starfall. [ Rhysand ]

XIX

illyrians.

Alexis, deeply engrossed in her favorite activity, baking, had been at it for two days straight, preparing an abundance of savory and sweet treats. Nuala and Cerridwen later distributed to the children in the streets for free for the large quantity she had prepared. Her only interruptions were short breaks for sleep, during which she experienced fewer nightmares than usual. She couldn't explain but she had a newfound sense of relaxation and comfort that accompanied her slumber.

Rhysand had been noticeably absent due to his "city council duties", or that was what he said. Recently Alexis realised she could sense his presence whenever he was nearby. She felt a magnetic pull compelling her to leave the kitchen, when he was in the house, even though she had nowhere else to go. At times, a tingling sensation on her scalp signaled his proximity, and when she turned, she would find him standing at the kitchen door, observing her. This had happened a day ago, and when she offered him freshly baked sugar cane biscuits, he politely declined visibly in distress, claiming to be full. Alexis couldn't help but wonder if her cooking spree had coincided with Rhysand's increased absence.

On this particular day, Alexis was in the kitchen once again, using baking as a distraction from the haunting horrors in her mind. While waiting for her cookies to finish baking, she was engrossed in a good book. However, an accidental nudge of her elbow sent a bag of flour tumbling to the floor, spilling its contents.

"Oh no," she sighed, attempting to locate a broom while still clutching her book.

"Maybe you should focus on one thing at a time," a voice suggested from behind. Alexis turned to find a tall and powerful-looking male with dark, curly hair, a sculpted physique, and golden eyes. What captivated her the most were his black bat-like wings, a perfect match for the descriptions of Illyrians in the book she was currently holding.

"Are you an Illyrian?" she asked, craning her neck to look up at him, as she often did with taller individuals like Rhysand.

"I am," he confirmed. "And you're one of the Fallen."

Alexis nodded in agreement, and they exchanged introductions as he extended his hand. To her surprise, he shook her hand in greeting. She had never experience this type of greeting before, it was a funny way but she liked it.

"I think whatever you're baking is ready" Alexis widened her eyes, grabbed a towel to avoid burning her hands and removed from the stone oven her almond cookies.

"I'm Cassian," he introduced himself, his eyes fixed on Alexis's freshly baked cookies expressing a strong desire to taste them.

"Help yourself to as many as you like," she happily offered. Cassian eagerly sampled the almond cookies, savoring their soft and delicious texture.

While enjoying the cookies, with his mouth full, Cassian inquired about Alexis's interest in Illyrians. The Star tried not to laugh with enjoyment at his manners or rather lack of them.

"I have discovered a book on the subject in the library and I was eager to learn more. I had never heard of Illyria" she explained.

"What do you think of them?" Cassian asked, sensing her hesitation. She did not want to admit her reservations about the Illyrians, particularly their traditional beliefs that often marginalised and mistreated females.