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"The Demon of Vyrantium, huh? Quite a name." Rook wondered to themself from atop the library balcony looking out into the Fade. So much had happened so quickly and went south even faster. But that was par for the course for them wasn't it? One mess leading into another, into another.First that job in Nessus, then Solas' crazy ritual, Varric's injury, elven gods, the Blight, the damned Dread Wolf in their head, and now a mage killing assassin. Neve didn't seem particularly worried about that last detail but a mage killer specializing in Tevinter mages didn't really inspire any kind of comfort in an already fucked situation. Rook looked at their forearm, black ink wrapped around their skin in a serpentine dragon. Tattoos were important to the Dalish, even though Rook wasn't raised Dalish--adopted by a military family in Tevinter--something just felt right about marking themselves even if it wasn't a "traditional" design. Their tattoos might not be in veneration of the elvan gods but they were a mark of their conviction to the Shadow Dragons’ cause, to helping people, and on a more personal note, bashing in Venatori skulls. A reminder that you choose your own path."Maybe going home for a bit would clear my head," Rook sighed. "Assuming I don't get arrested on sight...then again it would be a nice refreshing sense of normalcy, no gods or end of the world just some good old fashioned Templar boots and posturing," Rook joked. "Ah well, we agreed to meet with the Crows as soon as possible so no use in stalling," they sighed before vaulting off the balcony into the courtyard. Their magic coursed through their body and dampened their landing on the cobblestones. "Better see if Bellara managed to fix the Eluvian."
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Rook marveled at the intricate canal system and towering buildings of Treviso. The city had its own feel to it, so very different from the seemingly endless rain and mazes of Minrathous. It was beautiful in spite of all the barricades and checkpoints from their Antaam occupiers."The Antaam certainly made themselves comfortable," Harding muttered bitterly. Neve hummed in agreement as the three waited on one of the many bridges over the expansive canals."Welcome to Antiva. You must be Rook." A woman greeted in a heavy accent. She was beautiful with dark curls and wore unmistakable Antivan Crow leathers. Her eyes scanned Rook and company's bodies with practiced precision, taking in every detail of all three, no doubt identifying possible hidden weapons."And you're Andarateia Cantori, of the Crows?" Rook asked, although there was really no mistaking a Crow while looking at one."Teia, please," she answered before gesturing for them to follow her. "Come. My associate Viago is gathering the others. We can talk business when we arrive." They all made their way around the various Antaam checkpoints and bustling markets as propaganda from the occupation broadcasted throughout the city, eventually arriving at a large sturdy trellis. Teia easily climbed up with efficient grace and Rook followed up to a rooftop garden. Apparently Trevisians frequented the rooftops just as much as any other plaza. Teia led them to a zipline, jumping on it without a moment of hesitation. The same could not be said for the three visitors, however. The two Tevinter mages stared at each other."After you," Neve smirked. Rook smiled awkwardly and took a deep breath before griping the handle. They tugged on it gently, testing its integrity."Okay, I can do this," Rook whispered as they gritted their teeth and jumped off the ledge, clinging to the handle for dear life. The street below them rushed by as they flew across the gap. By some miracle they made it across and even managed to land somewhat gracefully. After patting themself down and making sure they were intact, they turned back to Neve and Harding across the way."Look at that, made it in one piece," Rook called across the gap. "Your turn."Neve gave a hard grin before adjusting her coat and grabbing hold of the handles. "You got this Neve," Harding cheered from behind as the detective leapt off the ledge. Her landing looked almost professional, not a hair or hat out of place."Show off," Rook joked. "Okay Harding, your-" Harding was already on the zipline before Rook could finish and racing through the air with a delighted squeal. "...turn...""Wow that was fun!" Harding breathed as she dusted off her hands. Rook and Neve shared another unspoken look at each other before following after where Teia was waiting. They were led up a flight of stairs into what seemed to be the inner workings of a clock tower. Deep below the balcony was an impressively opulent casino."Welcome to the Cantori Diamond," Teia said as she walked further into the clock tower. She led Rook into a private room as Neve and Harding browsed the wares of the nearby merchant. Three other Crows awaited inside. Two young men and an older woman sitting in a chair."So you're the client?" The man with sharp features, and sharper beard and mustache glared with crossed arms."Rook, this is my associate Viago, I promise not to let him near the drinks." Teia introduced. Viago grumbled at the jab."Viago de Riva, Fifth Talon. And this is Caterina Dellamorte, First Talon of the Crows," Viago gestured to the older woman. She sat regally in her chair as she observed Rook."Pleasure to meet you, I hadn't expected to meet someone so important," Rook greeted. The elderly woman carried herself with pride and strength despite her clearly weary body, and her eyes were sharper than any knife. Rook swallowed nervously as they shifted their focus to the other man standing next to the First Talon. "And you are?""Illario Dellamorte, Caterina's grandson." He answered with a slight bow in greeting and an easy smile. Rook wasn't sure what to make of him. Teia gave the feel of being highly capable, Viago somewhat aggressive in his approach, Caterina was an imposing figure, while Illario felt...odd? Disarming? Rook couldn't seem to find the right word."Thank you for meeting with me." Rook felt nervous, they'd gotten in plenty of street scraps before, stared down nobles and Venatori without flinching, but for some reason being in a room with professional assassins was making them feel jittery. Killers were one thing but assassins felt way more dangerous some how."What is it that you want from us?" Illario asked."There's no sane way to put this so I'll just say it outright. Our target is a pair of elven gods--or that's what they're calling themselves anyway. They're ancient blighted mages." Rook answered. "My detective says you have a man who specializes in bringing blood mages and Venatori to their knees.""Lucanis." The First Talon spoke, her voice filled with a mix of pride and sadness. "My grandson. They called him 'The Demon of Vyrantium.' He was the one who did those jobs.""Sounds like there's more to it." Rook replied cautiously."Lucanis Dellamorte is dead." Viago answered. "He was killed a year ago, now." The First Talon twitched slightly, it was so subtle Rook was surprised they caught it. She ruminated in her head for a moment before speaking again."What I say does not leave this room."
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Lucanis focused on his breathing as the Venatori lacky rambled away their nonsense. He could see his own breath as he exhaled but despite the icy walls of his prison he felt nothing. Neither the cold on his skin or in his soul, nothing but the simple focus of his singular goal: escape.I WANT HIS TONGUE RIPPED FROM HIS THROAT! Spite raged against the ice walls. SILENCE! HIM!The Crow continued to focus on his breathing, although deep down he was in full agreement with the demon. Something was happening outside his prison, deeper in the Ossuary, enough that no less than five cultists came in to keep watch on him. Not that it mattered much, he'd been trapped in this prison for what felt like eternity, although according to that witch Zara it's been nearly a year. Whatever was happening out there didn't change his current situation with five mages watching him like hawks, all he could do was numbly sit and wait for his opportunity to escape, maybe today, maybe another year, but he would escape.Suddenly he heard the doors behind the cultists open and his entire body snapped to attention. He peered through the ice walls as three figures approached the guards."Hey there, no need for us to fight. We're just here for--" a voice began but was cut off by the mages drawing their weapons."Razikale, Dragon of Mystery!" The cultist began.YES! NOW! FREEDOM! Spite howled. He felt the demon spread its wings as the cultist continued his chant.Lucanis burst through the ice prison and grabbed hold of the chanting mage. A second attempted to attack him but the assassin used the first as a shield before kicking the attacker into one of the many ice spikes, impaling him in a bloody mess. Despite an entire year of imprisonment and torture his body understood its purpose well, it was second nature to him to take lives quickly and efficiently. Two more attempted to surround him but Spite's wings cut them to shreds as he charged at the final cultist and broke his neck in a practiced fluid motion.He paused for a moment as his mind caught up with his body. He'd killed his guards. He was one step closer to freedom. An impressed whistle filled the room."I'm guessing you're the reason we're here." The voice from earlier spoke with slight a hint of amusement. Lucanis turned slowly, cautious of the three figures who'd given him his opportunity to escape. One was a human woman, dressed fashionably with a golden serpent prosthetic leg, clearly Tevinter, another was a dwarven woman dressed in practical scout's attire often seen in the South, Ferelden perhaps. The last stranger was an elf wearing a nondescript tattered travel cloak, difficult to discern their origin, but clearly not Dalish for the lack of face tattoos. Their hair was dark and wavy, their eyes a haunting lavender that seemed to go on forever. Lucanis found himself staring at them for far too long. The elf was strikingly beautiful, even through the rough scar across their eye. For the first time in a year, something other than numb revenge stirred in his chest, a distant ghost of a feeling long lost and forgotten.SMELLS LIKE SPRING RAIN AND LAVENDER Immediately Lucanis snapped out of the sensation and closed himself off again. He had no time for anything except survival, he needed to focus on the task at hand."Who are you?" He asked suspiciously as he took in more details of his supposed rescuers. "Who sent you?" The two women watched him just as closely as he observed them, keen eyes the both of them, ones to be careful around. The elf was more casual, their guard was loose but their stance was well balanced, disarming but ready to move quickly, a risky stance, sloppy by Crow standards, but they had the build to pull it off effectively."Rook." The elf introduced themself. "This is Neve and Harding, Caterina sent us." A feeling of fondness washed over Lucanis at the sound of his grandmother's name. An odd, conflicting feeling for certain."Caterina," he said quietly to himself, but the moment passed quickly. "You're not a Crow.""And you're possessed by a demon." Rook deflected."It's complicated," Lucanis shrugged. Rook stared at the assassin and huffed in disbelief. FEAR. DISTRUST. ABOMINATION."Rook?" Harding asked nervously, clearly unsettled by the revelation of Lucanis' condition."Caterina promised us a mage killer if we broke you out of here." Neve cut in, she placed a calming hand on Harding's shoulder."I can still work." Lucanis answered. He could, he knew he could. It was all he had left of himself."Fine. Then I think it's time we get out of here, the whole place is falling apart at the seams and more Venatori are on their way." Rook turned to leave."They have a vial of my blood. They could use it to control me. I cannot leave it in their hands." Lucanis interrupted. "And...I had a contract when I was captured. One of my targets is here. Calivan. Crows don't break contracts." Lucanis watched as the elf contemplated about the new information. Their brow furrowed in thought before sighing in defeat."So a prison break, a blood heist and an assassination. Anything else you'd like to add? A book deal maybe?" Rook smirked."I'll owe you." Lucanis stared at the one called Rook. He didn't expect to be rescued, but certainly not by an irritable elf with a pretty face. Pretty? SHARP EYES. SHARP TONGUE. SOFT LIPS? Lucanis clenched his jaw but kept his composure as he ignored Spite's voice."I'm sure we'll owe each other once this is all over. So first order of business?" Rook asked."Blood first, then my target. Calivan, the prison warden.""Where do we find them?" Neve questioned."In the tower. There's a bridge." Lucanis answered."Yeah...not so much anymore. We'll have to find another way across." Harding grinned awkwardly.Once Lucanis' leathers and weapons were recovered, the four exited the cell back into the corridor when more Venatori appeared before them."Good. Mages. My specialty." Lucanis grinned menacingly. Finally a little payback and a chance to stretch his legs. He quickly charged at the nearest cultist and slipped his knives into their ribs with a familiar sensation. His blades have torn through flesh with efficiency and perfected flair since his youth, but something felt different, easier, like his body was suddenly more agile than it had ever been. He could feel Spite's wings enhancing his movements, making his prison stiffened body lighter. It felt good. To move again, to fight again, to kill again.He turned to face the other cultists in time to see Rook slam their own blade into one of the robed mages in a flurry of lightning, a small pressure in his eyes formed as the magic pulled on the veil. A mage then. Rook kicked the cultist over one of the ledges letting him fall to his doom as a third cultist's body collapsed and shattered, frozen completely solid by Neve and broken by Harding's arrows. Two mages then. It was unusual for mages to prefer close combat, Neve still kept a good distance but Rook seemed to like getting up close and personal. Might explain the face scar."The blood vial. Where do we go?" Neve asked."Calivan keeps it under guard. Blood is the only thing that can bind a demon. If they lose it...""Then let's get moving," Rook said as they swiped a key off the ground.The group opened the doors ahead to find themselves in a room of horror and viscera. Rook and Harding held their hands over their mouths to keep themselves from vomiting while Neve clenched her fist in anger. Bodies were strewn about several operating tables, dried husks, completely drained of their blood, while others were still wet and malformed, like something had been trying to claw its way out of their flesh but couldn't figure out where to go. The isolated environment of the Ossuary meant there weren't any insects to swarm the carcasses, keeping them in a strange state of preservation and decay."Venhedis." Neve spat. "Living prisoners for blood magic. Blood magic to summon spirits""Any spirit can become a demon. Zara didn't give them a choice." Lucanis confirmed coldly."Zara?" Rook asked."Zara Renata. There might be a higher-ranking Venatori somewhere, but I don't know of one. This place is all her." Lucanis answered. He felt very little about the state of the room, once he would've been furious before his time in this hell, but now he'd already grown numb to the atrocities of the Zara's experiments. WE WILL CARVE OUR NAMES ON HER HEART.Rook shook their head in disgust. Somehow a rescue mission turned heist and assassination, became a nightmare. The Ossuary would've been an impressive structure, ancient elven magic holding back the expansive weight of the sea, bastardized by Venatori into a torture prison for spirits and men alike."We need to keep going," Rook said quietly, unmistakable cold rage in their voice. Lucanis could tell it was more than just mere outrage, it was a long standing grudge. Something he understood well.As they made their way through the Ossuary, Lucanis had time to plan how he would face Calivan. He'd spent months fantasizing about killing him, how'd he do it, but personal indulgence and the reality of the work rarely went hand in hand. So Lucanis had to plan for the most practical approach. Catching him by surprise was unlikely, meaning he'd have to fight him head on. As long he managed to break the mage's concentration he should be able to kill him. WANT. TO. KILL. Lucanis ignored Spite and looked up at his rescuers. And this time he had mages on his side, at least for now."I've never seen an abomination who wasn't a mage," Neve spoke up, interrupting Lucanis' thoughts."I've seen demons possess corpses. Ashes. And hair once." Lucanis replied, thinking back to the wigmaker job so long ago now. To think that would qualify as simpler times."Well, now what." Rook asked as they reached the broken bridge. The chasm below ran deep and was too far for anyone to jump without wings. SOMETHING. IN THE FADE."What?" Lucanis asked to himself. THE FADE. SOMETHING TO PULL. "What are you--" TELL. THEM. "Fine.""Lucanis?" Rook asked."He says he can get us across." Lucanis answered sounding irritated."He?" Rook asked cautiously."The demon. He says there's something he can grab hold of in the Fade. It's close." Lucanis held his hand towards the broken bridge and, before their eyes, purple tears in the air began to form and seemingly out of nowhere a chunk of stone appeared before them.
Rook stared in disbelief. They'd seen some pretty wild shit during the past year of chasing Solas around Thedas but materializing objects from the Fade into reality? They looked at the assassin questioningly."Don't look at me, I'm as surprised as you." Lucanis replied with a shrug. Were all assassins this nonchalant about demon shit? Rook shook their head, no sense in dwelling on it, they needed to get across. They got a running start and jumped the ledge onto the floating stone. It felt real, it was still purple and shimmering but it felt just like solid stone. Rook continued across to the other side and listened for any Venatori nearby. Neve, Harding and Lucanis landed behind them just as the stone slab disappeared back into the Fade.They continued through the Ossuary, fighting various hoards of demons and undead. Rook couldn't help but watch Lucanis out of the corner of their eye in awe. Purple wings slicing through the air at incredible speed, Lucanis' blades flashing just as quickly with a practiced grace rarely seen. The man had been imprisoned for nearly a year yet seemed to still be in top form. So this was the skill of a professional killer."Calivan." Neve questioned as the last corpse fell to the ground. "You said he was the one in charge?""No. He's a lackey. He runs this place for a powerful magister." Lucanis replied. "He was my target a year ago. Now we both want him dead.""We?" Harding asked warily."Demons don't forgive."Rook found it all so strange. Lucanis was technically an abomination, yet he seemed perfectly normal. They thought back to their harrowing, the final graduation test at the Circle of Magi to prove you couldn't be possessed and become an abomination. Their's had been a demon of Resentment. -it's not fair, you're a mage too. why should you be tormented and spat on because your ears looked different? why do those pompous highbloods get to treat people like cattle- Rook shook the memory from their head. The demon may have clung to their deepest feelings, but feeling and thought were different.Finally they had reached the room where Lucanis' blood was being held. Rook casually flipped their blade in their hand out of habit before sending lightning crashing through the metal and shattering the red lyrium crystal that powered the barrier to the room. They could feel Lucanis' eyes watching their every move. It was unnerving having a mage-killer so close, let alone observing them so intently, almost studying them. The room had various vials of blood but one in particular demanded attention. It was massive, filled with an obscene amount of blood, no doubt collected over a long period of time."Is that?" Rook asked."Yes." Lucanis replied. His voice was irritable. Understandable."Venatori don't do anything subtle. Look at that thing." Neve spoke.Harding took point at the entrance to watch their backs as Rook approached the floating vial. They noticed a scroll laying nearby and read it to themself.
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Calivan
You know as well as I do how demanding Zara can be. Nothing less than perfection is ever acceptable. Of course she's not going to accept that the Crow is a failure of her method. Just kill him. Perhaps the demon will manifest when he dies.
--Felicia Erimond
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"Erimond? Where have I heard that name?" Rook asked. Neve came over and read the letter for herself."Felicia Erimond is the sister of the late Lord Livius Erimond. A Magister who'd joined the Venatori back when Corypheus attacked the South ten years ago." Neve answered. "He was executed by the Inquisition. Seems his sister took up where he left off.""Wait, that magister making the Wardens do blood magic in the Western Approach?" Harding asked in disgust. "He was so creepy.""The description certainly matches." Neve answered."Well aren't you informed," Rook teased."Made sure to research some of the big players in the Venatori when I joined the Shadows. Former members are easier to track names of than current ones for obvious reasons."Rook nodded and focused their attention on the blood vials. So much blood from so many victims. They took a deep breath before shattering every vial in the room with lightning. The stench of rancid iron filled the room as the blood splattered across the floor."It's finally gone," Lucanis said, his voice sounded like a weight had been lifted from him."So now what?" Rook asked."Now we find Calivan. I have a contract to complete and a score to settle." Lucanis growled, a year of debts were about to be paid in full. YES. BLOOD. KILL. They entered the elevator nearby that would take them to where Calivan was most likely hiding."Anything we should know about Calivan?" Neve asked as they waited to reach their destination."You want to hear about his torture methods or something else? We didn't exactly chat.""It's fine. We can talk about something else." Rook interrupted, hoping for a lighter topic. "What's Caterina like?""After so long in this pit...I barely remember." Lucanis' voice sounded distant and sad. It would seem the Demon of Vyrantium cared deeply for his grandmother. The elevator finally reached the top of the tower to a large circular domed room that showed the underwater view clearly like everywhere else in the Ossuary. A man stood waiting for them. He wore opulent Venatori robes that showed his status and wealth."Oh this was entirely unnecessary. Zara and her little jests. 'He's already the Demon of Vyrantium! Won't this be ironic?'" He ranted with an arrogance only afforded to those accustomed to being untouchable. "Hilarious. And now her little pet project has made a mess of my facility!""I'd ask if this was Calivan but he wreaks of Tevinter highblood, a Venatori favorite." Rook mocked."He is." Lucanis confirmed, a small hint of amusement in his voice for the first time since they'd met. "The target I was sent for a year ago. A Crow never abandons a contract." Rook resisted the urge to roll their eyes at the little quips from the Crow. The man had been in isolation and torture for a year, they could forgive a little repetition."What's this, Crow? You brought along a group of ruffians? Were you lonely?" Calivan mocked with an arrogant sneer. "And an elf of all things, have you no pride?"This time Rook rolled their eyes hard, far too used to pompous Tevinter mocking of their people. "If you don't kill him, Lucanis, I will.""I'd say you shouldn't underestimate a mage, but seeing as two of you are mages, I'm sure you'll be fine." Lucanis said with a viscious smirk. ---
"Minrathous. The Heart of Tevinter. Somehow the beat of it always pulls me back..." Neve mused wistfully as the two strolled through the busy streets. They decided it would attract less attention if it were just them, so Bellara stayed behind at the Lighthouse while Lucanis and Harding waited off in a side alley."It's just how I left it." Rook replied taking a deep breath as the rain filled air washed over them. A whole year away. Dock Town was pretty far from their own neighborhood, but the scent of the harbor was familiar still. Minrathous was...complicated. Corrupt, cruel, desperate, while the highbloods enjoyed lavish wealth and power. As frustrating as home was, it was still home. Every vendor making it by, street performer, beggar, scam artist, every street cat and hound. Home."It always is." Neve agreed. "Come on, it's this way." Rook pulled themself from their thoughts and hurried after her."Do the Shadows know we're here?" Rook asked."Neve Gallus." A familiar voice called out from an alleyway. "You only turn up when you want news. Or you've got some." A bearded man in a Shadow Dragon uniform sauntered closer. Despite his efforts to look casual, he couldn't quite hide the familiar strong posture of a military man."Tarquin!" Neve greeted cheerfully."And it's 'Rook' now, I hear. I thought you'd be gone for good." Tarquin nodded at Rook with a raised brow. Rook rubbed the back of their neck while avoiding eye contact. Tarquin had been the one who 'suggested' Rook take off for a while until things cooled down."How are things?" Neve asked more somberly."Same old Minrathous. Mages not letting us poor ungifted wretches forget where we stand." Tarquin griped. Just as he'd finished a man landed next to him from somewhere above. He too wore a Shadow Dragon uniform, though his coat had more flair to it and his face was covered with a mask and hat. "You know the Viper," Tarquin casually introduced."I know he likes to make an entrance," Rook joked. This was the first time actually seeing the Viper face to--well, mask. "No one watches the rooftops," the Viper replied in a deep voice."Sure, that's what he says," Tarquin rolled his eyes. "So why the meeting? Is this about your work with Varric?"They both filled the Shadow Dragons in on the horrors in D'Meta's Crossing, how the Evanuris were walking in Thedas, the horrors they witnessed in the aftermath of the Blight."So, what's been happening in the city?" Neve asked.
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Lucanis crossed his arms as he leaned against the wall of a building. Neve and Rook had gone to meet with their Shadow Dragon contacts, leaving him and Harding to wait nearby. His life as a Crow had always led him into some truly bizarre situations, and yet somehow he kept finding himself in even stranger predicaments still. Elven gods, Caterina's death, a flying Lighthouse in the Fade. He already had a demon to contend with and now he was in the midst of legends and scripture. The Ossuary was torture, the demon clawing at his body and mind was maddening, his family once again ripped from his life."You okay, Lucanis?" Harding asked warily. The dwarf was always warry of him, an abomination. Understandable. Demons are frightening and terrible, and abominations are called as such for a reason. "I'm fine, Harding. Just getting used to being surrounded by so many people again." A deflection, but an honest one. He'd been to Minrathous countless of times for work, not so much this side of town certainly, but it was a city he knew well enough. But after a year in isolation with the only 'company' he had were Venatori and demons, this many people bustling about was grating on his senses. Instead he focused his thoughts on his new associates. First there was the one next to him, Lace Harding. A scout from Ferelden and a former member of the now disbanded Inquisition. SMELLS LIKE JAM AND BRIMSTONE. Lucanis had seen Harding in action back at the Ossuary, she was an excellent archer and quick on her feet. She and Varric Tethras had started this little crusade to find Solas, the Dread Wolf. Lucanis remembered reading one of his books a few years ago. Apparently they had succeeded in their mission on stopping Solas and his ritual, but accidentally released two of the Evanuris into the world. Lucanis didn't know much about the elven pantheon of old, only that the Dalish tattooed their faces in reverence to them. There was one such Dalish girl back at the Lighthouse. An excitable, energetic mage named Bellara with the very tattoos on her own face. They'd been briefly introduced as Lucanis was given the tour of their strange, almost mythic lodgings. Something about the entire ordeal felt heretical, stepping foot in the Fade physically. He wondered if he should pay a visit to a Chantry, then he remembered the demon he carried in his body and the idea immediately lost its appeal. Lucanis sighed. His not so little problem was exactly why he had chosen the small pantry as his quarters, to the rest of the team's polite surprise. He didn't blame them, most people would find voluntarily confining yourself to a tiny pantry to be strange, but for Lucanis it was the obvious choice. A single point of entry in a stone room far away from the others, it was the safest choice for everyone."Rook! Neve! Your back." Harding's voice cuz through the Crow's thoughts. He scowled. He'd allowed himself to get distracted by his thoughts he had lost track of his surroundings. He reprimanded himself in his head. Sloppy. Amateur. It would seem that in addition to his growing list of problems, a whole year in the Ossuary had dulled his discipline. "So how did things go with the Shadow Dragons?" Harding asked."There's a red lyrium relic we need to track down, it's a danger to Dock Town. I can handle it myself, but Rook insisted on tagging along. I won't ask the two of you to put yourselves in danger for my problem too." Neve reported, her eyes elsewhere already thinking of multiple leads to follow."We don't mind helping, Neve. We're a team after all, besides Venatori getting their hands on red lyrium is bad, like really bad." Harding answered already pulling her bow over her shoulder. Lucanis took his cue to follow her lead and readied himself to follow the detective and company to track down this relic. And the added bonus of killing more Venatori was always appealing. He could feel Spite smirk in approval.Lucanis ignored the demon and focused on the detective instead. Neve Gallus, Tevinter mage and Dock Town local. It was clear she carried herself with confidence and sharp wit, but Lucanis' experience told him there was more to it than appearances would suggest."What?" Neve asked without turning around as she continued her trek through the city."Huh?" Harding asked."I can feel your eyes on me, Lucanis." Neve said. Ah, observant even while not looking."Hiring the Demon of Vyrantium was your idea." He probed."It was a possible lead." Neve answered, her eyes still focused on some unseen series of leads."After all the jobs I did in Minrathous, the last thing I expected was a Tevinter mage to be involved in breaking me out of prison." Lucanis mused. His eyes briefly wandered to Rook. "Never mind two of them.""Well, good. I'd hate for assassins to find me predictable." Neve teased before returning her focus on the task at hand. Lucanis huffed a small laugh to himself. The esteemed detective was a mystery all her own. ROOK. NEXT. Lucanis frowned. Spite's fascination with his new client was concerning. When he'd first arrived at the Lighthouse, he had asked Neve and Bellara for help with Spite. Some way to separate them, and was left with disappointing but expected answers. Then Rook had entered their little meeting and Spite had gotten excited, demanding to speak with them, throwing such a tantrum that he'd nearly broken Lucanis' nose. The violence of it wasn't unusual but it was the first time Spite had fixated on a person like this, it worried Lucanis. What he didn't expect was Rook's concern for him, not concern for their safety from an abomination but concern for Lucanis' safety. -THEY WON'T HURT YOU. HOW RARE- Spite had taunted back then. It had been a year since Lucanis had experienced any sort of decency from another, let alone empathy. He wasn't certain what to to do about it. Everything about Rook confused him. His eyes followed Rook's frame again. The elf was another mystery to him. At first he thought them easy to read but the longer he spent in their presence the less he felt he understood. Tevinter mages were generally his specialty, although his targets tended to be upper crust nobles. He rarely observed or interacted with civilian mages, and Rook's demeanor certainly lacked the refinement of wealth. He'd seen many elves in Tevinter hollow and broken, tormented by Venatori, but Rook's eyes were sharp and prideful.
They'd run into several groups of Venatori as they searched through the city for the red lyrium relic. Lucanis' body felt good as he flew about the battle, cutting down the very Venatori bastards that tortured him and Spite. His discipline may have waned in the wake of his imprisonment, but his skills and condition seemed sharper than ever before. Spite's doing perhaps. The ease of the battles gave him opportunity to observe his associates combat skills, but despite his attempts to avoid it, his eyes always followed Rook.The elf was quick and powerful, almost heavy handed in their attacks and always at the front. An unusual position to take for a mage. Lucanis had seen it back in the Ossuary too, whenever Rook faced off against Venatori there was a hatred in their eyes. Outside of battle Rook was cheery and disarming, their body language always loose and friendly. They followed Neve's lead without any resistance but whenever the group had to climb up precarious scaffolding, rather than sending the scout, they would take point themself without a word. They didn't behave like a leader so much as a bodyguard. Again, a strange position for a mage.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Rook swallowed nervously as Neve spoke with her Thread contact. Elek Travor, a quick witted conman selling counterfeit charms to unsuspecting Soporati, but that wasn't what Rook knew him as. Elek apparently hadn't recognized them yet, and all they could do was pray he didn't notice. Rook quietly observed the Thread from a corner while Neve went through her usual bit. It had been a year since they'd seen him, he hadn't changed that much on the outside, still handsome and charming but the revelation that he'd been a Thread the whole time really came out of nowhere for them. All those nights together and they never once got that kind of read off the man, he never once felt dangerous."Your smuggler broke the rules, she's out." Elek told Neve matter of factly. The Red Lyrium relic they had tracked down was being smuggled by another Thread to an Altus mage, but it would seem she'd been cut loose. Threads didn't play nice with Venatori or slavers, making them somewhat tenuous allies to the Shadows, at least on that front anyway.After their little meeting with Elek, Rook told the others that they wanted to take a walk around town on their own. They hadn't been home in a year and wanted some time to themself. The others agreed and left to track down news vendors around the city. It was a relief really, finally being alone with their thoughts as the endless rain showered them like a familiar blanket. Sure they had their own room in the Lighthouse, but it still wasn't the same. Getting lost in the crowds of Minrathous, being another faceless elf, it was a kind of isolation they used to hate, but nowadays it was a strange comfort. Everything in their life always happened so quickly and Rook was always just barely keeping above water working on nothing but grit and luck. So of course they somehow ended up becoming acting leader in an insane crusade to take on gods.A hand grabbed Rook's arm and dragged them into an alleyway, the touch was familiar and so Rook's fight instincts didn't quite kick in. Rook's back slammed against the wall as Elek leaned over them with an easy grin. "Mercar," Elek greeted."Elek," Rook whispered quietly. So he did recognize them at the newsstand."Hadn't seen you in a while, what's it been? A year now?" Elek leaned closer and gently brushed Rook's scarred temple. "You grew out your hair a bit. And I almost didn't recognize you with this on your face, still getting into fights huh?" His fingers traced Rook's scar almost tenderly, his expression hard to read but definitely less cheerful. "So it's 'Rook' these days, is it?""Yeah." Rook replied. They should've guessed he was just quick on the uptake and kept quiet about them in front of Neve and the others.Elek dropped his hand down to Rook's waist and leaned in closer, bringing their hips together. Rook had to stifle a groan at the contact. "You just disappeared. Was worried about you, y'know. So why the cold the shoulder, ‘Rook?’"Rook chuckled. "Ran into some trouble, took some time off out of the city." They looked Elek up and down, remembering the nights they'd spend together. The two of them were always good together, no strings, no prying, just each other for small moments of pleasure."Well, glad you're back, maybe we should catch up over drinks. On me.""Sure thing, we can start with when you planned on telling me you were a Thread." Rook tilted their head with a smirk."Come on now Mer-Rook, a man can't just go around telling everyone about his associates." Elek gently tilted Rook's chin up. "'Specially not some soldier's kid, even one as pretty as you." Rook paused."You knew?" The Threads owned Dock Town sure, but they hardly had influence in other parts of Minrathous let alone all the way out in Ventus. How could Elek know about their father?"Guess we all have our little secrets," Elek grinned and winked. "No hard feelings." Elek placed a light peck on Rook's cheek. The two stared quietly for a moment before Elek leaned in for a real kiss. Rook felt themself lean into it, it'd been a whole year since they'd been intimate in any capacity and they just couldn't help themself. Elek's lips tasted just as they remembered, familiar, nostalgic, and so was the pressure against their groin. Elek slid his tongue into Rook's mouth as he gently wrapped a hand around their throat, coaxing a quiet moan out of them. Rook took in the sensation of their body only for Elek to abruptly pull away. They opened their eyes to see a blade resting under Elek's chin.Rook immediately pulled out of their haze to register that Lucanis was standing behind Elek, blade drawn, eyes cold."Kaffas. Lucanis wait," Rook managed to croak out. Their heart was jittery and tongue felt like lead in their mouth. Why was Lucanis here, wasn't he supposed to be with Neve and Harding? "It's not, he wasn't hurting me, really." Lucanis' eyes shifted to Rook, causing them to involuntarily swallow. They still weren't used to the assassin's gaze but it was normally at least a little softer."You're sure?" He asked. Rook couldn't read Lucanis' expression at all other than serious but eventually the Crow released Elek keeping his blade in hand. Rook let out a sigh of relief. They had no desire to see their former lover cut down by their new teammate. "Well, that was exciting," Elek joked in relief as he rubbed his own throat where the blade had been. "New friend?""Not like that," Rook replied as they straightened their clothes. "We're working together." Elek raised an eyebrow."Gallus is one thing, but what could you possibly be mixed up with a Crow for?" His eyes scanned over Rook like he was seeing them for the first time, like they were someone he didn't recognize.Rook sighed. "It's complicated. Just know it's got nothing to do with Thread business or anything like that.""Well now I'm curious." Elek's smile had an edge to it and Rook finally saw the Thread behind the smile. They pinched the bridge of their nose. What could they possibly tell this man that wouldn't sound insane? Rook's eyes flicked to Lucanis briefly. The Crow's expression was still unreadable, and for some reason it made Rook's chest feel oddly heavy. They sighed. "Okay fine. There are blighted elven gods in the world planning to blight everything in their path and we're trying to stop them." Elek stared at Rook like they were crazy. Nothing new lately, what with the First Warden threatening to arrest them for 'theft' and 'property damage' freeing slaves--the cunt--but it still stung coming from Elek. He always looked at them differently than others did, not with pity or contempt, just person to person."I don't like being lied to, not even with colorful fairy tales." Elek warned."Not lying." Rook stared down Elek. The Thread furrowed his brow trying to decide if Rook was bluffing before raising his brows is surprise."You mean it." Rook nodded before standing up away from the wall."It was nice seeing you again Elek, maybe we can find time to catch up, but we have to go." Rook brushed their hand across Elek's waist as they walked past towards the main street. Lucanis observed Elek a little longer before sheathing his knife and following Rook."Hey Crow!" Elek called after Lucanis. "Best take good care of that one, they're important to me."---Things were awkward on the way back the Lighthouse as the four of them sat in Caretaker's flying gondola. Rook was certain Neve had noticed the strange atmosphere between Lucanis and them but chose to not acknowledge it. Rook was grateful for it but it did nothing to change their internal dilemma. It was ridiculous really, it was hardly the first time Rook had been caught in a compromising position in some random back alley, and certainly not the first time being walked in on with Elek specifically. Why did this time feel so mortifying? Was it because they were rusty? Did extended periods of celibacy make one more embarrassed? Was it because they were in charge now, and a teammate caught them? Or was it that it was Lucanis specifically that was so devastating? Rook didn't dare look behind them at Lucanis but they could feel his gaze on them. What did they think of Lucanis? What did Lucanis think about them? It must've been shocking for him certainly. They barely knew each other at all and the Crow walked in on his first client in a year's intimate moment. Rook knew Lucanis was an exceptional fighter, more often than not they found themself captivated by his speed and strength, but knew little about the man himself. He kept to himself most of the time, confined to the kitchen and pantry downing cup after cup of coffee. Rook was certain he wasn't sleeping either. They paused, why were they fixating so much on Lucanis? "Everything alright over there, Rook?" Neve asked teasingly. Rook turned to answer then glared at the knowing smirk on her face."Everything's fine..." Rook grumbled then turned forward again, ears feeling warm. They finally landed at the dock and Rook all but jumped out of the boat and hurried to the Lighthouse Eluvian. They vaguely heard Harding's voice behind them but was already sprinting up the stairs. They did pause just outside the giant mirror long enough for the others to catch up before slipping through and hurrying as fast as they could to their room. "Oh, hey Rook," Bellara greeted from the library sofa as Rook rushed past her up the stairs. "Or not?" Neve and Lucanis soon came up to the library floor with Harding close behind, Neve looking very amused. "So uh, what happened?""Honestly? I couldn't say but I have a feeling our leader and Lucanis had an interesting time in Dock Town." Neve mused. "Oh?" Bellara asked, feeling intrigued."It's nothing, don't get any strange ideas." Lucanis answered as he headed towards the courtyard, his expression perfectly calm and pleasant. Bellara and Neve glanced at each other conspiratorially. Lucanis kept his steps controlled as he forced his racing thoughts to subside. GO. TO. ROOK. Lucanis ignored Spite, instead heading straight to the kitchen to brew himself some fresh coffee. WHY. LUCANIS. ANGRY. AT ROOK?"Quiet." Lucanis muttered as he prepared the beans. His mind was more of a mess than usual and even though he knew the reason why he couldn't understand it. He'd been following Neve and Harding as they looked for more news scrolls to give Rook some time to themself but he had seen the Thread they'd just been speaking with a few moments earlier following them. Lucanis didn't even inform the others of it, his body had already moved towards them on its own. The next thing he knew Rook was pinned to the wall by the neck, then his blade was beneath the Thread's neck. He wasn't even sure he could blame Spite for it either. It wasn't like him to act without thinking it through, he'd grown more careless since the Ossuary. FOOLISH. IMPATIENT. SLOPPY. Lucanis sighed as he ignored the demon's taunting. He thought he'd grown numb to both the verbal and physical abuse from the demon as well as the Venatori, but perhaps it had effected him more than he realized. The old him would have done things differently, he should be able to focus. Regardless of what happened, he had to get himself together. He had the reputation of House Dellamorte to uphold. What his teammates did in their private lives was none of his concern, he had to focus on the job. Although he supposed he should at least apologize to Rook for interrupting their fun. He paused for a moment as footsteps approached the kitchen, Neve's were the easiest to pick out due to her prosthetic, but he had yet to identify the other three. "Oh! Lucanis!" Bellara called out as she entered the kitchen. Lucanis noted her light but energetic gait. "I totally forgot to tell you, a letter came for you from Treviso." She placed an ornate envelop on the table that bore the seal of House Dellamorte. Correspondence from Illario then. "Thank you, Bellara." Lucanis smiled as he finished pouring himself a fresh cup. "Sooo," Bellara began suspiciously. Lucanis eyed the elf as he enjoyed his coffee. "Anything interesting happen while you were in Minrathous? Not that I think something happened or anything." She quickly added on. Lucanis chuckled into his cup."Of course not," Lucanis agreed."But if something did happen-" Bellara pushed coyly. "You'll be the first to know," Lucanis lied smoothly. Although he suspected that would be true regardless of his involvement. "Right! Great!" Bellara exclaimed before growing silent. She absently fidgeted with her blouse before suddenly blurting out, "So what happened?" Lucanis laughed this time, Bellara's optimism was a welcome change of pace from his time in the Ossuary. "Nothing happened, Bellara. But thank you for delivering the letter." Bellara sulked but nodded, leaving the Crow alone again. After the door closed Lucanis observed the envelope left on the table. The edges were mostly crisp and unworn, the only creases he could see were from normal wear during transport. The seal was unbroken and still strongly adhered to the paper, the letter appeared untampered with. He put his leather gloves back on as he handled the envelope, the outside would be safe as to not poison any couriers, but the contents could be in the event the letter was counterfeit. It was however, not, Illario's handwriting was unmistakable. His cousin wished to meet.---It had been several hours since the incident in Dock Town, the team had all rested and scrounged up whatever was already in the pantry to eat. Lucanis hesitated a moment outside of Rook's bedroom door, although 'bedroom' tended to be a rather loose term in the Lighthouse. His own 'bedroom' being just a bench made of crates in the pantry. He supposed he could meet with Illario by himself well enough, however it would be easier to have Rook there for whatever information on Zara's movements his cousin had directly rather than secondhand. SMELLS LIKE. FEAR? Spite's voice questioned. The demon sounded confused, and so was Lucanis. Why would the demon think he was afraid? He pushed the demon out of his mind and knocked on the door anyway."Come in," Rook answered through the heavy doors. Lucanis entered ready to ask the team leader to join him in Treviso when his entire body froze in place. Rook was in the middle of tying the cords to their trousers on. Their top was still bare and exposed the myriad of tattoos and scars across their back and down their arms. One scar was larger than the rest even through the large back tattoo covering it. Lucanis swallowed as his eyes took in every detail before him as they were trained to do. Rook's muscles were modest but clearly well maintained through practical use rather than intentional training. The glow from the aquarium gently caressed the curves as each muscle flexed and relaxed with every small movement."Lucanis?" Rook's voice cut through the assassin's stupor, they had turned towards him, curious of the silence. "Are you alright?""I-""Oh! The aquarium!" Rook suddenly blurted out. "Kaffas, sorry Lucanis, it must bother you we can talk downstairs." Rook quickly grabbed their shirt and pulled on one of sleeves as the rushed towards the door where Lucanis stood."No. It's fine." The Crow replied, his face set in a carefully crafted mask of nonchalance drilled into his very bones. "I'm sorry to walk in so suddenly while you're changing, I just came in to ask if you could join me in Treviso for a time. I need to meet with Illario to discuss what we know regarding Zara and her Venatori. I know we've only just returned from Minrathous but I'd like you to be there.""Oh. Of course. Let me finish getting ready and I'll meet you by the Eluvian." Rook finished pulling on their shirt and turned to rummage through the various armors they'd collected. Lucanis exited the room and made his way down to the library. WHY. LUCANIS. LEAVE? Lucanis sighed to himself at Spite's sudden activity, the demon always seemed more active where Rook was involved. LUCANIS. LIKED. LOOKING."What?!" He yelled in outrage."Uh what?" Harding asked as she awkwardly closed the library door behind her. Lucanis froze. Ah."Mierda. I'm sorry Harding, Spite was...nevermind.""Right..." Lucanis could see the scout grow more guarded at him. Not that he could blame her. As Lucanis tried to think of a way to ease the tension he heard the door to Rook's room open and close. He sighed and resigned himself to leave things with Harding unresolved. He was unaccustomed to working with others in general outside of the occasional paid accomplice, but working as a team with non Crows or affiliates...he wasn't certain how to navigate this. "Oh hey Harding. Are you coming with us?" Rook asked cheerfully as they hopped the railing to the staircase."With you where?" Harding asked taking a slight step further from Lucanis."Treviso," Lucanis answered. "And there's no need to worry about joining us Scout Harding, I'm only running some personal errands.""Then why do you need Rook to go?" She asked, crossing her arms. Rook looked between the two, realizing that something had happened before they came downstairs."It's alright Harding," Rook interrupted. "I already told Lucanis I'd tag along, besides we might be getting some more intel on the Venatori.""You sure?" Harding asked, looking serious. Rook smiled."Absolutely. Let Neve and Bell know we'll be out. Come on Lucanis, let's get going." Rook bounced as they made their way towards the Eluvian. They hoped appearing casual would put Harding's worries at ease as well as lessen the awkwardness with Lucanis. They personally didn't really have any worries about Lucanis being an abomination or Spite even, at least none they didn't already have. Lucanis was a mage killer, but he they had a contract together. As for Spite, the demon didn't seem particularly antagonistic to the team, if anything the one in the greatest danger was Lucanis himself. Rook entered the Eluvian room and waited for the assassin to join them. Although Lucanis had only been part of the team for less than a week, Rook found themself already making a fool of themself. They've always been messy but this might be the first time they may have traumatized a coworker. (That they knew of). Lucanis was definitely capable, and maybe Rook should probably be more cautious about trusting an assassin with full access to the entire Lighthouse's food supply, but something told them Lucanis was trustworthy at least for the duration of their contract. Yup, it was definitely the contract and not that the Crow was easy on the eyes and Rook was in the middle of a year long dry spell, only recently remedying that. Definitely."Rook?" Lucanis' voice startled Rook causing them to jump. The Crow's footsteps were way too quiet."Ah Lucanis, I didn't hear you come down. You ready?"---Rook followed Lucanis through the marketplace, even with the Antaam occupation there was no sign of slowing down commerce. The market was lively, almost untouched. Rook marveled at the array of trinkets and luxuries available as Lucanis lead them from stall to stall while Rook stop to pet every single cat they came across. The thing that surprised Rook the most was that Lucanis' "errand" was more than just meeting with Illario. The man seemed very immersed in buying groceries for the team, even lamenting their lack of nutrition habits. It was almost absurd to them that the infamous mage killer was so concerned with the teams dietary needs. The events from earlier that day had been replaying in Rook's head since they'd all returned to the Lighthouse. If it was the same for Lucanis, he made no indication of it. It was strange for Rook to be so hung up on it, they've never been one for shame or modesty."Here," Lucanis said as he stopped by a stall. There were potted plants everywhere but the assassin had immediately picked one up."A plant?" Rook asked as they took a closer look. It wasn't a particularly interesting looking, it looked like any other plant to them. A brief flashback of their time in the Circle of Magi and the alchemy professor lamenting their horrendous horticulture abilities ran through their mind. "Spearmint is supposed to help with bad dreams, and it's good in desserts." Lucanis answered as he paid the merchant. That gave Rook pause. Was the Crow trying to give Harding a peace offering? Or was he legitimately concerned about her recent development of dreams? Lucanis kept moving to other stalls, focusing mostly on fruits and leafy greens (apparently he was very very concerned with their eating habits). Rook snickered quietly at the thought, knowing full well how much they personally contributed to that worry. "So you and Illario are cousins?" Rook asked as they followed the Crow around the market."Yes. But we're more like brothers. Caterina took us both in a long time ago." Lucanis answered, his focus more on the produce in front of him. "When we met it didn't seem like they were particularly close." Rook remembered how domineering Caterina's presence was while Illario's felt more cautious. Not at all like they pictured a doting grandmother and her grandson. Their own parents were strict in their own way but were always protective of them. Rook shook their head, it wasn't their place to pry into others' private matters."It was...hard to be close to her. Even for me, and I was her favorite." Lucanis mused. Rook was surprised the assassin would be so open about his family. Whatever the truth, the man seemed perfectly casual about the discussion.A weapons stall caught Rook's eye as they started to lose interest in groceries. Antivan blades were all highly ornate with beautiful details and craftsmanship, but with every dagger they held it became more and more clear that these blades were not designed with magic in mind. They would certainly shatter the second he tried channeling lighting through them and would serve better as decoration than actual combat weapons. Although a Crow could easily make these as deadly as any other blade. One dagger had a wyvern carved into it and didn't look to be metal at all. Rook picked it up and was surprised by its weight, it looked and felt like bone."That is a dagger carved from the fang of wyvern, powerful creatures and quite venomous." The merchant pitched enthusiastically. Venomous huh? For some reason it made Rook think of Lucanis. They doubted it would be a particularly useful weapon, but if Lucanis was doing all this shopping for the team the least the acting leader could do was return the gesture. Plus a small apology for their own less than leaderlike behavior."I'll take it.""A dagger?" Lucanis asked as he stepped closer to Rook. The elf startled again at the Crow's light footedness. They really needed to keep a closer eye on the assassin's movements else they end up with heart problems."Here, for you." Rook held out the dagger."Me?" Lucanis put the groceries down and held the dagger gingerly, his face looked surprised and filled with awe. "You're doing all this for the team, it's only fair you get something for yourself too.""This is a wyvern tooth dagger." Lucanis marveled as he pressed a gloved finger against the edge of the blade. "I've always wanted one as a boy but Caterina would never let me." Rook couldn't believe how happy the assassin sounded. It was just something they picked up on a whim but apparently it was the right gift."Enjoy it," Rook smiled. They didn't know such a small gesture would effect the Crow so much. Lucanis smiled back and secured the dagger to his belt."Come, Illario should be there by now." They split the load of groceries between them and Lucanis led Rook through the maze like streets of Treviso to a small secluded alcove. It was a plaza of sorts, with well maintained planters and several couples spread about enjoying their evening."So how come were coming all the way out here? Why not just meet at the casino?" Rook questioned as they approached an unassuming door. There was a small sign with the cafe's name on it but clearly it was a more in the know kind of place."House Cantori has many talents, but making coffee is not one of them. This is my favorite cafe in Treviso." Rook noticed how happy Lucanis looked, or at least how at peace he looked being home again, despite the unwelcomed interlopers. The cafe was peaceful, a little oasis tucked away with a beautiful scenic view over the canals. Much like the market, this cafe looked untouched by the occupation, a small little snapshot of what Treviso was like before everything. A cat was laying down near the entrance and immediately stole away Rook's attention."Ah cousin! Finally! I thought you might leave me here all by my lonesome." A familiar voice called out from one of the tables. Illario stood and greeted them both with an enthusiastic smile. Again Rook, couldn't quite articulate the strange feeling the man gave them, but Lucanis seemed perfectly at ease as he sat down. Rook dragged themself away from their furry new friend and joined the Crows at the table."And you brought a guest! Hello again Rook." Illario's smile grew even brighter, if Rook hadn't heard rumors about Crow's charming their victims they might've fallen for it themself. Illario was clearly a man fully aware of his own charms."Please. You think I'd ever pass up Cafe Pietra's coffee." Lucanis chuckled."You see, Rook? My cousin is all stomach and no heart." Illario feigned a pout as he sat down. "Don't mind him. Illario cannot appreciate anything but himself." Lucanis dismissed lightly. "They serve a specialty roast here, Anderal's Breath. Bitter and sweet like a kiss goodbye, you should try it." Rook raised a brow, they'd never seen Lucanis so passionate about something before until today, first the dagger now a coffee good enough to talk about kisses. Flashes of Lucanis' cold stare from their kiss with Elek clashed with the jovial expression his face had now."Sounds delicious," Rook answered. "I bet a brew you recommend wouldn't even need any milk in it." Normally they drank their coffee with milk but they also drank the cheapest crap they could get ahold of."Of course," Lucanis answered with a small smile. Rook noticed Illario staring between the two of them, like he was puzzling something out. Rook cleared their throat."So what did you want to tell us?" They asked trying to change the subject."Not yet, we're still waiting for the last spy to give up." Illario replied quietly. Rook suppressed the urge to sit up straighter and forced themself to remain looking casual. It never occurred to them that a simple outing would invite spies, but they supposed Crows had eyes everywhere. Their drinks had arrived while Lucanis and Illario continued their light bickering as if nothing had happened. All Rook could think was how tiring it would be to live constantly aware you were being spied on, having to have false conversations just to speak with each other. A woman stood up from a few tables away and walked out of the cafe. "There, finally got sick of all your coffee talk. Now we can chat.""It's a good roast." Lucanis defended. Rook couldn't help the small snort they let out. The Demon of Vyrantium, feared mage killer, was pouting over coffee."The Crows I sent after Zara have picked up her trail." Illario reported, his tone suddenly growing serious. "They say she's gone to Vyrantium." Rook furrowed their brow. Something about that seemed odd. Vyrantium was at least a week away by boat, even longer by land. Given the occupation, procuring a ship out of Treviso would be difficult, especially for someone from Tevinter who've been at war with the Antaam for decades now. In order for Zara to be in Treviso to kill Caterina personally, and then be in Vyrantium so quickly, an incredible number of events would have to align perfectly. No, either Zara didn't kill Caterina herself and had someone else do it while she fled back to Tevinter, or..."She's still here..." Rook mumbled quietly. "What?" Illario asked."Rook's right," Lucanis cut in. "Zara's giving you false leads. We're already compromised, there's no other way anyone could even touch Caterina. You need your eyes here in Antiva.""Zara would never be foolish enough to stay, not with you out for blood." Illario countered."Of course she would. If the Crows protecting her are here." Lucanis replied."Rook, reason with him would you? He's being paranoid!" Illario asked exasperated. Lucanis and Illario continued to argue until Illario finally stood up in frustration. "Fine I'll clean house, okay? Leave this to me." With that the Crow stormed out of the cafe. Lucanis sighed."Well that went...well..." Rook half joked trying to lighten the mood."He's always been this way, he hears what he wants to hear." Lucanis sighed taking another sip of coffee. Rook watched as the man savored his drink. They felt a bit like they'd intruded on a private family matter, but now they had reason to believe there were Venatori in Antiva. They'd have to inform the Shadow Dragons, although there was little the small group could do outside of Tevinter."You haven't tried your coffee," Lucanis commented as Rook was lost in their thoughts."Ah right!" Rook picked up the cup and sipped at it."How is it?" Rook smirked mischievously. "Like a kiss goodbye." Lucanis hummed in approval. "So. If we're talking about coffee and kisses, what kind of coffee would a first kiss be?"Lucanis paused for a moment to consider. Rook could swear they saw a small flash of purple in his eyes, perhaps Spite had an opinion on the subject too. "Honey and lavender cream," he eventually answered. "Sweet. Intriguing. How would you describe it?" Rook huffed a small laugh."First kisses, gotta say its been a while I might need a refresher." Rook joked."Oh? Did the kiss from earlier not count?" Rook froze at Lucanis' words. Was this just light banter? Or was it something else?"Ah well, Elek's and my first kiss together was a long long time ago, I guess the one before would count more like a welcome back kiss." Rook couldn't figure out why they felt so awkward all of a sudden."I see you lead an adventurous life." Lucanis smiled, it was baffling how at ease a simple smile could make someone feel. How all the embarrassment and shame just evaporated into something trivial."You could say that. But no more than you I'm sure, the exciting and mysterious life of a Crow." Rook could feel their usual confidence return.Lucanis laughed. "It's not as mysterious as you would think. Even before I was captured my life was not really my own. So much had been determined for me.""It's hard, trying to fit into other people's molds for you." Rook replied solemnly, remembering their struggle with their own identity, how they felt as if they'd let down their family somehow by being something...else. Silence enveloped the table as Rook once again grew lost in their own thoughts."I've always thought that to live truly is to live fully," Lucanis spoke to break the silence of the moment. "Although it's not always easy to do, I'm glad you and the Thread were able to find each other." Rook sputtered into their cup at that. Did Lucanis think they were a couple? "I actually owe you an apology for interrupting your reunion.""Wait wait wait." Rook put out their palm to stop the Crow from going any further. "I think there's been a misunderstanding. Elek and I..." Rook paused, there really was no polite way to put things. "Uh.""It's alright, Rook. I shouldn't have pried into your personal life.""No wait please let me just-" Rook sighed. "Look, Elek and I aren't really together together. Like we aren't a proper couple or anything we just...enjoy each other on occasion. Or rather we did before I started working with Varric." Rook shrunk into themself a bit, why did they feel the need to clarify that? It's not like they planned on sleeping with a coworker...Oh.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Only a couple of weeks had past since the fall of Minrathous. Neve had just recently returned to the Lighthouse in the aftermath of the chaos. Lucanis stood in the pantry checking the team's food supply to make sure they had enough to feed the four newest additions. The difference in the atmosphere of the Lighthouse was palpable, an uncomfortable unspoken haze that hovered over everyone. Neve's grief over the devastation permeated the air, Bellara's mannerisms had grown somber and cautious, Harding had become even more focused on writing correspondences to all of her contacts, Davrin and Assan barely had any time to adjust before being thrust into a dragon fight and two new additions were slowly acclimating to the team dynamics. But the one Lucanis felt most was Rook. On the surface they maintained their usual lackadaisical attitude, socializing with all the members, getting to know their likes and dislikes, but Lucanis could see it in the way they poked at their food during dinner, the way their smile faded when they thought no one was looking. EYES. DULL AND GRAY. ROOK NO LONGER SHINING.Spite had grown insufferable with his nagging about Rook's sudden change, but he was also right. Rook's usual lavender eyes seemed to have lost their color, they were no longer as striking and bright as he always pictured them. The demon didn't understand the complexities of the events that caused the change, only that Rook was upset. WANT TO TALK TO ROOK. MAKE. ROOK. BETTER. Lucanis wished he could, it surprised him really, he genuinely wished he could bring Rook's smile back. But there wasn't anything anyone could do. Rook's home had been decimated, the Shadow Dragons nearly wiped out, the horror of seeing their friends' bodies strung up like trophies would do a number on anyone. It almost happened to Treviso. All Lucanis could do for them was cook delicious food and make sure he killed every Venatori asshole that crossed his path. He was good at both of those things. The sound of the dining hall doors opening caught his attention. Lucanis smiled slightly to himself, Rook really needed to pick up their feet more when they walked. He'd learned everyone's footsteps by now, as well as their usual sleeping patterns (or lack thereof in Neve and Bellara's case). He heard the sound of glass bottles clinking as someone dug through the crate. Drinking again. Normally Lucanis would think nothing of it, Crows had a propensity for expensive wines themselves, but Rook's sudden interest in alcohol wasn't difficult to figure out. Rook looked around the communal kitchen. It was empty, but the fire was lit and the smell of fresh coffee permeated the air. Lucanis was nowhere to be seen meaning he was likely in the pantry brooding alone again. They continued digging through the storage barrels and pulled out a bottle. Rook never had a taste for fancy wines, Emmrich's and Lucanis' talks of "vintages" always went right over their head. Whiskeys and beers were much more up their alley. The bottle Rook pulled out was cheap looking enough to get the job done without feeling overly excessive. They quietly made their way to the fancy Antivan coffee maker Lucanis brought to the Lighthouse and smelled the delicious brew already waiting, but Rook needed something a little stronger tonight. Their mind just kept replaying what happened over and over. The Viper laid out on the table, blighted. The other Shadows glaring daggers into their skin, whispers of anger, contempt and betrayal stinging their ears. The pain and distraught in Tarquin's voice. -You've brought us nothing but trouble since you came back- The suffocating frigidness in Neve's eyes. -You should...just go- Her voice echoed in their mind, the finality of it, the fury. The gallows all over the city. It should've been fine. Minrathous was built for siege defense. Rook gritted their teeth as the same excuse kept creeping into their mind like and endless loop. Their father would run them ragged for making such excuses if he knew. A decision was made, the consequences were set in stone, excuses were worthless. They grabbed a glass from the shelf and turned to head back to their room when the pantry door opened behind them."Rook?" Lucanis asked, both knowing full well the Crow knew exactly who was outside. "Looking for a late night snack?" Lucanis' eyes focused in on the bottle in their hand. "You shouldn't drink on an empty stomach, I'll make something.""No!" Rook blurted out. Lucanis raised an eyebrow. "Uh. I mean. You don't need to trouble yourself, Lucanis. I'll just take this to my room-""I could use something to eat myself. Besides, it gives me something to do." Rook bit their lip but ultimately surrendered as Lucanis began prepping the kitchen. They couldn't remember the last time they were alone with the assassin. Their little coffee outing maybe. It felt like months ago now, sitting in a little cafe, Lucanis and his cousin bickering comfortably. Rook watched Lucanis cut ingredients with expert speed, his hands had an elegance to them not normally seen in fighters. Perhaps assassin's didn't tend to get bulky hands like soldiers did. They did this back then too didn't they? Observe the man quietly, admiring his handsome features. There was an oddly comfortable silence between the two, only the sounds of the fire crackling and the sizzling of food in hot oil occupied the room. Rook cracked open the bottle of whiskey they'd grabbed and poured themself a glass. They could feel Lucanis watching them from the corner of his eye. Concerned, most likely. They'd be the first to admit they weren't acting very leaderly lately. "You have such an interesting fighting style." Lucanis suddenly spoke as he pulled the food out of the oil and plated it."Do I?" Rook asked as they drank their whiskey. "What brought that up?""Mages rarely choose close combat. But more than that, you've clearly been trained in swordplay.""You think?" Rook responded coyly. Even depressed they could never resist a little sass when the opportunity presented itself. Lucanis smiled. He smiled a little more than he used to when they'd first met. Back at the Ossuary he was cold and warry with bloodlust in his eyes. Even after some time in the Lighthouse he was distant and closed off, but at some point his eyes had softened. Rook found his little quiet smiles comforting. The assassin grabbed a glass of his own and placed the food in front of Rook. "At first I had thought it was a style of fighting developed over necessity, street fights and such." Lucanis continued. He poured himself some whiskey and topped off Rook's before taking a seat beside them. "But the more I observe it the more apparent the underlying structure is. Though clearly you're more lax with it than it would be normally.""Been studying me have you? Demon of Vyrantium." Rook smirked, swirling their glass playfully."I suppose.""ROOK PULLS THE FADE. QUICK. BRIGHT AND BURNING." Spite chimed in enthusiastically through Lucanis' voice. Rook giggled a bit, both at the absurdity of conversing with a demon but also at Lucanis' quiet string of Antivan curses. "What's it like being a Crow?" Rook asked. Lucanis could tell they were changing the subject, but he was glad to see that mischievous spark flash in their eyes again."Not much different than any other profession. You do the work and get paid." Lucanis answered as he took a small sip of whiskey. He grimaced at the cheap flavor, causing Rook to laugh."'Do the work,' huh? Except the work is killing people." Rook mused as they happily chomped on the fried meat."The same could be said for a soldier or Templar." Rook could only hum in agreement, knowing all too well what was asked of soldiers. Silence reasserted itself, the two found it oddly comfortable. No battles, no plans, no blood mages or gods. Just good food and shit whiskey. Although Lucanis seemed to be throwing the occasional glare to his side, no doubt Spite wasn't as quiet as the rest of them.They'd finished their meal and half the bottle. Rook's head was light, they could hold their liquor well enough but it would seem they were an amateur compared to Lucanis. The man looked perfectly sober. Rook squinted at his glass wondering if he was even drinking. Was that a Crow thing too? Getting people drunk while only pretending to drink themselves."I've heard Crows seduce their targets into letting down their guard. Is that how you did it?" Rook asked without thinking. Lucanis paused, caught off guard by the abrupt line of questioning. "No." He answered honestly."Really?" Rook was surprised, Lucanis was a handsome man, he could easily use that to his advantage."Some Crows utilize that strategy, but I never really had a talent for it." Lucanis replied."Oh? That's surprising. So how do you do it?" Rook asked earnestly."No." Lucanis answered immediately."What? Don't want to give your secrets away to a mage?" Rook smiled as they laid their head down on their crossed arms. Messy curls spilling over the table. "Rook..." Lucanis sighed. He was glad Rook was having so much fun, but for some reason he really did not want to discuss this particular topic with them. "Fine, Mr. dark, mysterious and brooding. Keep your Crow secrets." Rook teased, missing Lucanis' seriousness in their drunken state. Lucanis couldn't help but smile to himself, Rook was the mystery in his eyes. Obstinate, relentless, generous. BEAUTIFUL! Lucanis nearly jolted at Spite's sudden activity. The demon had previously been content enough to just hover around Rook only to speak nonsense. Well no, not nonsense. Rook was objectively beautiful, especially their unique eyes. EYES LIKE LIGHTNING SHINING IN THE SEA. Lucanis paused, it was an apt description. That day in the Ossuary, Rook's eyes captivated him. Even in the murky lighting under the water, their eyes almost glowed like the lightning they summoned. Lucanis looked at Rook's half lidded sleepy eyes, the fireplace reflected brightly in them but that unusual lavender sheen had returned."Maybe one day I'll tell you," Lucanis said gently. "But tonight, I'd rather not." Lucanis stood to clean up the dishes as Rook rested their head. It was strange, he'd never had any problem discussing his work before. He took pride in it, but for reasons he couldn't understand he did not want to talk about how he killed mages to Rook. He returned to the table with two glasses of water. He could feel Rook's eyes watching him. "So you didn't seduce your targets," Rook began. Lucanis looked at them curiously. "But there must have been some lovers. I can't imagine anyone not being interested in a handsome guy like you." Lucanis laughed, genuinely amused. "Not so much. No.""Really?" Rook sounded shocked at that. "That was always more Illario's thing. My cousin seems to be able to charm just about anyone." Rook hummed and clumsily reached for the bottle of whiskey."I think perhaps you've had enough for tonight." Lucanis said gently as he pulled the bottle further away."Oh? Are you offering something else to keep me occupied instead?" Rook smirked, although their eyes were unfocused. Lucanis was silent. Rook was clearly drunk and saying nonsense, but for some reason Lucanis couldn't seem to respond. Rook suddenly shot up in their chair, eyes wide with realization of what they'd just suggested."Kaffas. I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said that...I should go." Rook abruptly stood, swaying a bit on their feet. Lucanis stood to help steady them but they stepped further away."Rook...""Good night, Lucanis." Rook said quietly as they drunkenly wobbled away back to their room, leaving Lucanis alone in the kitchen feeling conflicted.---Rook knocked on the water damaged door of a familiar apartment. It was a little ways from Dock Town, far enough away that it never occurred to them that Elek spent most of his time down there. It was close to the main market street, just on the edge of Thread territory so Rook had always just assumed he was a normal man just running odd jobs to get by. They shouldn't be here, back in Minrathous, back to Elek, but they'd clearly hit their limit. On a lot of things. They couldn't sleep, they were drinking more and more, and last night...Their behavior towards Lucanis was unprofessional. They were coworkers sure, and what wasn't there to want about the man? But Rook was acting leader, they might just be filling in for Varric, but they were the one calling the shots, they can't just be throwing themself at teammates like this.The door creaked open cautiously, it didn't occur to Rook back then that the habit was because he was a dangerous individual and not just from growing up in Minrathous. Elek's face was serious, more serious than Rook had ever seen him, until he recognized them, then immediately lit up."Rook!" He greeted cheerily. "Didn't expect to see you around here." Rook noticed him put something down behind the door, expecting rougher company then."Why not? Unless I'm no longer welcome." Rook held out a bottle and gave it a little shake. "I've brought a gift." "Come on now, don't pout." Elek smirked. "Thought you'd be off saving the world or something, but here you are. At my door. In the middle of the night. What will people say?" "So it's a 'no?'" Rook tilted their head teasingly. Elek smiled and took hold of the bottle before pulling Rook into the apartment. Rook followed his pull with a laugh and wrapped their arms around the back of his neck. They fell back into the rhythm of things so easily, like it had only been yesterday. Heated breaths, desperate hands, tugging of clothes as they stumbled through the cramped apartment to the bed. Just like before, no questions, no prying, just the moment. Rook awoke in the early morning. Not to the eerie glow of the Lighthouse aquarium, but to the dim light of dawn and the gentle familiar rainfall of home. "You awake?" Elek asked from the table. He was already dressed and enjoying a simple meal. Rook hummed a yes as they stretched in his sheets. "You always remind me of a spoiled cat when you do that, Nox." Elek grinned. Rook sat up and blinked away the sleepiness. They slid out of the bed and began hunting for their discarded clothes as they always did. They could feel Elek's eyes on them, enjoying the view."I was surprised," Elek continued. "When you said it'd been a year for you, how you feeling?" Rook laughed as they clumsily wrestled with their pants."Like someone really really missed me." They playfully glared at Elek while the man just smiled, clearly very pleased with himself. They finished getting dressed and stole a bit of food off Elek's plate. "Really now? Cuz see I'm remembering things a little bit differently. Or were you too preoccupied to pay attention to all that moaning and begging you were doing?" Elek asked as he slid his arm around Rook's waist and pulled them into his lap. Rook rolled their eyes but let him. "Been meaning to ask, what's with the new name?""Remember I said I ran into some trouble? Had to leave town? Well it's easier to move around without using my real name." They replied."I see. So Rook then.""Only in public, you can call me whatever you want in bed though." Rook joked before kissing Elek goodbye. "Better get going before someone realizes I've been gone."Rook got up and opened the door to leave but stopped as they caught sight of a figure waiting outside."Tarquin? How'd you-" The Templar wasn't in his Templar armor or his Shadow Dragon uniform. He was wearing a simple tunic often seen on dockhands, keeping a low profile then."You always were popular." Elek teased as he stepped out behind Rook."It's not like that." They tried to defend, but Elek just smirked."That's what you said about the Crow." Rook glared at the Thread but couldn't really come up with anything to say. They caught Elek's knowing expression and sighed."I'll see you around, El."Rook followed Tarquin, who'd been waiting surprisingly patiently. The whole thing was a surprise really. Rook never expected to ever see any Shadow Dragon again other than Neve, let alone Tarquin. Once they were alone he stopped and turned to face Rook. He looked tired, but the seriousness in his face was unmistakable. "Right, let's get to it." Rook sighed, stretching their neck to the side. The only conclusion they could come to was Tarquin had a score to settle, one Rook felt it was only right to pay."What you on about?" Tarquin asked with crossed arms, although his annoyance was clearly visible."C'mon lay it on me. I won't block.""...I ain't hittin' you, Rook.""Why not? I destroyed Minrathous, remember? I blighted Ashur." Tarquin grabbed Rook's jacket with a growl. They looked away as the memory of Tarquin's harsh words played in their head. The Viper's blighted body laid out, struggling to breathe. Neve's and the other Shadow Dragon's eyes refusing to look at them. -It should have been fine-"You shut your fucking mouth right now." Tarquin's eyes were filled with rage, which Rook expected. What they didn't expect was the Templar to sigh and let them go. "Look I didn't come here to fight, alright?""Then why're you here? You made yourself pretty clear last time." "Listen you little shit-" "How is he?" Rook asked quietly."You think you have any right to ask me that?" Tarquin growled. "He's alive. For now." Silence filled the alleyway as the two Shadow Dragons wrestled with their own thoughts. The ever present Minrathous rain showering down on them like a familiar blanket. Tarquin finally broke the silence first."Look. I came here to pass a message along. From Ashur. Said he's glad you're alive and to keep fighting these gods. The Shadows can't help, the few of us left can't afford to come above ground, and we can't bring you back into the fold just yet.""Yeah." Rook replied quietly. It made sense. They were too well known, too recognizable and too messy for anything covert now."He's started to feel and hear...things," Tarquin said quietly. Rook could hear the fear in his voice. "He seems tired. And far away. Like his mind's somewhere else. But he won't stop working, of course. And I don't know how to stop him." Rook opened their mouth to try and say something comforting but Tarquin cut them off. "I'll just say this. Make the blighters bleed." Tarquin's gaze wasn't filled with disgust or rage, but the unwavering determination from one soldier to another."That I can do." "Good. I'll send word once things calm down enough for us to start work again." Tarquin walked past Rook but stopped to place a hand on their shoulder. "Take care of yourself, Mercar. You look like fucking shit." Rook huffed a laugh as the Templar disappeared into the bustling of the city.---"They aren't anywhere in the Lighthouse." Davrin reported as he walked through the library doors, Assan at his heels. Although time wasn't particularly easy to tell in the Lighthouse, the clocks told everyone it was just after dawn in the real world. The rest of the team had gathered around the conference table in various states of dress. Neve and Lucanis were still fully dressed, likely from the day before. Taash was in their workout clothes, while everyone else was still in their sleepwear. "No leads in their room either." Neve supplied."Oh dear." Emmrich placed a hand on his cheek in concern. The library was silent as the group tried to think of what to do. Lucanis observed everyone as he sipped his coffee. Rook, their leader, was missing. He'd last seen them at dinner with everyone else, though they'd left early to rest. As far as everyone was concerned they were asleep in their room, until Davrin found Assan in there alone. There was no sign of a struggle or intrusion, meaning Rook must've left somewhere on their own without telling anyone. Rook's mood hadn't seen any improvement since the dragon attack, and they seemed even more withdrawn since their talk the other night. Lucanis grimaced. He was used to such feelings himself, but seeing them in Rook upset him."SMELLS LIKE ROOK." Spite's voice suddenly spoke up through Lucanis."What? Where?" Bellara looked around in every direction. Rook was quietly coming up the stairs leading down to the Eluvian room. "Uh. Good morning everyone." Rook smiled awkwardly as room turned to stare at their previously missing leader. "What's with the group meeting?" Apparently they weren't as slick as they thought, the team had noticed they'd snuck out."And where have you been?" Davrin asked with a teasing smirk. "Some late night escapades?" Rook smiled nervously. Normally they wouldn't care what people thought about them but being acting leader was different than just being another teammate. Their eyes scanned across the room, trying to gauge everyone's response. Taash looked indifferent, Emmrich and Bellara seemed intrigued while Davrin, Harding and Neve were clearly very amused. Rook's eyes fell to Lucanis, the Crow's eyes were focused on them but unreadable. "Um," Rook lamely replied."We were quite worried, you know." Emmrich interrupted. "We had no idea if something nefarious had happened to you. I'm relieved to see you are well, Rook.""Ah. Thanks Emmrich. And sorry for worrying everyone, I didn't think it would cause such a scene. I'll be sure to let someone know where I'm going next time." Rook rubbed the back of their neck, feeling embarrassed. "Well, glad that's all cleared up." Neve stood up. "I think I'll tuck in for a bit." She made her way back to her office cueing the rest to follow suit. Even though she didn't make eye contact with Rook, they were still grateful for her taking the lead and nipping any interrogations in the bud. The group all went their separate ways, some to go back to sleep. All except Lucanis who lingered against the bookshelf he was leaning on."Uh, hey Lucanis. Sorry for causing such a stir," Rook laughed nervously. "SMELLS LIKE ROOK. MIXED WITH CLOVES? AND DAMP CEDAR." Spite replied. Rook felt their ears heat up. Spite could smell Elek on them? From so far away? Lucanis was still quiet, as he observed Rook. "Um-""I'm relieved you're alright," Lucanis finally answered. "You should probably get some rest." The Crow bowed slightly as he walked out of the library, he could feel Rook step forward after briefly but then stop. He could vaguely hear Spite yelling something at him but it sounded muffled. He felt exhausted suddenly, tiredness was dangerous for him, he needed to stay awake. Ever since the Ossuary, everything had felt off, his fighting ability was fine, but his discipline and focus still haven't recovered. Lucanis reached the kitchen and immediately began preparing himself more coffee, the sleep deprivation likely wasn't helping him but what choice did he have? He took his fresh cup to the pantry and pulled out his notebook. He'd been keeping a log of his activities to help keep track of if when Spite might've taken over. It had happened several times already, the demon had taken a habit of scribbling his own incoherent ramblings next to his own. GO BACK TO ROOK! Spite's voice suddenly thundered through his mind. "Mierda, Spite." The demon had been quiet until then, startling Lucanis. No. That's not right, Spite had been yelling the whole time. Lucanis froze. It wasn't normal to be able to tune the demon out so easily. Lucanis fell back to his training, as a young boy, Catarina explaining the bodies natural responses to stress and how to suppress them to focus. Why was his body in a stress response?"Lucanis?" Rook's voice pulled his mind to attention. Lucanis looked in front of him, but instead of the logbook and candles of the pantry there was Rook, hair wet, lavender eyes staring up at him in concern, sitting naked and exposed in a pool of water. "Wh- Rook?!" Lucanis startled and shot up to his feet. Why was Rook naked?! "I'm sorry I-" Lucanis turned to face away. He had just been writing in his log only a second ago and now he realized he was standing in the Lighthouse's communal bath. It was a beautiful room that had manifested itself shortly after they'd taken up residence. Large arches lined one of the walls creating an outdoor spring feel with a full view of the Fade while keeping the rest of the walls up for privacy. The bath was a large pool of steaming water in the center of the floor that drained into smaller channels that streamed out and poured into the Fade while a small, gentle waterfall refilled the bath.Rook laughed lightheartedly. "It's fine, Lucanis. Spite wandered in on his own, and it was better he was here than off somewhere dangerous." Lucanis clenched his jaw. He did not appreciate Spite taking his body on a joy ride wherever he pleased or waking up in awkward places. How long had he been here? The brief glance he'd gotten of Rook told him they were at least physically unharmed by the demon."Spite shouldn't have been in control in the first place. This is my fault, I'm sorry. I should go." Lucanis turned to leave the room quickly."Lucanis wait," Rook called out. The assassin stopped, he could hear the water splashing in the bath as Rook moved closer to him. "Spite didn't try and do anything to me. I just...thought you should know that." Rook's voice sounded gentle, like they were trying to comfort him. It was absurd really, a client trying to console the assassin they hired."And," Rook continued sheepishly. "If anyone owes anyone an apology its me." Lucanis turned to face them without thinking but immediately looked away once he'd realized it."I don't know what you mean." He replied."The other night..." Rook paused. "I...acted inappropriately towards you, drunk or not I shouldn't have said something so crass to a teammate. Especially as acting leader."Lucanis huffed a laugh. "Considering our current predicament, I think we're more than even. Besides, I took no offense." Rook smiled quietly to themself."I'm glad."Lucanis nodded and finally exited the baths, closing the door and leaning against it, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Mierda, Spite. What were you thinking." Flashes of Rook sitting in the bath ran through his mind. He'd managed to keep his thoughts occupied in the moment but now the memories were relentless. He cursed his quick eyes taking in every detail of Rook's naked body in the water. Thin but toned muscles, tattoos up and down their arms, those damn lavender eyes. They also had small bruises all over their neck and chest likely kiss marks from that Thread, a small unpleasant ache formed in his chest. He froze and felt his whole body grow hot as it finally dawned on him what his strange lack of focus has been all this time. It was Rook.YES. WANT. ROOK. Lucanis gritted his teeth and charged out towards the courtyard. How could this have happened? How could he have let this happen? Years of watching unsuspecting men and women fall over themselves over his cousin's ridiculous flirting and here he was, no better than them. Distracted. Undisciplined. It had been over a decade since someone last caught his interest, so why now? Why Rook? It was never a simple job, but it was a straight forward one: kill the Evanuris, go home, done. Nowhere in that directive was 'fall for the client.'LUCANIS RUINED EVERYTHING. WANT. ROOK!"Enough!" Lucanis froze. Davrin was staring at him with a serious expression. The Warden had always made his distrust of Lucanis and Spite known, so seeing the assassin yelling like a madman likely put him on guard. Lucanis groaned in frustration before quickly making his way back to his room in the pantry. He was a professional, his feelings were a distraction and most importantly, he and Spite were a danger to Rook and the others. His feelings were inconvenient but identifying them was ultimately for the best, now he could manage them and focus on what was important, completing his contract. His feelings for Rook would simply be kept to himself. Although the more he thought about it the more ridiculous he felt that it took this long to figure out, there was much to like about Rook.