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Chapter Text

Adjusting to life in Nevarra was easier said than done for Zea 'Rook' Thorne. She and her ragtag group saved the world by killing two elven gods, sealing away Solas, and ending the sixth and final blight. Life as a Warden prepared her for life on the move, not staying in one spot. She spent the better part of her life camping under the stars, training new recruits, and fighting enemies alike. Everything still felt surreal, even two months out. Accepting Varric and Harding's death were impossible to come to terms with. Especially Varric. In dealing with the aftermath of a world ending war, her own mental struggles and her Wardens responsibilities, she was now fighting an illness.

One particular morning, Emmrich noticed.“Darling, are you alright?” He questioned observing her aversion at breakfast. “You've scarcely eaten in the last 2 days.”

“I'll be fine, just a little nauseous.” She assured him with a little kiss. “A handful of Wardens have been ill recently. Antoine believes it's due to the blight changing, so he's been working on remedies with Flynn.”

Emmrichs expression darkened.

“Your illness worries me, my dear. To think it could be caused by this changing blight is... unsettling. I wish to aid you anyway I can,” he conveyed, combing his hand through her copper tinted hair.

“I know. I promise to share any news we find.” Rook stated as she helped clear breakfast.

As they continued to ready for the day, Rook off to her Warden duties and Emmrich off to speak with Myrna about the start of the new semester and other matters, she envied the ease he had slipping into his old rhythm like a familiar robe. Though his sabbatical was anything but a vacation, Rook knew he missed the mundane of an everyday routine. The way his enthusiasm would soar for the lecture halls, his excitement palpable at the chance to mold the minds of future mourn watchers. Even as his face contorted in displeasure at the increase of students, made her giggle. How his eye would well up observing Manfred as he prepared for his studies as an apprentice.

The biggest difference was in Emmrichs appearance. When she met him for the first time, he was tall with wiry muscles, forearms covered in gold with an air of sophistication. Now, Emmrich seemed taller. Gone was the wiry build, replaced by leaner muscle and broader shoulders. His grave gold fit more snugly upon him, his clothes accentuating his stronger, more athletic build.. Though lessons had yet to start, even the students had taken notice, much to Rook's chagrin. She was certain he was aware of the stream of rumors surrounding him and speculations concerning the new change. He would just shrug with an air of nonchalance

Rook returned home late that evening, her body sore from having fought back darkspawn and her ongoing illness. As she approached the door her nose was bombarded with a most pleasant scent that only grew the closer she approached.

“Ah. Darling, you're home!” Emmrich shouted, still out of sight.

Taking off her coat and boots, she walked briskly towards the kitchen. Emmrich was huddled over the sink as Manfred stirred a pot on the stove. Her heart swelling at the sight of her little family as she watched in aw as Manfred moved about to chop some veggies. She turned her gaze towards Emmrich, still facing the sink, admiring his well toned physique. Just as Rook opened her mouth to speak, a strong, pungent smell assaulted her nose. She quickly covered her nose and mouth with one hand while the other wrapped around her abdomen. Eyes viciously darting around the room, seeking the source of the foul smell. Her eyes landed on the culprit. Manfred was chopping an onion.

“An onion?” The disbelief at the source was startling.

“Dearest?” Concern laced in Emmrichs voice.

Rook fixed her gaze to him as he strode over to her in 3 quick steps. Just as he reached her, the pungent scent hit her once more and she bolted towards the toilet. Dropping to her knees, she emptied what little was in her stomach. With her head resting on the rim, she felt Emmrichs hand rub along her spine.

“The nausea lingered all day and hit with bouts of dizziness. Davrin had to force me to sit down a few times.” Rook explained not moving. Slowly lifting her head, tilting towards Emmrichs direction, eyes shut

“Dinner smells wonderful. Though I fear I won't be able to eat it if Manfred adds those onions. Think they've gone bad or something.” Rook finally opened her eyes only to be met with a confused face staring back.

“My dear, I only purchased those vegetables this afternoon.” He spoke. His eyes scanning her face as if trying to read her.

Her own confused expression matched his. “I'll inform Manfred not to add the onions and place them away out of sight and smell.” He stood after reassuring her. As he turned to leave, “some ginger tea should help alleviate your discomfort.” Rook stood, nodding as she rinsed her mouth out.

A week later, the nausea was an unending nightmare. It would start in the morning, grateful that it didn't always lead to Rook bent over a toilet, yet, left her unable to consume anything until it passed. It was most disheartening when her stomach would betray her after a nice meal with Emmrich. The dizziness was less predictable, hitting when she least expected. During drills, walking, or even just standing still. During one excursion, Rook felt like the undead she moments ago dispatched of. Davrin accompanied her as they trained new warden recruits deep in the wetlands. He sent the fledgling wardens to scout ahead as he turned his attention to Rook, who was bent over, hands on her knees attempting to catch her breath.

“Rook. What's going on?” Davrin asked, his brow furrowed in concern. “You look like you're about drop any moment.”

“I don't know.” Rook uttered between breaths “I haven't been feeling like myself in weeks. Everything smells wrong, my body doesn't feel like my own.” She explained, trying to piece together an answer for her predicament. “I thought it would pass but it seems to be getting worst.”

Davrins expression changed little.

“There's been more wardens getting sick or displaying weird symptoms. Go talk to Flynn or one of the other healers once we get back to Lavendel”

“If it's related to the blight, there's nothing they can do right now. Though Antoine did say my symptoms were a little different than the others.” Rook stated as she stood to her full height.

“What do you mean?”

“Despite everyone being nauseous, I'm the only one puking their guts, inconsistent dizzy spells, and weird body aches. Though I don't have any boils like some Wardens”

“With this blight being so unpredictable, I'm surprised the joining hasn't changed or caused someone to grow a second head” At this, Rook laughed.

“Come on before those recruits get killed.”

A rare day with no Warden or guard duties, Rook was home alone. Emmrich and Manfred were out for the day, thus giving her a chance to finally leave her mark here. Despite the one floor home being much bigger than his apartments, it still felt more like his and not theirs.She didn't have much in the way of personal items, less to carry and quicker to move when out in the wild.

As she cleaned and reorganized the kitchen, it gave Rook a chance to reminisce on the past few weeks. When she agreed to move in with him, she was surprised at how quickly he sold his small apartments and bought a cozy house just outside the Necropolis. However, she spent little to no time at home unless Emmrich was there. Just like her time spent at the lighthouse, she never sat still even when there was nothing to do but wait.

She needed to be moving, somewhere on an adventure. He was the only person that truly kept her grounded, especially if it meant being underneath him. Nevertheless, she wanted to make a home with her Emmrich and dammit, she was gonna try. As she cleared the remnants of breakfast, her thoughts wander to her time in the Fade Prison, the shock of learning four weeks of her life were gone, the night she spent with Emmrich in his apartments before the final battle.

That night she remembered fondly. How their limbs tangled together, soaked in the after glow of their lovemaking. His arms wrapped tightly around her as if endeavored to meld her into his skin.

Reluctantly, he relinquished her to help clean up the evidence, after he showered her honeyed skin with a myriad of kisses. The way his hand had glided across her lower back whenever he passed her as they dressed. How his lips sought hers after every sock, under garments, or trouser were attempted on. Only for those trousers to had barely reached her hips before they were dropped once more. By the third attempt, they had made it up.

Once they were both cleaned and dressed, the couple sat down to enjoy some tea, seated across talking about anything and everything. As a comfortable silence befell them, steam from her tea tickled her nose as her eyes roamed, taking in the small space. How his books encapsulated the entirety of the room, the bedroom door being it's only obstacle. The door to his lab where she imagined the many experiments and researches he conducted there. Forgetting the world had been on the brink of destruction beyond the walls.

Emmrichs voice broke through her musing.

“Rook. Zea.”

Her real name on his lips always sent a warmth throughout her. Her fellow Wardens called her 'Thorne' or later on 'Rook'; very few knew her name so hearing it was unexpected. However, when Emmrich began using her name, she felt seen. As if he could see a piece of her soul only she knew, her name meant only for his lips to form.

“Yes, Emmrich?”

He placed his cup down, walking over to Zea's side, dragging a chair with him. As he sat, he guided her cup down to the table and wrapped her hands in his.

“My darling. My dearest heart. My Zea.” He whispered in between soft kisses to her knuckles. “I was such a fool. Maudlin over my own mortality, only to bare witness as you vanished before my very eyes.” He looked up, his gaze locked with hers, eyes glistened with unshed tears, “the thought of losing you was unbearable. To have lived it...” He trailed off as his voice faltered. “My heart ached in ways I haven't known in decades.” He grasped her hands tighter.

Zea managed to free one of her hands and cupped his grief-struck visage. Thumbing away his fallen tears, fighting back her own.

He took her hand that grasped his face, turning as his lips brushed against her palm. Planted tender kisses along her palm line

“I love you, Zea. I won't lose you again, darling.” He vowed.

She stood, pushing Emmrich until his back was flushed against the chair he sat on. Straddling him, the chair creaking under the added weight, she cradled his face. Her lips leaving a silent promise upon his eyes, his nose, his cheeks. Zeas mouth collided with his, her own unspoken vow sealed. As his arms wrapped around her, securing her firmly against himself. Their kiss broken when she pulled away. Face still held in her hands

“Whatever happens tomorrow, Emmrich, I love you”

“Come what may, my desire is to spend the rest of my life by your side.” When he buried his face in her ample bosom, the warmth of his breath seeped through her thin shirt, fueled her growing heat throughout her body....

The intense nausea drew Zea back to the here and now. With the arduous task, cleaning the kitchen sink vanquished, she gripped the edge as her breakfast threatened to resurface. She hurled the contents of her stomach over the freshly cleaned basin, the sour burn of bile filed her nose, she mentally cursed at another fine meal ruined.

As if the violence of the nausea wasn't enough, the room began spinning.

She slid down to the floor, her back against the cabinet, eyes shut tight while beads of sweat gathered on her forehead. Chest rising in controlled breaths as she tries willing the onslaught away.

Unsure of how much time elapsed as Zea opened her eyes, her dizzy spell had passed but the unsettling feeling in the pit of her stomach lingered.

“What the fuck is happening to me?” She hissed out, slamming the back of her head into the cabinet. She reasoned now was as good a time as any to seek a healer. However, should she go to one in the necropolis or to another warden? Zea pondered over her options as she slowly found her footing.

Deciding to leave Emmrich a note, informing him of her whereabouts should he return ahead of her. After signing her note, she grabbed her gear and headed off to the Hossberg wetlands.

Chapter Text

Emmrich,

I’m heading to the wetlands to speak with Flynn.

This sickness, doubtlessly caused by the blight, needs a warden's eye.

I hope to be back before you see this. If not, know I am alright and we

will speak when I return.

Yours, Zea

Stepping out of the eluvian, Zea rushed past Holden, the merchant, and his daughter, Mila, unaware of the shouted greeting as she hurriedly enclosed upon Flynn's cabin. She made her way into the makeshift cabin, which to her dismay, was absent Flynn. Instead she encountered a mage woman, small for an elf, with curly greyed hair. Zea recalled crossing paths with the mage during her early days as a Warden. Glances were exchanged, but never words. Age had settled in the lines of her face. Now, the slender elf spent her days as a healer, surprised she hadn’t left for her calling.

“Maybe the Wardens calling no longer…,” Zea pondered. “Thoughts for another time.”

The tiny elf turned to her..

“Ah, Rook. What can I do ya for?” A rustic Ferelden accent greeted her.

Zea was taken aback. This mage knew her name but embarrassingly, she didn't know theirs.

“I'm sorry. I don't-” her words were cut off as the room spun and she began to lose her balance.

In a flash the elf woman was by her side, short arms steadied what they could of her thick frame. A quick point of the chin to a nearby corner, Zea followed the elf's lead shuffling together towards a shabby looking cot.

“Careful now, girl. Sit here and tell me what's wrong.”

As Zea sat down, she leaned forward, head in her hands.

“ I'm sorry. I haven't been feeling well for weeks and it seems to be getting worse.” The mage fluffed up a pillow and gave another chin nod to lie down on her back.

“What are your symptoms?”

“Besides the nausea, I can hardly keep anything down. Dizzy spells, body aches.”

“What kind of body aches?”

“Lower back.” Zea paused for a moment. “My...breasts hurt, not unlike when my bleeds occurs.”

Starting at the top of Zea’s head, the elf woman waved her hands in a small circling motion. A calming blue light emanated accompanied by attentive head nods as Zea continued listing her symptoms.

“As I'm sure you're aware, Rook, there've been a lot of Wardens getting sick. Nausea seems to be the starting point.”

“I remember seeing you at Weisshaupt years ago,” Zea suddenly said “Apologies, but I don't remember your name.” 

 The mage's hand worked its way down Zea’s body towards her stomach and down her legs, stopping briefly at her feet. A smile crept across the elf's face.

 “My name is Alma,” She answered, her hands hovering, making their way back up Zea' body. “I'm not surprised you didn't know my name. Our paths never crossed long enough to warrant it.” She stopped moving her hands just below Zea’s navel.

“Well, Alma, it's nice to officially meet. Though, I wish under better circumstances.”

“Believe me, I've met folks in worse situations than this.”

Zea’s body felt hot too hot–she realized, thus the cooling sensation from Alma's magic was welcomed. It was as if a raging inferno was being suppressed. Just as she began enjoying the cooling magic, Zea noticed Alma's eyes widen in alarm as she quickly removed her hands and turned away towards a nearby table. 

Zea bolted up, concern etched in her voice

“What's wrong? What did you find?”  Alma turned back towards her with an indescribable look.

“Rook....” The silence lingered in the air, heavy, for too long. “You're pregnant.”

The words hit like a gut punch.

“You're joking, surely,” Zea snorted. “Seriously, what did you find?”

Alma stared at her stoned face. 

“I am serious, Rook. You are pregnant. At least12 weeks.” Zea’s ears began to ring. She shut her eyes and shook her head in disbelief.

“No. No no. That's impossible. Grey Wardens don't get pregnant. No.” She frantically stood up and began pacing the cabin, hands fidgeting as she picked at her nails.

“I assure you it's not entirely unheard of.” Zea stopped dead in her tracks, perplexed, she turned to face Alma. “Many years ago there was a rumor of a Grey Warden falling pregnant but she lost the babe not long after.”

“What!”

“Many years ago.” Alma repeated, “no one knows who it was.”

Zea continued her pacing

 “Rook. There are ways to deal with this if you so wish.” She started. “However, I must express the significance of what this could mean for the future of wardens should you carry to term.”

Zea heard Alma continue but nothing stuck. Her mind was swirling. She needed to speak with Evka soon. “Thank you, Alma. I need to go.” With that she hurried out of the cabin door, barely hearing Alma shouting.

 Zea started toward the dilapidated castle. It was mid-day and Evka should be back from her morning patrol. Despite being formally granted the title of First Warden, she still did grunt work. Especially with fewer Grey Wardens left, work had doubled for everyone. After making her way up the stairs to the main hall, apologizing to Holden and Mila for unintentionally ignoring them, she moved further towards the end of the hall. Approaching, Zea spots Evka in the dead end room that was acting as her and Antoine's office. Evka noticed her as she neared.

“Rook. What are you doing here?”

“Hey. Do you have a moment to talk? In private.”

“Sure.” Evka led her to an empty courtyard behind the office walls. Once alone, Zea began to pace.

“I don't know how else to say this, so I'm just gonna say it. I'm pregnant and I...I don't know how.” 

Evka, not missing a beat.

“You don't know how?” She cracked in response. Arms folded across her chest.

“I know HOW, Evka. That's not the point.” Surprised by her own outburst, Zea groaned. “We're wardens. This doesn't happen.” She waved her hand erratically, gesturing towards her stomach.

“Ok Rook, relax, we can figure this out.” The humor disappeared from Evka's voice as she uncrossed her arms. “When did you learn of this?”

“Just a moment ago. Came to see Flynn but they weren't around so I went to Alma.” She ceased her pacing “She looked...disturbed.” Zea confessed. “She also mentioned how years ago there was a rumor of a pregnant warden” 

At this, Zea noticed the change in Evka's expression.

“Evka?”

With a heavy sigh Evka started.

“It's true. I know because it was me.”

 Eyes blown wide, Zea was left speechless. “I was a warden for a few years, Antoine and I were newly married, and we believed it couldn't happen so we were anything but safe.” Evka moved towards a nearby wall and leaned against it. “During a fight with some darkspawn, I realized something was wrong. I didn't notice the blood as it was mixed with the blood splatter from the darkspawn...or the pain.” 

She paused for a moment, tears welling. “By the time we made it back to the nearby village, it was too late.” A single tear slowly descended down Evka's face. “The healer there helped…finish what my body couldn't.” Evka took a deep breath, “The worst part? Despite its small size, it was deformed as if corrupted by the blight itself.”

The word had come out in a rushed breath.

“Corrupted.” Zea couldn't think straight as Evkas words replayed intrusively in her head.

“How far along are you, Rook?” Evka's voice halted her spiraling long enough to answer.

“...12 weeks.”

“12 weeks? You're further along than I was, I think.”

Zea walked over to the wall Evka was leaning on, threw her back against it sliding down until her knees were against her chest, her arms wrapped tightly around them.

“What do I do? I don't want to be an experiment. I don't even want others to know in case something happens.” Burying her face in her knees, she counted to ten, trying to calm her breathing. “Maker, what am I going to tell Emmrich?”

Against her will, the dam broke as tears burned down her face. What was she to do? End it so the child wouldn't suffer? Let it continue, daring to hope?

Her thoughts were an incoherent, jumbled mess. Her nails dug into her thighs, threatening to draw blood. Drowning in worry, she forgot Evka was near until she felt a reassuring hand on her knee.

“Rook. You don't have to do anything you don't want to. You know this,” Evka began. “Just know you are an outlier as there's no information on Warden pregnancy.”

“That doesn't make me feel any better.” Zea retorted with a sniffle.

“I know. This blight isn't normal and we Wardens feel the difference. No matter what you decide, Rook, you'll have my support but you must choose soon. Who knows how this will progress” Evka expressed with apprehension.

Zea nodded, lifting her head as she wiped away tears.

“I survived under the First Warden, hordes of darkspawn, and two ancient Elven gods only to be brought down by a bizarre, blighted pregnancy,” Zea quipped.

“You're not down, just in uncharted waters. As we all are.” Evka stood, her hand reaching towards Zea. “Go home and have a long chat with the professor.”

“Thank you, Evka and....I am sorry for your loss.” She uttered, taking the outreached hand.

“It's ok, Rook. It was many years ago. There are moments when I still think about that time but thank you.”

Zea made her way back to Nevarra through the eluvain later than she realized. It was still early evening so Emmrich should be done with the last of his meetings and was sure to be home. She didn't want to return empty handed, especially with such a heavy topic to discuss. She made a brief detour to one of Emmrich's favorite bakeries, purchasing two sweet cheese stuffed croissants.

Deciding to walk home from the bakery was no short trip. However, it gave Zea time to be lost in her head. Walking the cobbled paths she had become accustomed to as her body made twists and turns absentmindedly propelled her home. Taking in the bold colors of flower beds that lined around the different homes and walk ways. A stark contrast to the heavy overcast. 

She made a mental note to speak with  Emmrich about planting some lilacs and heliotropes along their home. As she continued to walk, her boots clomping against the stones, she mulled over the details, replaying her conversations with both Evka and Alma. 

“Alma was shouting something as I left. Should I have gone back to talk with her?” 

Her steps halted just before reaching the front door, a major miscalculation had occurred.

“12 weeks? That can't be right. That would place conception during my time in the Fade Prison.” She looked down, placing a hand just below her navel unsure if the bump she felt was hers or the sign of new life. “Unless Solas did some weird elven magic shit, there's no way.”

With a deep breath she unlocked the door. Upon entering the home, she was greeted by a jolt of horror. She had left her sick in the sink. Quickly taking off her coat and boots, she jogged to the kitchen, grateful to have made it home before Emmrich. Placing the treats on the table, she equipped herself with a pair of gloves among other supplies and went about cleaning her mess.

Zea’s mind ran through the events of the day for a fifth time. She wondered how much of herself had changed without her noticing. Despite not feeling like herself, understandably why, dread began clawing at her heart. It didn't take her long to rid the basin of her evidence. Once cleaned, she left the kitchen and headed towards her bedroom.

She illuminated the darkened room with a few lanterns, her eyes searching until landing on what she sought–a tall mirror standing in a corner on the far side. Hesitantly, she proceeded towards the looming mirror, fearful of her own image. Very little frightened Zea. Not the wrath of the First Warden and nobles when she disobeyed orders to save that village, not blighted dragons nor even the gods themselves. She faced them, head held high with everything she had.

Now, she stood in front of the mirror, her eyes shut, unsure of what she'll see. It had been some time since she last looked upon herself truly–mentally listing off what she remembered. Her wavy copper tinted hair, ample breasts, the soft pudge of her waist, The curve of her hips and thighs.

She silently pleaded that nothing had changed. Stripping down to her underclothes, she stood upright and opened her eyes. To her relief, nothing had changed… much. Starting from her breasts, they felt heavier than she remembered and they hurt like hell. Zea knew that tender breasts were a sign of pregnancy but didn't realize it would hurt this bad. She then slowly guided her hands down her body, resting her hands on the small swell of her belly. With her shirt off, she could clearly see that the bump was indeed evidence of new life within her.

“Oh, fuck,” she cursed poking and prodding at the bump. “Maker knows how you came to be. I only hope...” her voice trailed, afraid to finish her thought out loud.  “You better not come out with elven ears or so help me I’ll tear down the fade myself and kill that bastard.”

Walking across the room to the connected washroom, she ran the water for a bath. The events of the day had made her feel icky. As the water ran, steam quickly enveloped the room. The persistent ache of stress was making her wish she had paid closer attention to the combination of herbs and poultices Emmrich would use for a more relaxed time.  

Taking her underclothes off, she lowered herself into the hot water. Despite the growing heat within her, the water felt amazing against her skin. She didn’t know what it was. This wasn't a heat of passion or illness. This was deeper within, akin to being burned from the inside out. 

It reminded her of the joining ritual. Having drank a concoction of magic and darkspawn blood was deplorable. A thick, monstrous flavor heavy with the taste of mineral, ore, and death. After 15 years, not even Harding's worst dish could make her forget the thick liquid as it seeped into her body. The burn began in her throat and rapidly spread throughout her body, eyes on the verge of popping. The pain was so intense, she blacked out. Having survived, where others didn’t, she was officially a Grey Warden.

Zea leaned back against the far end of the tub, positive Emmrich would chastise her for how hot she made the water. However, it was preferable to the gnawing heat growing within. Either way it was one more item on the list for discussion. Once settled in the bath, she shut her eyes. Unaware she had fallen asleep.

It was dark. She could hear nothing. Yet, felt a pulsing sensation permeating around her. Searching in the pitch black for the source, she caught sight of a dimmed red light slowly pulsing through a closed door. 

Her body moved on its own, weightlessly gliding towards the light. Like a beacon calling her near, the light grew brighter. The door suddenly disappeared, melting away into a pile of blighted blood and pus. Her body floated over the threshold into a corridor. Dread rose in her throat like bile. The pulsing light was red lyrium. The blighted mineral covered the small corridor from floor to ceiling.

The area was unrecognizable, yet the lyrium lit a spark of nostalgia. She couldn't explain how she knew but she was in the deep roads; or a twisted version of one. Normally the deep roads would be enormous tunnels, spanning in all directions. However, this one was smaller and only led in one direction. 

As her body continued to traverse the unyielding blighted deep road, the rhythmic pounding of the red lyrium grew the deeper she went, faster and brighter. Finally the corridor had come to an end and she found herself in a wide open cavern, nearly identical to the one containing the titan heart she and Harding had found. Only instead of a giant heart in the center it was replaced by an angry, massive red orb surrounded by increasingly pulsating red lyrium.

              All at once the lyrium ceased its cursed beat. The silence was deafening. There was a shadow Zea could barely make out contained in the strange sphere. Something felt familiar. Calling to her.  Suddenly it began to vibrate, the red lyrium surrounding the room followed suit. Whatever was inside this monstrous orb was emitting a powerful aura that drew her closer. Almost hypnotic. Then it moved, violently, and she doubled over in pain.

She opened her mouth to scream but was met with silence. She turned to flee but found her exit blocked. Returning her gaze back to the orb, it continued to move violently, every time sending an unbearable wave of agony through her core. Looking down, her abdomen began to swell, to her horror. She dropped to her knees, face contorting from the intense pain, holding the side of her rapidly expanding belly. She felt her skin stretch, ripping, by the sudden change. A crimson liquid seeped from her stomach and between her legs. Her throat raw from the soundless screaming until…

Her eyes shot open. Everything was disoriented. Her ears rang with the fading sound of her screams. She tried to move but couldn't. Finally she heard him.

“ZEA!” Emmrichs voice was laced with a fear she had never heard.

“Emm...rich?” Her blurry vision landed on him still in his coat.

He was holding onto her shoulders with a vice-like grip, sleeves soaked through. As her vision cleared she looked around, realizing she was still in the bath. The water had turned cold despite the ever growing inferno inside her. Her heart felt like it would burst from her chest, her breath was uneven. It was a nightmare but it felt so…real.

“Thank the Maker.” He let out a heavy sigh. “Are you alright?” Voice calmed, his grip loosening.  “ I returned home and your screams were echoing through the house,” he released her arms. “I found you here. You were thrashing about and...” His voice faded looking down at the water.

Following his gaze, she realized the water was a deep scarlet. Confused and panicked, she tried to stand but found she had difficulties doing so. Emmrich grabbed onto her elbow and hand to help her up as she braced herself with the other hand on the side of the tub. She felt heavier than before entering the tub.

Finally on her feet, she winced as Emmrichs grip on her tightened. She turned to him and saw his face contorted in horror. His eyes refused to meet hers. Following his gaze once more, she was met with a shocking sight. Her abdomen had grown significantly. Her breath hitched in her throat as she placed a shaky hand on top; Warm to the touch despite the chill of the water. Uncertain if the low pulse she felt was her imagination. Letting out a shaky breath, she turned her gaze back to him.

“Emmrich.”

He didn't respond. His gaze fixed on her stomach. Instead he tugged her arm, motioning her out of the tub. His trembling matched her own.

As her wet feet landed on the cold stone, the scarlet water pooling around her. Emmrich still hadn't spoken a word, finally broke his trance and turned away to grab a towel. 

She replayed her nightmare in her head. Unsure of its meaning or purpose. Her hand rested on her belly still, feeling a low pulse that was definitely not her head. For the first time in her life, her mind was blank.

When Emmrich returned he wrapped a large towel around her shoulders. Zea observed him, trying to read his ever changing expressions; Fear. Anger. Sadness.

“Emmrich,” she uttered softly as their gaze met the shimmer in her eyes paired with his. After what felt like an eternity, he swallowed hard and spoke.

“Are you in any pain?” He asked, rubbing his hands up and down her towel covered arms. 

“I…I don’t think so.” She answered looking back at the blood stained tube. 

“We must get you to a healer.” He adjusted the large towel, wrapping it under her arms and over her chest. “I don't know what is happening-”

“I do.” cutting him off. “I'm…”

“If you're going to say what I believe...that would be impossible,” he uttered incredulously. “There is also the fact that you were not like this when I left this morning.”

“I know.” The air stilled with the unspoken words between them. “There’s a lot we need to discuss”

She moved away from him heading back towards the bedroom. He followed suit, removing his wet coat. Discarded on the floor near the washroom. Her hands on her lower back trying to adjust to the sudden weight change. Abandoning her towel, she sat on the bed, naked, leaning back on both hands. Her face twisted by the discomfort in her belly. Realization dawned on her that in her predicament nothing she owned would fit.

“I'll have Manfred grab some larger clothing for you. Then we shall make our way to a healer.” Emmrich declared as if reading her mind. 

He knelt in front of her between her knees. Under any other circumstance, this would be most welcomed. 

“Not tonight.”

“What?”

“Emm…” She sat up wincing. One hand on the side of her belly.

“My dear, I understand your discomfort. However, I must insist. Something is clearly amiss and what if something occurred in the middle of the night?” He placed a hand on her stomach, feeling the low, unnatural pulse. His other hand on her knee, thumbing circles. Locking his gaze with hers “Please, Zea. I can not bear to lose you, not again.”

She closed her eyes as she took a slow and deep breath. Upon her exhale she gave her answer.
“Ok.”

Chapter Text

Picking up his discarded coat off the floor, Emmrich departed the room to give instructions to Manfred to inform Myrna that an emergency had occurred and she should expect them soon. Alone, Zea rose from the bed, wrapping a blanket around her still naked form, slowly pacing in front of their shared bed. A large king size in the center of the room with the headboard fleshed against a wall opposite the doorway to the hall. The blanket delicately dusted the old, worn carpet peaking out from beneath the bed. 

 Her footsteps were silenced by the carpet; a stark contrast to the blaring noise in her mind, a sought-after connection between the bizarre nightmare, what was physically happening to her and the conversation with Evka. “Corrupted” flashed across her mind like a warning. Shaking her head, banishing the phantoms that besieged her mind to begin anew. 

“Antione would know more, he had to know something by now,” she reasoned. Given he and Flynn were investigating the anomalies associated with the changing blight, she needed to speak with them. She needed answers before things got any worse.

She halted her pacing abruptly and shut her eyes. Fighting back the bitter sting of her besotted tears. Maker, she hated how easily they would come. Betrayed once more by the wild storm of her emotions as the first stream of tears burned down her cheeks. The ever annoying blaze that grew with every passing moment wasn't helping either. Everything was falling apart before she could even find her footing on normalcy. 

“Fuck. What is happening to me?”Looking down at her blanket concealed abdomen. 

Frustration boiled in her chest causing more tears to fall as she clutched the blanket tighter around her frame. She had better control than this, yet, in the less than 24 hours she had no more of a handle on her emotional state than when she punched the First Warden during the siege at Weisshaupt. Not that he didn’t deserve it. However, it wasn't her finest moment and one she would regret if only for the simple fact that she would never forget the disappointed look on Emmrichs face. 

The bedroom door swung open, disrupting her chaotic brooding as Emmrich returned with a tray of food in one hand and some clothing draped over his other arm. He placed the tray down on the nearby end table and the clothing on the bed. Moving in closer to him just as he turned in kind to embrace her. She failed to wipe away the evidence of her betrayed emotional state when she buried her face in his neck. His presence kept her from spiraling deeper, his warmth, his scent, every single fiber of his being made her feel safe. Words were not her strong suit. The pretty words he would use to express how he felt , made her melt. Yet, jealousy would rise as she lacked the same flare. 

So much had occurred in such a short time frame, her body was exhausted. No matter how much she wished this was a dream, the settle movement within reminded her that this was indeed real. There was still much to be done and discussed first.

“My dear, You must eat something. I was also able to procure some clothing that should accommodate you better for the moment.” He pointed out cupping her face and brushing the tip of his nose to hers before planting a soft kiss upon her lips. Thumbing away her remaining tears.

 “I’m not hungry right now but thank you,” she muttered. “And for the clothes.” 

Breaking away from his hold, she reached for the clothes, an old Watchers apprentice attire. Dropping the blanket, she caught from her peripheral Emmrich’s eyes graze over her naked frame as he slowly lowered himself on the bed. As she dressed the shirt was loose as it could be, accentuating the bump even when not tucked into her trousers. Her fingers glided down the side of her swell, briefly reminiscing. Just that morning, she was preparing to leave her mark on their home finally. Now, her future was even more uncertain.

“It itches,” she whispered, sighing heavily.

“That's understandable. The sudden change caused your skin to stretch unnaturally.” Her nose flared with a deep sigh as she glared at him.

“You have questions. I'll tell you what I know but it's not much”

“Shall we start from the top? I sent Manfred to request a carriage-”

“I can walk.”

“We need to discuss what’s happening and I would prefer strangers not be privy to our conversation.”

“On that, we can agree.” She sat down on the bed not facing him.

“Besides, it would behoove us both to be on the same page.” 

Finding the word difficult to utter, she shut her eyes, counting backwards from 10 silently. Before she reached half way, his hand was wrapped around hers.

“I know. Besides the obvious, I sensed its life force when I touched you”, he explained. “Except you're a Grey Warden and led to believe infertile.”

“Not entirely impossible. Lucky me huh?” She sighed heavily

“I don't understand. When did...this happen?” He asked, looking down at her.

She launched into recounting the events of the day. The intense sickness from the morning, her trip to the Lavendal, the information she received. At this, Emmrichs jaw dropped

“What?”

“Yea I was just as surprised as you. No one knows who this warden was.” Keeping Evka secret.

“There's more.” Emmrich suspected.

“Yes. The time frame I was given couldn't be right. It would mean conception happened during my time in the Fade prison.”

At this Emmrich stiffened

“With what just happened, things are obviously progressing faster than normal,” she expressed. “This has to be related to the blight corruption and not Solas.”

“My word.” He said breathlessly. He quickly stood up “Right. The best course right now is to get you to a healer so we can assess what's happening. Perhaps there is a way to slow down the growth.” Their conversation was interrupted by a knock on the door. Manfred had returned with the carriage.

The ride itself was quick, yet slow enough for Zea to inform Emmrich that she had bought some sweats for him earlier.
“Ah. Yes, I did notice the bag. It is still where you left it. We can indulge when we return.”

Zea nodded. 

Despite being the one to initiate the conversation, ‘what ifs?’ went off in her mind. What if she was dying? What if their baby was? What if it wasn’t human? What if there's a whole litter inside her? As if sensing her stress, Emmrich placed his large hands over hers and squeezed. She shut her eyes and took a deep breath.

“Slow. Deep breaths, my love. We will arrive momentarily and Maker willing, we’ll have some answers.”

Answers to which questions? She wondered. Taking a moment to cease her mind’s endless thoughts, she examined Emmrich wearing a simple green and gold sweater as his coat was still wet from when he found her a few hours ago.

The carriage arrived at the Necropolis. Not an unusual affair though the late hour had drawn in curious onlookers. The driver, though visibly annoyed at the last minute request, was tipped handsomely as compensation.

Emmrich helped her descend the carriage and moved his tall frame to the side, blocking the view of others the best he could. Wrapping his arm around her waist, ushered her towards Myrna's office. It was not far from the entrance thus taking no time to reach, grateful there were less wandering eyes the closer they approached. Myrna was standing by the door to her office, hands clasped in front of her.

“I received your note, Professor.” She stated, moving to hold the door open. “Quickly now.” 

The couple quickly moved past Myrna into the office 

Once all were inside, Myrna locked the door and led everyone to the back room that was set up like a clinic. 

“Now, your note spoke of an emergency…” Her voice trailed off as Zea had come into her line of sight. Myrna's eyes shifted from Zea to Emmrich and back to Zea. “Well. This is certainly a development.”

“It’s a bit complicated. I need a thorough examination,” Zea stated. 

If Myrna had any reservation, her face gave nothing away; she simply nodded and with a wave of her hand showed Zea where to lie down on the examination table. Getting up there was harder than she wanted to admit. Once settled, Emmrich stood by the door with Myrna’s back to him.

“Lift your shirt and try your best to explain to me what's happened.”

Zea exhaled slowly.

“Found out I was pregnant, came home, took a nap, woke up like this.” She stated. “I have an idea of what’s causing this rapid progression.”

“You woke up like this?” Myrna probed.

“I…I had a nightmare…about red lyrium,” she revealed. “It felt so real. The energy from the lyrium and the…the pain.”

“What pain, Rook?”

“From…” She swallowed hard, “my stomach being ripped open from the sudden growth.” 

Zea turned her head slightly towards Emmrich. His hair was rumpled, eyes tired with worry and horror, his hands were clasped so tightly his knuckles were white. 

“Do not worry, Rook. I will do my best to aid in any way.” Myrna began waving her hands over Zea's stomach. A bright green energy released from Myrna's hands as she placed them on Zea abdomen. The low warming sensation seemed to match the low pulsing she felt within. Myrna’s head tilted sideways slightly

“Hmm.” Emmrich and Zea locked eyes.

“What is it, Myrna?” Emmrich asked for the both of them

“This child. I can already sense they will be a very powerful mage with an affinity for corpse whispering and…” Myrna paused for a moment, her eyes narrowed. “Interesting. It would appear your child will have an affinity for two types of magic. One I am unfamiliar with.”

“Unfamiliar magic?” Emmrich voiced

“It must be old magic.” Myrna stated. “Unfortunately we won’t know until the child’s born.” 

“Fascinating.”  Emmrich responded, a little too excitedly. 

The two senior mages were momentarily distracted by such a discovery; they were blind to subtle changes in Zea’s demeanor.  

All the sound faded in the room as Zea’s ears started to ring and the room began to tilt. Observing Emmrich and Myrna mouth moving but all she heard was the unusual ring of the blight in her blood; louder than the echo she heard destroying the blight eruption. Swallowing hard, she gripped the side of the table trying to ground herself, eyes shut tight to prevent her world from flipping. The pulsing quickened as the heat grew. 

 A sharp inhale through her teeth followed by a pained groan. Myrna’s hands flew off of her as she let out a rushed exhale. Squirming on the table, a hand grasped her shoulder.

“Zea! What’s happening?” Emmrich’s voice pierced the cacophony in her head.

“I… I don’t know. It’s…it’s like my nightmare.” She spoke through gritted teeth. One hand gripped her belly. Fingers dug in silently, willing the torment to end. However, the pulse continued to build as she white knuckled gripped the table with the other hand.  “Like.. it’s trying… to…to  claw out.” she let out through laboured, uneven breaths.

“Myrna, do you have anything to stop this?” Emmrich voiced with urgency.

“I can not give her something without knowing the cause. It could inadvertently make things worse.”

“Please….Anything…To stop…this.” Zea whined now turned on her side in a fetal position. Panicked by roaring heat steadily growing; like being boiled from the inside out. 

Emmrich placed a hand on her swell, feeling the violent movement within her. Suddenly the movement and rapid pulsing began to subside. After a few moments, Zea’s breathing began to even out, the ringing faded as she let a heavy sigh escape her lips. The chaos vanished as quickly as it started while the silence encapsulated them.

“Guess someone just wanted… daddy’s attention,” Zea quipped breathless, breaking the tension lingering in the air. 

Emmrich released his own long sigh, afraid to relinquish his hand off her belly, he placed his forehead to hers.

Myrna clearing her throat forced the couple to turn their attention.

“As much as I would love to help, I can not do much at this hour. The best course is to return in the morning when more experienced healers are awake,” Myrna explained. “You should also speak with your fellow Wardens as this could very well be caused by the blight coursing through your veins, as you so believe.”

“You’re right, Myrna.” Turning his attention to Zea, “we should get you home, my dear. Some rest will do us both good.” Emmrich stressed helping Zea sit up. His right hand firmly planted on her abdomen.

“I apologize for not being more helpful.”

“Nonsense. We know more than when we first walked through those doors.”

“Emmrich’s right. Thank you Myrna.” Zea winced as the pain slowly dulled.

“You are most welcomed. Oh there is one more thing I noticed during the brief exam.” 

Zea’s body stiffened with anticipation.

“Worry not. Your babe, despite the rapid growth, appears healthy and strong,” Myrna declared. “I know this may not be the right time for this but were you able to relay the information from our meeting, Emmrich” Myrna asked. Zea looked confused between the two mages.

“Ah. I had not. The events of the evening moved so fast that we scarcely had a moment to speak on anything else.”

“What are you talking about?”

“I promise to explain all once we are rested and of sound mind.”

Reluctantly, Zea agreed. 

Giving their thanks once more, the couple made their way out of the Necropolis and onto the cobbled stone road towards home. Fewer people were out than before which meant a quiet walk home in the comfortable silence arm in arm. 

Though they were given relatively good news, Zea couldn’t help the unease she still felt. Why was she feeling a raging inferno rising within her in tandem with the low throbbing emitting from her womb? What was this unfamiliar magic Myrna sensed? Her mind filled with unanswered questions. 

Lost in her thoughts, she was unaware they made it home until Emmrich waved his hand over the door unlocking it. He helped her remove her coat and boots and turn to do the same for himself once inside. With his back turned to her, she grabbed his sweater and moved in closer, resting her forehead in between his shoulder blades.

“I know you’re worried and scared. So am I.” She started. “There’s so much unknown about this and I….I don’t know what to do.”

Emmrich leaned gently into her.

“It’s not the first time we’ve had to deal with a situation no one else has ever. How many can say they fought and survived against three ancient Elven gods.” He drew in a deep inhale, “though witnessing your torment these past few hours has…plucked a melancholic string upon my very soul.”

“Dealing with the elven gods was different. I had the skills to fight back.” She withdrew from him and he turned to face her. “I can’t fight this with those same skills.” Looking at her hands as she balled them into fists. “I didn’t mention this earlier but there’s been this sensation growing within me. I feel as if I’m gonna burst into flames or worse,” she paused, feeling the ever familiar sting of tears making their presence known. “Turn into some kind of darkspawn while giving birth to a new type of archdemon.” She inhaled a shaky breath. Emmrich moved in closer. Encapsulating her in his long arms. 

Like the crumbled ruins of Weisshaupt, she could hold on no longer. The stress of the day, learning of her pregnancy, the fire steadily growing, her nightmare, the uncertainty of her future. Hard and ugly sobs soaked through Emmrichs shirt. She wrapped her arms around his waist, his head resting against hers as his own tears fell in her hair.

“Fear not, my dearest heart. You are not condemned to tread this alone.” He asserted. “If I could take even a sliver of the burden away, I would not hesitate.” Pushing away from her just enough to rest his forehead to hers. “Let us get to bed and rest. A clear mind will help us in the morning.”

Still holding onto each other, they moved to the bedroom, stripped down to their small clothes and crawled into bed. Emmrich held her from behind resting a hand in the space between her breast and stomach. She grabbed his hand pulling him closer. The cool sheets were a welcomed contrast to the internal heat. Terrified of sleep but too drained to allow it to take over,  her body's exhaustion won out and sleep had her in its grasp.

Chapter Text

An open field of white petaled flowers, shrouds kiss, as far as the eye can see. Zephyr winds gave waves to a sea of white and green under a bright, blue sky. Surprised by the sheer amount, Zea found peace amongst them. Out in the distance she barely made out two figures facing the horizon in the same field. Her body, carried by the wind itself, moved towards the figures gracefully through the field. 

Broad shoulders, refined posture, lean waist, pinchable tight-ass, his long, sturdy legs. She knew.

Emmrich. 

The wind picked up its gust twined with her quickened heart, hurtling her towards him. He partially turned as if he felt a presence behind him, turning back slightly to confirm. The momentum ceased as the very wind carrying her pushed past with such force it ripped the petals into a flurry of white flora. His handsome face, his hazel eyes, dapper mustache, the aged lines of laughter and years, gone. A blank slate.

Why was his handsome face gone? What did this mean? Subtle movement next to him drew her attention away.

The other figure was…Her, also devoid of features. Her violet-blue eyes, her scars. Gone. 

Her faceless self was cradling something small. Cautiously she moved closer as her eyes landed on a small child, who appeared no more than a year old. Jet black wavy hair with mismatched colored eyes that held a spark of curiosity in each. The child held her gaze and simply shot a toothless grin, waving their little hand. A warmth radiated through her at the small gesture. 

The faceless turned, walking away. Zea reached out to stop them but couldn’t move.

“WAIT!” The desperation in her voice startled her.

A hand on her shoulder nearly had her jump from her skin. The voice that followed had her fallen to her knees.  

“Hey kid, no rush. You’ll see them soon.” Varric stepped from behind her at her right side. Strolling from her left was the one touching her, his cadence had her weeping. 

“See. I told you she would freak just from the touch.” An all too familiar wit laced with humour. Uncontrollable streams of tears caressed her cheeks. Her voice lost to her as she watched the four figures disappear into the distance…

Her eyes fluttered open, staring at the off white ceiling. A depressing scene compared to previous, ears wet from the freshly shed tears sliding down. A calmer dream than her last. Was it a dream? Varric hadn’t entered her dreams in weeks and it’s been years since he graced her thoughts at all. She swallowed hard and placed a hand on her swell. Looking down she noticed the swell had grown once more over her few hours of slumber.

“Fuck me.” She whispered to herself, tossing her head back into the plush pillow. Turning her head, an empty bed greeted her, cold with a hint of fading warmth to the touch.

“Where did he disappear off too now?” 

His tall frame sauntered into the room, silently answering her. Fully dressed,  in usual garb, he was holding a bundle of clothing. 

“Good morning, darling. Did you sleep well?” He probed.

“As well as I can, considering,” arms stretched out. “Though I had a more peaceful dream. I think it was a dream, it felt so real. Ah, there's also this.” She threw the covers off her, watching as Emmrichs eyes threatened to pop out. He dropped the bundle and in one long stride he was kneeling by the bed. 

“How is this possible?” He wondered softly, brushing his fingers lightly over the new swell. Suddenly her stomach tightened and she inhaled deeply. 

“Are you in any pain?”

“Not really. This is nothing compared to yesterday. The little demon really wants to make their presence known.” Grunting as she propped herself up on her elbows.

“Please don’t make jokes. We have no idea what is growing within you.”

“Well, we at least know it’s healthy. Also we have stop calling our child ‘it’.” She let out in a strained voice attempting to sit up. Having no time to adjust to the added weight made moving difficult. Emmrich stood and grabbed her arm, assisting her.

“Are we certain it’s healthy?”

“Ok first, stop calling our child ‘it’. Second, why would Myrna lie? Despite the brief exam, if she sensed anything else out of sorts, she would have said so.” Still holding her arm as she swung her legs over the side of the bed. 

“She wouldn’t. I…Apologies.”

“Right now the most concerning matters are this growing heat in me and how fast things are progressing.” voicing as she stood up.

“You’re right. Which is why my focus has been on your well being-”

“And whatever is happening in the Necropolis?” Curious and itching for a good fight despite her condition, she interrupted him.

“ …I’m afraid not. What’s happening in the lower levels is important and must be dealt with swiftly. However, my priority at the moment is you.”

“That hasn’t stopped us before.”

“You also weren’t carrying something that could possibly kill you or as you said, turn you into some monstrosity.”

“Emmrich.” 

“No. I’m sorry, my love. I must insist that our focus remains on the impending arrival of…” He hesitated, eyes lowered away from hers.

She cupped his face, gently turned him until she could see the growing shimmers in his eyes. 

“Neither of us are prepared for this and the way you found out.” she released his face and placed her hand on the center of his chest, feeling his heart pound faster through his button down shirt. A weary sigh escaped her parted lips, “I’m sorry you had to see that, it was not what I had planned. A waste of sweet croissants.”

“I must confess I had indulged this morning. They were quite delicious.” He smiled sweetly. 

“Glad you were able to enjoy them.”

“Though they would have tasted sweeter under less…Distressing circumstances.”

He took her hand off his chest and brought it to his lips, kissing each knuckle. “I’ve gathered a variety of clothing for you.” He revealed bending down to pick up the dropped items. “Though some might be unattractive.”

“Well as a possible broodmother, unattractive is great.” She jested reaching for the stack of clothes. He gripped her wrist, halting her outstretched arm, his eye a blaze with earnestness. 

“That wicked tongue of yours is one of your many…Talents that can undo me. However, I must implore you to take this matter seriously.”

“I am. Despite my body screaming that everything is wrong. ”

“You just appear rather..calmer compared to last night.” He relinquished her wrist allowing her to pick out an unflattering dark green short sleeve dress. Its soft fabric gave the illusion of comfort.

“I feel…Lighter given the situation. That’s a good thing.” Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she waddled to the washroom, one hand on her lower back. 

“Good? A blighted child that we have no idea will even live past its first breath.” 

“To be fair, that scenario can happen to anyone unfortunately.” She retorted looking back over her shoulder. 

Upon entering the washroom, the sight of a cleaned tub brought back the vision of last night. Emmrich was close behind, hands caressing up and down her arms. She wasn’t sure if the smell of iron was in her mind or just persistently stuck in the air from hours ago.

“While you slept I took the liberty to clean up so you wouldn’t have to see the horror left behind.”

“I have no idea why there was so much blood. Maker, this was the worst way to find out something this important.”

“It is a sight I wish to never behold again.” He declared, planting kisses to her bare neck. “Tell me about this pleasant dream you had.”

“I will if you tell me what is going on in the Necropolis.” 

With an agreement made, Emmrich left the washroom, allowing Zea the privacy to do her daily routine the best she could in her condition. Once completed, she slipped into the dress with surprised ease. Though the dress made her appear like an over ripped grape, it was the most comfortable she had been in days.

She made her way to the kitchen where Emmerich had a fresh bowl of cinnamon oatmeal with cut fruit waiting for her. 

Seated across one another, she began recalling her dream. Their faceless counterparts, the child with mismatched eyes, the two surprise visitors. She omitted the warning from Varric. Unsure if it was a warning at all, the last thing she wanted was to give her necromancer anymore to worry over. His eyes bulged in pure astonishment.

“Fasinating. It sounds as though you’ve had a prophetic dream of sorts. Though, who was the other voice you heard?”

She stared at her half eaten oatmeal, searching the sweet, creamy cereal for an answer. Not wanting to reveal too much, she placed both hands on the table and answered him.

“He was my mentor, my brother. He took me under his wing when I first joined the Wardens.” She choked back a sob. “He died years ago.”

“Taken by the calling?”

“No.” She didn’t utter more for fear of reliving those painful years. His large hand reached across the table to envelope hers.

“Say no more, my love. Thank you for sharing what you have.” His low syrupy voice always warmed her to the core.

Squeezing his fingers, she promised to explain more about her past and former mentor once the current predicament was resolved. 

As if ignited, the inferno began to rise as her belly tightened once more. Shutting her eyes and taking deep breaths, Emmrichs grip never loosened. Feeling the intensity of his stare as the heat pulsed for what felt like hours, yet, only lasted mere seconds and began to slowly settle.

She let out a low frustrated groan. 

“Maybe you should tell me what’s happening in the Necropolis on the way to Lavendale.” 

“Agreed. I’ve already sent a missive out. Evka will be expecting us.”

Finishing breakfast, Emmrich grabbed his staff, keenly aware of how relatively safe the crossroads were after the gods' defeat. Nonetheless danger still lurked and with his beloved in no shape for proper combat, he needed to be ready. She grabbed a hooded cloak to obscure her secret to the best of her ability. Emmrich launched into the details during their trek from Nevarras eluvian into the crossroads.

Rumors of demon activity in the lower levels of the Necropolis were no surprise. However, these were scattered and showed up in areas where demons were harder to conjure due to the heavy wards. 

A few weeks later it was discovered to be a distraction. An old forgotten library that dated back to the Ancient age, over 1000 years ago, had been ransacked. Books were scattered about with pages torn out of a few. The missing pages all referenced the first blight. Other libraries and ancient tombs in various cities throughout Thedas, with scrolls dating back to that same time period were also ransacked. Venatori presents were found at every site.

Emmrich ended his recounting once they stepped out of the eluvian in the Hossberg wetlands. The small courtyard was scattered with a handful of Wardens busily about. Grateful to be hidden under her cloak as the two approached the side entrance to the dilapidated castle to Evka and Antoine ‘office’.

Evka greeted them with a warm smile.

“Professor. I wasn’t expecting your missive. Is everything ok?” Evka inquired. 

Zea stepped from behind Emmrichs tall frame, taking note of the three other bodies facing away towards an alchemy table.

“We've had better days. Some healing poultice should fix this right?” Zea moved her cloak to the side.

An audible sharp gasp escaped Evka's lips. Antoine, Flynn and Davrin turned at the startling sound and in unison echoed Evkas bewilderment. 

“Yea, this was definitely the reaction I was expecting,” glancing at Emmrich who merely shook his head. 

“Rook!” Evka slowly made her way closer, her eyes locked on Zeas belly. “Wh…What happened? I…I just saw you yesterday.”
“That's why we’re here. Pretty sure the blight is causing this…Somehow.” Her hand resting atop her stomach.

“Mes dieux”  Antoine expressed with his thick orlesian accent. “The blight caused this? Wardens have been going to the infirmary all night, the blight has been varying in its effects with each Warden. Their minds are not their own and the physical changes, De telles horreurs." 

“Well I still have my mind…I think but you’re not wrong about it having a physical change.” Zea placed her other hand on her lower back. Taking a deep breath as the tightness returned and the throbbing quickened.

“Rook. Are you ok?” Davrin voiced with concern. 

 “No.” Simply answered, yet, sharper than she intended.

“We came here hoping you could aid us in getting to the bottom of what is happening. Perhaps stopping the rapid progression,” Emmrich began to explain.

She sensed it before it took over.

 “Oh no.” She let out breathless, shutting her eyes tight and inhaling sharp. 

Her heart hammered hard and fast in her chest, the blight coursing through her vein, loud like the rushing waterfalls in Rivine through her ears. The blaze inside her picked up like an unrestrained fiery tornado, sweat beads formed on her forehead. Her hand moved from her back to her stomach, tighter and pulsing in time with her quicken heart rate as she doubled over.

She didn’t hear her name being called, only a hand on her exposed forearm. 

“Maker’s breath, Rook. You’re burning up.” She heard Flynn's voice simultaneously as their hand flew off her. 

Her eyes still shut, she opened her mouth to speak but only a pain cry left her lips.

“GET HER TO THE HEALER QUICKLY!” Someone shouted. She was unsure who it was as it was mixed with the unnatural music in her ears.

“We…Touch her. My hands felt like they were burning.” 

“We can’t…Leave her like this.” faded voices spoke over one another.

She gathered her strength to move on her own. Willing her legs to carry her to the cabin. Fighting the pain the best she could and failing. Suddenly there were arms around her. On each side, her arms were lifted over uneven shoulders and practically carried away with lightening speed. Evka, Flynn, and Davrin hot on the tails.

“Baise-moi, Flynn was right. She’s on fire.” Being so close she recognized Antoine cadence. 

“Indeed. We must move quickly.” Emmrichs voice was the other. The last thing she wanted was to hurt anyone. However, she was powerless to do so.

They barely made it pass Holden and Mila before she let out another anguished cry. Stopping them in their tracks.

“DON’T STOP!” She let out through gritted teeth. No stranger to pain, yet, this was worse than anything she’d experienced thus far. However, the unsettling feeling between her legs made her uneasy. Emmrich and Antoine moved as fast as their bodies would allow. Her sweating profuse as it seeped through the two men's collar. 

Antoine kicked open the cabin door with such force, Alma dropped an entire try of freshly cleaned medical utensils with a startled yelp. 

“Andraste’s arse, Antoine.” The mage woman shouted with righteous rage.

The strong smell of iron and decay were enough to momentarily forget her pain and take in her surroundings. Antoine told no lie. Wardens lined up in all the cots. Boils and inflamed pustules littered most of the faces and exposed skin. Angry blighted veins throbbing through ready to pop skin, some already ruptured, oozing blood sizzling on the stone floor. The air filled with excruciating and anguished cries. A few were wrapped in small blight tendrils that sprouted from within them while others appeared as deformed darkspawns. Caught between an unfinished, painful transformation. 

“Oh…My. This…Far exceeds anything I could have imagined.” Emmrich gasped

“What the fuc-” The sharp tightness brought her back to reality. Her breath hitched just as her knees began to buckle. Thankfully she was being held up by Emmrichs unyielding grip while Antoine's had begun to loosen.

“Apologise. We have an emergency.” The urgency in Antoine's voice made Alma take stock of the situation.

“Gods. Wh…What happened?” Alma shouted, running over to the three. 

“Things have rather progressed rapidly and-”

“And it wants out. NOW!” Zea groaned through gritted teeth interrupting Emmrich.

“Oui and she is burning up. To the point that it is burning me, so can we please move.” Antoine hurriedly expressed.

Alma nodded fiercely, gesturing for them to follow. Davrin stayed outside to keep prying eyes away. The healer led the small group to the far back of the cabin, all the cots were occupied so Alma quickly instructed Evka and Flynn to prepare a makeshift bed with some straw and as many blankets as they could find.

Antoine had let her go, allowing Emmrich to take the brunt of her weight. The heat radiating off her was intense, as she jerked in grasp. Knees faltered from the profound agony coursing through her. 

“I have you,” breath cool upon her blazing skin when he whispered.

He lowered her down gently on the swiftly made bed, trying to make her comfortable despite every fiber of her being wanting to burst out of her skin. 

Antoine was tending to a red mark on his neck from where Zea’s arm was resting while Evka saw to his hand where he held her wrist. Due to his high collared shirt and gloved hand, Emmrich was able to avoid direct contact with her skin, still he felt the heat oozing from her. Alma was hesitant to touch her, the heat radiating off Zeas body was the equivalent of standing too close to an open fire.

“Rook, I need to lie still. I can’t check on the babe with you writhing like this.” The mage healer instructed.

“I’m…I’m sorry,” Zea groaned. “It…It hurts…so…so much.” Suddenly jerking and releasing a horrid cry of excruciating pain as she shifted into a fetal position. 

Emmrich and Alma gently turned her over until she was flat on her back. Lifting her dress up over her stomach, Emmrich's jaw tightened at the sight. Her stomach pulsed abnormally,even as angry, rigid veins strewed across the surface. She gripped his arm trying to ground herself as each pound sent shockwaves of anguish. 

“By the gods.” Alma whispered breathlessly.

“Please…Just…Get. IT. OUT!” Eyes blown with terror by her form.

Emmrich noticed her chest heaving oddly and guided her through slow, deep breaths. His gloved hand brushed away the fallen tears she was too weak to fight against as he attempted to counteract the heat with his own magic with the other hand. Head pounding, hair disheveled and matted from the excessive sweating, wishing to whatever gods still existed to end her suffering.

With Emmrichs aid, they removed her sweat soaked dress, grateful for the partial privacy a wall gave. Left simply in her bra with a thin sheet that covered her lower half, she laid on her side permitting him to rub her back, his magic flowing to aid in relieving the discomfort. If only for a moment.

“I have to speak with Flynn in regards to the other wardens here. I’ll be back soon, your labour is progressing fast so it won't be long now.” Alma informed departing past the wall.

“What happened to not calling our child ‘it’.” He jested.

“You ass,” chuckling through another wave of painful contraction. “Don’t make me laugh,” groaning through it. 

“I'm sorry. I only wish to ease your discomfort.”

“I know.” Squeezing his hand, “I couldn't…Do this…Without you here,” voiced in between shallow breaths.

“I will always be. No matter what awaits us, together.” He kissed the back of hand just as another powerful contraction hit her.

Flynn was informed on the other patients prognosis and Evka, tasked with boiling water, Alma made her way back to Zea with towels and fresh drinking water, preparing for the inevitable birth. The healer stopped mid stride, eyes widened in horror. Emmrich caught the fright flash across her face as he followed her gaze, taking in the alarming color of fluid between Zea legs, once again on her back. The scarlet liquid brought back vision of the previous night, only this was akin to a blight boil bursting. Thick, dark, with an ominous red glow seeping from within her. Without warning Zea abruptly sat up, one hand behind her as the other intertwined in Emmrichs in a vise-like grip.

“OH. FUCK!.” she roared, fighting her body from pushing as she threw her head back, letting out a pained moan.

Alma positioned herself between Zeas legs, placing towels over the blighted blood flowing out, and shouted for Evka to bring hot water and a sterile knife. Being careful, Alma prepared herself to catch whatever was about to grace this world with its presence. Emmrichs eyes flared green, ready to do whatever was needed to protect his beloved. He positioned himself closer with his free hand directly behind her for support.

All the background noise in the room faded. The rapid beating of her heart and uneven breathing as she pushed was all she heard. Her strength waned, the fire on her skin reached a crescendo as Emmrich winced from the sensation burning through his ungloved hand. Shutting her eyes so tight, a bright blast of colors blurred her vision. Veins spidered across her body and up her neck as she gathered what little energy was left for the final stretch. 

Almas expression shifted from horror to alarm and finally, relief; A bright smile from ear to ear shot across her face. Suddenly the high pitch wails of a cry broke through the muffled sounds in Zeas ears. 

She opened her eyes just as Alma held up a babe with matted black hair. A boy, covered in unmistakable blight pus and blood. Blinking fiercely at the wailing infant, barely making out Emmrich calling her name as her hearing slowly returned.  

Alma placed the infant in Zea’s arms, immediately ceasing his wailing when she pulled him close to her chest. Turning to Emmrich, eyes no longer flashed green. His soft hazel returned, glistening with unshed tears, mouth agape. Their eyes met and simultaneously let out a breathy laugh.

“You did wonderful, my love,” planting a kiss on her forehead. “This is the most marvelous outcome.” Declaring as he brushed away his own tears.

She was silently collecting her thoughts. While this was the outcome she wanted, consternation tugged at her heart. This tiny human, whose existence she only learned of no more than a day ago, was bound to make life intriguing.

“Yea. Felt like I was about to burst out of my skin.” She glanced over to witness Emmrich cutting the life line between her and their son as Evka brought over some fresh towels and more water in a small bucket to aid in the cleaning.

 “You’re no longer searing to the touch. However..”He traced a finger along the still visible veins on her skin. 

“Maybe they won’t stay. Only time will tell.”

“Regaredless, I am terribly proud of you and so relieved I didn’t lose either of you to this cursed blight.” He grabbed her chin pulling her into a passionate kiss.

Cleaning up was done with relative ease after Zea passed the after birth. Alma noted how ordinary it appeared despite the disturbing birth. Zea was given a tunic and propped up to rest as she took in Emmrich giving their son his first bath. Davrin made his way in once she was decent, giving a cautious compliment. 

“Does he have a name?” Davrin inquired.

Emmrich and Zea locked eyes and her gaze fell to the freshly cleaned boy.

Brushing her thumb across his chubby cheeks taking note of the two different shades of color in his opened eyes. 

A smile crept across her face.

“His name…Is Alistair.”