Niall

"You had no right. I am the Dark King, and you are... nothing to this court."

Niall is a gancanagh and current Dark King. He was once the advisor to the Summer Court, but later transitioned to his role as regent to the Dark Court by Irial, albeit against his will. He is one of the main antagonists / protagonists in the Wicked Lovely Series.

At this time, Niall exists as the sole regent of the Dark Court, though both of his lovers, Irial and Leslie, are treated as royalty by the dark fae. The three beings have a polyamorous relationship.

Biography

Early Life

There is not much information available regarding Niall. The only known fact is that he met Irial over a millennium prior to the twenty-first century and spend many years in the company of the Dark Court, he becoming romantically involved with the Dark King, Irial. As he was unaware of his nature as a gancanagh, Niall did not know of his addictive contentment nor the trail of bodies he left once those whom were addicted to him became discarded by the Dark Court. It is unclear at which time Niall became aware of the consequences of his actions, but regardless he refused the offer to become the heir and attempted to flee their faeries court. Niall was unable to travel far before being returned to Irial with a choice: suffer at the hands of the malicious dark fae or the tormented humans he drove insane. He ultimately chose the former which left him with both mental and physical scars.

In the immediately time following this incident, Niall defected to the Summer Court and became the Summer Advisor to the Summer King, Miach. He oversaw the reign of both he and his son, Keenan, whom he raised through his childhood. It was during this time that Niall was always healed in secret by Irial, he never truly belonging to the summer fae yet both regents unwilling to inform him of his true fealty out of obligation to their friend.

Cold Iron Heart

Main Article: Cold Iron Heart

In Cold Iron Heart (1890s), Niall is seen on a wooden vessel which is bound for New Orleans, Louisiana with an unnamed Summer Girl to keep him company. As the two move back to his room, the Winter Girl, Rika, stops him and expresses her disgust at his actions. Niall knows that her words are in response to the pain that has filled her with her new title and, despite the physical pain it causes him to touch her, Niall offers her words of comfort and a kiss to the temple. Rika reluctantly leaves, she knowing that his words of this life improving will eventually ring true.

The next morning, Niall is walking down the street when he sees Thelma Foy, the human Irial has claimed. He approaches her with a question, but is quickly left confused as she flees to the safety of her home. Niall does not pursue her as he does not quite know what occurred between them, and, later the next day, he returns to the business of the faery courts by going to the Dark Court to inform them of the impending arrival of the Summer Court. It is here that he sees a familiar human in Irial's arms, but before he can comment she is whisked away. Irial taunts Niall with his newest toy and reminds him of a time that they shared humans for their own leisure. This angers Niall and, with a hiss, he passes along his business before departing.

Niall is present when the Winter Queen, Beira, arrives at the home the Summer Court intends to dwell in for the duration of their stay in the new city. She intended to be greeted by her son, Keenan, but she keeps herself occupied by questioning his fealty and teasing him about his previous relationship with Irial. Niall does not respond to her remarks as she desires and, in retaliation. As Keenan knows he cannot heal Niall due to his true fealty to the Dark Court, he is forced to retrieve Irial. Niall ultimately survives his injuries.

Unfortunately, Niall is tasked with informing both Irial and Keenan that Thelma was thrown off the docks of the city by Beira, something he learned through other channels. This enrages both of them in different ways, though Niall can comfort neither of them.

Winter Dreams

Main Article: Winter Dreams

In Winter Dreams, Niall is tasked with informing the Dark King, Irial, that the Summer Court will commence their search for the fated Summer Queen within Huntsdale, Pennsylvania. Their meetings goes rather smoothly considering their past, but towards its conclusion the two touch for a moment and Niall is forced to face his hidden emotions. Niall rejects Irial's offerings of a bed for the night and, not wishing to linger any further, the two depart.

Wicked Lovely

Main Article: Wicked Lovely

In Wicked Lovely, Niall posses, along with Tavish, as an uncle to the Summer King, Keenan, when he enrolled at Bishop O’Connell High School to get closer to Aislinn Foy. He believes that it is his duty to provide moral support to the regents of the Summer Court and, although he is clearly attracted to the human friend of Aislinn, Leslie, he does not act on his emotions.

Ink Exchange

Main Article: Ink Exchange

In Ink Exchange, Niall has been granted permission by the Summer Queen, Aislinn Foy, to watch over her best friend, Leslie, from afar. He routinely follows her throughout the city each night as she goes through her schedule, though he remains unseen and is only able to lament his unrequited feelings for the human. It is several days later when he is called to Verlaine's Restaurant where Leslie is usually working, but rather than watch over her, Niall is asked to deal with a little scuffle that Gabriel had caused. He is also met by Irial whom he had previously affections with. The two share a few teasing words, more from Irial than anyone, before going their separate ways. This short meeting brings to his attention the fact that Irial may be interested in Leslie and, in an effort to gain her trust, Niall follows her to Carnegie Museum of Art where he reveals himself via glamour. The two share their love of art and tour the exhibits together before he escorts her home. The next week passes without further incident until a plague is called upon the Summer Court which requires the attention of both regents. Niall accompanies Keenan to find Aislinn and, in the process, is asked by the latter to watch over Leslie with her boyfriend, Seth Morgan. This proposal is clearly one that Leslie is hesitant to accept, but with a little seduction on the part of Niall he is able to draw her to Rath and Ruins. It is where Niall offers her a summery drink that Seth forces her to dodge before Niall twirls her onto the dance floor. They spend seemingly hours lost in the music until they are interrupted by Irial, he teasing Niall about their previous escapades with humans unbeknownst to their true nature. This irritates Niall and, after forcing Leslie to depart with Seth, he confronts Irial in regard to his intentions. Irial gives nothing, as usual, and departs with the satisfaction that he has caused a little chaos.

The next day, Leslie is at Crow's Nest with Ani and Tish with the intention of enjoying themselves, but it is clear that their plans are not going as expected given Mitchell, Leslie's ex-boyfriend, has placed himself in her path. He continuously harasses her and, after a particularly rough pass, Niall has to be held in place by several unseen fae to prevent him from assaulting the human male. This amuses Leslie and, drunk with power, she squeezes his face until Mitchell flees in fear. Her newfound strength concerns Niall as he does not know its origin. As he is growing increasingly concerned for her safety, Niall convinces Leslie to allow him to escort her to the home of Seth which she agrees. Their entire journey is peppered with forbidden kisses and silent slide of hands against flesh, but Niall grows distracted by the sudden approach of Bananach who attempts to attack them. They are, thankfully, saved by Gabriel who forces a promise of safety from Niall before he whisks her away to the safety of the steel train. It is here where they spend the evening. Leslie confesses her sexual assault to Niall and, knowing she is precious to him, he swears to protect her against anyone - even his own faery court.

The next morning, Niall offers to tell Leslie everything she wishes to know about the world which she is becoming more akin to on the condition that she allow him time to ask for permission. She agrees and the two spend the day simply being near each other before she goes to her final tattoo appointment. Unfortunately, it is the last time Niall sees her completely human as it is revealed an ink exchange has tied her to the Dark Court against her knowledge and, even worse, to Irial specifically. He is forced to watch as she is taken away by The Hunt and, knowing that his time is limited, Niall begs Keenan to allow him to protect her. Keenan is keen to the events that are occurring around him and, with vengeful words of his own, he offers Niall the option of addicting Leslie to him with his gancanagh nature so that he may love her from a distance, but only in exchange for the secrets of the Dark Court. This infuriates Niall as he had dedicated nearly a millennium of his life to the Summer Court and, without further argument, he rescinds his fealty to the other male before departing in a cloud of anger. Niall is quickly met by Irial who offers him a momentary vow of protection in exchange for a discussion. He accepts and immediately attempts to bargain for her release, but Irial reveals that he is unable to release her as the Dark Court requires her emotions to sustain themselves, hence his reason for the ink exchange. It is a revelation which startles Niall visibly and, knowing Niall's affection for Leslie mixed with his own towards the other male, Irial promises that she will be kept safe - with an open invitation to visit her whenever Niall wishes.

Niall does not see her again until several weeks later when Leslie is well enough to leave the Dark Court, though she is clearly different and suffering from he effects of having her emotions drunk away. The mere sight of her brings Niall to tears and he swears that he will do anything to free her. Leslie is cautious as she is unsure her true desires anymore, but agrees to his plan when she is ready. Niall wordless watches as she leaves and goes to gather the supplies necessary to severe the connection. Niall is shocked several days later when Leslie arrives with silent horrors on her lips, she asking him to severe the ink exchange once and for all. He complies and is able to do so with the use of frost from the Winter Court and sunlight from the Summer Court, both of which tear into her skin and cause her immense pain. The next few days are marked with him caring for her as she recovers.

In the following weeks, Niall watches over Leslie as she gradually heals from her ordeal. He is interrupted one afternoon by the arrival of Irial who commends him for his strength to resist her and, in a final act of compassion, passes the Dark Court to Niall. He, as Dark King, is no longer addictive nor fatal to humans - when he is ready, he can go to Leslie without bounds.

Stopping Time

Main Article: Stopping Time

In Stopping Time, Niall is first seen when he calls Leslie only to be met with her angrily demanding to know who is calling. Her obvious frantic state worries him and, with a little coaxing, she tells him about her recent problems including repeated hang-up calls. Niall offers the protection of the Dark Court to her, but Leslie refuses and instead asks him to act as a friend alone. The two spend the ret of the evening discussing the newest prints he bought at an art gallery. Niall remains on the phone even after Leslie has Gallen asleep and, when she inquires as to whether he is still connected in the morning, he happily informs her that he is. Leslie responds with guilt over keeping him from the court and Niall mentions that she is too good for them. This upsets Leslie, but he does not take back his words. Niall tells Leslie that he loves her before the call is disconnected.

The next day, Niall is summoned by frantic dark faeries who inform him that Leslie has been kidnapped by her brother, Ren. He rushes to her apartment building with Gabriel and, upon arriving, the two storm her apartment building. Niall drags Ren into the streets by his neck, taking him far away so that he may meet his demise.

Niall meets with Irial at a coffee shop to discuss both the present events and ones of the past. It is here where Niall forgives Irial for allowing the dark faeries to torment him in the past, he admitting that he now understands the needs of the court and the reasons he could not command them otherwise. He also admits that he noticed the small gestures Irial did over the centuries which showed he cared and, in the present, that he is willing to disobey his regent to protect the ones he loves, Leslie included. The two share a brief kiss before Niall tentatively asks him to move back into the house Irial once occupied and, after a few moments, Irial agrees.

At Irial's insistence, Niall goes to visit Leslie and comfort her following the events of the day. Leslie admits that she can no longer deny their presence inter life, but that she cannot be apart of the Dark Court just yet. She is too broken and yet she is willing to "stop time" if only for the evening. Leslie advises Niall to return to his court in the morning and be with Irial as it is good for him. Until then the two return to her apartment to enjoy each other.

Fragile Eternity

Main Article: Fragile Eternity

In Fragile Eternity, Niall is meeting with Seth Morgan at Crow's Nest when Bananach approaches him. She is initially there to taunt him regarding his new position, but quickly devolves the situation into a skirmish. Niall spars with her if only to satisfy her need for bloodshed and, once she is sent on her way, Niall returns to Seth and provides context for the events he just witnessed. Their conversation is interrupted by the arrival of Devlin who provides a warning of the intentions of the High Queen, Sorcha. A few days later, Niall is lounging around Crow's Nest yet again when Seth arrives. The pair decide to play a few rounds of darts and, towards the end of their third game, the regents of the Summer Court arrive. Niall decides this is an opportune time to test boundaries and he does so by tormenting Keenan. He bringing up the humans in the life of Aislinn Foy whom Keenan refuses to protect which results in an angered Aislinn. In an unseen turn of events, Niall offers the protection of the Dark Court to Seth which he accepts, though rather than sealing the vow in the blood of Seth, he does so with the blood of Keenan by punching him in the face and knocking him unconscious. Aislinn reacts negatively to this and attempts to confront Niall, but instead ends up trapped in a cage of shadows that tease her darkest emotions to the surface. Niall proves himself to be a worthy opponent to the Summer Court and leaves Aislinn frightened yet unharmed. He only bothers to explain his actions to Seth before departing.

It is several weeks before Niall interacts further with the faery courts, he occupied by his own subjects. The silence is broken when he receives a mysterious call from Seth whose protection stone has been stolen, he now trapped by the Summer Girls who are enjoying him. Niall quickly rushes to the Summer Court where he finds Seth being guarded by Aobheall to whom he expresses his gratitude towards. Aobheall merely laughs at the situation and remarks that she enjoys keeping him in her debt before vanishing into her fountain, thus allowing Niall to remove Seth from the situation. Niall returns Seth to his home where the pair discuss the possibility of Seth becoming fae, though the Dark King does not wish to have a hand in such a transformation as he believes it a curse. This clearly upsets Seth and, in an effort to grant his friend the necessary space to fully contemplate his decision, Niall departs.

Niall continuously visits Seth even though he is angry at him for his lack of willingness to transform him into fae and, when Seth goes missing, Niall sends The Hunt to search for him. Their lack of progress leads Niall to believe that Seth has been taken to the Realm of Faerie. He departs for the High Court where he discovers Seth has found a way to transform himself with the assistance of Sorcha. This angers him as he feels Seth "was not [hers] to take", but Sorcha merely brushes him aside. The resulting meeting between Niall and Seth in which the Dark King attempts to convince his friend to return to the mortal realm is met with mild disgust for his new resolve for the High Queen. Niall comments that he wishes to speak with his friend and not the creature he has become, thus he asks to see him only when he is acting himself. In the upcoming months, Niall keeps the knowledge of whereabouts of Seth to himself, save for the Winter Queen, Donia, whom he has forged a truce with. He is aloof when Aislinn begs at his feet and simply informs her that he will only speak of the location if Seth wishes it.

Upon his return to the mortal realm, Seth asks Niall to be trained by The Hunt so that he can better defend himself which, with the blessing of Gabriel and Chela, he permits.

Old Habits

Main Article: Old Habits

In Old Habits, Niall finds Seth Morgan lounging in Crow's Nest during the day. He sits with Seth and confesses that he called Leslie the previous day, something which makes Seth chuckle. He asks Niall if he asked her on a date and, while Niall denies the accusation, Seth insists that he admit he does not want to date her - Niall cannot as it would be a lie. The two fall into silence before Niall hands Seth a nondescript stone which the latter places on a chain. The stone prevents Seth from being affected by the charms of faeries, thus allowing himself to control is urges and make more rational decisions. Seth is grateful for the gift.

Niall finds himself in an impromptu meeting with Irial a few days later, he seeing out the Dark King to inform him of his conversations with Sorcha and inform him that her High Advisor, Devlin, will visit the Dark Court within the week. This information does not phase Niall though as he is more angry at Irial for visiting the High Court without his permission. Irial teases Niall for being weak and, knowing that the court needs nourishment to withstand Devlin, he advises Niall to find a fae to satisfy his sexual urges. This infuriates Niall as he wishes to be with the human Leslie, but Irial bitterly insists this is impossible as she has chosen to remain away from the court.

A few days later, Niall is at the headquarters which houses The Hunt, he sparring with a hound. Irial arrives in the middle of a scuffle and, when Niall demands a new opponent, Irial presents himself. Niall is initially hesitant to fight the High Advisor, but soon agrees. It is during this sparring match that Irial reveals Devlin, the High Advisor, will visit the Dark Court by the end of the week and bring violence in his wake. Irial advises that the court prepare themselves by feeding upon Solitaries and Summer Girls. This proposal is not ideal, but Niall allows it on the condition that only those who are willing be brought to court.

Niall is made aware of the arrival of Devlin by members of his court and, as soon as he arrives, Niall is brought face-to-face with Irial whom is directly disobeying his orders. This angers Niall and, knowing that Irial is keeping secrets, he orders Irial to swear fealty and fully establishes himself as a threat. Irial is entertained by Niall's sudden show of force, but agrees to teach him everything he knows over the course of three years. Niall is satisfied with this and, aware of the fracas around them, releases Irial to join the battle. The scuffle continues for several hours and, at one point, Niall is forced to pull Irial to safety. At the end of the battle, Devlin promises to relay Niall's parting words before departing to the Realm of Faerie.

Radiant Shadows

Main Article: Radiant Shadows

In Radiant Shadows, Niall finds Ani and Irial resting upon his couch. The pair appear to have slept together based on Irial's state of undressed and, upon confronting them, is surprised to find neither had engaged in such an act. Irial insists that he does not desire her in that way and, with Ani confirming that she had attempted yet received rejection, Niall allows his anger to fade. The departure of Ani allows him to rest next to Irial and the pair reluctantly begin to discuss their relationship. The next few days are met with little excitement, but the sudden arrival of Bananach in Huntsdale, Pennsylvania proves an issue for not only the Dark Court - all who cross her path are in danger. Tish, the eldest daughter of Gabriel, is murdered by her in an effort to start chaos and Niall is summoned to Pins and Needles in the aftermath. It is here which Seth is informed the Realm of Faerie has begun to fall into disarray by Devlin and, knowing that the entire species is in danger, he prepares to travel back to the High Court. Their plans are interrupted by the sudden arrival of Bananach though who proudly takes credit for the blood she has extracted from their loved ones. In the midst of the ensuing skirmish, Bananach fatally wounds Irial when he uses his body to shield another, she piercing his abdomen with two blades - one dripped in poison. This engages Niall and, utilizing the full power of the Dark Court, he banishes Bananach with her follows from the small shop so that he may bring Irial back to his home - their home.

Irial begins to grow weaker from his wounds which, in combination with the sealing of the veil between the realms, slowly drives Niall insane. He holds onto a small portion of his control though when visited by Ani, Devlin, and Katherine Rae O’Flaherty in his dreams. The latter person, Rae, offers to binds the dreams of Irial and Niall when he insist that they remain in the mortal realm and, knowing that Irial has reason for accepting the offer, agrees as well. Niall bids Ani a final farewell as she retreats to the Realm of Faerie, thus leaving Niall to handle the aftermath of Bananach attack upon his family.

Darkest Mercy

Main Article: Darkest Mercy

In Darkest Mercy, Niall finds himself overcome with grief over the rapidly deteriorating state of Irial from the wounds inflicted upon him by Bananach. He is unable to find a healer who is able to rouse the older male and, even worse, most tell him that the poison which was introduced to his system cannot be cured. This enrages Niall as he is not willing to allow Irial to pass into the next world, but Irial knows that he does not have much time and begins to concoct a way to soothe him through the transition. In their dreams, Irial is able to convince Niall to rest with him for a short time - to get rid of the exhaustion which has begun to plague Niall - and he reluctantly agrees. Upon awakening though, Niall finds that Irial has passed which destroys the remainder of his sanity. He is vaguely aware that Bananach is a threat whom he needs to protect the Dark Court against, but he is unable to differentiate between the various fae and ultimately hurts his own. In addition to this, he repeatedly gives the same orders without recollection of stating them in the past. The only one which needs repeating is protection of Leslie which Gabriel prompts him to give with a clear mind.

The return of Seth Morgan from the Realm of Faerie is one which should have brought Niall peace, but instead he is still haunted by the death of Irial and quickly fracturing. Seth attempts to confront him, but Niall simply claims that he will not harm Seth. This confuses him as he did not say anything about fearing Niall and, lost in his own mind, Niall confuses that he can taste emotions. Seth quickly realizes that there is no reasoning with him and, upon receiving permission to control the dark fae for a single minute, he orders Eliza to render Niall unconscious so that he may rest. His awakening is met with fury as Niall realizes the actions Seth had completed and, despite him insisting that there is a way to kill Bananach, Niall refuses to listen. His mind is further fractured when Seth reveals that he can see the threads of the future and that he knew Irial would die. Niall, filled with the full rage of the Dark Court, sentences Seth to imprisonment until further notice.

In a desperate attempt to save Irial, Niall requests an audience with the Death Faerie, Far Dorcha, who is amused by the entire situation. Niall offers the life of any faery in exchange for Irial, including his own. Far Dorcha insists that he can only accept one which Niall will mourn - an even exchange. There are few faeries which would meet this criteria and, in an effort to meet his request, Far Dorcha offers the life of Leslie in exchange for the life of Irial as she possesses a portion of his immorality. This is unacceptable though and, without further comment, Far Dorcha departs the Dark Court without any action taken.

Keenan arrives at the home of Niall a few days later and where he finds that the Dark King is continuing to deteriorate, but more importantly has taken on peculiar traits which are not his won. He successfully deduces that Irial is inhabiting the body of Niall, though he is unsure the means by which this occurred. He is given an explanation of woven dreams which, when allowed to regain control over his body, Niall vaguely admits to agreeing upon. This provides him with clarity over the situation and, he happily realizes that he has not gone crazy but was rather being inhabited by the shade of Irial who could only speak once called upon by another force. It is this information which is relayed to Leslie who breaks down with tears of joy, she promising to remain in their protection until the danger has been dispelled. The moment of happiness between the trio is quickly interrupted as dark fae arrive with word that Bananach has declared herself the Dark Queen, she eliciting chaos on her own given that the regents of the faery courts refuse to do so.

Bananach and her followers fight against the faeries of the other courts, she tearing through them even upon the arrival of reinforcements. It is only with a collective effort between Aislinn, Donia, and Niall that she begins to falter, though she quickly gains the upper-hand by fatally wounding Donia. Keenan is able to whisk a dying Donia off of the battle field. This leaves Aislinn and Niall to battle and, with both regents having finally come into their full power, they work together to bury Bananach beneath the ground before fatally stabbing her with a shadow-wrought broadsword. This is not the end of their journey though as the Far Dorcha returns to the remaining regents and withdraws the shade or Irial from Niall with the declaration that a new Discord must be created in order to balance Order. The position is offered to several powerful fae who each reject it in turn, thus Far Dorcha begrudgingly anoints Irial to this position and, with balance restored, departs the mortal realm. Irial and Niall are finally free to spend the rest of eternity together and, with them, the Leslie who awaits their reappearance at their home.

Unexpected Family

Main Article: Unexpected Family

In Unexpected Family, Seth Morgan asks Niall to accompany him on a journey across the country to see his parents or, more specifically, save them from an unknown danger. Niall is initially hesitant due to his status as the Dark King, but his mate Irial appears from seemingly thin air and insists that all will be well in his absence - Irial can act as the Dark King and, better yet, Leslie will be off of his mind. Niall reluctantly agrees. While traveling, Niall and Seth finally discuss the "eye thing" that occurred in Darkest Mercy in which Niall attempted to remove Seth's eyes with a hot fire poker due to the latter withholding information regarding the death of Irial. Niall apologizes for his behavior and Seth seemingly accepts, though he is still unsure about the situation. The two eventually reach an agreement where Niall will never attack or imprison Seth again in exchange for Seth alerting Niall to the death of Irial or Leslie should he foresee it in his visions.

It takes several days for them to arrive at their destination and, when they do, the pair immediately begins the journey to the campgrounds where James Morgan and Linda Morgan are staying. Niall offers to "check the perimeter" in front of the humans, but in reality leaves to question the fae who have been holding Seth's parents hostage. Niall returns a short time later and, with him, are a hoard of Solitary who refused to answer any of his questions. They demand an audience with Seth and, in an effort to free his parents, he grants it. Seth learns that during the events of Darkest Mercy, he unintentionally made himself the Solitary King by declaring himself the balance to Niall, thus they wanted an audience with their new regent. This confuses Seth, but he gradually accepts his new role on the condition that his parents be placed under their protection. The faeries agree. Niall congratulates Seth on his new status as regent and drinks the joyous emotions of those that surround him as they enjoy their first revelry.

Love Hurts

Main Article: Love Hurts

In Love Hurts, Niall is at the Benedum Center to see Faust, an operate of the medieval scholar who makes an ill-fated deal with a devil. He had an expectant date with Irial and Leslie, but Irial refused to attend. Irial is unsure why Irial has chosen to avoid them that evening, something which infuriates both of them. Once the show concludes, Niall and Leslie depart the Benedum Center in near silence with the exception of Leslie stating that she will confront Irial to obtain the truth behind him avoiding them. Niall does not object for while he had grown used to secrecy from Irial, he would not be indirect conflict with Leslie.

A few days later, Niall is in New Jersey when he receives a single text from Leslie which reads “With Iri. Airport. NOLA. Love.” He in unsure why the pair would be traveling to New Orleans, Louisiana and, after receiving no answers from them upon calling, Niall decides to travel to the city himself. He calls Chela who arrives shortly thereafter with The Hunt. Chela is unaware of the secrets that have been kept from Niall regarding New Orleans, Louisiana and, when she asks Niall if he would like to go to a specific house in the Garden District, Niall becomes intrigued. She refuses to say anymore though and The Hunt processed to escort Niall to his destination.

Niall arrives at the house close to midnight where he finds Irial and Leslie pouring over documents in the front foyer. He casually remarks that the door was left open to which Irial responds that he left it so on purpose as he expected Niall to arrive sooner rather than later. Niall waits expectantly for an explanation regarding their impromptu adventure and, with encouragement from Leslie, Irial admits that the human who Irial had fallen in love with was Thelma Foy, the fated Summer Queen. The matter is further complicated when a letter arrives which reveals that the Summer Queen, Aislinn Foy, is the great granddaughter of Irial.

The trio are left shocked by this new information, as they were with the rest, but Irial almost immediately perks up and declares they must celebrate their newfound parenthood - they naturally stepparents. Leslie finds the idea of her being a stepparent ridiculous, but when Niall teases that this is but a taste of parenthood, hope surges within her so palpable that even Irial can taste it. Niall continues his musings when he states that “Leslie said she wants children, so once she’s finished with school and moves in—”, but his thoughts are quickly caught off by a rejoicing Irial who acts as though this news is a gift. Irial happily declares that "there will be children!” and proceeds to drag the others into the heart of New Orleans so that they may celebrate.

Dark Sun

Main Article: Dark Sun

In Dark Sun, Niall and Irial decide to visit Aislinn Foy following the attack on her court by Urian, Irial's newly discovered son. It is during this meeting that Aislinn reveals Urian's intention to overthrow the Dark Court and Summer Court as he believes he possesses a legitimate claim to both. The trio discuss the validity of his heritage and Irial casually mentioned he has recently taken up reading books about parenting, something that causes Aislinn to raise her eyebrows. At the end of the meeting, Niall offers to send The Hunt to the Summer Court as a sign of goodwill, something which Aislinn accepts.

Over the course of a few weeks, Chela, the leader of The Hunt, decides to change fealties to that of the Summer Court, something which Niall seems unaware of. He does not reach this conclusion until it is found that Urian has been captive by the Summer Court and the three courts - Dark Court, Summer Court, and Winter Court - scuffle over the captive. During the battle, Irial and Niall seemingly find themselves in an on-on-one skirmish which results in Niall repeatedly assaulting Irial, he insisting on knowing why the elder fae insists on putting himself in danger. Irial attempts to convince Niall to name Urian heir, but Niall is repulsed by the idea, especially given current events. In a moment of clarity, Irial proposes marriage to Niall, he offering a wedding between all of them: Leslie and Niall, Niall and Irial, as well as Irial and Leslie - if she would have him. Niall angrily turns down his proposal, despite Irial informing him that he has carried a ring for several centuries, because of Irial's recent reckless actions that could have jeopardized not only their lives, but that of Leslie.

The epilogue sees Niall and Irial spending time together in their home, Irial once again trying to convince Niall to make Urian heir to the Dark Court. Their lovers quarrel is interrupted by a Scrimshaw Sister leaving a grave cloth with a simply message written in ash: "I HAVE LESLIE".

Physical Appearance

Niall is rather tall with a face that is "somehow forgettable but for the long scar that ran from his temple to the corner of his mouth." As a member of the Summer Court, he deliberately kept his wood-brown hair short to lessen his physical appeal to humans, an attention which he did everything in his power to avoid. In Ink Exchange, Niall is described as a “pretty boy” with a “drool worthy” body by persons affiliated with the Dark Court. This implies that he most likely appears to be a member of their court or, at the very least, retain their physical preferences despite fealty to the Summer Court. It is later learned that Niall was never truly loyal to the Summer Court, he needing Irial to heal his fatal wounds as opposed to Keenan.

After becoming Dark King, his eyes change to being dark with flickers of shadows behind the irises, something that both fascinates and terrifies those around him. He also begins to grow his hair out, something he had not done in many years. Niall has the sleek musculature of a martial artist and he regularly exercises with The Hunt as a means of maintaining his physique, though their training leaves him with many bruises and the occasional wound. His torso is covered with numerous of scars ranging in depth from his time in the Dark Court that preceded that of the Summer Court.

Personality

Niall is someone who is loyal to a fault as evidenced numerous times throughout the Wicked Lovely Series, namely in terms of the gratitude he feels towards the Summer Court for protecting him from the Dark Court. Niall feels as though he is in debt to the Summer King, Miach, for his willingness to take him into his faery court despite the atrocities that he had committed and, upon his passing, he continues to be loyal to his son, Keenan. He advises the younger male over the course of a millennium and reminds him that humans should be treated with respect, something which many of the faery courts disagreed with as they saw them as mere pawns in a larger game. His empathy and former experiences with the Dark Court make him a valuable asset in terms of advising and, surprisingly, a wise regent once the title of Dark King is passed onto him by Irial.

Niall, as the Dark King, gains his sense of authority and wields it with pride. He has no issue asserting himself into situations that do not necessarily call upon his expertise and, when goaded, will happily spill blood in the name of the dark fae. This is seen numerous times throughout his reign, though the most notable is when he seals a vow of protection for the human, Seth Morgan, by punching Keenan in the face. While these traits are more pronounced upon his ascension to the throne, they were always present and occasionally slipped passed his mask of penance - hence his willingness to exchange a sexual favor with Jenny Greenteeth for information.

Niall values his loved ones over all else and would do anything to keep them safe. He has threatened numerous faeries in the name of Irial and, most recently, Leslie as well. Niall had no qualms about murdering her delinquent brother, Ren, in cold blood when he threatened her with a gun as a ploy to capture either him or Irial. It is a trait which both of them acknowledge yet none mention.

Abilities

Niall possesses the strengths and weaknesses that are seen in the species of the fae. He has increases agility, endurance, healing, senses, speed, and strength which makes him a threat to mortals. In addition to this, Niall is invisible to mortals unless he dons a glamor, an image which makes him appear "normal" to humans. Due to his status as the Dark King, Niall possesses an immunity to steel which would otherwise burn his skin.

Emotional Metabolism

As the Dark King, Niall possesses the unique ability to feel and feed upon the emotional state of faeries. This is evidenced numerous times once he is given the title chicory and honey, salt and cinnamon, mint and thyme being some of the strongest tastes he feels from those who are closest to him. In the instance that he is deprived of these emotions, the Dark Court itself will become weakened as he is the ultimate source of their nourishment.

Gancanagh

As a gancanagh, Niall possesses several unique abilities that are only found in his species. It is unknown the extent to which these affect additional gancanagh due to their rarity. These abilities include, but are not limited to the following:

Seductive Magnetism

The gancanagh are irresistibly attractive, an item which makes it easy for them to lure in prey. There are no creatures who can avoid this fact, not even other gancanagh. The exact reason behind their irresistible appearance is not completely understood as there are no distinguishing physical features that separate a gancanagh from faeries, but nearly everyone finds themselves drawn to the gancanagh, even if that gancanagh is not their preference (i.e. physically, sexually, etc).

Addictive Contentment

The touch of a gancanagh is considered fatal to humans. Once a mortal has touched the flesh of a gancanagh, they become addicted to the gancanagh in question and, unless they remain in their immediate vicinity, the human will begin to wither. The vast majority of gancanagh are unaware that they have this effect on mortals unless they are told by another, thus they often inadvertently poison several before learning to avoid them altogether.

Shadow Manipulation

Due to his status as the Dark King, Niall is able to manipulate shadows to do his bidding. He is able to change the shadows that surround him into a number of items including that of a bars on a cage to imprison someone and a sword and shield to battle someone. In Darkest Mercy, he is enacts all these without much effort or thought as evidenced by him simultaneously protecting Seth Morgan and attacking Bananach during the battle between the faery courts.

Abyss Guardians

Niall possesses control over the abyss guardians, sentiment shadows that are tied to the Dark King. These creatures have a tendency to take the form of both men and women in seductive poses, though it is hypothesized that they prefer that which the regent of the Dark Court is more attracted to. In Radiant Shadows and Darkest Mercy, it is shown that they typically require burst of dark emotions to hold their full power as evidenced by them appearing when the loved ones of Niall were in danger.

Relationships

Irial

The relationship between Irial and Niall is complicated and stretches more than a millennium, the pair having experienced many struggles wrapped in secrets and tragedy. Their first meetings was muddled due to intoxication and fascination, Irial completely baffled that Niall was unaware of his additive contentment against humans as a gancanagh. He uses this against the younger male for six years by simply not bothering to inform him of the consequences his touch possesses and, instead, chooses to observe his decisions when entangled with muddle choices within the Dark Court. It is at the end of this period that Irial reveals their true nature as gancanagh and asks Niall to become his successor. Niall, riddled with guilt over the realization that he contributed to the death of many humans, flees the Dark Court only to be brought back and given a choice: suffer at the hands of the malicious dark fae or the tormented humans he drove insane. Niall ultimately chooses the former which leaves him with both mental and physical scars, though it is unknown the reason behind Irial refusing to intervene on his behalf. Niall leaves the Dark Court soon after this event to join the Summer Court; however, he is never truly a summer fae as evidenced by Irial continuously sneaking into their home to heal a wounded Niall in ways the other regents could not. The relationship between the two males does not begin to mend until the twenty-first century with the discovery the Summer Queen, Aislinn Foy, as both are forced to face each other in ways they were once able to avoid. Their matters are further complicated with the human, Leslie, becomes the object of both their desires and, as the years pass, both come to love her in ways previously thought to be impossible. The death of Irial allows them to truly address their issue and admit, for the first time in many years, that they are truly in love. They now exist within the Dark Court in a polyamorous relationship.

Leslie

Leslie and Niall share a relationship that initially began as a crush on her part alone. It is not until Aislinn Foy ascends to the throne of the Summer Court that Niall begins to recognize the human and becomes attracted to her as well, though neither act upon their emotions out of respect for Aislinn herself. It is several months after their initial meeting that the pair share a conversation at Carnegie Museum of Art over their passions and, with this small interaction, the tone for their relationship is set. The pair become inseparable despite the circumstances which threaten to keep them at arms length, Irial even noticing their affections and offering them the chance to be together once Leslie has been taken into the Dark Court as a result of the ink exchange. Niall does everything in his power to free Leslie and cares for her in the days following, something that brings them closer yet sets the tone of control on her behalf for the rest of their relationship. Niall is always careful to with Leslie and allows her control over the events that occur in her life, though he occasionally interferes in her favor as evidenced by paying her bills when money is tight. Niall is the first to act viciously to protect her wellbeing as evidenced by him murdering her delinquent brother, Ren. It is interesting to note that despite being merely human, Leslie is an anchor for Niall unlike any other as she is able to pull himself from insanity upon the death of Irial, something no other creature was able to do. They now exist within the Dark Court in a polyamorous relationship.

Seth Morgan

The relationship between Seth Morgan and Niall is somewhat familiar as the two are chosen brethren. The pair began developing a friendship shortly after Aislinn Foy ascended to the throne of the Summer Court and, with each holding respect towards the other for various reasons, they quickly decided they were meant to communicate in one way or another. Seth has no issues with Niall when he becomes the Dark King and even accepts his vow of protection from the Dark Court - even though it draws concern from his girlfriend, Aislinn. The only instance in which the two are seen as angry with the other is when Niall attempts to blind Seth with a hot iron for lack of information regarding the death of Irial, though this too passes once Seth realizes the insanity from a lack of balance in the mortal realm has caused his actions. Seth has permission to walk through the Dark Court without pause and, when The Hunt is sworn to him, they as well. Niall has willingly stated that he would do anything to protect Seth given if did not endanger his own mates.

Etymology

The name Niall (nye-al) is of Irish or Scottish Gaelic origin, it ultimately borrowed from the Old Irish Niall with uncertain original meaning. It is suggested that the name is similar to nel meaning "cloud" or niadh meaning "champion", "passionate", or "vehement". It is evangelized as Neil (knee-ill).

Appearances

Mentioned In

Desert Tales

Trivia

The exact age of Niall is unknown, but the following is established:
- In Stopping Time, Niall comments he first met Irial over twelve centuries ago.
- In Cold Iron Heart, Irial comments that Niall was decreed the heir to the Dark Court eleven hundred years ago.
In Radiant Shadows, Devlin comments that Niall once lived in the Realm of Faerie.