Of Blades and Wings (Flame Cursed Fae, #1)

by Eliza Raine

Do what you can. Ignore what you can’t.

My life will exist only inside these walls, alone until the sickness in my brain finally wins.

They just… gave up trying to save me once they realized that the very thing killing me is possibly the most valuable asset the Ice Court has.

For all the talk of valor and honor in our world, the truth is: secrets always win. Those who hold knowledge over others can do as they please.

Now tell me, Queen of the Ice Court, why do you hide a daughter?"

The man leans forward and passes me something. It's a small wooden dagger, with a horse carved on the handle. "Take this. You should not be at a disadvantage. There is no honor in slaying an unarmed opponent."

"She saved your life on the boat. Sit the fuck down and eat your fucking food."

My instinct is to thank her too, but I force myself not to. She broke my damn foot. I'm not thanking her for shit.

"You're pale." "I'm an ice-fae. I'm supposed to be pale."

"I swear on Loki's left ball, I won't go anywhere near him."

there is something nice about being outside in the warm, dappled orange glow that makes it through the trees.

Very powerful shadow-fae can make people see their worst nightmares, even live them as though they're real.

If you can't make my magic stronger, I'll make my body stronger."

"Oh, there's magic in me, princess. I burn everything I touch."

"It's your duty to teach us. The gods bid you⁠—" "The gods can get fucked," he snarls. "I'm a warrior, not a fucking teacher."

"She said leave her the fuck alone. You want to fight a fae with no magic? Fight me."

"You're mad," she says. "Maybe." She stands up too. "Want me to be mad with you?"

"Haven't you heard, princess?" A wicked gleam lights his eyes, and a smile that is pure sin curves his lips. "I'm the villain of Featherblade."

"There's something about you. Something… different. You're here instead of your sister for a reason, princess, and I intend to find out why."

"Lies. You're special."

Beyond these walls lies the sacred Vault of the Valkyrie, Filled with treasures, it will reward your entrance lavishly, But to pass this first door you must prove that your knowledge is sound, List every Guardian and the beast to which they were bound. Make one mistake and it will be your last, The door will ensure you exist only in the past.

"There are flames in your eyes," I say breathlessly. Actual flames.

"You're going to ask her for it?" "No. We are going to steal it."

Kain gives me a long look. "You need to start hitting people," he says, then turns and strides away through the hall.

"Next time he tries to belittle you in front of everyone, it should be you who makes him bleed." I can't help my grin back at her. "I had the same thought," I say. "Good."

Do what you can. Ignore what you can't.

I hear his voice in my mind—deep and commanding, sending shivers through my body. "You will take it all," he growls. "Every inch. You're not a princess to me. You're a brat. And I'm going to fuck you like one."