In the House of Wind, Rhys introduces Cassian, his general, and Azriel, his “spymaster” and “shadowsinger” gifted with stealth and sharp senses. They are joined by Mor and Amren, a “short, delicate woman [who] looked like High Fae,” (161). Amren says Feyre is one of only two humans to be granted immortality. Cassian and Azriel wear jeweled gauntlets called “Siphons” which help modulate their natural destructive power as Illyrians. Feyre addresses Cassian as “Lord,” and Rhys explains that only pure-blooded Fae carry that title; Illyrians—Cassian, Azriel, and even the half-blood Rhys—are considered inferior to High Fae. Illyrians are fierce warriors but cruel; Illyrian women have their wings clipped ritualistically and are used for breeding. Rhys’s mother tried to escape the practice but was captured and nearly killed. Rhys’s father, the former High Lord of the Night Court, saved her life and married her but refused to ban the practice, afraid of alienating his loyal warriors.

Rhys and his friends are bonded by their difficult childhoods. When Rhys became High Lord of the Night Court, he brought “two females and two Illyrian bastards” into his court (175), alienating his father’s old advisors.

Feyre shares her own hardship and finds a kindred spirit in Mor.