "you do know this puts us in real danger?".
Nothing will happen to you or your sisters. Cassian and I will keep watch on the house".
Despite assurances from Azriel about their safety, Y/n remained unconvinced, her concern evident in her demeanor. Y/n seemed to want to say something but decided against it.As she turned to leave, she was halted by Azriel's words "Feyre expects you to be here tomorrow". After a brief pause, Y/n tilted her head to the side "Tell her to lower her expectations" she replied before walking out.
—
"Perhaps you should attend, even if just for a little while" Nesta suggested.
"Why? Are two sisters not enough? I don't wish to be involved in human-Fae relations" Y/n clarified.
"I know. I hate this as much as you do, but Feyre is now one of them, so do it for her" Nesta urged.
"Not out of her own free will...I- I don't know, I'll think about it" she sighed.
"Not to pressure you or anything but you do know, they'll be here in a couple of hours" Nesta reminded.
"I know" she shrugged.

"Where is she? They're gonna be here any minute now" Feyre scanned the room anxiously, looking for Y/n.
"I don't know. She said she'll think about it" Nesta told her.
"Think about it? She does realize that this is important, not one of her games" Feyre's frustration became evident.
"Do you want me to send Az or Cassian to fetch her?" Rhys offered.
"No, that would only make things worse" Feyre dismissed the suggestion.

Dressed in a midnight blue tulle gown that revealed her back and arms, her skin so pale one would think she's frozen. The fabric flowed around her body like a cloud, complementing her features. She emanated an aura of grace and elegance that would captivate any male who laid eyes on her. Y/n walked into the room, head held high. Her presence seemed to illuminate the room, and much to Azriel's dismay, his eyes were drawn to her. Something stirred inside of him, something unfamiliar; even his shadows peaked from behind him to study her. He was betrayed by a momentary lapse in composure before pushing his thoughts aside, focusing on the task at hand.