Light of the Dawn

28. We will fight with you

Isarella sat in Rhysand's office, her posture stiff and uncertain as she faced the High Lord of the Night Court. Rhys's voice was calm but firm as he spoke. "We're scheduling a meeting today with the High Lords, excluding Beron. The meeting will take place at the Dawn Court. Perseus and I have discussed it, and as the High Lady and Princess of Dawn, it is only fitting that you lead the proceedings."

Isarella's eyes widened in shock, her heart thudding painfully in her chest. "I—I can do it," she stammered, her voice shaking slightly as nerves clawed at her.

Later, Isarella sat alone in her room, rubbing her hands together anxiously. She had chosen an ombré gown of soft pink and warm orange, its flowing fabric a tribute to the radiant hues of the Dawn Court. The dress clung to her in all the right places, elegant and commanding, yet somehow it did little to calm her nerves. Her golden hair tumbled down her back in soft curls, framing her delicate features as she stared out the window. The weight of what was to come pressed heavily on her, the possibilities of success or failure running wild in her mind.

Azriel stood quietly in the doorway, his shadowed presence unnoticed at first. His hazel eyes, full of love and concern, lingered on his mate. She looked so small, so vulnerable as her fingers fidgeted restlessly in her lap. He could see the worry etched on her face, the tension in her shoulders as she prepared herself for the unknown.

"Hey," Azriel said softly, stepping into the room. His voice was low, soothing, like a gentle breeze breaking through the storm. "It'll be okay. I'll be with you the entire time."

Startled from her thoughts, Isarella turned to him, her expression softening at the sight of him. A small, trembling smile graced her lips as she reached for him, her hands finding his scarred ones. She held them tightly, grounding herself in his unwavering strength. "I love you," she whispered, her voice barely audible as her forehead rested against his.

"And I love you," Azriel murmured in return, brushing a tender kiss against her nose. He lingered there for a moment, silently willing his confidence and calm to transfer to her. Then, with a gentle tug, he pulled her to her feet. "Come on, my love. It's time."

They walked side by side to the grand front entrance of the Night Court's palace, where Perseus awaited them. His presence was regal yet warm, his face lighting up as his daughter approached. Isarella's composure faltered as she ran to him, throwing her arms around his neck.

"Dad!" she exclaimed, her voice carrying a mix of relief and joy.

"Hi, little light," Perseus replied, his voice thick with emotion as he kissed her cheek. Tears glistened in his eyes, though he held them back with the grace of a High Lord. Pulling back, he smiled and said, "Before we go, I brought you something."

From behind him, he revealed a delicate rose-gold crown, its intricate design catching the light with a soft, ethereal glow. Isarella's breath caught as he placed it gently on her head, the weight both comforting and commanding.

"Let's go home, High Lady of the Dawn Court," Perseus said, his voice full of pride. He offered her his arm, which she took with trembling fingers.

Azriel stayed close behind her, his shadows curling protectively at his side as the Night Court followed. Just before they winnowed to the Dawn Court, Azriel's hand brushed Isarella's, a silent promise that he would be there, always.

Isarella's breath hitched as her eyes swept over the Dawn Court, her home. The golden light spilling across the spires and the soft, glowing warmth of the air—it was as beautiful as she remembered, but the memories cut deeper than any blade. Her father, Thesan, should have been here, standing by her side, leading with the grace and wisdom he was known for. Instead, his absence echoed like a gaping wound. She had seen him die, his life extinguished before her eyes. And yet, standing here, it felt almost possible to pretend he was alive, that he was waiting for her somewhere in the palace.