Page 126 of Court of Aether and Shadows

"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.

Ashadow crystalfor the Twilight Court, somehow containing actual darkness within its facets.

Aminiature sunthat seemed to pulse with its own inner light for the Aether Court.

Aspiral of voidenergy that bent light around it for the Void Court.

Aliving gemthat 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."

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