A Song of Ice & Shadow

Y/n was pacing around the living room when Feyre, Rhys and Mor returned. Before Y/n could speak, Nesta asked what had happened. Rhys relayed the details of their victory and the state of the Summer Court. Nesta inquired about Cassian, to which Mor replied coldly that he was busy.
Y/n did not dare ask about Azriel, for various reasons. One: it would imply she was worried about him, a notion she was reluctant to entertain. Two: it would suggest she cared about him, a feeling she was not ready to confront. Three: asking anyone about him would give them the wrong idea. Four: she might not like the answer to her question.

Y/n did not encounter Azriel until the day of the meeting with the High Lords.
"You are still here?" Y/n called from atop the stairs, observing Rhys, Feyre, Azriel and Mor assembled below, preparing for their departure. Y/n donned a dark, regal purple gown with off-shoulder puffy sleeves. The layers of tulle floated around her like wisps of smoke. Her hair was styled in a braided crown, reminiscent of Nesta's style. She wore no jewelry, except for the necklace she never took off, gifted to her by her mother. The celestite stone remained hidden beneath the fabric covering her chest.
She descended the stairs slowly, still contemplating her decision. Although Azriel has seen her in extravagant gowns before, Y/n still took away his breath every time, and his shadows constantly seemed intrigued by her presence.
"I've changed my mind. I'm coming with you" she announced. No one said anything, fearing any comment might dissuade her. "I cannot promise you that I'll hold back" she added. She was going to go, but she was not going to let them win. She had put on a mask, where she was going to deal with them as she would if they were humans.
"Alright" Feyre nodded "I'm glad you decided to join us".
Rhys welcomed her to the court and the inner circle started betting on who and when a fight would start. Azriel left first to check for traps, and when everything was clear, Rhys winnowed Feyre. Y/n was left with Mor and Cassian.
"Hello, Y/n" Cassian greeted. This was the first time she'd seen him since the attack as well.
"General" she acknowledged, as he took her hand and Mor winnowed them.
The palace of the Dawn Court was a sight to behold. From the colors to the decor to the view, it was enchanting. They were greeted by an attendant who led the way. In the chamber where the meeting was supposed to be held, the High Lords of Day, Dawn and Winter awaited.
"It seems you're not the only Fae with wings" Y/n whispered near Azriel.
"Yours are much cooler, though" she playfully remarked, and he softly chuckled "hello to you too". This was the first time they had spoken since the attack on Adriata.
Thesan, High Lord of the Dawn Court welcomed them, and much to everyone's surprise, Y/n complimented his palace. Azriel, Cassian and Mor bowed, while Rhys, Feyre and Y/n remained upright.
"He's pretty" Y/n muttered to her sister in a low voice, but loud enough for the three Illyrians to hear.
"What has gotten into you?" Feyre tried to hide her smile, and Y/n merely shrugged.
The white-haired High Lord, Kallias, approached Rhys. Mor and the woman accompanying him squealed in delight upon seeing each other. Mor introduced Feyre to the woman, Viviane, Kallias' wife, while Y/n stayed behind Rhysand.
"This is Y/n, my mate's sister. Y/n, this is Kallias, High Lord of the Winter Court" Rhys introduced.
"I guessed as much, with the- the white hair, pale skin and all" Y/n remarked.
"Have we met before?" Kallias inquired.
"I don't think so. I'd remember someone with your... appearance".
The last High Lord approached. Helion, High Lord of the Day Court, greeted Rhys and Mor. Then proceeded to ask about Y/n. Feyre explained to him what happened and Y/n confirmed.
"I always disliked the brightness of the sun and mornings in general, but somehow he makes the day seem beautiful" Y/n whispered to Cassian and she could've sworn Azriel clenched his jaw.
Cassian was confused by her remarks about the High Lords and she could see it on his face "Ah, don't worry. I still haven't changed my mind about your kind. You all suck".
"You had me worried for a second" Cassian quipped and Azriel relaxed slightly.
"But I have to say, you can still appreciate the beauty of your enemies or the people you hate" she shrugged, and Azriel glared at her.