A Song of Ice & Shadow

Part 19

"Of course you did," she muttered, glancing at him, noticing the way he lingered by the nightstand, his fingers resting lightly on its edge as if he wasn't sure whether to stay or leave. "I thought I told you to stop spying on me."

He tilted his head, confused. "I wasn't."

She gave him a knowing look. "You're not subtle, you know? You brought me another vial of oil just when I happened to use the last of the one you gave me."

He sighed, finally moving from the nightstand and taking a step closer to her. "I wasn't. A few shadows wanted to stay here and keep an eye on you. They only informed me when you were in pain again."

"Ah, so that's why the tea was always on time, huh?" she teased, lifting a brow.

"I promise I wasn't spying. They only ever informed me when you were experiencing discomfort, that's all," he tried to defend himself, his voice still calm but firm.

A faint smile appeared on her lips. "I know. I was just messing with you."

He exhaled slightly, shoulders relaxing. Sometimes, he didn't know if she was serious or not. She kept him on his toes more than anyone else ever had, despite his centuries as a spymaster.
—

By the time Y/n was well enough to return to training, she was more than ready to move again, despite still feeling a bit drained.

As she descended the stairs the next morning, she was met with Cassian's all too cheerful voice. "Well, well, well, look who finally decided to join us."

Y/n scowled. "Bite me, General."

He grinned. "Gladly. Just say when and where."

She glared at him, but he didn't seem fazed. "Feeling better?"

"If by 'better' you mean I no longer feel like I'm being stabbed repeatedly, then sure."

Azriel, already seated at the dining table, lifted his teacup, hiding the amused smile tugging at his lips.

Cassian chuckled, setting his fork down. "Good. Because today, we're pushing you harder than ever," he half-joked.

Y/n groaned dramatically. "Why did I come downstairs?"

"You could always go back to bed," Azriel replied, and Cassian gave him a look.

She turned her attention to Azriel. "And let your brother's smug ass win? Not a chance."
—-

After a long time, Y/n had finally gone back down to the library. She was in her usual spot, immersed in a book, when she was interrupted by a familiar voice.

"Wow, haven't seen Fae power like that before," Gwyn remarked.

"Hello to you too," Y/n greeted before following Gwyn's gaze. There was ice surrounding the armchair where she sat, frost curling off her free hand.

"I-uh, that's new." Y/n's brows knitted together, clearly confused.

"You didn't know you could do that?" Gwyn asked as she approached slowly.

"No, but after the week I had, nothing surprises me anymore."

Gwyn tilted her head, her curiosity evident. "What happened?"

Y/n sighed, shifting in her seat, flexing her fingers as she studied the lingering frost. "I got my cycle for the first time since turning, and Mother above, does it hurt like a bitch."

Gwyn's eyes widened in realization before she chuckled softly. "Welcome to adulthood."

Y/n shot her a dry look. "Very funny. How do you endure it?"