starfall. [ Rhysand ]

Prologue

the wish.

It was nearly spring, and Rhysand tried not to dwell too much on the circumstances. It was a sour, bitter, and nostalgic thought. Why? Because he found himself trapped underground with Amarantha instead of partaking in the celebration that meant the most to him: Starfall.
Only in his court, the Night Court, could one witness the awe-inspiring sight of migrating spirits. Even the citizens of Hewn City emerged from the mountain to revel in this special occasion. Rhysand smiled, though it carried a bitter tinge, it failed to reach his eyes.What pained him the most, burdening his heart with sadness and frustration, was the longing to experience it once more with his family.

He would have given anything to witness Mor's radiant smile as she stumbled in Cassian's embrace, intoxicated but full of mirthful dance. To see his General in command, laugh and wink at any girl who caught his eye. Perhaps even to observe Amren and Azriel, seemingly aloof yet quietly savoring the festivities, knowing deep down that they, too, felt fortunate to have found this family. His family. His chest grew heavy once again.

He knew that she was reaching his chamber and it was a matter of minutes until she arrived. But he wasn't in his room, he was on top of the mountain reveling in the view of the breathtaking starry night. Rhysand winced at the thought and let out a deep sigh.
He knew precisely why she was coming—she intentionally sought his services on this particular night, reveling in his inability to partake to the festival, delighting in the pain and despair of him particularly as well as others. He detested the fact that he couldn't escape it and he had to be quick and winnow soon back to his chamber before she arrived. He refused to think what might occur if she ever found his camber empty. Casting one last glance at the clear night sky, he wished for an alternative, hoping for salvation. He longed for something or someone to safeguard his family and free him from the torment of his current existence.

As if his prayers were answered, a shooting star suddenly appeared before his eyes. Rhysand was captivated by the sight; it was something he had never witnessed during Starfall. The falling star gleamed so brilliantly that he had to briefly shut his eyes to adjust to the light. Yet, in an instant, it was once again a pristine night sky.
He sighed once more, mustering a bitter smile, chastising himself for daring to believe, even for a moment, that his wish could come true.