Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

CHAPTER 1

It felt like a lifetime ago that they all sat around the table in the lighthouse, plotting how to take on the gods. Back then, Lucanis couldn’t have imagined how much he would miss them. When he first met the team after being freed from the Ossuary, he had his doubts. Working with them wasn’t easy at first. He moved with his blade like it was an extension of himself precise, deadly, efficient. Yet some of them fought like they were wild, unguarded, unrefined. They seemed to stumble through battles without a second thought to their next move or defense. Even the crows as children had shown more stealth than some of these companions. Taash? Stealthy? That thought alone almost made him laugh out loud.
The chuckle bubbled up, bringing him back to the present. The familiar scents of the café—spices, roasted beans, and the faint tang of canal air—grounded him as he sipped his favourite, flavourful beverage. He never thought those chaotic misfits would become the dysfunctional family he hadn’t known he needed. And though they were gone now, back to their own lives, he cherished those memories.
It had been a few months since they’d slain the gods and earned their freedom—months of trying to adjust to this new life, though Lucanis still wasn’t sure what to make of it. Now, as the First Talon of the Antivan Crows and forever tied to a demon, going back to how things were before the Ossuary wasn’t an option.
Surprisingly, he and Spite had learned to coexist, even thrive. But, there was still one point of contention between them, Rook. Spite’s obsession with her was undeniable, his desire and determination to claim her was unwordly. Just thinking about it made Lucanis’ breath hitch and a flush of heat stir uncomfortably low in his body.
It wasn’t that he didn’t want her, Maker knows he did, but things had been complicated ever since they’d been interrupted. There hadn’t been a moment like it since, and he couldn’t tell if it had been a spur of the moment or if it could be something more. Still, the memory had a way of sneaking back to him.
Leaning back in his chair, the warmth of the beverage cradled in his hands, Lucanis allowed the memory to surface again, as if it had only happened yesterday.

*

After they dragged Rook from the fade prison that Solas had trapped her in, she regained herself on their journey back and returned to being the leader they so desperately needed. Lucanis could still see that pain in her eyes and the strain in her voice as they were all gathered around that small table in the library. Assan tucked up between her legs trying to get as close as he could, her fingers stroking each of individual feather on his head as if they were the only thing keeping her grounded and focused. It destroyed him to see how she first reacted when they pulled her from the fade, his ears still ringed from her screams, to see her trying to hide all the pain and anguish now, only furthered his aching. Spite was never quiet around Rook, always demanding. Wanted to touch her, taste her, speak to her, anything he could think to do with Rook, he demanded. Today he just sat next to her chair silently, leaning on her armrest, and staring up like a puppy as everyone updated her on what she missed. He could sense Spite was unsure but also that Spite could feel her despair inside, probably better than any of them.

Once the meeting ended everyone reassured Rook in some way to give her comfort which she gracefully received from her friends. Davrin held back holding onto her as long as he dared before he took Assan away. She gathered some papers left on the table before she looked up at Lucanis who hadn’t moved, sending him a reassuring, fake, smile, she took the documents to her room. Lucanis eyes followed her as she left, that smile dropping almost immediately, her eyes beginning to lace with tears as she trailed up the stars, unsure what he should do.

“ROOK. ROOK IS SAD. WE HELP” Spite spoke in an almost distressed tone as he stood at the bottom of the stairs, desperate to follow.
“She needs time Spite, she has been through…. Something we cannot even imagine.” Lucanis tried to reassure his demon but to no avail.
“WE GO. GO TO ROOK.”
“She needs space-”
“NO. ROOK HAD SPACE. TOO MUCH SPACE. ALL ALONE. ROOK NEEDS US. OUR ROOK NEEDS US” Spite invaded Lucanis’ space, something he had gotten used to. Trying to teach a demon personal space seemed an impossible task.
“She’s not our-”
“OUR ROOK. ROOK NEED US. WE GO TO OUR ROOK” Spite ran back to the stairs as if trying to get Lucanis to follow. He couldn’t lie to himself, knowing he wanted nothing more than to go to her, to make sure she was ok, to hold her again like he did earlier. Before he realized he had become unrooted and found himself outside her door, his hand hovering over the handle. He lingered, his breath catching slightly before he forced it out in a shaky exhale, before grasping the handle
The door opened to a view he had seen many times the past few weeks she was gone, the fish swimming peacefully as the plants danced in the water's waves in the giant fish tank before him. His eyes darted around the room to find her, his heart raced as slight panic set in until he spotted her boots at the end of her chaise.
“I cannot believe we found you” He spoke forcefully, letting her know he was there. Rook rose from the chaise, her pure white locks fell across her back as she sat up. Her pink crystal eyes met his, no longer teary, he had never met a person with eyes like hers and they had encaptivated him since the moment they first met.
“I’m a little surprised, too, honestly.” She smiled, the fake smile returning, he despised it more than anything, never wanting her to hide herself from him. Spite dashed into the room putting himself back at her side, his purple eyes not moving from her. It was almost pitiful how much this demon had fallen for her, but if he had his way Lucanis would be the same.
“I thought I’d never see you again” Unable to determine whether to move closer or to leave he stood like a statue once again feeling rooted but refusing to lose her eyes. The fake smile dropped and her eyes lost their sparkle as her mind seemed to drift.
“I didn’t think I’d ever get out of there. And I know, I should know I’m free…but...How do I know if I really did?” Her eyes dropped to her floor, her long hair cascaded over her shoulder as her voice cracked. Like a moth to a flame he was by her side, knelt down, begging to meet those gorgeous eyes again, to reassure her, only to find the threat as tears began to well, placing his hands on her thighs without thinking “This could be more of the fade.” She whimpered as her eyes locked onto him, looking at him as if she feared he might vanish the moment she allowed herself to truly believe he was there. Spite looked between the two before he quietly sunk back into Lucanis. He used to despise the feeling of Spite crawling under his skin, but again it was something he had become used to. Especially knowing his reason was to feel her as he did in this moment.
“You’re here” Lucanis finally let himself say, his hand cupped her face and brought himself up to kiss the lips he had only dared to dream about, praying she wouldn’t turn from him. With no hesitation, she leaned in, and those crystal eyes closed as their lips finally connected. Her hand delicately touched his chest and the other cradling the nap of his neck, he noticed the tremble in her touch as he knelt back down. “You’re really here”

“You promise?” Gliding her hand from the back of his neck to his shoulder, the tremble in her touch stayed as a stray tear fell from her eyes. Gently wiping the tear, he tucks the stray strands of her hair behind her elven ear.

“I swear.” He spoke with conviction before he leaned back up to touch those lips once more, already those few seconds apart felt like an eternity. Her hand went back to his neck pulling him to her like a magnet as they kissed again. Her rose lips were as soft and as perfect as he could ever imagine, her taste was of pure nectar and the feel of her skin against his hand felt he was touching silk. He felt a pull at the back of his neck. Flummoxed, he broke away from their kiss, his gaze searching her eyes for an answer. She held his gaze as her hand slid from his chest to his hip, gently urging him on top of her. Unsure of what to do, he froze. This was new territory. How had he even found the courage to kiss her like that? Perhaps it was the sheer force of thinking he had lost her, lost his chance, or maybe he would just blame Spite. One thing was clear, he desperately wanted to taste her lips again. This woman could guide him to the world’s end, and he would follow her without question. Lucanis moved slowly, letting her gentle guidance aid him. He leant down and captured her lips again, surrendering to her lead.
“Rook, I know you’ve just got back.” A voice on the other side of the door spoke before it swung open. Lucanis darted off her as Rook lifted herself up, his hand casually rubbing the back of his neck as he slightly paced the floor. “We need to discuss Taash” making his way into the room Davrin took note of what was going, a frustrated Lucanis glared back at him. Spite had taken himself off and was at Davrin’s side, his enraged eyes scowled at Davrin as he snarled at the man.
“LEAVE, OUR ROOK! OUR MOMENT WITH ROOK! MAKE HIM LEAVE!” Spite roared at Lucanis. Davrin made it noticeably clear his feelings towards Rook as well throughout their journey, and even though the two of them now got on and considered each other friends, their rivalry over Rook was still as strong as ever.

“Didn’t mean to interrupt” Davrin said with a quirk in his voice, making it known he was unbelievably glad he had. Rook took Lucanis’ hand in hers as she stood up. Lucanis’ eyes fell back to her as her fake smile returned to her face.
“What do they need?” Rook asked him, her hand remained clutched in Lucanis’.
“They’re taking Harding’s death bad.” Davrin moved closer invading the pair's space. Reluctantly Lucanis released her dainty hand from his, her gentle touch came to his arm, as his eyes locked onto hers taking in her beauty once more before she walked from him and out with Davrin. He wished more than anything in that moment he barricaded that door.

*

Brought back to reality once again he glances around before taking a sip of his coffee. Café Pietra was one of Lucanis’ favourite places in the city, not only for their quintessence of coffee but the atmosphere was always intimate and inviting, calling people over with its alluring aroma and candlelight making it dimly lit along the canal. Lucanis couldn’t think of a more perfect place to be, he took a glimpse at Spite sniffing his coffee on the chair next to him. Spite never ate or drank but he appreciated that Lucanis would always get him a cup, it was nice to feel included even if he couldn’t participate. It was still strange to see an identical version of himself sitting opposite him, even though his twin was and glowed a purple hue. It was a good job no one could see him apart from Lucanis, he wasn’t sure how he would explain a glowing purple twin. Not that anyone would probably mind, they drooled over an oblivious Lucanis wherever he went. He never noticed the attention he gained around him. He was always pristine in his appearance but to say he was striking would be an understatement. His face is framed by a neatly trimmed beard that enhances his chiselled jawline, and his dark brown eyes were soft, like pools of melted chocolate. His long, dark hair is slicked back, flowing down to his shoulders, giving him a refined yet slightly rugged look, with broad shoulders and an upright posture that commands his elegance and strength. Men and women would fall to their feet for this man and he wouldn’t notice a single one. His contracts with the crows were all he ever focused on, his life’s work and commitment. He pondered that maybe one day he may find someone in the crows who would take his attention away from work, but after his disastrous attempt with Viago he gave up quickly. He couldn’t help but hope with Rook it maybe different, though remained doubtful.
Lucanis let a sigh out as the memory slipped back into his mind and sipped the delightful drink he came here for, he and Rook never mentioned that moment again. If he hadn’t had it ingrained into his memory, he might believe it was a dream. They had flirted since and comments were made but he was never sure if he really meant to her what she did to him. In the darkest of his heart he knew she deserved so much more than he could offer but that kiss…that kiss pulled him back time and time again.

“ROOK. SMELL ROOK!” Spite excitedly snapped, his smile widened, as he jumped from the chair to run to the entrance. Due to the demand of his work in the Crows and the new responsibilities Rook had attained with the Lord of Fortune since her return, finding time to see her was difficult. As well as her helping the other fractions they had made friends with along their journey. They all trusted Rook, with good reason, she was more than capable aiding them in any issue she could. However, this meant she had less free time to meet unlike the others. Lucanis and Davrin would meet fortnightly for a drink either here or in the Hossberg Wetlands and he would train with Taash in Riviani at least once a week, if not more just to see if he could grab a glance at Rook if she was there. Rook was a lot harder to pin down to see. When finally a day became free, he jumped at the chance to see her leaving Viago to deal with whatever trouble came in. Instinctively his looked down to ensure his outfit was in order, a Crow would never been seen looking in disarray. His high-collared shirt beneath a dark blue quilted vest, the sleeves rolled up to his elbows as always, while a simple chain hung around his neck, adding a touch of understated flair. His tailored trousers hugged his frame perfectly, ending in high cuffs that met his sturdy yet stylish boots, completing the refined look that was uniquely his.

As Rook walked into this café his chest tightened, just to see her made his world spin but the view of any of her exposed skin always made him twitch remembering the silkiness that his fingers once grazed. Casual as ever she worse a piece of blue, intricately patterned fabric wrapped around her incredible breasts tied behind her neck as a chunky golden necklace dangled down fitting perfectly between them, paired with tightly cropped dark trousers and a wide matching blue sash belt with gold accents, her footwear a pair of gladiator-style sandals with accessories including gold armlets and wrist wrappings. The Lord of Fortune were never ones to go under the radar. Rook looked around searching for him before their eyes met. The sparkle they gained when they locked always stunned him and the divine smile that bloomed was like the gods had released an angel to him.

As he stood to greet her two arms suddenly wrapped around him, pulling him into her. Her body fully pressed up against his as if it was made to be there, moulding into him perfectly. Slightly shocked at the sudden embrace but it was unbelievably wanted, he clasped his hands around her body and held her as long as she’d let him. Taking in her aroma as cautiously as he can, the scent of apple blossoms catches in his throat. How can someone that he has seen be so deadly, smell so sweet? Releasing him from their tight embrace she leans back her arms still wrapped around his neck.

“Hello, treasure! It feels like I haven’t been able to get to you for so long.” Her voice as honeyed as he remembered and everything about her as heavenly as ever. He hadn’t seen her in 34 days and with each one of them away from her, his need to run to the Eluvian to find her grew.
“It has been too long” Lucanis agrees eagerly “Coffee?” Rook makes a face that he can only laugh at, a face to say what a stupid question. As Rook unwraps her arms from around his neck, the coldness hits where her warmth once was as he guides her to the bar to order another round before the pair sit down at his table.

“I hope you haven’t been waiting long, I tried to escape early but- you know how it is” Rook blabbers as she sits in the chair next to him. Spite sits opposite her completely entranced, she was blissfully unaware that she had tamed a demon without trying.

“I’d have waited an eternity, if necessary,” Lucanis says without hesitation. It takes him a moment to realize he’d said the words aloud, and when he glances at her, her cheeks are already rosy, her eyes wide with surprise. She places a hand over her chest in an exaggerated gesture, as though he’d struck her heart. Lucanis’ lips twist into a crooked smile, and he shakes his head at her dramatic response. If it weren’t for the blush betraying her, he might have thought she believed he was joking. “How have things been?” he asks, regaining some normality to their conversation.

“Busy, I mean I used to be out treasure hunting or hiding about trying to take a nap.” Rook cupped her hands around the cup of coffee freshly placed in front of her. He watched as she took a whiff of the beverage before her sensuous lips parted, planted around the rim of the cup to taste the glorious drink. His mind wandered to what he really wanted her lips to be around, his growing erection agreeing, twitching again at the thought causing him to shift in his chair. His uncomfortable state was unhelped by Rooks moan as she swallowed.

“I forgot how incredible the coffee is here. I love Riviani, but their coffee is something that can at best be described as sludge in comparison.” A chuckle left her lips “I miss waking up at the lighthouse to find you making the coffee each morning.” Rook spoke light-heartedly as she wrapped her lips around the cup again. Lucanis’ heart warmed at her saying she missed him, granted it was for his coffee, but he would take it. He would take anything she handed him…. even that sludge if needed. The thought sent a shiver down his spine but quickly replaced as he watched her enjoy her drink again. Taking his own cup, he enjoys the fresh brew, he couldn’t disagree with her. The coffee here was one of the best he had ever found, making his city even more special to him.

Lucanis takes a breath “How you all survived before I started to cook for you at the lighthouse I still cannot fathom, let alone the swill you made claiming it as coffee.” The comment causes Rook to laugh enthusiastically.
“We ate fine! Bellera would make us some weird salad, Harding would get us bread and cheese, and Neve and I would take it in turns to raid whatever the wisps had put in the pantry!” Rook protested to him, his crooked smile returning as he shakes his head in defeat.
“Exactly, terrible. You all wouldn’t have survived without me” Lucanis insisted, Rook laughed again, music to his ears.

“And made coffee! I wouldn’t have survived if you hadn’t come along and brought your coffee skills with you.” Rook continued to laugh. Lucanis carefully heard her words again in his mind. She wouldn’t have survived if he hadn’t come…and the coffee, but did she really believe that? Did she really think that much of him being there? He knew he was torturing himself analyzing her words when really, she was admiring his coffee skills, but he couldn’t help but want to believe it.

“I think you’d be able to survive regardless of whether coffee was available” Lucanis joked at her, taking a quick sip while Rook looks up at him in total disgust.

“A life without coffee?!” Lucanis laughs heartedly at her reaction, thanking the maker that he had swallowed before she answered, otherwise he’d have spat it back out. “I mean that almost sounds as bad as a life without you in it” Lucanis laugh comes to a surprise end, staring into those crystal eyes as she looks back into his, her confident cheeky expression splattered over her face. “Only by a little bit though” she winks before taking another sip.

Lucanis didn’t need to analyze those words. She wouldn’t want a life without him. Not the team or the lighthouse…. him. Before he can comment or say he felt the same Rook places her now empty cup down and looking at the cup opposite.

“How’s Spite coping being an official Crow?” Casually changing the subject. Lucanis smiles, while he mind was trying to piece together ways to return the conversation back. He looks at the demon puppy leaning across the table, captivated by her every sound and move.
“He’s been enjoying the contracts we have. Not the meetings or paperwork.” Lucanis takes a final sip of his coffee, Spite lifts his head to look at him while Rook laughs.
“CONTRACTS FUN. BLOOD AND KILLING. PAPERS BAD. MEETINGS BAD. NO BLOOD. NO KILLING” Spite disgruntles before returning his gaze to Rook.

“I can understand that, paperwork is ridiculously tedious in comparison to running across the rooftops.” As she tilts her head upward to gaze at the rooftops, her graceful neck became exposed, catching the light. He found his eyes lingering at the thought of pressing his lips along the curve of her throat.
“We’ll have to take you back up again then.” Lucanis asserts trying to regain his mind off of the many things he wanted to do, Rook raises her eyebrows and gleams happily at him.

“Get everyone back together to run along the rooftops of Treviso, talk about a reunion.” She jokes, Lucanis lets out a chuckle at the thought. Rook gazes back up thoughtfully at the rooftops letting Lucanis admire her neck once more. “Do you miss our life at the lighthouse?”
“I don’t miss the pressure of the impending doom of the world or figuring out how I was to stab a cloud…. but our team, the laughs…seeing you, I miss every day.” Lucanis observes her reaction. Rook was just as trained as Illario at hiding her emotions if she wished, her execution on charm and flirting was second to none but her only betrayal was the slight blush on her cheeks which he loved to see it.
Her eyes lock onto his, and they sit together in a comfortable silence, simply taking each other in. Lucanis’ thoughts spiral through the possibilities: should he take her hand, close the space between them? Or should he speak, tell her just how deeply she means to him?

“GRAB HER. KISS HER!” Spite unhelpfully shouts in his ear, even though the feeling was mutual, the desire to grab her, pull her onto his lap, and hold her close, never letting go.

“So this is where our First Talon is hiding.” A voice he could happily kill makes their way to the table sitting down next to Rook, Spite growling as his closeness to her making him want to tear out his throat all the more.

Chapter Text

Chapter 2

As the suave man sat next to them, taking Rook’s hand and lifting it to his lips, a dashing smile spreading across his face as he gazed at his infatuation. His cousin, Illario, simply couldn’t resist if he knew Rook was in Treviso. No matter how discreet Lucanis tried to be, Illario always managed to find her.

Illario’s effortless charm came as naturally to him as breathing. He could enchant anyone he pleased without breaking a sweat, a skill Lucanis couldn’t help but envy. While Illario wielded his charm like his weapon, Lucanis’ strengths had always been with his blades, flirting was more of a stumbling block.

Yet Rook was one of the rare few immune to Illario’s charm. Taking her hand back while her lips curved upward, her eyes however burned with disgust, her smile turning into a warning, she wiped her hand with a napkin before flicking it in his face. An amused smile spread across Lucanis’ lips instantaneously as a thunderous look that darkened Illario’s. Failure was not something he encountered often. Meanwhile, Spite sat back, blissfully entertained, watching as Rook wiped the floor with the ever-confident charmer.

“HA! THROW THE CUP!” Spite laughed, eagerly cheering her on.

“You hurt me Rook, will you ever let me show you how I truly feel?”

“Oh darling, I mean if the feeling is you jumping off the bridge, into the canal to drown then please, be my guest” Rook sassily replies, without a beat. Lucanis snickers as his cousin continued to failure. The Crows were all trained on how to hide emotions from regular people, but they were able to pick up some of each other's tells. If Illario’s cheek twitched anymore he thought it may have a full on spasm attack, regardless of the dashing smile he still had plastered on his face.

“THROW COUSIN IN CANAL. MAKE ROOK HAPPY!” Spite enthusiastically agrees,

“Is there a reason you are here, cousin?” deciding to throw him a bone, Lucanis trying to divert the attention from Rook. Illario’s eyes fell onto him, somewhere between a mix of jealousy and annoyance glaring back at him.

“I was wondering to where our precious First Talon had gone, of course for coffee but to my surprise, you keep this utterly spectacular goddess from me yet again. It’s like you are trying to keep us apart” Illario spoke with grace and devotion, it wasn’t a surprise why he was always successful in his work.

“Well, they do say rats have a great sense of smell.” Rook luscious voice speaks up again, the fact she sounds like she’s flirting when insulting him made these moments all the more enjoyable to watch. She never liked Illario, even when they first met, probably one of the very few women to think of him as a sleaze rather than a god. Lucanis can remember her first telling him of her distrust back at the lighthouse yet, even after all his betrayal, she was the one to convince him to give him another chance. Even after everything he had done, he and Caterina were the only family he had left and she knew how important that was to him.
That ever telling twitch returns Illario’s face as he pretends to be wounded by her words. Before he can utter another ‘alluring’ comment, Rook ignores him and turns to Lucanis.

“No matter how much I love to be by your side Lucanis, I best be on my way” Before either can speak, she stands and places a delicate kiss on his cheek, his face reddened as he looks up to see those radiant eyes only to see her walking out of the café her hips swaying as she struts off. Lucanis glances at a disgusted Illario and raises an eyebrow to him, pulling his chair out to stand.

“If you’ll excuse me cousin, I have a goddess to follow now that you have successfully chased her away” Lucanis strides out of the café hearing his cousins scoff behind him, he can only imagine how flabbergasted Illario is feeling right now as his had was spinning. Was that real? Did she really want to kiss him? Was it only to shut Illario down? He couldn’t blame her in the slightest if that were the case but the thought stung. Lucanis’ knew the short cuts in this city and before he knew it he had spotted the precious goddess making her way to the Dellemorte Villa as he strode across the rooftops. After the gods were defeated it was decided to move the Eluvian from the Casino to a building on the estate, making it easier for Lucanis and his friends to use the mirrors in times of need.

Lucanis dropped down silently ahead of her as she made her way through the gates, watching as she looked around nodding her head in respect to other Crows around. The Crows had taken a liking to Rook, many taking their time to speak to her whenever she was around. Rook turned in the gardens towards the outer buildings walking straight into him.

“Goddess” He teased as she screamed in shock. Crows in the yard startled, drawing weapons before sheathing them seeing it Lucanis now laughing heartedly as Rook playfully pushes his chest and hits his arm.

“What. Is. Wrong. With. You?!” Rook shouts jokingly, laughing as she pushes the Crow. “How did you get back here so fast?” Lucanis still snickering from her reaction, finally meeting those bright eyes he longed for.
“Rooftops” He declared to her

“Oh, now that’s just rubbing it in” She chuckles as she begins to walk again, Lucanis now at her side.

“I apologize for Illario, I don’t know how he does it.”

“That creep has got some tracker on me, I’m sure of it.” Rook shivers in disgust as the two turn into the outer buildings. Knowing their time was cut short because of his idiot cousin, thoughts raced through his head on how he could keep her here for longer.

“ROOK STAY!” Spite shouts in agreement as they continue to walk. The outbuildings were nowhere near as fancy as the Villa itself, mainly used for storage. The staircase curved gracefully into the centre of the room its broad stone steps leading to the landing of the room above, the  safe room of the Eluvian. The room itself was spilled in warm light from the lanterns, casting a golden glow across the intricate paintings and gifts over the years as well as a couple doors leading to where other treasures were stored.

“So what business is it, you so desperately needed to get back to so suddenly?” Lucanis pries stopping before they reached the stairs, his mind still scrambling at any way to make this women stay a moment longer

“The need to be as far away from your cousin as possible.” Rook chirps to him “How anyone can find that man attractive is beyond me.” Her eyes roll as her arms crossed under her perfect breasts.

“GRAB THEM” Spite demands, his eyes widening at the pair.

“No” Lucanis forcefully tells him in response gaining a sneer from Spite. Rook chuckles.

“What did Spite say?” She eagerly questions. Tilting her head and letting her arms fall, hands landing on her hips pushing her chest out to them, a teasing minx as always.

“He asked if we put Illario in the canal would that make you stay” Lucanis smoothly replies, impressed by how quickly he thought on his feet. The comment made Rook laugh out loud.

“As much as that would be amazing to see you throw him in the canal, I would still have to go at some point Spite.”

“OUR ROOK STAY WITH US. WE GO WITH ROOK?” Spite askes hopefully

“No, we can’t” Lucanis replies to the grumpy demon groaning in defeat.

“What did he ask now?” Rook curiously askes

“He said could we go with you,” Lucanis answers, not needing to lie this time to her. His words causing the precious and always welcome blush to appear across her face. He watched her for a moment, as she awed.

“Is Spite like you or is he his own personality?” Rook queried, she had always taken an interest in Spite, which Spite loved.

“SPITE IS SPITE.” Spite answers

“He says Spite is Spite. He has his own traits that make him different, but we do have some similarities” Lucanis tells

“YES. CONTRACTS FOR BLOOD. WE LIKE THEM”

“Yes, that is true.”

“What did he say now?”

“If something is to be done, then it needs to be done!” Caterina voice could be heard outside, obviously annoyed by something or someone. She glides into the room with charge her face looking like thunder, glaring at the pair who were just enjoying each other’s company. Her eyes darting at the lack of distance between them before landing on her precious Grandson. “You are supposed to be First Talon, yet I find you here. We have important guests coming, as well as needing-” Caterina began scolding

“I am sorry Caterina” Lucanis smoothly calls to his Grandmother, making his way over to her kissing her on each cheek. Even those Rook had rescued Lucanis for the ossuary and saved the world, she made it clear she didn’t approve of her, something he was hoping he could change.

“Apologises for stealing your grandson from you, but I mean, who could blame a girl.” She smiled angelically to a blanketed expression. Caterina had met her type before, they trained crows to be her. She was nothing worthy of being a First Talon’s partner, definitely not Lucanis’. As silence fell in the ever-growing rigid atmosphere Rook takes a step onto the stairs “Aaaaanywaaaay, I’m going to get back. Hopefully, see you when you next come by to train”

“You will have to join us, if you are free” Lucanis adds as Rook begins to ascend up the curved stairway.

“Oh absolutely, it’s been awhile since I got a sweat on with you guys.” With a cheeky wink she left the Dellemorte’s and fellow crows as she went through the door to the Eluvian. The Crows behind Caterina chittering away, eyes widened and agog at how brazen Rook was, until Caterina shot her head round to stare daggers at them. They quickly bowed with respect before darting out of the room in fear.

“Caterina, is there really-” Lucanis began to try to calm his Grandmother

“Why was she here? We have no business with The Lords of Fortune, do we?” Caterina questioned sternly.

“We met for coffee.” Lucanis answered

“If you have time to meet for coffee, then you should do so with some of the Crows I have mentioned to you.” Caterina pushed. She had been trying to match Lucanis up since he returned home, hoping it would get him past what she deemed a crush on the elf, each time falling on death ears.

“I have no interest in coffee with them. Now if you excuse me, I have some paperwork I need to see too” Lucanis kisses his grandmother on the cheek again before exiting the outer building back into the gardens.

“DON’T WANT PAPERWORK! WANT TO FIND ROOK” Spite grumbles as they make their way across the gardens.

“We train with Taash in a couple of days, we will see her then” Lucanis reminds Spite, who is briefly appeased.

“NOT ALWAYS THERE. LETS GO TO ROOK NOW!”  Spite tells Lucanis. He was right, most of the time Rook was busy with other work, unable to train with them but if she was ever able, she was down on the beach.

“No. We have work to do here” Lucanis says, Spite groaning once again in defeat.

Chapter Text

Chapter 3

Riviani is a vibrant coastal place bathed in warm sunlight. Rugged rock formations mainly slope along the left side of the world but various boulders were stranded across the beach as the pure blue sky is speckled with soft white clouds. Towering palm trees and lush greenery surround the area making it tropical and untamed, with the clear blue ocean stretched endlessly, its soft waves gently lapping against the shore, shimmering under the sunlight.

Dodging flames that streaked past his head at blistering speed, Lucanis dove under a stream of fireballs raining down in his path. He stormed across the sandy shores, the luscious beach now engulfed in chaos as Taash relentlessly swarmed the battlefield with blazing fury. Flipping and tumbling, Lucanis launched himself into the air, his wings unleashed to carry him skyward for an aerial strike.

Taash, ever perceptive, sidestepped the attack with ease and seized Lucanis by the arm, hurtling him toward the colossal skeletal remains across the shoreline. Twisting in midair, Lucanis spun gracefully through the gap between the massive ribs, landing with precision. He regained his footing and dashed behind a cluster of boulders, seeking cover to continue with his next move.

These sparring sessions with Taash always pushed him to sharpen his focus and strategy in battle, that is when they weren’t just testing their brute strength in muscle training.

Their training took a chunk of the day before they called it a truce and made their way to The Halls of Valor. Lucanis had hoped to grab Rook before they came to the beach but Taash had dragged him off before he could ask.

“Good work today” Taash commented as they strolled into The Halls

“You as well, Taash. You almost caught me a few times with those flames.” He admitted

“That’s the problem when you wear a cape” They mentioned

“Does that mean you don’t want me to get you one?” Lucanis asks them, raising an eyebrow

“No! I want my cape!” Taash demands at him making the man chuckle. The two continue their walk in the halls as they make their way to the leader of the Lords.

Stood among her people with pure confidence and determination her look matches the vibrant and untamed nature of the Halls themselves. Her skin mostly on display a sash cinched around her waist covering her backside with a golden buckle helping to cover her frontage. The aquatic coloured fabric around her breasts just covering them while wrapping around her neck, keeping her shoulders bare, with intricate golden accents across the bottom hem. Golden rings on almost every finger and a thick golden necklaces dangling from her neck, her thigh high boots both sturdy and practical finished off her outfit. Her long wavy black locks fell from under her red captain's hat, trying to hide a bright blue bandana underneath. Her hazel eyes lock onto Taash and Lucanis as they made their way over.

“Well, well, well look what the Quanari brought in.” Isabela assertively speaks, she was always welcoming but even more of a flirt than both Rook and Illario. If it was somehow possible.

“Training, it was a good session” Taash told her

“Hello Isabela” Lucanis bows his head slightly as a sign of respect to her as she smirks to him.

“Hello gorgeous, not here for our Rook?” She teases, this woman never missed a beat when it came to the pair. 

“I was unaware if she was available today” Lucanis tries to nonchalantly respond

“Shoulda asked” Taash blantenly says “She’s around here somewhere, could have fought you both. That would have been good, next time we’ve got to do that” Lucanis wanted to bang their head against a wall in that moment. He could have had the whole morning battling with Rook, seeing her dash and tumble as she blasted her magic around the beach seeing her pant and sweat. The thoughts alone made him have to stop and calm down.

“Thinking of me sexy?” Isabela taunts as she saunters into his space, her arm resting on his shoulder. With her boots she was slightly taller than Lucanis, which wasn’t that difficult him being known as the short king, 5’8 was still a respectable height! “Or perhaps someone else in my fraction has taken your fancy”

“Rook, right?” Taash asks looking between the pair, as blunt as ever. Isabela sighs.

“Yes Taash, Rook” Isabela defeatedly speaks

“You told her yet?” Taash turns to Lucanis who was quite happy to stay out of the conversation.

“Tell her what?” He pretends, Isabela’s eyes roll at his ignorance.

“That you love her?” Taash replies bluntly

“Who said I love Rook?” Lucanis questioned in disbelief. He knew he liked Rook, but love?

“Easy. Anytime you see her you look like a dragon’s found an ass deep shit of treasure.” Taash says. Isabela groans as she puts her face in her hand. Taash’s way of using words was always interesting and generally involved a dragon. “You always watch her, smile around her, you’re there whenever she needs you, even if she doesn’t know she needs you. You’re always better when she’s around, always happier.” Taash declares surprising the two on her observations. “I was the same with Harding.”

“Taash” Isabela takes a step towards them

“It’s ok, but you should tell her.” Taash directs to Lucanis who half smiles to her. Losing Harding to Ghilan’nain was a devastating blow for the team but for Taash, she was their first love. The two around the lighthouse were inseparable and adorable as they began to navigating their blossoming relationship. The gods were cruel to the world over the months, but the cruellest by far was when they took Harding from them all.

“I will…soon” Lucanis agrees, still unsure himself. He wasn’t sure how she felt yet and the last thing he wanted to do was the ruin their friendship if she didn’t feel the same.

“Good. Because when you do, you get to do all cool shit together. And the sex, that part’s great.” Taash slaps him on the shoulder, never really understanding their full strength, not that Lucanis would ever admit they had bruised him on several occasions.

“YES. TELL HER THEN WE GET SEX” Spite pops out and agrees. Lucanis sighs, anytime Rook is mentioned he is out like a rabbit from a hole.

“Where is she anyway?” Taash looks around not able to spot her around the halls.

“She’s on the beach with the kids, training. She’s taken over for Lena while they're with Mateo on a mission.” Isabela replies “Fancy giving our little tikes some tips, Crow?” giving a wink to Lucanis. Knowing all to well she could ask him to go and dive through dragon shit and he would do it if it meant he got to Rook. She liked Lucanis, he brought out Rook’s sweeter side, something she hadn’t seen in many years. Rook was the closest thing to family she had and she wanted nothing more than for her to be happy, not that her potentially leaving to be with the Crow was something she particularly wanted.

“It would be a pleasure” Lucanis smirked before he slightly but respectfully nodded his head as he took his leave to stroll down to the beach, to find the class.

Chapter Text

Chapter 4

Lucanis swiftly walked down the large rock steps, the path curved toward a secluded beach tucked within a cavern hidden beneath the rock mountain that encircled much of the halls. The place was amazing, with specks of sunlight filtering through small cracks in the ceiling, casting soft beams onto the sand below. A narrow opening to the sea let in a fresh, salty breeze, and the gentle crash of waves echoed softly through the cavern. He couldn’t help but question why Taash insisted on training at the beach in Riviani instead of here, until Rook came into view. She stood on the soft sands, surrounded by a cluster of children, all of them huddled close and hanging on her every word as she spoke with passion.

Watching her with the children was a surprise. He’d only ever seen her briefly with Mila from the Grey Wardens, but this was different. Her playful energy radiated as she suddenly darted around, the children chasing after her with joy. She danced through their grasp effortlessly, leaving a trail of laughter in her behind. When she scooped up one of the younger children, spinning them in the air their delighted squeals filled the cavern, as some of the others yelled for a turn.

It was a sight that tugged at something deep within him. He couldn’t help but think how incredible a mother she would be before he was pulled from his thought.

“Look what flew in?” A charming familiar voice yells from across the cavern, bringing him back to the beach, seeing the group of excited youngsters now dashing towards him.

“Mr. Crow!” a small red-haired human girl shrieked as she skidded to a halt, narrowly avoiding crashing into him. Behind her, a blonde human boy stumbled to keep up.

“It’s Lucanis!” he corrected her, glancing across as she beamed up at him with her wide green eyes.

“Mr. Dellemorte!” a slightly older Qunari boy chimed in, only to yelp as another Qunari flicked him on the back of his ear.

“No, he’s the Demon of Vyrantium, dummy!” the second Qunari boy declared triumphantly.

“You’re the dummy! He has a name!” the first boy shouts back, annoyed.

The children’s argument bubbled around him, a chaotic but oddly endearing noise. As the rambunctious lot bickered amongst themselves, Rook easily came behind banging the two older boys heads together. Lucanis notices one final child trying to cling to her as she trotted over, his whole hand grasping at two of her fingers as soon as her hand dropped and his other grabbed onto the sash of her belt that falls down by her hip. He tucked himself behind her as much as he could while trying to see the mysterious man who had intruded on their lesson. As the lads rubbed their heads whining at their pain, Rook strolls around them lacing her free arm around Lucanis’ neck and pulling his body into hers, his arms instinctively wrapped around her welcoming the warmth of her body as she melded into him.

“Now to what do I owe this pleasure?” She purrs in his ear before pulling away from him, her smile lighting up the room as those gorgeous pink gem eyes sparkled looking only at him.

“Isabela asked if I might come and help you with training. Taash and I are done for the day,” Lucanis explained, unable to keep his eyes from hers until he felt the grasp of small hands on his fingers. Looking down, he saw the small redhead holding his whole hand between her two, her eyes wide gleaming up as an adorable smile spread across her face.

“You’re coming to play too?!” She cheerfully exclaims before squealing in excitement and jumping up and down “Come on! We’ll show you what to do!” Before he can answer the little girl pulls with all her might for Lucanis to follow her. The small blonde boy grabs his other hand quickly and begins to join in

“We’ll show you how to play!” He declares as the excitable youngsters successfully start to pull him toward where they originally were in the cavern. Glancing back at Rook, her smile full of endearment as the two latched onto them so quickly.

“What do you say, Micah? Should we show this Crow how we Lords play?” Rook swings the little boy hidden behind her into the air. His soft giggle travels, landing him gracefully on her hip, following Lucanis and the children as he clings to her neck.

“We’ll show him what were made of!” The first older boy asserts proudly to the other, both dashing to catch up with them all. Once all had made it to the spot the Qunari boys gathered around Rook, the smaller boy walking to join releasing Lucanis from his grasp, while the little red-head continued to hold his hand looking up to him in admiration.

“Right little Lords! Introductions are in order, we are not savages after all!” Rook clearly demands with a flair, looking at the older boys to begin. The first with soft black curls and the tallest of the lot takes charge as he looks to Lucanis.

“My name is Toka! I’m the eldest one here, as I’m 6!” Toka states, the blonde haired boy, only slightly shorter, next to him rolling his eyes in annoyance.

“By like 2 minutes!” He announces, flashing two fingers at Toka to accentuate his point. Toka shrugged his shoulders, unphased by the boy. “I’m Riff, Toka and I are twins-”

“But I’m the eldest” Toka rubbed in his brother's face again, easily aggravating Riff as the boys began to bicker. They reminded Lucanis of his days with Illario when they were younger, they were typical boys other than the intense training of being crows. Roughhousing most days in the gardens, they learned quickly to fight outside away from the valuables in the estate and getting each other in trouble with Caterina or any other crows who unfortunately crossed the boy's path. Before the betrayal, he saw Illario as more of a brother to him than a cousin, that pain still resonates with him deep in his heart. He is pulled from his memory as the little boy tugs on his sleeve, greeting him with a caring smile as he squats to face him eye to eye.

“I’m Corby” He tells Lucanis, the name striking to him,

“Little Crow?” Lucanis questions, Corby’s smiles glides across his face at the acknowledgment.

“You know what my name means!” He excitedly speaks, Lucanis chuckling at the boy's response. “Maybe I can be a crow just like you one day!” He eagerly says. Lucanis instinctively pats the boy on the head.

“One day you may be one of the best” Lucanis didn’t have the heart to break the boys spirit. The ruthless training children go through to become a Crow was something he could neither stop or encourage. It was a necessary step to becoming what the Crows were renowned for, but the grueling training required was nothing to be desired.

Not waiting any longer the little girl runs around, gently making her way into Lucanis’ eye line, as he turns to make eye contact her face immediately glows as red as her hair as she sways her body from side to side.

“My name is Ally, I’m 4.” She speaks sweetly, with pure innocence, it made Lucanis heart melt at the little princess in front of him. Her hands still grasping his tightly as he takes them to his lips briefly.

“A pleasure, Miss Ally” He respectfully bows his head, and the little girl in complete heaven snatches her hands to her heart and squeals as she stamps her feet and spins in a circle. Lucanis’ face broke into a dazzling smile, as she quickly grabbed his hand once again. He gazes up at Rook, who seemed lost in thought, with her tender smile on him, he only hoped whatever she was thinking included him. He notes the little boy still tucked up on her hip. “And who might you be?”

After several blinks Rook is brought back into the moment, she looks to the little boy, encouraging him as she playfully scrunches her face rubbing her nose into his cheek to get a giggle. The little boy takes his fingers to his mouth in a nervous motion, as he tries to hold eye contact with Lucanis.

“I’m Micah” He quietly speaks, Lucanis thankful for his phenomenal hearing.

“And how old are you, Micah?” Lucanis repeated back to him, the tot seemingly happy to be heard, he held up 5 wet fingers as Rook helps him put 2 back down.

“This many” Micah shyly replies, Lucanis’ expressions become exaggerated as you do with children.

“You’re 3! You look so big; I thought you were at least 4 like Ally!” He gestured and spoke grandly causing the shy boy to giggle

“Noooo!” He laughed at Lucanis “I’m just 3!”

“He’s not as big as me” Ally tells Lucanis, running over to Micah, tugging at his legs until Rook kneels down and puts him safely on the floor. Ally stands next to him showing their minuscule difference in height. “See!”

“Oh I see, you are growing so big!” Lucanis praises her as she runs back to him, grasping his hand again. This little princess would wrap the Demon of Vyrantium around her finger in no time, he was sure of it. Her precious emerald eyes full of magic staring up at him.

“And you know El” Ally declares, pointing at Rook whose face scrunches at the name.

“El?” Lucanis questions. Stupidly realising that these kids would have known her before their adventure, before she was called Rook. They probably knew more of her then he did, an unsettling thought.

“Lucanis knows me by Rook, you know like Taash?” Rook explains to the group. “Anyway,” She claps her hands “Now we are introduced. Shall we show Lucanis what you’ve been working on today?” She asks the group, enthusiastic cheers are heard as the kids crowd around her again, all apart from Ally who had snuggled herself as close to Lucanis as she possibly could letting him wrap his arms around the little cherub who was working her way into his heart.

“So what do need to remember?” Rook asks the group

“Surprise” Ally shouts nestling herself further into Lucanis, who playfully blew at her ear making her giggle. Rook’s tender smile bloomed across her face as she watched their interaction.

“Teamwork!” Toka adds

“Weaknesses and senses” Corby joins in, Lucanis was guessing Corby was around the same age as Ally but was impressed on his answer regardless.

“Opportunities for attack as well as maintaining defense, advantages as well as changing your disadvantage to an advantage, being mindful of terrain and area usage, weapon control and dangers-” Riff begins to list effortlessly, again impressing him. Lucanis could tell that even for youngsters they were focused on their lessons, the passion in their voices and answers was apparent as well as their obvious enjoyment.

“No fair! I thought we were doing it one at a time!” Toka protests

“I thought you trying to say more than 2 words that weren’t about you might be too difficult” Riff provoked his brother as the two stared angrily at each other. Stifling a laugh, Lucanis could definitely see himself and Illario in the boys, Rook was going to have her hands full with these two.

“Hey, pack it in or else I’m throwing you in the sea” Rook takes charge of the situation quickly, the two boys immediately stopping, not a finger lifted and the boys focus was reclaimed. The Lords had a much different approach to the Crows training. One that he’d have much preferred. “Remember everything I’ve taught you guys and you’ve got this. Lucanis” Her voice pulling him back from his training days, meeting her eye “Don’t throw or hurt the children.” She slowly speaks somewhat in a joking tone. “Go!”

“Wait, what?” Lucanis startled by the sudden onset attack, the sweet little girl moments ago that was tucked in his arms turns and grabs him around his neck pushing him down with all her little might onto the soft sand. With Lucanis down Corby quickly covers his eyes as Micah helps Ally by sitting on his chest, trying to keep him down. Toka and Riff taking advantage now the little ones had successfully played their part try to tie his legs down. Lucanis swiftly able to disarm the boys at his feet, grasping the two children in his arms as he spins over dropping them carefully onto the ground as he rises to his feet with space between them. Lucanis darts a look over to Rook who shrugs her shoulders, that’s all the time he had before the little force began to charge at him making him run leaving Rook in stitches. The children shouting instructions to each other as they tried to take Lucanis down again. After 10 minutes of failure, all the children are exhausted making their way back to Rook with Lucanis by her side.

“You guys did ace! She praised them

“But we didn’t get him” Toka pants as he flops to the floor

“You weren’t going too” Rook admits, the kids looking up in disbelief “He’s the First Talon of the Crows, The Demon of Vyrantium and he can fly. This was about-”

“You can fly?” The children scream out almost completely in unison, all the children’s eyes widen at the revelation.

“I mean-” Before he could try to explain Spite proudly unveiled their large purple feathered wings, gently moving them to create a little breeze for the hot youngsters, who were transfixed on them.

“Wooooaaah” The twins said in unison

“Can we touch them?” Corby asks

“No, we are not touching Lucanis’ and Spite’s wings” Rook refuses on his behalf, taking a step in front as if the shield him from their tiny fingers.

“Who’s Spite? Corby asks curiously

“Spirit” Micah says looking at the wings, Spite tucks his wings back into Lucanis’ body and goes to investigate the little boy who oddly stared straight back at him. Lucanis watches the interaction entranced as they both seem to be working out the other.

“Right everyone, lets call it there for today” Rook tries to bring the conversation back to normality rather than having to try explaining spirits and demons to youngsters.

“But how would you get him?” Riff asks “If you had too, could you catch him?” Rook smirked knowing that Lucanis was distracted, tapping her finger to her lips she silently walked backward before sweeping her legs under him, letting him tumble to the ground. As he tried to roll back to stand again she intercepted his movements planting herself firmly on top of him, pinning him down.

“Like that” She proudly states, his wrists tightly in her grasp pinned over his head, her feet positioned both to disable one knee and the other to injure him if he were to try and escape. Taking a moment to look up he sees her leaning down over him, her hair falling to one side freely as the top of her cleavage became impossible to ignore. The man’s cheeks flushed drastically as he turned his head from the children. “Now scat!” She yells as the kids reluctantly begin to walk towards to steps back the halls. Her attention returns to her new seat as she angelically smirks to him. “How did you find class?”

“Well, if I knew I was going to be doing that much running, I would have taken it easy earlier” Lucanis jokes “So you teach?”

“Only while their actual teacher is away, she’s so serious though. Kids learn by having fun, so make it fun” Rook nonchalantly, takes her hands from his wrists allowing him to sit himself slightly on his forearms, making no attempt to force her off of him. “They seem to be picking up the stuff though, so I must be doing something right” She shrugs

“Don’t do that” Lucanis scolds

“What?” Rook questions, as he shifts his weight beneath her, placing a hand on her knee whilst still supporting himself with his other arm.

“You should be proud of yourself, and the class. Don’t disregard your hard work. They are excelling because of you.” Lucanis praises her gently stroking the top of her leg.

“You think?” She asks him

“I know” He emphasizes his words as they stare at each other, as light as a feather her fingers graze the top of his hand pulling his attention away. As her fingers delicately danced along the back of his hand tracing small scars from past contracts before stroking his knuckles, with a subtle shift, she turned her hand slipping her fingers between his.

“Unless you want me on your lap all day, I best let you get up” Without letting him answer she lifts herself up to her feet, leaning down as she offers her other hand to him, helping him up. The pair stood in each other's space, fingers still threaded together like a puzzle piece that fit perfectly.

“Spite says-” Micah speaks

“Tell him no” Lucanis stops him before Rook can hear Spite's suggestion. “Wait, you can hear Spite?” The realization took the pair by surprise and out of their moment as their hands unthread walking towards the boy and demon.

“You can hear Spite?” Rook repeats as she and Lucanis squat on the floor to Micah.

“Yeah, He says you smell pretty” Micah chats away as he looks back to the empty space next to him “And that your skin is soft” looking back to Rook. Lucanis eyes dart between Spite and the child, not only can he hear Spite….he can see him. The first time someone else could see Spite it HAD to be a 3-year-old!

“You can see him?” needing to clarify his theory.

“Yeah…. why? Can’t everyone?” Micah picks himself up from the floor and stalks over to Rook, starting to become startled by the questions. Rook effortlessly begins to comfort the boy.

“Not many people can hear or see him, our friend can and has chatted to him on more than one occasion. It’s just something that’s rare, but you know what? That’s just something that makes you super special. Just like your mommy” Rook comforts the child with ease as she strokes his back in a maternal way, before Micah can speak she picks him up and twirls him around causing him to laugh again. “Lets go and chat to your daddy Micah!” Rook tips him upside down and tickles the tot, a rain of cheerful laughter hits their ears. Carefully lifting him up they begin to make their way out of the cavern.

Chapter Text

Chapter 5

The walk to Micah’s home wasn’t too far from the Halls. The houses of the faction were all tucked along the coastline, hidden in a small but intimate area that was carved into the side of the mountain. Built with the same grey stones as the mountain itself, their walls blended into the rugged land, giving them a sturdy, timeless look, yet there was something warm and inviting about them.

At the heart of the cluster of homes stood a small stone well surrounded by simple wooden benches, where Rook had asked Lucanis to wait for her. She wasn’t one to leave friends behind usually, but it seemed important that he didn’t accompany her to meet Micah’s father. As Lucanis waited patiently, his gaze wandered to the house Rook and Micah had entered. Tucked into a corner of the enclave, the small home radiated a rustic charm. Flowerpots brimming with herbs lined the base of the windows, as greenery climbed the walls, weaving through the cracks in the stone as though embracing the home itself. The front door sat under a graceful stone arch, framed by the stones of the mountain. Lucanis gaze drifted across the other’s homes, wondering if Rook’s home was among them or was it elsewhere. She had never invited their group to her place only ever taking them to the Halls themselves, and now that he was here seeing the charm of each home, he couldn’t help pondering what her home would be like.

“Sorry about that” Pulling him from his thoughts, Rook strolls over to him sitting herself down on the bench next to him.

“What did he say?” Eager to discover what Micah’s father may know about his son’s ability. Spite was also eager to learn about his new little friend, he was happy to have someone else for company other than Lucanis.

“He doesn’t know for sure, both he and his wife were mages-” Rook began

“Were?” interrupting without a thinking

“Elena died when Micah was about 7 months old.” Rook clarifies to him a sad tone hitting her usual chirpy voice.

“Ah, I’m sorry” Lucanis apologises.

“It’s ok. She was a rift mage while Cygnus is a spirit mage, Micah has had exposure to spirits since he was a baby, even showing some interest to them but this sort of ability never normally manifests this yearly on. He said he would go through some textbooks and question some spirits in the fade.” Her voice lowers as if she has more to say.

“Anything else?” Lucanis urges her to continue, Rook can’t help but release a tense sigh.

“He would need to study Spite with Micah, see what magic he is expelling or using unknowingly to see Spite. Which would mean you two meeting” Rook finishes with a nervous hint to her voice. Lucanis was a little unsure why she was nervous, it seemed perfectly reasonable for Cygnus to want to meet him if his son could see his literally demon.

“ROOK HIDING SOMETHING FROM US” Spite states, him watching her intently. “ASK HER” Spite demands, uncertainty was something still knew to him.

“When would be best for him to meet us?” Lucanis asks innocently

“ASK HER!” Spite demands again, impatient to know as he invades his space.

“He said whenever it was best for you.” She replies casually before standing up taking a couple steps away from the house.

“Right then, shall we?” Lucanis gestures to the house as he stands and walks towards it, Spite pleased his devilish grin plastered across his face, Rook dashing in front of Lucanis to stop him in his tracks.

“What? Now!?” Startled by his revelation

“Well I’m here, and I have nothing else intended for today. Surely it makes sense to do it now.” Lucanis notices her anxiousness, only furthering his want to know what she was hiding.

“I mean we could. Oooooor we could-” Rook tries to disarm him with her charm as she gently strokes his arm.

“Mr Lucanis, can Spite come in and play?” Micah’s innocent voice rings from the house, behind him stood a tall elven man, his piercing green eyes glaring at the pair striking a feel of intimidation between them. His hand placing gently on his son’s shoulder, his eyes fiercely on Rook before eyeing up Lucanis. Lucanis rarely felt fear before, but this mans gaze shot a shiver down his spine and seeing Rook’s reaction he could see her nerves were just.

“That would depend on if your father is happy with-” Lucanis smoothly tries to reply

“Come in” Cygnus impassively says to them as well as looking in the direction of Spite who had made his way to Micah, Spite was as fascinated with Micah as he was with him. Cygnus steps aside to allow access to Spite as a delighted Micah drags him in. Rook however was less thrilled on the idea and in fact look horrified by the invitation. “Are you just going to stand there?” Cygnus calls again, a reluctant Rook starts to walk towards the house, as he re enters.

“It’s not to late to run for it” She mutters Lucanis, who even though fear was rushing through him as if it were in his blood, he couldn’t help but chuckle at her suggestion.

“What, and leave Spite?” Lucanis replies calmy

“Ahh, he’s a big boy. Heck he’s a demon! He’ll be fine!” Rook jokes as the two come to the archway of the house. Fear lurches to her face again, the only time he had seen that look was when they pulled her from the fade. Watching her take a deep breath she enters, him close behind her.

The property was nothing like he had expected after the frighting intimidation he just faced. Stepping inside, they were greeted by an intimate kitchen bursting with warmth and love. Wooden furniture, well-worn, gave the room a cozy, inviting feel. Splashes of colour came from the various potted plants and herbs scattered on every available surface, alongside stacks of books that seemed to belong as much to the family as the furniture. Scatters of paintings and scrolls were across the available walls, including a few children drawn pictures also framed the space. The room radiated an undeniable sense of family. A small staircase, tucked beside the front door, led to the second floor. The banister draped with cloaks and scarves as light streamed in through wide windows.

Micah and Spite were no where to be seen as they entered, only Cygnus who stood in the arch way to the next room. As tall as Emmrich maybe even a fraction more, and probably around his age, the refined elf had an air of wisdom and authority to him. His long silver hair was tied in a high ponytail with braided sides and secured with a green ribbon. Two strands fell to frame his strong masculine features. The Vallaslin on his face was elegant and symmetrical. Starting from his forehead, the lines curve downward, forming an arrow with elongated runes either side extending down his nose. Splitting from his nose into sharp branches frame his high cheekbones while two simple lines go down to his chin, following the natural contours of his face. His commanding posture and lean yet strong appearance gave an essence of strictness to him as he stood in a flowing mage robe, finely crafted with embroidery across its entirety, even though it was slightly weathered it was draped in elegance and was obviously well loved.

“A spirit of determination. How did you come two become tied as one?” Cygnus deep voice questions

“I mean you could ask if he wants a cup of coffee first?” Rook mutters as she casually sits on a dining chair. Cygnus eyes glare at her, yet she refuses to meet them resulting in a sigh from the gentleman.

“Would you care for a drink” Cygnus asks Lucanis, gesturing for the man to take a seat at the dining table that was in the centre of the room.

“I am fine but thank you. He was forced into me when I was tortured for a year, we survived only by working together.” Lucanis explains as he takes a seat next to Rook.

“Yet you are not a mage nor are you possessed.” Cygnus concludes

“Spite can possess my body, but we have reached an understanding now of when it is acceptable. At the beginning he was only able to possess me when I was asleep.” Lucanis adds

“But he doesn’t possess you, instead lives within you freely” Cygnus resolves

“I am sure he would prefer his freedom, if it would not mean the death of us both.” Lucanis comments

“He seems to have made peace with the situation, dare I say even comfortable with it.” Cygnus speaks as his eyes travel to the next room where he can see Micah playing and chatting with Spite who was closely looking at the toys he was being presented with.

“Can you see him?” Lucanis asks, watching how Cygnus investigates the room.

“No, but I can feel his presence as well his essence. Micah has always been drawn to spirits, it was not surprising news to hear that he could speak or see them. Never feared by them or they fear him.”

“Takes after Elena, fearless as ever” Rook adds as she looks fondly at the boy, Cygnus’ eyes fall to her again this time a loving glow to them, sparking uncertainty in Lucanis.

“That he does, my dear.” Cygnus’ tone softens as he speaks to Rook, her unphased by his wording on claiming her.

Unable to quiet the storm now growing in his mind, a troubling thought took root—was this why she didn’t want him to meet Cygnus? Was Cygnus another man fighting for her attention, or worse, someone she was already involved with? He had seen her flirt with Emmerich before, so an age gap didn’t seem to matter to her. However, she was a renowned flirt in their group, but he’d always felt there was something different about the way she treated him, something special.

The question clawed at him, relentless and cruel: were all their moments, all their shared time, real to her, or only to him? Or was he just fooling himself, reading too much into every glance, every laugh they shared? His thoughts spun in endless circles, each one worse than the last, as he gazes at her, searching her expression for an answer.

“WHO IS HE?!” Spite commands, storming to Lucanis’ side as if sensing his spiraling mind

“My name is Cygnus” Cygnus answers for Lucanis looking at the spot where Spite was.

“You can hear Spite?” Rook asks astonishingly, Cygnus looks to his with an air of confusion

“You cannot?” Cygnus queries, equally shocked.

“Well, obviously not if I’m asking you” Rook snarkly remarks to him “I’m starting to feel left out” She smoothly jokes.

“I can look into some textbooks on if there are any possibilities for you to hear him, if you wish?” Cygnus walks over to her, Lucanis’ heart pounding faster as each step brings him closer to her.

“Seriously?” Rook stares up at him eagerly, gently placing a hand on her shoulder, he places a kiss on top her head, the moment smacks  Lucanis in the face as if a dagger had stabbed his heart.

“Of course, my dear” He says before he turns to see Micah coming in.

“NO! OUR ROOK!” Spite angrily spits out standing in front of Cygnus.

“Our-” Cygus goes to question

“Please! It is our misunderstanding. Let us leave it at that” Lucanis beyond flustered tries his best to control the conversation before he makes more of a fool of himself. His only saving grace was that Rook couldn’t hear what Spite had said. Cygnus looks over at the bothered man and back toward where Spite stood.

“Why is Spite angry?” Micah questions, he goes over to his new friend, holding his ghostly hand.

“What misunderstanding? What happened?” Rook queries, her eyes darting between them all as worry spreads across her face.

“Nothing to bother yourself with.” Cygnus tries to end the conversation, in aid of the poor man sitting in his home.

“Oh yeah, the only one that can’t hear Spite. Left out. Don’t mind me” She sulks, standing up and going through the cupboard to attain a glass before grabbing a bottle of tequila off the nearby shelf.

“You can not hear a spirit, so you sulk and drink?” Cygnus voice lowers disapprovingly as Rook pours a measure out of the bottle before knocking it back.

“Why not? This is already as awkward as hell for me. May as well make it a tad easier.” She goes to pour another when Cygnus takes the bottle off her, placing it back on the shelf.

“Is that why you’ve never brought any of your friends home before? You feel awkward introducing us?” He questions

“That’s not true. I bring Isabela around all the time,” Rook corrects. Cygnus does not react, as he places a glass of water in front of her.

“Isabela is like as much a part of this family as you are” Cygnus declares, the word family ringing in Lucanis’ ear.

“Yeah, yeah” Rook mocks as she slips her water

“I’m sorry, family?” Lucanis can’t help but ask for clarity gaining a confusing glance from Rook.

“Rook, as you call her, is my daughter,” Cygnus explains, deliberately emphasizing each word. The weight of those words hit Lucanis like a blow, leaving him feeling utterly foolish. Not only had he assumed they were a couple, Spite had outright told Cygnus as much, yelling that they wanted her for themselves. And now, here was Cygnus, her father, fully aware of his intentions toward Rook before even she was. If there had ever been a moment to dig a hole and disappear into it, this was it. Meanwhile, Spite, seemingly appeased by the confirmation, allowed the boy to lead him back to the other room to play, leaving Lucanis to deal with his humiliation, even though it was mixed with relief.

“Adopted” Rook explains without needing to, taking a sip of the water.

“Blood is of no importance Elysia, you are and will always be Elena’s and my daughter.” Cygnus tells her, placing his hand back on her shoulder.

“Elysia?” Lucanis looks at her, it now making sense of the children calling her El earlier.

“Got given it on my birthday, kinda stuck until Rook came along” She smiles at him humorously.

“She never told you, her name?” Cygnus sternly speaks in disbelief, his eyes glaring at Rook

“It never came up” Rook dismisses, her innocent eyes gaze back to only be met by scepticism.

“You never told him your name?” Cygnus sternly emphasizes his words again, letting his hand fall from her shoulder.

“You seeeee, THIS is why I don’t bring people here” Rook tries to joke with him.

“Because telling your friends your actual name is too personal for you to share? Or the fact your family won’t hide it behind some given nickname” Cygnus scorns again.

“They know me by Rook, like most of Thedas!” She defends gesturing with her arms

“And yet in not one conversation could you tell him something personal about yourself, like your birth name?” Cygnus argues back at her.

“Kill me now” Rook slams her head on the table in a sign of defeat, a chuckle leaving Lucanis’ lips without a thought, moving the glass of water away before she accidently knocks it over.

“So you adopted her?” Lucanis moves to the conversation on, happily taking advantage of learning more about her.

“I’m still here, you know?” Rook's muffled words can be heard as her face is still implanted on the table. Lucanis gently rubs her shoulder in support, which doesn’t go unnoticed by Cygnus.

“Yes, when Elena and I came to Riviani after escaping the circle, we joined The Lords of Fortune we found Isabela and Elysia. She just turned 18 and Isabela was busy training under the wings of the other Lords.  We took Elysia in and she became a part of our family.” Cygnus ignores Rook entirely as he answers Lucanis.

“18? Where were you before?” Lucanis asks Rook only to be responded with a groan and a look of severe disgust on Cygnus’ face

“Do you tell your friends nothing?” Cygnus asks in disbelief, to only be greeted with silence. “Elysia!” He demands, her head belts off the table, her hair flying back over her shoulders as she slams her hands on the table sending the chair flying behind her as she stands.

“No, I don’t. If I don’t tell them my name, why would I tell them that? I don’t tell people about that stuff. It’s not important” She angrily snaps back at him

“How are you to make lasting connections with people, if you do not trust them enough to let them in” Cygnus cautions.

“They trust the person I am now, that’s what matters.” She snaps back

“And who you were, what you went through to get here, that is of no importance?” Cygnus angrily declares

“I am who I am now. They know me.” She demands

“They know a part of you. That is not how you make lasting bonds.” He criticizes her, another groan leaves her lips as she storms around the table grabbing Lucanis by the arm and taking him upstairs. “Elysia!”

“Go and study Spite and Micah!” She roars as they continue to the second floor, she drags Lucanis to another room pulling him in and slamming the door behind them, her rage engulfing her as she stays pinned to the door breathing heavily. Lucanis watches her before placing a soft hand on her back in comfort. “Sorry, I knew I shouldn’t have brought you here” her normal energetic voice replaced with a saddened tone, even as she tries to make a joke of it. Lucanis, quickly, turning her to face him, her head remained low.

“I asked you too, I am at fault by pressuring you to come today. I’m sorry” He says, his hands on her shoulders. “You have nothing to apologize for” Rook looks up at him with a raised eyebrow. “You don’t.” He speaks assertively, Rook snickers under her breath as if defeated once again before taking in where they are.

“Sooo this is my room….not as luxurious as your Villas I’m afraid.” Rook moves the conversation onward as she walks around him to open the door to the small balcony behind them. Lucanis takes in the room. It was a cozy space with a double bed tucked up against the wall beneath a wide window. Warm tones of teal, yellow, and orange dominate the room, creating a cheerful atmosphere, as a vase of fresh sunflowers sat on a worn dresser brightens the space, adding a touch of natural beauty. Above a well-loved desk, a shelf brims with books varying between magic, fighting, and romance while papers scattered on the desk itself include drawings of various creatures found in the world. The bed is layered with a mix of throw pillows and soft blankets, with a well-loved, slightly worn teddy bear nestled in amongst them, as if to be hidden. As he follows her through the single door to the balcony he finds she has pulled a couple of large pillows for them to sit on as she slumps down finally relaxing, her legs dangling off the edge as she looks out to the stunning view of the sea as the sun orange hues began to set on the horizon.

“You’re room is beautiful. Very you.” He tells her a slight redness glows across her cheeks, at his compliment as he sits beside her.

“Not quite like your palace” She nudges his shoulder playfully, A crooked smile tugged at one side of his mouth.

“Yet not one room I can think of has any of your charm.” He mischievously nudges back as she giggles. A comfortable silence falls between them they sit happily in each other’s company gazing out to the sea, Rook delicately slides closer resting her head on his shoulder. He turns his head into her, carefully breathing her scent in before gently resting his on her. He couldn’t ask for a more perfect moment with her but a lingering question reigned in his mind.

“May I ask you something?” he quietly requests, somewhat fearing her reaction.

“Of course” Her calm reply only adding to his worry.

“Your past, do you really not speak of it?” The sudden stiffness he felt below him only fuelled his panic yet thankfully she didn’t move from him.

“If I need to then I will, other than that I like to leave it where it is. In the past.” She says matter of fact.

“I see.” He finishes, he didn’t want to force her to speak about it. “If a time came where you ever would be willing too, I would like to listen and know about you…not just the time when you became Rook” He speaks quietly but from his heart. For a moment silence enveloped them again.

“One day…maybe.” She answered uncommittedly, however it was a step up from how she responded downstairs.

“I hope one day may happen. If you want to” He adds, her past obviously being a stressful time he didn’t want to continue to press. Instead, he moves his hand around her gently placing it on top of hers, praying his question would not mean rejection. Delightfully she moved her fingers enabling his to slip between hers as she clasped them into her palm.

“Maybe coming here wasn’t as bad as I thought” She softly reveals

“You thought it would be bad?” Lucanis questions, not without a hint of sarcasm

“Well, I never have brought anyone home before, other than Isabela” Rook chuckles, nestling closer to him.

“Not even, a past…interest?” feeling compelled to ask, gladly letting Rook move closer to him.

“Nope” She replies “You’re the first” she adds. His heart skips a beat, he takes his head off her to look into her eyes, still nestled as close as she can be as she lifts hers. Those soft pink eyes gaze into him before they drop briefly to his lips. Instinctively taking his hand to her cheek, letting her lean into him as he touches her warm soft skin.

“Rook” His voice barely audible.

“You could call me by my actual name, you know it now” She reminds him with a slight tease in her tone, yet her eyes showed a more vulnerable expression. His eyes completely locked onto them, searching for reassurance almost pleading to her that this was real. His lips slighting part taking a short breath.

“Elysia” Her name rolls of his tongue, in a low breathless voice, almost like it was something too sacred to say. She rests her forehead against his as they both close their eyes instinctively, before brushing her soft lips briefly against his. Without letting the moment pass, his fingers sliding into her hair pulling her back into a tender kiss, his other hand settling on her thigh as her body turns into his, her hands stroking up his chest and over his shoulders before resting on the nape of his neck. He pulled back slightly, just enough to catch those gorgeous eyes looking at him.

“Tell me this is real.” His voice a husky whisper

“And if it were a dream?” She purrs into his ear, his grasp tightening around her as he choked back a moan.

“Then I hope to never wake up,” Lucanis murmurs before capturing her lips again, this time deeper, more relentless. The taste of her, sweet and intoxicating, sent a shiver through him as her tongue lightly teased his lips, coaxing him to part them. When her tongue grazed his, it was a cautious yet electrifying moment, igniting a fire in his chest and leaving his heart pounding. He never wanted this to end. Their foreheads rest against each other as they catch their breath, a teasing smile curling across Rook’s lips. She pulls back slightly her eyes sparkling with mischief.

“So,” she began, her voice light and playful, “how long were you sat there thinking Cygnus was my boyfriend?” Her teasing nature hit him like a bucket of cold water. Embarrassment surges through him.

“You knew?” His voice carries the weight of his humiliation, heating his cheeks.

“Well, not until you got all hung up on the word ‘family.’ And when he stupidly clarified he’s my dad? That’s when it all clicked.” She laughs.

“Mierda,” Lucanis mutters, his head dipping as the humiliation replayed.

Rook stands, extending her hand to him, her smile softening. He glances up at her curiously before taking her hand, allowing her to help pull him to his feet.

“Unless you plan to have Caterina storm the coast looking for you, I should probably take you back,” she teases, though her tone turned suggestive as her lips curl into a half-smirk. “Unless you’re planning to test out my bed instead?”

The heat in his face deepened, and Rook giggled at his reaction, stepping closer to press her body against his. She pulls him into another passionate kiss only briefly, leaving him dazed as she takes his hand and leads him out of her room.

Downstairs, Cygnus sat in a chair, his focus on the other room where Micah and Spite were still playing. His gaze shifts to Lucanis and Rook as they come down the stairs, and he stands respectfully.

“I’m going to have to take Spite away from you,” Rook declares, moving to the next room. “I’d best get them back before the Crows think we’ve abducted their First Talon.”

As she went to break the news to Micah, Cygnus approaches Lucanis, his expression unreadable.

“You care for Elysia?” he inquires

“I do,” Lucanis replies without hesitation.

“And Spite?”

“He does as well,” Lucanis confirms. Cygnus pauses, concern crossing his face.

 “My daughter’s past is… complex. If she speaks to you about it, do not take it lightly. She is more fragile than she lets on.”

“I swear, she is safe with me,” Lucanis vows. “There is nothing she could say that would make me leave her side.” Cygnus looks at him with a mixture of hope and doubt.

“I hope you’re right,” he says quietly. “Please, take care of her.”

Lucanis extends his hand, and Cygnus clasps it firmly, resting his other hand on Lucanis’ shoulder.

“Always,” Lucanis assures him.

Just as the two men stepped back, Spite storms over, his face twisted with fury.

“YOU KISSED OUR ROOK?!” Spite blurts out, his tone equal parts disbelief and outrage.

Lucanis groans inwardly. Dread creeps in as he realizes his shaky connection with Rook’s father may have just been obliterated in an instant by his blasted demon.

Cygnus quirks an eyebrow, a wry smile playing on his lips. “I feel this is why parents don’t let partners into their children’s rooms.”

“What?” Rook asks, stepping into the room with Micah in tow.

“You kissed Mr. Lucanis?” Micah pipes up, looking up at her with wide, innocent eyes. Rook’s face turns crimson.

“What?!” she sputters, her gaze darting between her brother and Lucanis.

“Spite,” Lucanis says dryly, the single word an answer in itself.

“Oh god,” Rook groans, dragging her hands down her face. Without another word, she grabs Lucanis by the hand and yanks open the door. “Okay, we’re leaving. Bye!” she calls, pulling him out of the house with haste.

Her father appears in the doorway. “Are you coming home tonight, or are you—”

“I’m coming home! See you in a bit!” she cut him off, her embarrassment making it clear she knew exactly what he was about to ask.

Storming through the village, they finally slowed when they reached the edge. Spite breaking the silence.

“YOU KISSED OUR ROOK?!” he demands again.

“Later, Spite,” Lucanis sighs, trying to pacify the demon.

“NOW!” Spite barked. “YOU—”

“Yes,” Lucanis snaps, stopping in his tracks. “Yes, we kissed.”

Spite’s fiery temper flares. “YOU SHOULD HAVE WAITED! I WANT TO KISS ROOK! I WANT TO TASTE ROOK!” he bellow. “WE KISS HER NOW!”

Lucanis rubbed his temples, exhaling deeply. “That’s not how it works,” he mutters.

“How what works?” a familiar voice interjects. Lucanis turned to see Teia approaching, her expression amused.

“Teia? What are you doing here?” Lucanis asks, unsettled by her sudden appearance.

“I thought I’d best come and grab you before Caterina decided to find you herself,” Teia replies with a wry smile. “Also, I wanted to discuss my contract with you away from the Crows.”

“Told you Caterina would come. Is this confidential, or can I listen?” Rook chimed in, her curiosity was obvious.

Teia turns to Lucanis, seeking his approval. “First Talon?”

“It’s fine. What’s the situation?” Lucanis welcomes the distraction from Spite’s tantrum as they begin walking through the caverns toward the Eluvian.

“We’re having issues getting inside,” Teia admitted.

“You haven’t been able to get inside yet?” Lucanis repeated, utterly surprised, Teia had never had an issue with her contracts before.

“I’ve tried six different Crows as potential patrons. Not one of us can get through the door. It’s as if the place is beyond exclusive.”

“Get in where?” Rook asks

“A brothel near the Diamond,” Teia explains. “My house has a contract to deal with its owner. It’s the kind of job we’re used to, but no one can even get past the front door.”

“Can’t you just… walk in?” Lucanis asks the question sounding naive even to him.

“With two doormen physically shoving you out if you don’t have an invitation? No. Not even my charm can get past them” Teia sighs, her frustration evident. “I’ve been on this for a week, and Caterina keeps pressing for an update. You know how she gets when a house fails.” Teia’s face fell, the thought of disappointing Caterina obviously playing on her mind. From the moment Caterina took her under her wing as a fledgling Crow, she had become more than a mentor to Teia, she was the mother figure. Lucanis knew she would go to any lengths to avoid letting her down.

Lucanis nodded knowingly. “What’s the target’s name?”

“Arturo.” Teia states. Behind the pair, unseen, Rooks eyebrows knitted together as her expression falls briefly.

“I’ll have some of my Crows look into it when I get back,” Lucanis promises as they arrive at the Eluvian.

“Thank you, Lucanis.” Teia smiles in relief. She turns to Rook, pulling her into a warm hug.

“We need another evening with the Lords. It was so much fun.”

“Only if Viago’s the one being carried home next time. We’ll set a date.” Rook laughs, returning the embrace.

Teia steps through the Eluvian, leaving Lucanis and Rook alone.

Rook turns to him with a mischievous glint in her eye, effortlessly stepping into his space. “So, this is where we part ways,” she says, her tone playful and laced with seduction.

“It is,” Lucanis replies, low and deliberate as her hands rest on his chest, his arms instinctively circling her waist.

“KISS?!” Spite’s gleeful chant echoes in Lucanis’ mind, making him shake his head slightly at his enthusiasm.

“Spite excited?” Rook guesses, a knowing smile playing on her lips.

“He is still upset he missed the kiss earlier,” Lucanis admits.

“And the second, and third” Rook adds teasingly.

“I MISSED THREE KISSES?!” Spite wailed in despair.

Lucanis groans, casting Rook a look. She merely shrugs innocently, her grin widening.

“Then we’ll just have to make this one, make up for it,” she murmurs, her fingers tangling in his hair as she pulls him to her lips.

The kiss starts soft, tender, and deliberate as they explore one another. But as her tongue slid against his, it deepens, becoming passionate with every heartbeat. Lucanis’ hands wandered, tracing her curves and memorizing every response, the hitch in her breath as her body pressed into his, feeling his growing arousal. Rook moaned softly, the sound sending a shockwave through him. He pulled her closer, his lips devouring hers with urgency. Her fingers clutched his hip, pulling herself flush against him fully embracing his hardening erection against her, her lips parting briefly to release a breathless, erotic sound that only fuelled his desire as their wild kiss continued again.

Spite was practically vibrating with excitement. “OUR ROOK! WANT MORE!” Lucanis broke the kiss, his chest heaving.

“Is Spite happy now?” Rook pants, her own breathing uneven.

“We both are,” Lucanis replies, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “Mierda, eres fenomenal.”

“I hope that means something good?” Rook giggles, her cheeks flushing.

“It means you are phenomenal,” he says with a crooked smirk, planting another tender kiss on her lips. Her shy smile made his heartache in the best way.

“You should get back, or Caterina really will come looking for you,” she says, reluctantly stepping back until only their hands touched.

He brought her hand to his lips, kissing them lovingly. “I’ll come by soon, Elysia,” he promises, walking backward toward the Eluvian.

“You better,” she winks, giving him a playful shove before turning away.

Lucanis couldn’t tear his eyes away as she walked off, her hips swaying with an effortless grace. Stifling a groan, he took a deep breath to steady himself before stepping through the Eluvian.

Chapter Text

Chapter 6

Back to business, Lucanis gathered some of his most trusted Crows to help in the investigation into Teia’s contract. A few were asked to uncover more information about the brothel itself, while a couple were told to try and get inside. Scanning the paperwork they already had for this contract, it should have been a simple task, but the increasing problems in getting in or finding any new information only furthered his concern for Teia. After spending most of the evening holed up in his office, Lucanis eventually called it a night and went to his bedroom.

Unlike Rook’s charming and quaint space, Lucanis’ room was vastly different. The bedroom was luxurious, showcasing a regal look with rich purple and gold tones, much like the Crows themselves. A large four-poster bed taking up a large chunk of the room, draped with flowing velvet purple fabric, was decorated with plush bedding and cushions.

To the left of the door, a chaise lounge with a curved design sat alongside a matching loveseat and master armchair, all upholstered in the same deep purple fabric. They were arranged around a polished mahogany coffee table atop an ornate rug, creating a cozy seating area that faced an antique-style fireplace. The fireplace cast a soft glow, filling the room with warmth.

Near the double balcony doors, offering a desirable view of the villa’s gardens a matching mahogany wardrobe stood elegantly. Close to the bed, a desk was neatly stacked with books and papers, with freshly added reports sitting next to a quill and ink pot. The wooden floor featured intricate patterns, complimenting the gold and purple wallpaper that enhanced the room’s overall splendour while a door on the opposite side of the double balcony lead to his personal en suite.

While the space was undeniably extravagant, it lacked the charm and personality of Rook’s room. To Lucanis, however, it was simply a place to sleep.

Closing the door behind him, Lucanis carefully draped his jacket over the loveseat before lowering himself into the armchair near the fireplace. The events of the day with Rook replaying in his mind.

“GO TO ROOK?” Spite asks eagerly, his voice breaking the quiet as Spite separates and settles into the loveseat. Spite’s tone was filled with delight, clearly enjoying the memories of the day as well.

“No, Spite. Not tonight,” Lucanis murmured tiredly, his gaze fixed on the flickering flames. Tiny specks of ember dance upward, crackling softly.

“WANT ROOK,” Spite admits tenderly.

“As do I,” Lucanis agrees. “We will see her soon.”

“WHEN? WHEN DO WE SEE ROOK AGAIN?” Spite presses on, his voice rising with excitement. Lucanis sighs deeply, leaning back into the chair.

“I don’t know for certain—” he began.

“NO! FIND OUT! WRITE, ASK TO SEE ROOK SOON!” Spite interrupts, leaping to his feet and scattering papers off the desk over the floor. Lucanis raises an eyebrow, before pinching the bridge of his nose in frustration.

“You expect me to come clean that up?” he asks dryly, which only aggravates Spite further. The demon darts closer, invading Lucanis’s personal space.

“EXPECT TO WRITE! TELL ROOK TO SEE US SOON!” Spite demands.

Sighing again, Lucanis reluctantly pushes himself up, trudging over to the mess of papers. He bends down to gather them, placing them neatly back on the desk before seating himself down.

“What is it you want me to write, exactly? ‘We miss you’? ‘Come here now’?” he asks sarcastically, dipping his quill into the ink and waiting for Spite’s instruction, though he had no intention of sending the letter. An unknowing Spite perches happily on the bed.

“WANT TO SEE ROOK SOON. WANT OUR ROOK,” Spite declares.

As the words left Spite’s lips, Lucanis hesitates. A thought struck him like ice, he knew what today meant for him, but what was it to Rook? Did she see it as a bit fun, or was this the beginning of something real, like he thought? His thoughts spiralling, a whirlpool of uncertainty that only deepened his need for answers.

“LUCANIS, WRITE!” Spite’s voice snaps him out of his spiral. Shaking his head, Lucanis dips the quill and began to write.

“Dear Mi Amor,

We impatiently await the next time we can see and hold you once again. Even tomorrow could not be soon enough.

Until our next day together,

Yours,

Lucanis and Spite”

“Is that enough for you?” Lucanis read aloud, glancing at Spite, whose face lit up with pure delight. Lucanis gently fans the letter to dry the ink before folding it into an envelope.

“I’ll have it sent tomorrow. For now, I have work to finish.” He places the envelope aside, knowing very well it would go missing soon enough and begins to look over the reports that had found their way to this desk. Spite, now content, curls back into the chair by the fire, watching the flames dance. Lucanis envied the demon’s carefree appearance as he worked late into the night.

                                                                                          *

“WAKE UP! WAKE UP! ROOK IS HERE!” Spite’s grating voice shattered Lucanis’ unconscious state. He groans, shifting in his desk chair.

“Cállate, Spite,” he mutters, attempting to bury himself deeper into his arms. The door creaks open, and Rook’s head peeks around the corner.

A soft smile graces her lips as she sees him slumped over his desk, fast asleep. Quietly, she steps inside and closes the door behind her, making her way over to him. Kneeling beside him, she brushes strands of hair from his face.

In an instant, her wrist was caught, and she was pinned against the bedside. Lucanis, now fully awake, froze as recognition dawned on him. His expression shifted from hostility to shock as Rook’s familiar grin broke the tension.

“Well, hello, handsome,” she says smoothly, in her tone playful. Lucanis releases her wrist sharply.

“Mierda! I’m so sorry, Rook!” he stammers. She laughed lightly, brushing off the incident.

“I really should’ve thought twice before sneaking up on an assassin,” she teased, brushing his hair out of his face again. When she moved to pull away, Lucanis caught her wrist holding it gently, his face falling he saw the fresh red mark he had caused, guilt flooding over him. She places her other hand over his in reassurance.

“If I knew you were into the kinky stuff, I’d have come to your room without an invitation,” she teases, her grin widening as Lucanis face flushes before a look of confusion crosses his face

“Invitation?” he repeats.

“That’s the part you want to question? So kinky, huh?” Her eyebrow quirks mischievously. His face reddens further, which only encourages her laughter. Holding out a familiar but now unsealed envelope to him “How could I resist when receiving such a sweet letter?” Lucanis’ eyes dart from the letter and then to the desk. “Was it… not meant for me?” Rook asks, pretending to be hurt.

“No, no—” he began, stumbling over his words.

“No?” she repeats, mock shock in her tone.

“What? No! Yes!” he blurts, his confusion only fuelling her amusement. Finally, he sighs in defeat.

“Mierda… yes, it was for you. I just don’t understand how you got it,” he admits, his gaze narrowing on Spite, who sat up on the bed grinning behind Rook like a mischievous Cheshire cat.

“What did you do, Spite?” Lucanis asks, his voice low with annoyance.

“HAD FRIEND TAKE TO ROOK. NOW WE SEE ROOK!” Spite declares triumphantly.

“What friends, Spite?” he demands, pinching the bridge of his nose.

“Hey, he’s allowed to have friends other than you!” Rook laughed, cutting in only furthering the demon’s glee. Lucanis sighed once more, silently wondering how even without seeing or hearing Spite, she could urge him on so much.

“SPIRIT FRIENDS. TAKE TO ROOK. NOW WE SEE ROOK!” Spite happily comments, ridiculously happy with his actions.

“So do you not want to see me?” She teases, picking herself up from the floor and walking slowly looking around the man’s room.

“I-We always adore seeing you but-” Lucanis stumbles over his words again as he stands, watching her walk around his quarters.

“Adore?” She cuts in with her usual teasing tone, making her way to the armchair.

“Si, yes but I am aware you are very busy. There was no need to trouble yourself by coming all this way.” Lucanis comments, they both knew how busy their schedules were, the fact they had been able to see each other the last couple of days was remarkable in itself.

“I have the morning free, actually, so you saved me from someone else taking up my time,” Rook admitted, leaning back in his chair. “So unless you’re busy, you can have me until noon.” Her mischievous look drew Lucanis’ full focus to her. Thanks to Spite’s impatience, they had gained another day with her. The thought of last night crept into his mind, what had yesterday meant? Maybe today he could broach the topic and find some answers.

“I’m free,” Lucanis declares without hesitation.

“Do you not need to check—” Rook chuckles, cutting off as he shakes his head.

“I’ll be free. Viago can handle anything that comes in. But if I may excuse myself briefly to… freshen up,” he said, glancing down at his dishevelled appearance.

Rook bounces up from her chair, crossing to him with a playful grin. Gently, she smooths the sides of his messy sleep hair. “Shame. I was quite enjoying this new look of yours,” she teases, her fingers undoing a few buttons on his vest.

Lucanis’ eyes widened as hers flick up to meet his. Her innocent smile was followed by a wink, and before he could process the moment, she turns and saunters across the room toward the door, her usual sway in full effect. Pausing in the doorway, she glances back over her shoulder. “Just don’t be long, it’s rude to keep a woman waiting,” she adds with a smirk, closing the door behind her.

Lucanis had never moved so fast in his life. Every second spent washing and changing felt like a second stolen from his time with her. Freshly dressed in his casual wear, he left his room with Spite hot on his heels. They reach the top of the stairs just as voices drifted up from below.

“Do you not wish for someone who can give you more, excitement?” a familiar voice floats up.

“You can excite me by leaving. Even the thought of that makes me wet,” came Rook’s sharp retort.

Lucanis froze, glancing over the banister to find Rook seated on one of the sofas below, her body language closed off. Illario leaning over her, his body language practically oozing arrogance. Even with her flirtatious tone, Rook’s deadly gaze left no room for misinterpretation.

“I’m sure I can make you, wetter, if you were to let me in,” Illario serenaded, his eyes raking over her like she was a prize to be claimed.

“The only thing you can do for me by being this close, is make me drier than the sand in Rivani,” Rook shot back, her words cutting as sharp knife.

“Rook, my darling, you wound me with those words,” Illario said, placing a hand to his chest in mock injury. “What can I do to show you that, I am, the right Dellemorte for you?” He leaned in closer, Rook turns her head away, unimpressed.

“Darling,” she says, her tone laced with venomous sweetness, “if you have to ask, you’re not.” She nudged him back with her foot, her subtle movement making his cheek twitch as he struggles to keep his composure.

“What does my cousin have that I couldn’t offer you?” Illario asked directly, frustration creeping into his voice.

“Nothing,” Rook replies evenly, surprising both Illario and Lucanis.

“What do you mean, nothing?” Illario spits back.

“He offers me nothing, because he doesn’t need to. He’s just, him. And that’s something no one else can offer and the only thing that I want.” she answers earnestly.

Lucanis felt his cheeks warm as he listened from above, her words striking a chord deep within him.

“I don’t know you, Illario, only what you’ve done. You charm and flatter your way through life, just as I do, and I know what a lonely existence that truly is. You’ll never be able to compete with Lucanis. But if you’re interested in a friend, come talk to me again. Just leave the sleaze at the door.” Illario blinked, caught off guard by her honesty. For once, he seemed at a loss for words, standing there flabbergasted as Rook remained calm and composed, her body still closed off.

“YES! OUR ROOK!” Spite chants triumphantly as he bounds down the stairs. Lucanis follows closely, his lips twitching into a faint smile.

“Apologies for keeping you waiting,” Lucanis says as he descends, his gaze landing on Illario. “Cousin, I trust you behaved yourself in my absence.”

Rook rose from the sofa and trots over to him, falling easily into his arms. “The right Dellemorte has come to take me away, finally?” she teases, in a playful flirting manner.

Lucanis smiles down at her, placing a gentle kiss on her forehead. “Wherever you wish,” he murmurs.

Illario stares at them, dumbstruck by his cousin’s boldness, while Rook grins with angelic satisfaction. Taking Lucanis’ hand, she leads him toward the villa’s door.

Lucanis obliged happily but calls back over his shoulder, “You and Viago are in charge. I’ll be back around noon.”

“You’re leaving me in charge?” Illario asks with a snarky edge.

Lucanis stops just as Rook was about to step out the door, turning to look at his cousin. “With Viago. If we’re to move past what happened, I need to trust you. Can I trust you, cousin?”

“You wish to move past what happened?” Illario hesitates, momentarily taken aback by the sincerity in Lucanis’ voice, some of his usual snark fading away. “Do you not fear I’ll do something else?”

“I’ve chosen to give you another chance. It would dishonour us both if I didn’t mean it. I want to move past it. Do you?” Illario considered his words, then stepping forward, extends his hand.

“I would like that, cousin,” he replies, sincerity finally breaking through his usual flair.

Lucanis clasped his cousin’s hand firmly, sealing the truce between them.

Before another word could be exchanged, Teia and Viago enter the room. Rook quickly ducks back behind the door, hiding from view.

“Is everything alright?” Viago asks, his eyes narrowing as he takes in the scene.

“We’re fine,” Illario replies smoothly, recovering his usual charm. “Lucanis is just nipping to grab a blade from the market. We’ll watch the villa.” Lucanis smiling at his cousin’s aid in his escape to spend time with Rook.

“Why can’t you go?” Viago demanded, his scowl deepening.

“Because he was going out anyway. Better one Crow gone than two. Besides, we’re more than capable of managing this place in his absence for a few hours. Aren’t we?” Illario’s charm only earned a flat response from Viago, who was clearly unconvinced.

As Viago turns to question Lucanis further, the door closes behind him. “Lucanis?!” Viago yells. Outside, Lucanis and Rook sprint from the villa, laughter spilling into the crisp morning air as they slip through the gates and make their escape.

The morning market buzzes with life, a mixture of colours spilling from every stall. Merchants proudly displayed their wares, glittering trinkets, fragrant herbs, gleaming armour, and finely-crafted weapons. Street dancers twirled and swayed in their designated spots, their movements captivating passersby as coins clinked into their hats on the floor. The air was alive with an enticing blend of aromas, a medley of spices, freshly baked goods, and exotic herbs that lured people closer, coaxing them to part with their coin for a taste of the market’s many delicacies.

Lucanis stood back, watching Rook flit from stall to stall, her curiosity pulling her to each vendor like a moth to a flame. She examined their wares, chatting warmly with the tenders as though she’d known them for years. Despite having visited Treviso’s market before, their missions had always taken precedence, leaving no time for leisure. But now, freed from urgency, Rook explored with childlike wonder, taking in every detail.

Eventually, she handed over a few coins for a bag of sweets, turning back to Lucanis with a radiant smile.
“Since when did this place have so much?” she asked, her voice brimming with excitement as her gaze darted to yet another stall.

“You never really had a chance to stop and enjoy Treviso before,” Lucanis replied, his own smile softening at her enthusiasm. “We’ll have to change that.”

Before he could say more, she grabs his hand and tugs him along to the next stall, her boundless energy contagious. Together, they wandered from one vibrant stall to the next, her delight filling the air between them as they browsed. Finally, as the last stall came into view, their pace slowed, the playful energy changing into a comfortable calm.

“So, sweets?” Lucanis asks, tilting his head toward the small bag in her hand.

“For the kids,” Rook answers. “They’ve got training tomorrow. May as well give them a little treat while I can.” The thought of her soft spot for the children warmed Lucanis’ chest.

“How’s their training coming along?” He asks

“You mean since yesterday?” Rook teases with a knowing chuckle, gently poking fun at him.

“Ah… of course,” he muttered, slightly flustered realizing his slip up.

“They’re doing alright. Their usual teacher is a lot stricter than me, so I’m trying to make it as fun as possible while I’m filling in.” She smiles, brushing past his embarrassment.  Curiosity strikes as she nudges him, “I imagine your training was different?”

Lucanis gaze drifted slightly as his memories surfaced. “It was incredibly demanding—gruelling. Excruciating hard work and often demoralizing.”

Noticing the distant look in his eyes, Rook slows her steps and places a hand gently on his arm. “What was it like for you?” she asks curiously, as he glances at her his mind begins to wander back to his past.

“The fledgling training can be cruel, depending on your mentor. Illario and I trained under Caterina,” Lucanis began, his thoughts drifted back to days he used to dread. “Caterina is undeniably talented, but her methods…we were just children. Every mistake we made was met with a strike of her cane, days spent without food or water as if we were caged beasts. She never wavered, no matter how bruised, cut or desperate we were.”

“For years, I despised her,” he admitted. “It wasn’t until I was much older that I understood why she trained us so harshly. There is no room for error as a Crow. If you want to succeed, or even survive, you had to thrive.”

“Just because you needed to thrive doesn’t make it acceptable to be beaten. Ever,” Rook says firmly, her voice trembling with anger.

Lucanis raised a hand to her cheek, his thumb brushing against her skin with tenderness. “You need not worry, mi amor,” he soothes.

“You still haven’t told me what mi amor means,” Rook replies softly. He hesitates, the corners of his lips twitching. He didn’t want her to know just yet, he liked calling her “my love” without fear of rejection.

“Another day,” he says finally, his gaze shifting to the sky. “The morning has escaped us.”

“Hmm, I best get to the Wetlands then,” Rook chuckles lightly, taking his hand as they began to walk to the Villa gates that were in sight.

“What calls you to the Wetlands?” Lucanis asks, though a slight tightness compresses in his chest.

“Evka and Antoine asked for an extra pair of hands recovering some vials. Davrin and I are going to help them,” she replies.

His agitation stirred at the mention of Davrin. The thought of the man still harbouring feelings for her tightens in his chest further. The question that had lingered since yesterday pressed again against his thoughts.

“Is Davrin not capable enough to do this alone?” Lucanis asks, his tone laced with mockery. Rook caught his meaning immediately, her lips curving into a coy smile.

“Is the First Talon jealous of the Grey Warden?” she teases as they enter the villa gardens.

“Jealous? Of Davrin?” Lucanis scoffs, though his tone betrays him.

“Mhmm,” Rook hummed playfully, her eyes sparkling as she poked further at him, clearly enjoying his discomfort.

“I’m just curious why a Grey Warden would need your aid for something so simple,” Lucanis counters, though his defensive tone only backs him further into the corner.

“Oh, so Mr. First Talon wouldn’t want my aid if a mission came up that he could easily handle alone?” Rook shot back, her playful smirk growing wider.

“Am I not different?” Lucanis asked boldly, though there was a slight hesitation in his voice.

Rook giggled softly. “Of course. I let you kiss me,” she says with a wink, slipping into the outhouse ahead of him.

Lucanis follows close behind, his jealousy now fully unmasked. “Davrin tried to kiss you? When” he asks sharply, his voice low and demanding.

“About a week after we killed Elgar’nan,” Rook replies casually, as though discussing the weather. “He asked me to go for a walk with Assan and then gave it his best moves. The man has some game, let me tell you.” She adds with a mischievous grin, her lightness only fuelling Lucanis’ jealousy.

“You and Davrin?” he asked, his tone dark as his narrowed eyes lock onto hers.

“When did I say I was with him? I said he tried,” Rook corrects, her words precise.

“So what did you do?” Lucanis demands firmly.

“The same thing I do with any man I don’t want to kiss me, I refuse,” Rook replies flippantly. “With Illario, a simple turn of the head is enough. With Davrin, I looked to the floor. No chance for him to grab my chin that way.” Lucanis’ tense body relaxes slightly at her reassurance, which she doesn’t miss. “Happy?”

“Why didn’t you say he tried something?” Lucanis asks, still unsettled.

“If I have to tell you about every person I’ve rejected, we’d be here a while,” Rook said with a shrug. “He tried, I rejected, and we moved on. No need to make a bigger deal out of it than it was.”

The thought of people pursuing her without his knowledge bubbles inside him, how many were there? Did any have her attention?

“You didn’t reject me,” Lucanis states, his voice softening. Rook sways from side to side playfully before stepping closer to him.

“I didn’t,” she confirms, her fingers lightly stroking his arm.

“Rook…” Lucanis began but faltered, nerves suddenly creeping into his voice.

“It’s going to take you some time to call me by my name, isn’t it?” Rook teases with a chuckle, attempting to diffuse his hesitation. Lucanis took a breath, bracing himself.

“Elysia…yesterday-”

“Where the hell is Lucanis? Why have I been left to deal with all this shit again?!” a voice bellowed from outside, cutting him off sharply.

The sound of hurried footsteps drew closer, shattering the quiet moment between them.

Chapter Text

Chapter 7

As the footsteps thundered closer, Lucanis grabs Rook’s hand pulling her further into the room then into an indent under the stairs, pinning her against the wall trying to leave space, what little he could, between their bodies as Viago marches in with Teia and two other crows in tow.

“You know if he’s to trust anyone, it’s you. You should feel honoured” Teia pipes up.

“Yet I’m not. No one goes to Illario, they find me. And then I am bothered by idiots who cannot get a simple piece of art out of a storage room!” Viago barks from the other side of the room as he shoves a small antique painting into the hands of another crow.

“We weren’t trained in art perception, we weren’t to know which the correct painting was to collect” The crow tries to explain, only furthering Viagos anger.

“You are a part of the Dellamorte house and you do not understand on how to find and retrieve a simple painting by Rhodes?!” Viago roared. Teia pinches her nose as Viago then begins to educate the poor pair of crows on, what he determines basic art. Lucanis peers out from the alcove to see that the situation wasn’t going to conclude any time soon turning to look back at Rook, forgetting the restriction of space, his face merely cm’s from hers. His breath hitches as their eyes met. Both staring at each other, both captivated. Lucanis couldn’t help but look over every feature he had never spotted before. The faint freckles across her nose, her long curling eyelashes, a small scar in her eyebrow. All these things he had never seen before, only making him want to explore her more to see how much more perfect this woman could be. Rook carefully turns her head, leaning forward, moving her body briefly against him. The memory of feeling her body flushed up against him on the beach yesterday sprung to his mind, her hands on him, her breasts against his chest, those legs on either side of him.

“Yesterday?” Rook whispers casually in his ear.

“What?” A fully distracted Lucanis mutters

“You asked about yesterday?” She cheekily purrs

“What was it?” He nervously asks

“A lot of fun” She seductively coos in his ear as she teasingly twirls her fingers around the chain on his shirt.

“It was. What I mean is, was it just fun? Or was it…something more?” He prays to the maker more than anything she wasn’t about to slash his heart to shreds, especially with them like this. Rook sighs, dropping the chain from her fingers letting her hand rest flush on his chest before becoming silent for a minute, the only thing to be heard was Viago still yelling.

“Do I really need to spell it out?” Rook exasperates finally, meeting his soft eyes.

“Yes, I need you too” Lucanis pleads breathlessly into her ear causing her to tremble.

“Lucanis” Her voice purrs as her other hand finds its way to his lower back, clinging tightly before pulling herself up against him as much as she could. Her other fingers leaving his chest tracing up to his neck and along his jaw. Her voice alone had him, that voice would have him melting at anything she wanted.

“I need to know what this is” Lucanis begs, his fingers tangling into her hair, caressing the back of her head as his other curled around the base of her back.

“I think you already do” Rook groaned quietly, the sound was enough for him to push her back against the wall, pinning her against it and him. He didn’t attempt to keep his body off hers unlike before which by her hum she was pleased with. No space between them, their noses touching and their lips barely parted from each other.

“What is it you want?” Lucanis murmurs, his voice thick with vulnerability as his eyes close. He longed to believe she wanted him as fiercely as he wanted her, to know he was her everything. But until those words fell from her lips, he couldn’t let himself surrender completely.

“You. Us.” She whispers, placing a short but tender kiss on his velvet lips. Lucanis couldn’t help but release a small moan at the sensation. Rook touched his plush lips slightly with her fingers teasing his bottom lip open under her gentle guidance. Her fingers fell, finding their place above his heart that would only ever beat for her. Lucanis opened those dark brown eyes to meet her crystalized pink. “I’m yours if you want me?” She spoke with a vulnerable tremor. Lucanis’ fingers graze her cheek, everything he had ever dreamed of was finally real. Just as he was about to answer and taste those lips once again, he feels a hand grabs him at the back of his collar and forcibly yanks him out from the alcove.

“So, you’ve been hiding here this whole time?!” Viago raged at him throwing Lucanis across the room, as expected of a crow Lucanis was able to quickly steady himself and land as poised as ever. “You left me to deal with that many idiots this morning, it’s a wonder this house has any Crows that can form a sentence!” Viago explodes at him storming towards the First Talon, invading his space. “If I have to deal with one more idiot, I will personally kill them myself! Are they not trained in common sense or basic knowledge in your house or did the ones I had the unfortunate time dealing with miss those lessons?!”

“SHOVE PAINTING DOWN HIS THROAT!” Spite appears in his full rage after again being deprived of another moment with Rook.

Unbeknown to him, Viago was lucky to be living at this point after disturbing that moment with Rook. Lucanis’ deadly glare was challenged by Viagos wrath as the two men didn’t exchange a word, their anger towards each other exploding a horrendous atmosphere into the room. Teia calmly walks over to the pair before Rook exposes herself out of the alcove giving Teia a wink, Teia gives a knowing smirk before her looks dart between her and Lucanis, her eyes pleading for details. With an oh-so-not subtle cough from Rook, Viago turns, as she gives a cheeky wiggle of her fingers as a wave. The scowl and rage from his face falling as his shocking blue eyes close, his face scrunching as he pinches his nose, understanding the situation he had just put himself in and the glare his First Talon was giving him.

“My apologies, I didn’t realize you were engaged with Rook” Viago tries to diffuse the situation as he turns to Lucanis, him still wanting to throw Viago through the nearest window.

“THROW THROUGH WINDOW ANYWAY!” Spite encouraging Lucanis to act on his thought, running to the window as if to show him where to aim.

“Engaged? Maker, we’re not even a couple Viago. Don’t lumber Lucanis with me, maybe the poor man would prefer a much more refined crow than some sassy lord.” Rook jokes before walking to Teia and hugging her.

“Lies, and we all know it.” Teia teased, bumping shoulders with Rook as they giggled.

Lucanis's attention had drifted to the women briefly, giving Viago a fleeting opportunity to create some space between them. It was short-lived as Lucanis followed closely, ranting at him rapidly in Antivan. Spite, unable to speak the language, joined the commotion by loudly suggesting increasingly absurd punishments for Viago, being thrown into things, through things, or having various objects shoved down his throat or up….other areas.

                                                                                                                                                     *

“You and Lucanis?” Teia raised her eyebrows, her curiosity piqued. Viago and her had been impatiently waiting for Lucanis to make a move on Rook. For someone so quick and efficient in his assassinations, he was painfully slow, and oblivious, when it came to women.

“Maybe?” Rook replied slyly, her smirk hinting at a secret she wasn’t ready to share. Whatever Viago’s interruption had spared him from saying, she was confident she had finally staked her claim on her Talon.

“Tell me everything!” Teia’s eyes widened, eager for gossip.

Teia had become something of a best friend to Rook. Rook knew she could count on her. The moments when they could set aside their responsibilities and simply enjoy each other’s company were rare and precious. Teia, though a Lord in her own right, never let the fact Rook was of a different fraction get in the way. She’d taken Rook under her wing, dubbing her an honorary Crow to her, an honour Rook wore with pride.

“Another time…Did Lucanis find anything out for your contract?” Rook asks quietly, her voice low as she takes note of the men now embroiled in their Antivan ranting match.

“Nothing. They came up with the same dead ends as my house.” Teia’s voice now heavy with defeat. “My house has never failed a contract. Caterina’s been searching for me again today, I just don’t know what to say to her.”

Her shoulders slump as her whole body seems to shrink under the pressure. The pressure of letting down her house and Caterina, Seventh Talon wasn’t a rank you earned by failing.

Rook’s mind had been unrelenting over Teia’s contract all night, hoping Lucanis’ men would deliver the breakthrough she desperately needed. But hearing that her hopes were dashed, was saddening to hear but not surprising. She had heard that name. She knew of that man. She knew the horrors that would be waiting in that building. And she knew Teia’s success meant walking into a danger no one should face, especially not even knowing what she would be walking into.

Seeing the strain in Teia’s face, Rook felt a pain in her chest. She let out a shaky sigh, one she hadn’t even realized she’d been holding in.

“I can get us in,” she whispers, her voice barely audible.

“What?” Teia’s head snapped up, her wide eyes locking on Rook. “How?” she mutters.

“Not now,” Rook says softly, glancing away. Her voice drops, almost desperate. “But whatever I tell you, if we do this, anything I tell you remains between us, you can’t tell anyone, especially Lucanis.”

Teia’s expression shifts. She knew Rook but the plea in her voice and the dread in her eyes was disturbing. Whatever Rook was going to reveal, it wouldn’t be simple, and it wouldn’t be easy to hear. Then the question of would she be able to hide it especially from Viago and Lucanis? And if it was that serious, should she?

Before Teia could respond, Rook seemingly pulled herself together, her usual confidence sliding back into place as she turned to face the room. The men still bickering like children.

“Well, as fascinating as it is trying to learn Antivan while a dick-swinging contest commences,” Rook exclaims, cutting through the noise with her usual fierceness, “I have to get to the Hossburg Wetlands.”

The room fell silent as she pulls Teia into a brief, firm hug. “I’ll be back later, just let me know” she murmurs, Teia nodding uncertain about what was best.

Rook pulls back, letting her attention fall to Lucanis, her gaze softening as it landed on the handsome man she longed to be closer to. “See you in a bit, treasure,” she says, her voice dripping with cocky charm. Her usual confidence returning as she strode toward the stairs. Every step was deliberate, seductive, ensuring she’d linger in his mind long after she left, carefully watching to see his eyes never leaving her for a second.

It wasn’t until she closed the door to the Eluvian behind her that the weight of what she’d just offered hit her like a blow. She slumps against the door, her body trembling as the realization washes over her, taking all her strength to not let herself fall to the ground.

She had sworn she’d never go back to that life or get wrapped up in the business of it, never step into the shadows of her past again. Never let her new life cross paths with the old. But now, old memories clawed their way to the surface, flashing in her mind like lightning strikes, the bruises, scars, the ghosts of who she used to be. Her chest tightening as tears stung her eyes, threatening to fall down her cheeks.

The determination to help Teia burned brighter than the fear. If anyone was going to get in and get out that building alive, it was her. She survived that life once, she can do it again. Maybe she wouldn’t have to go in at all, just getting a single crow in to kill the man might be enough. If she did have to though, at least she wouldn’t be alone. She’d have Teia.

Chapter Text

Chapter 8

Rook and Davrin spent the afternoon battling the never-ending appearancing darkspawn while scavenging the odd items on Antione’s list. The assortment was strange to say the least, a bizarre mix of roots, petals, a specific sludge, a darkspawn nail clipping, a scale, moss, and any remaining blighted matter they could find. How these items were meant to serve any purpose was a mystery, but Rook didn’t question it, the mission was requested and she agreed. She works smoothly alongside Davrin, whose sword cuts cleanly through the creatures while Assan swoops and clawed at smaller enemies. The griffin seemed delighted in dropping them from great heights, watching with curiosity to see which ones bounced upon impact, a happy squark when they did.

Rook kept her focus on firing bolts of lightning, her magic cracking as barriers flashed up to shield Davrin or Assan from surprise attacks. Together, their teamwork was flawless.

Her combat outfit differed from her casual even though both showed the Lord of Fortune flair in their own way.  Mainly cobalt blue in commitment to her faction, the attire was emphasized with intricate gold throughout. The shoulder-strapped bodice was tailored snug to her fit, its vine and floral patterns symmetrical, leather straps and buckles crossed her waist, securing small pouches at her hips. Her form-fitting trousers, crafted from leather-like material, met knee-high black boots etched with subtle patterns and laced securely.

Her staff was a natural like design, a tribute to her Elven roots. A sturdy wooden shaft, wrapped in living ivy vines with evergreen leaves. On top rested a glowing orb, cradled by intertwined branches. The orb shone softly when dormant, but during battle, it erupted into a vivid purple hue—an unmistakable sign of its destructive power she possessed.

Though some days she missed the thrill of daily combat, Rook appreciated the luxury of choosing when to wield her magic now. The battle won, Davrin sheathes his blade, and Rook secures her staff to her back while Assan lands gracefully between them, awaiting his usual dose of pets and praise, which Rook eagerly grants, her hands stroking his soft feathers.

“You spoil him,” Davrin remarks as he moves towards the fallen darkspawn to retrieve their next ingredient.

Rook, now crouching beside Assan, was busy making an extravagant fuss over the griffin, who eagerly soaks up her attention.

“How can anyone not? Look at him!” she coos, her voice full of affection. Assan chirps happily at her words, rubbing himself against her with so much enthusiasm she nearly topples. Had she fallen, the lovable griffin would have taken the opportunity to lay on top of her, ensuring his “constant fuss person” couldn’t escape.

“He misses you, you know,” Davrin says, his tone cool while he remains focused on the mission. He grants the pair their moment, knowing how much they miss each other. Still, he couldn’t help but wish that it was him Rook showered with affection.

“Oooh, let me guess, the next words out of your mouth are going to be… you miss me too,” Rook teases, clearly repeating a conversation they have had before. Her attention remained fully on Assan, and his adorableness.

Davrin turns to look at her, his eyes lingering on her radiant beauty as she laughs at Assan’s behaviour. He began walking toward them. Noticing his approach, Rook and Assan finish their antics. She gave the griffin one last fond pat on the head before standing.

Before she could react, Davrin slipped an arm around her waist, pulling her close. Her hands remained at her side as she tilted her head slightly away from him, his face near her ear.

"Are you ever going to let me show you how much, though?" Davrin's tone dripping with seduction, his confidence undeniable. The man exuded sex appeal and carried an air of experience in the way he held her. If Rook hadn’t already fallen for Lucanis, she might have been tempted to consider Davrin’s advances, or at the very least, found it harder to ignore.

“Ever the charmer,” she sasses back, her fingers lightly resting on the metal of his breastplate. “But I don’t think Lucanis would be too happy about you trying to take what’s his.”

With a slight push against him and her words startling him. Davrin steps back, reluctantly releasing her from his grasp, the name of his competitor ringing in his ear.

“You’re with him?” he asks, his voice full with disbelief. Assan, sensing his father’s distress, rubs against him as though offering comfort.

“I have a feeling that when I return later, it’ll be official,” she admits, her tone soft. She wasn’t trying to hurt him, but she had to make him understand. Davrin had fallen hard for her, and despite her repeated rejections, his determination to win her over never wavered.

“You’re set on being with a demon?” His disapproval unmistakable, irritation across his face. His arms crossed defensively, although Assan still managed to jump and nuzzle against them.

“He and Spite—” Rook began, but Davrin cut her off sharply.

“He’s a demon, Rook. No matter how you spin it. How do you know Spite can’t possess you? What if he finds a way to take over you, finally be free instead of sharing? You’re a mage, you can be fully possessed! Have you even considered what that could mean?” His frustration spilling over into a full-blown rant, his concern for her over taking everything else.

“I’m sure Spite would love nothing more than to possess me,” Rook replies with a playful smirk, the seductive in her voice making it clear she wasn’t taking Davrin’s warning seriously. She turned on her heel beginning to walk back toward his camp now the last item has been retrieved. Davrin jogged after her, grabbing her arm to stop her.

“I’m serious, Rook,” he says, his voice low and commanding.

“So am I,” she counters, her voice playful and cheeky. Her eyes met his, bright with mischief, but also firm in her decision.

He searchs her gaze, his care for her unmistakable but his lust for her more as he reached out to touch her cheek. Before his fingers could brush her skin, her hand caught his wrist mid-motion. The rejection made him sigh, his arm dropping to his side in defeat.

“He’s dangerous,” Davrin says, his voice now softer but not without a hint of worry.

“And how do you know that’s not my type?” Rook teased, a light laugh escaping her lips as she tries to ease the tension between them.

“What, a Grey Warden isn’t dangerous enough for you?” His charm resurfacing briefly, a playful smirk tugging at his lips.

“You’re not possessed, though,” Rook jabs slyly, her words hitting home as Davrin inhaled deeply. She picks up her pace, but Davrin matchs her stride walking silently at her side but only briefly.

“Makes sense why you were distracted today,” he remarks, casual yet prying as Rook frowns, her eyes narrowing as she turns her head toward him.

“I haven’t been distracted,” she declares firmly, the sharp edge of her stubbornness making Davrin chuckles lightly.

“Granted, I thought it was something more troubling with how you looked earlier, unless being with a demon isn’t all it’s cracked up to be,” he probes, clearly fishing for a reaction. Rook rolls her eyes and waves him off, continuing her careful path through the wetlands. She hopped precisely from stone to stone, avoiding the boggy sludge below.

 “If anyone was distracted, it was you,” she retorts, her voice light with jest.

“I’m always distracted around you,” Davrin admits with a smirk, his voice dropping into that familiar seductive tone. “I can’ keep my eyes off you, when you move.” Rook groans dramatically and rolls her eyes, her reaction enough to put an end to his flirtation, for now. The pair finally making their way into the Warden camp.

“Seriously, though. There were times out there you looked... pained. Is something going on?” His concern replacing his charm. Rook glances at him, her usual confidence returning.

“Nothing I can’t handle, my darling Davrin,” she replied smoothly. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a demon to claim.”

With a playful wink, she darts from of his predictable attempt to grab her, her sweet laughter filling the air as she sprints through the Warden Camp. Davrin sighs, watching her go, realising he had finally lost her to him.

                                                                                                                                                       *

Once she was sure Davrin hadn’t followed, Rook continued her way through the Crossroads, her thoughts swirling as she made her way toward the Treviso Eluvian. The weight of her earlier offer to Teia pressed heavily in her mind, no matter how she tried to push it away.

She no longer needed to maintain her mask, allowing her smile and upbeat nature drop, allowing a sullener look as she crossed the fade pathways. Her steps faltering slightly as she neared the mirror. As much as she had wanted to help her friend, a selfish, desperate part of her couldn’t help but hope Teia would refuse her offer.

“What troubles you, dweller?”

The caretaker’s voice came softly appearing from infront of her suddenly, a spectral figure gliding towards her as Rook approaches the mirrors.

“Nothing that my gorgeous self can’t handle,” Rook replies with a playful smirk, her mask firmly in place as she sidesteps past the looming the spirit, continuing toward the mirror. But despite her bravado, dread crept steadily through her as each step took her closer.

“The past and the present, their collision imminent. Panic and fear delve closer. The heart of a once-leader, crushed, paralyzed, compressed against the looming danger of secrets buried deep arising for all to see,” the caretaker hummed, it’s voice resonating with eerie clarity.

Rook froze. The words struck her like lashes, one after the other. Her tanned complexion drained as her chest tightened with panic. Slowly, as if bound by invisible vines, she turns to face the spirit. Her expression, once so confident and sure, now raw fear.

The caretaker’s ghostly gaze, emotionless, seemed to pierce through her, peeling back the layers of her carefully concealed past. The weight of her hidden truths pressed down on her as the caretaker’s words lingered in the air, haunting her.

"Deception and voyages will not conceal your past secrets forever," the spirit chanted, its voice calm yet cutting. Rook’s mind spiralling.

“It’s worked all these years,” she snaps defiantly, her mask of brass bravery sliding back into place, shielding her vulnerability.

"You left others to themselves rather than aid. No one ever came too close. Not one knew your true name. Your altering power," the spirit pressed on, its words relentless. Rook felt her mask slipping again, cracks forming as the caretaker continued to press her. "Decisions of who you truly are and who you want to be lie ahead of you, dweller. Embracing one’s past and aiding your present—"

"I have no intention of embracing my past again, and I don’t intend for anyone to know about it,” Rook cut in sharply, her voice laced with fear. “Teia doesn’t need to know everything, just enough to complete her contract.”

Her fear and building anger towards the spirit causing an impulse that made her fingers twitch with the urge to blast it. She knew it was futile to lash out at something spiritual, but the thought of silencing the spirit, the need of cutting down the voice that knew her secrets, felt vital.

“All will be revealed,” the caretaker murmurs, unmoved by her fear.

"I'll kill anyone who tries to reveal it," Rook hisses, her voice deadly with conviction. “No one will know what happened in Kirkwall. Nobody ever needs to.”

She storms through the Eluvian before the spirit could speak anything further, the glow of the mirror swallowing her whole. On the other side, her face full of her turmoil, a mixture of worry and pain slapped on her face. But she had little time to process the encounter before a familiar voice snaps her from her thoughts.

“Rook!” Teia sprang from the seat she had been impatiently filling, her relief intense as she ran toward Rook. Rook’s face shifts instantly, surprise changing into amusement as Teia claimed her in a tight hug.

“Waiting for me? I mean, I do wish it were another Crow, but I’m glad it was you if not,” Rook teases again, her playful nature slipping back into place. Despite her light tone, her mind churned with the weight of the conversation from moments ago and from the one about to take place.

“So?” Rook prompts, watching the flicker of trouble cross Teia’s face. The conflict within her friend was plain, she was torn between what she needed to do and what Rook was asking of her.

“Why can’t Lucanis know? Surely he’ll find out-” Teia questions cautiously

“He isn’t ever going to find out,” Rook replies sharply, her playfulness now gone. “I’m only offering because I know you don’t have any other option. If you did, I wouldn’t be here, believe me. You aren’t even going to know the full story, Teia. You will only know what you need to, and we will leave the rest alone and it remains between us. If you want my help, that’s the agreement.” Rook’s words were firm, leaving no room for negotiation. The look in her eyes made it clear that whatever secret she was about to share, it was to remain buried forever.

Teia stood still, her chest tight as she considers Rook’s terms. She hated keeping anything from her family, but whatever this was could she really keep it from Lucanis? She also knew she had no chance of completing her contract without Rook’s aid, and Rook’s secret.

The weight of her decision pressed heavy on her, each possibility pulling her in different directions. The one that stung the most was if she refused Rook’s offer she would have to face Caterina, her Nonna. The thought of disappointing her sent a sharp pain through her heart.

“Tell me,” Teia says at last, her voice steady despite an internal war within her.

“You accept what I’m saying?” Rook asks, her expression intense. “No one can ever know, Teia.”

“If you hurt Lucanis—” Teia began, her protectiveness flaring, as Rook cuts her off.

“What I have to say will not hurt him in the slightest. It won’t affect him, I promise you. But he can’t know, he can’t find out what I was.” Rook confirms firmly, her voice softening slightly as she reassured her friend. Teia hesitates, searching Rook’s face for any hint of deception. Finding none, she sighs

“Then tell me,” She resolved, her decision final.

The storm within Rook continued its spiral as she now had to face her next battle. Telling Teia. What she was about to share with would change things, part of her past being revealed to her, what she would think of her after this? She clung to the one thing she knew for certain: Teia would keep her word.

Chapter Text

Chapter 9 

Even with contracts piling up and countless responsibilities demanding his attention, especially after Viago ordered all his crows to revisit basic lessons following that morning’s events. Lucanis’ mind couldn’t focus. Rook’s words and the memory of her under the stairs lingered, and that she was now with Davrin, the man’s mere presence around her grates his teeth. Letting her leave without answering had been a mistake, one that troubled him all day. The only relief was that Teia had mentioned that Rook would come back later. He noticed she’d been quieter than usual, but she brushed it off, mentioning the pressure of her contract. He understood. His crows’ came back with nothing useful and again the same refusal as hers, only making him want to investigate it personally. The contract seemed too complicated for something that had arrived as such a simple task.

Leaving his office, he was quickly intercepted by two other crows needing his input on another matter. Walking alongside them through the building, they eventually come out into the gardens. After being cooped up indoors all afternoon, he and Spite both welcomed the fresh air. As soon as they stepped outside, Spite darted away, energized by the open space. He had been restless all day, his mischief in knocking over objects just to irritate Lucanis and startle the other crows was the only enjoyment he had. Other than continual demanding on finding Rook and feeding the Warden to the Darkspawn.

A flash of purple caught Lucanis’ eye across the yard. Spite racing, his voice ringing out cheerfully. “ROOK!”

Following the Demon’s path he spotted her perched casually on a wall, leaning back slightly, a sly smile appearing as their eyes locked, as though she relished being caught by him. Spite immediately settled beside her, far more energetic now than he’d been all day. Lucanis excused himself from the other crows as quickly as he could, his focus now entirely on her.

Walking over, he extended a hand to her. She accepted it lightly, and he slid his hands to her waist to help her down safely. Any excuse to touch her, he’d gladly take, though her safety always came first. As her feet met the ground, she surprised him by wrapping her arms around him tightly, clinging to him with unexpected urgency. Startled by her embrace, he instinctively pulled her closer, his hand gently stroking her hair. Something was wrong. They could feel it.

“What’s happened?” he asks, concern softening his voice. His mind raced with worst-case scenarios, most of them involving Davrin. Just the thought of him made Lucanis’ chest tighten with anger and Spite’s earlier suggestion more appealing.

“Can’t I just be happy to see you?” she teases, though her grip didn’t loosen.

“Always,” he replies, his concern unwavering, “But somethings different. Did something happen with Davrin?” The name left his lips, holding back as much of his anger as possible. Her quiet laugh did little to ease him.

“I mean, him reprimanding me for saying I’m with you was an interesting part of the mission,” she said, her voice calm as ever, still nestled in his arms.

“YES!” Spite’s ecstatic cry rang out. “OUR ROOK! SHE’S, OUR ROOK!” He zips around them in a brief whirlwind of delight before diving back under Lucanis’ skin.

Relief floods Lucanis, loosening the tension in his chest. She was his. He inhaled her apple blossom scent, pulling her even closer as a smile tugged at his lips. For the first time, his world felt complete.

“Something I said?” Rook’s playful tone returned, her noting the subtle changes in his demeanour, his hand tangling gently in her hair.

“So he reprimanded you?” Lucanis asks, smiling as he held her a bit tighter. Her light laughter bubbled up in response, sending a warm rush through him.

“Yeah, he wasn’t happy. Not that you’ve told me you want to be mine yet. May have to tell him otherwise next time I see him.” Her teasing nature shone through as she shrugged slightly.

Without a moment’s hesitation, Lucanis grabbed her by her hair, tugging her back just enough to crash his lips onto hers. The kiss was passionate, demanding, and full of a hunger he could no longer deny. Her taste intoxicating him, her tongue teasing his bottom lip for access before they twisted and fought, exploring each other leaving them breathless. Pushing her back, pressing her firmly against the wall, his body against hers, her moan vibrating against his lips. That sound only spurring him on. One hand traced the curves of her body, while hers wandered over his, briefly exploring before one settled at the nape of his neck and the other clung to his side, slipping beneath his jacket.

“Finally!” Teia’s delighted squeal shattering the moment, bringing Lucanis back to his senses. His head whipping around to see Teia, Viago, and a collection of crows cheering and applauding them as if the pair had just finished a show. His face flushing a deep red as he tried to move away.

Rook, not discouraged, clung to him as she cupped his face in her hands to look at her again, her eyes glistening as she kissed him tenderly. Ignored the commotion behind them, resting her forehead against his as she held him tightly.

“Is that a yes?” she asked softly, her voice pitched low enough for only him to hear. His chocolate-brown eyes locked onto her crystal-pink.

“You will always be mine.” He finally answers, taking her cheek in his hand. The words he had wanted to say for so long, his heart had been hers since the moment they met. Even when he feared to love her, he had craved her, and now she was his at last.

“And you are mine,” she whispers, repeating his confirmation. A soft blush blooms across her cheeks, and an angelic smile lit her face. Unable to resist, his lips sought hers again, another tender kiss, forgetting their audience entirely.

“We get it!” Viago’s jesting voice broke through, pulling Lucanis back again to reality. He tore himself away from Rook, turning toward the gardens, his shyness obvious as he looked at their audience. This was his first relationship, and public displays of affection were as new as everything else. Rook, thankfully, was unbothered.

“Okay, okay. Everyone, show’s over!” she announces, standing tall with a teasing grin. “Your First Talon has successfully won over and claimed this Lord. I’m officially unavailable to anyone but him. I know you’re devastated, either for the loss of me or him. Boo who. Now get over it and shoo! I have more of his time to claim before I have to return him to you lot.”

The crowd gradually dispersed across the gardens or into the villa, though Teia couldn’t resist dashing over, Viago following cautiously behind. Teia pulls Rook from Lucanis’ and into a squealing hug, the sound of their laughter filling the air. Viago’s hand lands firmly on Lucanis’ shoulder, his rare smile soft.

“About time,” Viago says with a nod, giving Lucanis a congratulatory pat on the back.

“If it wasn’t for you earlier—” Lucanis began, only to be cut off by Viago’s signature scowl, which returned in full force.

“I’ve already apologized. If I was aware-” Viago’s sigh was deafening as he began again

“It’s fine, Viago,” Lucanis reassures him, clasping his shoulder. His eyes drifts to the beautiful woman now undeniably his. He still couldn’t believe his luck. As if sensing his gaze, she turns toward him, her eyes locking onto his. Her smile widened, his heart swelling.

“I need to know all the details!” Teia declares, her hand stubbornly clinging to Rook’s arm. Rook giggled, clearly entertained, until Viago gently pried her away.

“Another time. We should be going,” Viago insists, his grip on Teia firm despite her evident displeasure.

“What?! Why?” Teia demands, twisting in his arms to protest, but Viago pushes her forward, steering her away from the new couple. A sly smile played on his lips as he gave a brief bow of acknowledgment to Lucanis and Rook, leaving them to their own devices.

Lucanis watched the pair retreat until two hands found their way to his chest, drawing his attention back to the woman again in his arms.

“Sooo, where were we?” Rook teases, her tone light and playful as she leaned in for a brief kiss. Despite the softness of her lips, Lucanis couldn’t entirely ignore the lingering Crows scattered across the gardens, their watchful eyes still evident. Fighting the nervous energy creeping through him, he cupped her cheek, letting her sink into his palm. Her eyes fluttering shut as he places a delicate kiss on her forehead.

They move to one of the stone benches scattered across the gardens, settling close together. Rook nestled comfortably against him, their thighs pressed together as his arm curled around her. Though he cherished the intimacy of the moment, Lucanis still felt on edge under the gaze of the others.

“I have something I need to tell you,” Rook says, her playful tone replaced with a more serious one. Lucanis immediately tensed, pulling back slightly to study her face. To his surprise, her expression was far from grave. Her eyes still sparkled, and her lips tugged upward in a faint smirk.

“It’s nothing bad, I promise,” she adds quickly, sensing his uncertainty. She pulls him back to her side, her touch reassuring.

“What is it?” Lucanis asks, his voice steady despite the flicker of unease. Rook took a deep breath, leaning back to face him properly.

“I’m going to help Teia with her contract,” she reveals, her smile fading as she searched his face for a reaction.

“You’re helping Teia with her contract?” Lucanis’ brow furrowed in confusion as he repeats her words, trying to make sense of them.

“Yes,” Rook confirms. “I’m just helping her get a foot in the door. I’m not sure if it’ll be enough, but—” She began to ramble, her words tumbling out in a rush.

Lucanis’ mind flickered back to their time at the lighthouse. He’d noticed back then that when Rook rambled, it was either because she doubted herself or she was hiding something Without hesitation, he reached out and gently but firmly took her chin, halting her mid-sentence. Their eyes met, her startled expression softening almost immediately under his gaze.

“Slow down,” Lucanis says softly, his thumb brushing against her jawline in a calming gesture. “How are you able to help Teia? My Crows couldn’t uncover anything new about her contract.”

“I’d rather not get into it all…” Rook hesitats, her voice quiet. “But when Teia mentioned the contract’s name on the beach, I recognized it. It’s from years ago. I never met him personally, but I knew of him. I’ll know the right things to say to get a crow in.” Lucanis frowned as a strange unease crept over him. Her glistening eyes dulled slightly as she spoke, and her usual tanned glow seemed to pale.

“How did you know him?” he pressed

“I didn’t. I just knew of him through some people I was around,” her vague reply only stirring his concern more. He knew she avoided discussing her past, but when it involved his Crows, it was something he couldn’t ignore.

“HIDING SOMETHING,” Spite sensed as he took himself out to look over her. “SCARED.” Lucanis’ jaw tightened at the mention of her fear. He didn’t want her to feel frightened in anyway but his duty to protect the Crows couldn’t be ignored, no matter how much he cared for her.

“I need to know what you know about the contact, Rook.” He spoke seriously.

“I don’t know much about him,” Rook admits, her voice wavering slightly, “but what I do know will get Teia or a crow through the door. Which is more than you can do right now.” Her defences rose, as if she was distancing herself, alarming him.

“What DO you know?” Lucanis askes bluntly, his gaze locks on her wanting nothing more than to step forward to her.

“I’ve told Teia and she’s happy with the plan,” Rook says curtly, dismissing his question, unable to miss the coldness in her voice. Lucanis wrestle between his responsibility as First Talon and his desire to respect her boundaries.

“WHY TEIA? NOT US? TRUSTS HER, MORE THAN US?” Spite hissed, his voice trembling with hurt. Lucanis felt the same sting, but he pushed it aside.

“Then tell me,” he insists, his voice firm yet controlled. Silence fall between them. He searches her face for any sign of her thoughts, but her head tilted slightly away, avoiding his gaze.

“No,” Rook says flatly standing and taking a few steps away. “Teia—”

“Why?” Lucanis demands, standing abruptly. Rook tries to move but he catches her by the wrist, holding her at his side.

“ROOK FRIGHTENED, FEAR PULSING. STOP. HELP ROOK. OUR ROOK NOW. HELP OUR ROOK,” Spite pleads, his eyes scavenged over her like he could see her emotions like the freckles on her skin. His face flurried with worry as he looked over her.

“Lucanis—” she began, her voice, small and desperate, sounding on the verge of bolting.

Realizing the tension in his grip, Lucanis exhaled deeply, a breath he had held in his chest far longer than he’d realized. He loosened his hold on her wrists, finding his way to her side as he changed his approach.

“I can’t risk my Crows entering a contract I don’t fully understand. If Teia can know, why can’t I?” Lucanis asks softly, his voice calm yet firm as he held her close, stroking her sides gently.

“So, if Teia or any Crow wasn’t involved, you wouldn’t need to know?” Rook’s question caught him off guard. What was she thinking? What secret could she be holding so tightly that she’d share it with Teia but not him?

“Elysia, talk to me,” Lucanis urges, his voice low. He didn’t want to pressure her about her past, but what was going on.

“Do you trust me?” Rook asks, her eyes flickering up to meet his. Determination burning in her gaze as her hands gripped his arms.

“Yes,” Lucanis replies without hesitation.

“Then please, let this go.” Her voice cracks with desperation. “Please, just trust me.” Her pleading hit him like a dagger to the chest. Rook had never begged before, not during battles, not when they lost Harding, not even when they pulled her from the Fade. Yet here she was, in his arms, begging him to leave her past alone. He took what Cygnus had said at her home seriously, but what had happened to her, for her to become this hell bent on hiding it.

“Can you at least tell me why Teia can know, but I can’t?” he asks, trying to understand her.

“Because it’s her contract,” Rook answers simply. Relief washing over him briefly, at least it wasn’t because she trusted her more. 

“And yet you can’t tell me?”

“Teia only knows why I can get her in, That’s all,” Rook replies, her voice steady but guarded.

“So Teia doesn’t know everything about this either?” Lucanis’ worry spiking again.

“She knows enough, why I’ve heard of him and why I’d be able to gain access to his building. Beyond that, nobody needs to know the rest.” Her tone was firm, but her eyes betrayed her. Avoided his gaze, her complexion paler, her eyes completely dullen. Whatever she was keeping hidden, it haunted her.

“I can’t let you help Teia if you won’t talk to me,” Lucanis admits finally, the weight of his duty crushing him. No matter his feelings for Rook, the safety of the Crows came first. Her shock expression hit him like a blow as she took a step back.

“Rook, I can’t—”

“Teia has agreed,” Rook interrupted, her defiance obvious to him.

“I’ll inform her that it’s not an option,” Lucanis replies calmly, stepping toward her. She stepped back, glaring at him.

“STOP! HURTING ROOK! ROOK WANTS TO HELP! WHY CAN’T ROOK HELP?” Spite’s voice thundered, raw, protective. Lucanis flinches at the realization. His actions were hurting her. They’d only just become a couple, and already he was causing her pain because of his duty.

“And if she goes against you?” Rook challenges.

“Her and her house would face punishment,” Lucanis replies, regret heavy in his voice. “Elysia, please, just talk to me.” He steps closer, his eyes pleading to her. She moves back again, but this time, Lucanis was faster, closing the distance and pulling her into his arms.

“Please,” he whispered, desperation creeping into his voice.

Rook stood still in his embrace, her mind clearly racing. Finally, her eyes locked onto his.

“Ok,” she says softly.

“Ok?” Lucanis repeated, hope flickering in his chest. “you’ll talk to me?”

“I won’t get your Crows into the building,” she clarifies, dashing his hopes.

“Elysia—”

“Can we talk about something else now?” Her voice was fragile and small as she interrupts him. Unsure of what to do, Lucanis gently tugs her closer, his nerves prickling as he waits to see if she’d let him thankfully with no hesitation she melted into him, her body fitting against his as if by instinct. Inhaling her scent, trying to soothe the rising tension within him.

“Please, talk to me. Even if it’s just what you told Teia,” Lucanis pleads, his voice a whisper against her hair.

“I can’t do that,” she murmurs, her fingers clutching his leathers as if holding on for dear life.

“Why?” he asks, stroking her hair gently, trying to offer her comfort.

“I just can’t,” she says, her voice barely audible as silence fell between them. “I’ll go and tell Teia,” Rook pulls herself from his arms. Their eyes meeting briefly, and the sorrow they shared intense. Forcing a small, thin smile on her face, leaning in to press a kiss to his cheek before she tried to move away.

Lucanis caught her wrist as she did, pulling her back. His lips expressed the care his words couldn’t in a tender exchange, until their foreheads met both catching their breath. Rook was the one to break away, her steps slow and subdued as she walked toward the villa.

Her usual sway, full of energy and allure, was gone, and Lucanis’ chest tightens as he watched her disappear through the double doors.

“WE MAKE ROOK SAD,” Spite says, his voice heavy with regret as they watch her leave.

“I know, Spite,” Lucanis replies, his worry for her gnawing at him.

“LUCANIS FIX IT,” Spite demands furiously, loathing spewing from each word.

“I don’t know how,” Lucanis admits softly. His heart ached for her, but his duty as First Talon wouldn’t allow him to risk the safety of his Crows, even if it meant hurting the woman he had falling for.

Chapter Text

Chapter 10

Ever since he denied Rook the chance to help Teia, the tension in the house was unbearable. Rook returned briefly after telling Teia the news to say goodbye, and even came by the next day and spent some time with him, but he could feel the pressure of his decision weighing on them both. He knew she only wanted to help, and he was grateful. But he couldn’t let her if she wasn’t willing to share what she knew.

Teia was undeniably furious when she found him. As soon as he was spotted she shoved him so hard Viago had to grab her off him. As First Talon, he could have reprimanded her but he understood her frustration. Rook had given her the shot she needed to finally move forward with her contract and he turned it down. If she didn’t find another way and fast, she would have to explain things to Caterina, something nobody liked doing. At least he would be by her side to take her wrath as well, he wouldn’t let her go alone after denying her the breakthrough she needed.

A week had passed without a visit from Rook, although he tried not to think much about it, as they both had incredibly busy roles. The last few days were a novelty, seeing so much of each other like they had. Just the timing couldn’t have been more unfortunate. He received a letter saying she was busy with the guild, and she would come to visit when she was able, even stating that she wasn’t angry. At least he hadn’t ruined their relationship when it had only just begun. Teia managed to move forward with her contract, even managing to get a crow inside with some of the information Rook had told her. Even if Caterina wasn’t impressed by the delay. Lucanis was in his office with Caterina, Viago and Teia as they all stood around the large table, the tension thick as Caterina’s scowled at the Crow.

“How much longer do you need, Andarateia?” Caterina scorns, she disliked delays. Something this simple should have taken days, this contract was now in it’s third week. It was a black mark on her precious Crows reputation.

“2 days. The contract will be completed in 2 days. I promise” Teia reassures her, though her nerves faltered under Caterina’s piercing gaze.

“Has there been any movement on the contract?” Lucanis asks, Arturo had yet to surface, the report that Teia had received suggested he had a hidden office somewhere in the building.

“No, but they meet him in 2 days. That’s when we finish this” Teia was determined as her fist pounded on the table, her spark back after such a rocky start. Lucanis nods his head at her and was about to wrap up their meeting, when the door blows open with a crash.

“Where is she?!” Isabela’s voice boomed as she stormed in, her boots thudded on the floor. Isabela always made an entrance but today sparks practically flew from her fiery gaze. A few Crows attempted to intercept her, but were quickly thrown aside like ragdolls by Taash.

“Where’s who” Lucanis asks, confusion warped his face as he began walking towards her. Her face left no room for flirting today, her eyes wide and full of fire as her wrath was in full force.

“Andraste’s tits, who do you bloody think! Where is Rook?!” She demands, the loudness of her voice almost shaking the light fixtures.

“What do you mean? She said she was helping the guild?” Lucanis states, walking to his desk to grab her letter.

“Not my guild, she’s not” Isabela’s eyes swept the room, until they finally hit on Teia, Lucanis confusion changed to realisation as the truth hit him, he head span to meet Teia who refused to meet his eye.

“Rook is your scout?” Lucanis’ voice rose with anger almost immediately, the flinch from Teia instantaneous as Viago pulled her closer to him. “I told you both-”

“I approved it” Caterina interrupted, cutting off her grandson.

“You did what?” Lucanis emphasized every word, he knew his grandmother still held power over the crows but he didn’t think she would overrule his decision.

“Teia needed to complete her contract.The contract was already behind schedule.” Caterina stated clearly

“Were you aware of the information that Rook told Teia?” Lucanis asked, desperate for some clarity as he moved towards them.

“No. I didn’t need to be. I trusted Teia’s judgement as 7th Talon, something you should have done” Caterina scolded

“I needed to know-” Lucanis angrily goes to bite back

“You need to trust your Talons, instead of getting mixed up with some sleazy-” Caterina began

“HEY! That’s my lord! And she’s been helping you without my consent, so unless you’d like to taste the heel of my boot up your wrinkled asshole, shut it, granny!” Isabela snapped before her scorching eyes darted back to Teia who was like a deer in headlights “Now, where is she?” Isabela demands, slowly stalking towards her.

“She’ll be back in 2 days, I promise you” Stepping just out of Viagos comfort Teia tries to reassure her. With was in no mood to bargin, Isabella’s wrath with swift and brutal as she seized and launched an antique chair through the air, smashing it into the wall her fists slamming down on the table as she glared at Teia again.

“Where. Is. Rook?!” Isabela roared, Taash took a slight step back from her leader. The Quanari had never seen this side of her before, and it was beyond terrifying. She had a reputation for being a merciless killer in the past, but very few lords had ever seen it themselves. Those who had said they begged to never see it again.

“I-I…Please” Teia begged. The tension continued to escalate as Viago quickly stepped in front to shield her from the pirate lord, who was making her way to his woman.
“This is absurd! Do you think you can come in here and show such disrespect? I-” Caterina started
“Oh, I’m just getting started Granny. Last time I’ll ask nicely Princess, where is she?” Isabela stops a few steps shy of the couple.

Viago looking briefly at Teia, his eyes softening to his women as he pleaded for her to speak but with no response Isabela takes another step.

“She’s at the brothel, I can take you” Lucanis intervenes. Isabela’s eyes narrow as they dart to him then back to Teia. Darkening as she threw her head back releasing a frightening laugh.

“You didn’t tell him? Of course, you didn’t. You KNEW he wouldn’t let her go otherwise. You only care about your pathetic contract!” Isabela screams, kicking Lucanis’ desk over in one swift movement as he dodged out of the way, “You pretend to be her friend and send her-”

“She is my friend” Teia shouts back moving herself around Viago, trying to defend herself her eyes welling as Isabela grabs another chair, smashing it on the table in front of her, the parts flying across the room.

“What friend sends someone they care for into a slavers den!” Isabela screams shoving a distracted Viago off balance just enough for Isabela to grab Teia by the throat and pin her to the table with a dagger against her jugular.

“ENOUGH” Caterina calls out in fury “Release her now” Viago quickly goes to move forward only to see the blade cut deeper into his woman’s neck. Taking a step back he raises his hands in defeat.
“When I get Rook back and not a second before” Isabela demands, Lucanis had froze, still processing what Isabela had just revealed.

“Slavers Den? The contract is for a brothel” Viago states clearly, not taking any chances with Teia in a deadly position. Isabela’s bitter snicker filled to air before she leaned down to Teia.

“Didn’t even tell your own man? You want to tell them all, princess, or shall I?” Isabela offers, Teia looks up at her, her eyes flicking in fear as tears began to flood and stream down her cheeks, staring at the pirate lord fully possessed in fury.

“I promised Rook” The only words she could call out as her voice cracked

“So did I, but when she tries to do something as stupid as this- I’d have thought, as a friend, you’d have turned her down.” Isabela shouts in her face, Teia flinching, tears flowed down to the surface of the table.

“Isabela, what is it you know?” Lucanis demands, Isabela’s eyes flicking up to him

“Her precious brothel contract-” Isabela starts before Teia tries to push back against her only causing Isabela to grip her hand tighter around the Crow’s throat pushing her knife into her neck for more blood to trickle down.

“We promised her” Teia spat out breathlessly, her air restriction evident.

“You don’t get into a Slavers Den simply by walking in, you have to have connections, the right names, and thankfully for your idiot. Rook had the best one to get your contract's tail wagging. Do you want to go and get her princess, or do I have to, and I’ll blow your whole contract up in smoke with it?” Isabela stops mid-story, offering Teia yet another branch, releasing her grasp ever so slightly from the tight grip she had on her throat.

“Please, just 2 days-” Teia begged. Isabela’s patience completely wiped out, her grip returned tighter on Teia’s throat, lifting her enough to slam the back of her head against the table. Without even turning to look, Isabella threw her with disgust towards Viago who caught his now unconscious lover.

“Such a good little Crow. Contracts always come first. Even over someone’s life.” Isabela spat at her as Viago cradled her, his anger barely containable as he cradled her.

“Tell me everything Isabela, and we will get her now” Lucanis demanded, her anger growing closer and closer to her level. The need to know what had gone on behind his back.

“You will do no such thing” Caterina interjects, “Teia has had enough time on this contract without-”

“Unless you're done living, Granny, I suggest you shut the fuck up.” Isabela snarls at her before her eyes lock onto Lucanis. “You didn’t know?”

“I forbade them both from whatever plan they had come up with until one of them told me what it was,” Lucanis informs her. Isabela, accepting his answer, starts to walk down the table once again. “How did you-”

“Find out is a slaver bar?” Isabela finishes his sentence. “You’re not the only ones with scouts everywhere. Arturo, your contract's name? Not his name, that name would lead you to a man who owns a brothel. He was originally in Ferelden, not that it matters. Arturo is the name of what he calls his bar, the Slaver's Den. YOUR contract’s actual name is Raurota. Slave dealer in the Free Marches back in the day. A great friend to Tellani’s….Rook’s old master.”

Lucanis’ eyes widen as his colour drains from his face, both Viago and Taash equally as shocked as the revelation filled the air.

“From the day she was kicked out of her mother’s womb until I stole her when she was 17, she worked in one of Kirkwall’s popular bars called Lantlie’s. Oh, she was a sight, you’ve seen those eyes, who wouldn’t want to see them focused solely on them. She was taught how to dance like an idol both on stage and on the laps of whoever paid enough. Not to mention the ones that paid more, those bastards got to drag her upstairs to beat the shit out of her, or rape her to their heart's content. Hey, some even did both,” Isabela continued to paint the picture of Rook’s dark past. “And now thanks to that fucker, she’s back in there.”

“She knew what she was doing.” Caterina spoke unphased an air of arrogance around her. Flabbergasted her grandson further on how truly heartless she could be.

“She shouldn’t be! This is your shit. Not the Lords!” Isabela spat at her

“She offered-”

“And without my consent, you shouldn’t have taken her up on it,” Isabela shouts at her

“We didn’t. She went in alone. As Lucanis dictated,” Caterina reveals, Isabela’s eyes shoot back to him with a look that could kill.

“I forbade-” Lucanis shouts to his grandmother

“You said you couldn’t risk a Crow going in without your knowledge. She didn’t.” Caterina spoke. turning his words against him, his anger continually growing towards her, barely able to hold Spite back from attacking her at this point.

“That’s not what I meant, and they’d have known that!” He roared at her, Caterina still unphased by his manner.

“They did, I told them otherwise,” Caterina blatantly discloses

“Can’t you just fucking drop dead already?” Isabela snarls at her, her eyes focusing back on Lucanis, the only sane one in the room. “Where is she? I want our girl out now.” Her demands reach his ears as he nods, walking down the table.

“You can’t be serious, Lucanis!? After all Rook and Teia have done? You are going to destroy this contract? Dishonour the Crows reputation-” Caterina snapped urgently at him, her disapproval and anger laced in her voice.

“The contract will be completed today, even if I have to kill everyone in the building” Lucanis shouts over his shoulder as he storms from the room, Isabela and Taash in tow