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Chapter Text

Ever since a new Archmage was chosen for Ramazith's tower it had become more open and welcoming to all wishing to learn magic. It was originally incredibly busy as the news of Lorroakan's death had spread across Faerun, everyone wanted to meet the new archmage, Rolan, and hear the tale of how Lorroakan was bested in battle by Dame Aylin and her friends. Now though, as the hustle and bustle of new found fantastical stories dwindled, the shop was back to it's original calm yet warm state. Rolan had implemented a new Magic Library system where anyone could come and check out tomes of basic spells to take home and study. You were a frequent visitor to the point Rolan's Brother and Sister, Cal and Lia, recognized you and often stopped by to say hello. They lived in the tower with Rolan and helped with running the shop, the library, and overall chores in the tower. Today was no different, despite the pouring rain outside you made your way to Sorcerous Sundries to check out yet another book. You had just mastered a water shield spell and were using it to protect yourself from the downpour as you wandered down the puddled cobblestone streets of the Upper City, the shop being a long but peaceful walk from your home. The streets were quiet and empty, most people held up in their houses or running back to them from the rain. As the weather began to cool downpours were frequent but that wasn't something you minded. You found solace in the drowned out noise of the heavy rain around you, it being a welcome calm to your busy and hectic life.

You opened one of the ornate double doors smoothly as the dull, quiet chatter of patrons now washed over you. You lowered your water shield as you stepped inside, three tomes in your arms to deliver back to the library. Now, before you was the warm and welcoming Sorcerous Sundries, one of the most famous wizarding shops in the Lower City. The intricate wood carved pillars around the equally elegant hexagonal front desk always took your breath away. Not to mention the tall bookshelves with thousands of books to choose from, the amount of knowledge inside the tower was almost overwhelming if you weren't overcome with excitement every time you entered. Rolan had redecorated slightly, adding more tables and chairs for people to sit and browse the library as well as artistically designed plush rugs to help quiet the footsteps on the cold tile and wood below. Rolan was behind the desk this morning, which was a rare occurrence. The two of you hadn't exchanged many words, though he did recognize you. He turned to greet you, raising a brow at the tomes in your arms.

"Doing a bit of light reading today are we?" He teased, taking note of one of the more difficult spells you had in your arms. You placed the books on his desk in front of him with a smile.

"Always, I'm excited to check out more today! Do you have anything new in the library?" You asked, an excited and eager glint in your eyes. He smirked slightly, finding your exuberance towards learning refreshing.

"We're due for a few new tomes from Gale of Waterdeep in the coming week or so, have you already mastered everything in our library?" He asked, curious as to what you had learned. You shook your head.

"No, not yet, but I can't help but look forward to the library expanding! The potential is what gets me so... Excited!" You smiled toothily at him, clapping your hands together at the thought, "Oh! I'm sorry, I haven't introduced myself... Look at me chattering on without a proper hello." You chuckled.

"I've heard about you from my brother and sister actually, so I at least know your name. Though the greeting is welcome." He began flipping through the tomes you returned to check and make sure they were well taken care of. He nodded in satisfaction and placed the tomes on a nearby cart to be taken back to the library. Speaking of his siblings, Cal appeared shortly after to take the cart away before noticing you at the counter. The younger and more friendly Tiefling waved at you with a smile.

"So good to see you again! I see you've finally met our prickly older brother." He nudged Rolan in his side with a chuckle, Rolan immediately rolling his fiery, golden eyes in annoyance.

"Would it kill you to treat me with a modicum of respect in front of guests?" He scolded, shooing his brother away and back to work. He stuck his tongue out playfully.

"Yeah probably." Cal answered defiantly in a teasing manner.

"Where's Lia? I haven't seen her yet today." You asked. She was usually quick to say hello.

"Oh it's her day off today so she's sleeping in, this one is always running us ragged I swear. Always up in his tower doing hells knows what, leaving all the dirty work for his two little siblings." Cal said dramatically, Rolan pinching the bridge of his nose in frustration and closing his eyes. You chuckled at their interaction, appreciating their fun dynamic.

"Well be sure to tell her I said hello, she will be missed today." You answered, beginning to eye the cart of books Cal had, trying to see if there were any you hadn't read yet. Cal smirked.

"Sadly most of these are your returns, you gotta start reading slower or something. With how you and Rolan read the world will run out of books at this rate." He teased again, though this time it was directed at you. You shrugged with another smile.

"They have to start making them longer then I suppose." You chuckled, Rolan nodding slightly in agreement.

"There's nothing wrong with being well read, Cal." He responded, he glanced over at you, "Speaking of, don't let us keep you. I'm sure you'll take no time at all finding a few new tomes to study." You perked up again and quickly trotted off to do just that, Cal chuckling at your bubbly energy.

"I have no idea where they get all that energy from so early in the morning." He said, Rolan and him watching you sift through the books with a happy smile.

"Despite your contrary beliefs there are people that enjoy learning." Rolan smirked slightly at him, teasing his brother back, "Now go and put those books back already, I don't pay you to stand around and chat with our clients." He whipped his ankles with the tip of his tail, making Cal jump slightly.

"Alright alright oh great Archmage Rolan." He made a show of bowing to him, Rolan shooting a glare at his brother before he scurried away.

You had found six tomes to read over, making yourself comfortable in one of the many welcoming, cushioned chairs around the shop. The look of contentment on your face complimented the warm energy of Sorcerous Sundries. Once you felt confident you began to attempt to practice the new spell you were learning. Levitation. You saved the more dangerous spells for when you were alone in the woods during one of your study sessions. It seemed easy enough with a very practical application as well. The glow of magic surrounded your hands, dull at first before a more intense glow overcame the original as your concentration centered. Your goal was to levitate the book in your hands, the weave flickering around the tome as you attempted the spell. The incantation failed, the shimmer of magic disappearing as the book stayed firmly in your grasp. You pursed your brow in thought as you flipped through the tome again, trying to find where you went wrong.

"You have to believe the object will levitate as well..." Rolan said, you not noticing him initially as he organized the tomes nearby, "The tome doesn't tell you that, it's a bit dated." He explained, sliding a book back into one of the slots carefully, "It can be a bit tricky, concentrating and tricking yourself like that."

"Well, lucky for me, I'm easily convinced." You smiled, feeling optimistic, "I'll give it another go." You followed Rolan's advice, that dull glow from before burning brighter as you began to feel the tome become weightless in your hands. Your eyes lit up as it began to float before you, Rolan looking impressed with the quickness of your learning, "The weave is so incredible, isn't it?" You said, your eyes having that same sparkle from before. Rolan admired your passion, smiling slightly himself now.

"It certainly is. You seem to have quite the knack for magic." He complimented.

"At your help of course, thank you for that by the way. I hope I didn't take you away from any of your duties as Archmage." You said. He shook his head.

"Not at all, I consider teaching one of my duties as well. I'll eventually take on an apprentice to replace me so it's good practice." He answered. Even though Rolan was Archmage he still chose to wear regular wizard robes, not the fancy silks and embroideries that Lorroakan wore prior. It made him more approachable and personable, much to his mild disappointment. He had never been a people person, far more concerned with taking care of his siblings than making friends. Cal and Lia had been pushing him more to do so, especially now that things had calmed down and the elder brain had been destroyed. Baldur's Gate was almost fully rebuilt, thanks to the help of the heroes of Faerun and the townsfolk. You smiled kindly at him before standing to put the levitation tome back. He held a hand up and shook his head, "Keep it, we have an updated copy coming in a few days... As a thank you for supporting our new library." He offered.

"Really? I... I actually don't know what to say other than 'thank you'." You chuckled awkwardly, glancing down at the tome in your hands.

"Your passion for wizardry is refreshing, I'm sure you'll be a great wizard one day." He complimented you with a slight smile. Rolan was a bit awkward himself, not knowing how to talk to people other than his siblings really. His words brought joy to you but also a tight sadness in your chest.

"Thank you, Master Rolan, truly." You said.

"Please, just Rolan." He insisted, him glancing away from you bashfully with a darker red twinge to his cheeks. He didn't enjoy all the honorifics people bestowed on him, he felt he didn't deserve them quite yet.

"Just Rolan." You smiled warmly at him, "I'll see you next time then?"

"You will, my work isn't as demanding and taxing as it was. I intend to be in the shop as often as possible." He nodded, "I'll be sure to mark the other five tomes you'll be taking with you, feel free to ask me any questions... If you have them of course." He stacked the books up before placing them on top of the tome he gifted you. They were heavy, you couldn't help but think the new spell you just learned would come in handy sooner than you originally thought.

"I'll be sure to ask you any questions I can think of." You said your goodbyes and turned to walk out of the shop, Cal approaching Rolan and resting his arm on his shoulder with a sigh.

"You know, they really will take you up on that. You should have heard all the questions they asked Lia and I about weapons, some I hadn't even thought of asking myself!" He chuckled. Rolan tilted his head to the side slightly in thought, narrowing his eyes and pursing his brow.

"Being inquisitive is a sign of intelligence... Which explains a lot." He glanced at his brother, teasing him back from earlier. Cal didn't pick up what Rolan meant, shrugging and placing his hands on his hips.

"Well, they come in basically every day so I guess it'll give you an opportunity to work on your people skills, Rolan." He smirked and narrowed his eyes now as well. Rolan glared slightly before sighing heavily.

"Go wake up Lia, I can at least send you two grocery shopping so I can have some semblance of peace and quiet." He said, crossing his arms over his chest.

"Ugh, in the rain!?" Cal protested.

"You have umbrellas." Rolan retorted, walking back to the front desk to attend to another client.

"Fine..."

Chapter Text

You made yourself scarce as you crept back on to your manor grounds, doing your best to keep to the early morning shadows of the willow trees surrounding the property. Sneaking out had become something you were quite familiar with, though someone specific always seemed to catch you.

"Out for an early morning stroll again I presume, young master?" A handsomely dressed older Tiefling man addressed you. You immediately felt like a child being caught sneaking cookies from the pantry, giving him a guilty smile and shrinking in on yourself slightly, "You know the Lady of the house wouldn't approve." He chided gently, brushing a few leaves off your head with a heavy sigh, "You're lucky it's my job to assist you in all things, young master." He smiled. His face was marked with age, though the colour of his auburn hair hadn't dwindled in the slightest. His ashen coloured skin complimented the deep warmth of his hair and eyes, the fiery red embers peering at you with a slight mischievousness, "Come now, lets get some breakfast in you. The Lord and Lady have yet to wake so you're free to walk about the grounds unhindered for now." You sighed in relief.

"Thank you, Amnon. You know you don't have to call me 'Young Master', just my name is fine." You smiled as you remembered your conversation with Rolan earlier. Perhaps neither of you were too keen on honorifics, "What about my sister?" You asked cautiously. You and your sister didn't have the best relationship to say the least, she was always looking for a reason to leverage herself against you in regards to your parents.

"Young Master Lillia is asleep as well, I assure your safety from their wrath." He teased, "I'll take those books to your room." He took the many tomes you had in your arms and nodded towards the door, "Shall we?" He smiled, leading you inside the regally wood carved double doors of your family manor. The black checkered tile clacked beneath your feet as Amnon shut the door carefully behind the two of you. Your Father and Mother owned a very successful mercantile business, trading in all goods from fine silks to imported food and other desirable goods like toys and books. Ever since the mass destruction that occurred in Baldur's Gate your family was desperate to leverage the multiple open parliament seats to ensure their status in, not only Baldur's Gate, but all of Faerun. As the oldest sibling they put intense pressure on you to "do your family proud" and "not waste your time with silly things". Your sister loved her status as a noble woman but you had never enjoyed the titles or the fake pleasantries of others. You hated the way people changed the way they spoke to you when they found out who your Mother and Father were, the fear of them no longer doing business with their shops taking hold over genuine conversation. Amnon had always appreciated your kindness, it was a welcome reprieve to the brash way everyone else in the family spoke to him and the other servants of the manor. He walked with you to the lavish kitchen, a very tall and burly Orc standing over the cast iron wood burning stove and happily cooking away. Her back was turned to you as she whistled a gentle tune, her dark raven hair stuffed up into a navy blue bandana. The muscles of her neck and back were lined with a soft layer of flesh that complimented her rounded face. A gnome beside her stood on a footstool and julienned vegetables nearby, the curly ringlets of his hair barely contained by a hair net. He noticed you first, greeting you with a chipper 'Good Morning' and a smile.

"Always the firs' tah breakfas'!" He commented with a toothy grin. He was missing one of his canines from a bar fight he got into a few months ago. Every time he smiled you were reminded of his spitfire demeanor. He had gotten in trouble more than once for mouthing off to your sister and her particular nature. The Orc turned to you next and smiled warmly.

"Good to see you as always." She said sweetly, wiping her hands off on her apron to open her arms for a hug. You hugged her, your arms barely fitting around her broad back as she lifted you off the ground with a hearty chuckle, "Sneaking out again you little trouble maker?" She asked, looking over at Amnon. He nodded and shook his head.

"I swear, Calista, one of these days they'll get caught and it'll be all our problem." He patted your back as she set you down, ruffling the top of your head with a tusky grin. You always thought Calista was beautiful, you couldn't help but blush any time she smiled at you.

"Ah let 'em try, I'll teach 'em what for! Your sister could use a good smackin' anyway." The curly haired gnome huffed in annoyance, chopping his vegetables with slightly more gusto at the thought. Calista scolded him on his uneven cuts.

"That sort of language is what got you in trouble last time, Spark." Amnon chided as well. He huffed and turned his focus back to the vegetables, making sure his cuts were more even now. You laughed, the image of Spark smacking your sister around with a wooden spoon very funny.

"I might take you up on that one day, but don't tell anyone." You chuckled, Spark giving you that same toothy grin before.

"Jus' say the word an' you got it." He smirked, giving you a hearty thumbs up. Amnon shooed you off to the dining room as he stayed behind to make you a plate of breakfast. You sat down near one of the many floor length arched windows near the table, the cushioned chairs being mildly uncomfortable. They were ordered more for looks than comfort, your family enjoying showing off their wealth in any way possible. They hated you disliked the lavish life style, hating whenever they stuffed you in layers and layers of silks, velvets, and satins for one of their many parties. One of the other servants tended to the candelabra at the table, replacing the melted candles with a gentle nod of greeting towards you. You smiled back as she left your presence. You felt so out of place here, everything was so stuffy and fake. The burgundy velvet curtains draped elegantly along the windows as you stared out into the lush garden outside. The view of the garden had always been your favourite, the many colours of the numerous flowers looking so picturesque and welcoming. The wild bushes and draped willow trees adding a rough yet welcoming atmosphere. You had fought with your parents so much over how they had the gardeners tend to the plants, them giving into your desires on this one thing only. The gardeners now only prune and tend to the plants, allowing them to grow naturally instead of shaping them into stiff and unlively shapes. Your mind began to wander as you stared outside, sighing heavily.

"Please, just Rolan." The image of the Tiefling wizard you had met earlier today flitted back into your mind, making you smile slightly, "Just Rolan, huh?" You muttered to yourself, chuckling slightly. You found yourself looking forward to speaking with him again. Amnon roused you from your day dreaming with a hefty plate of eggs, bread, bacon, and potatoes.

"I suppose I don't have to remind you that your parents are very disapproving of the studies you're currently pursuing... Do I?" He scolded you, narrowing his eyes in disapproval as you shrank once more in his gaze, "I can only hide these books from them for so long, but every time you insist on bringing back more and more. Do you not realize how incredibly difficult you're making this for me?" He reprimanded you. You looked away from him and fidgeted slightly.

"I uh... Met the new master of Ramazith's Tower." You changed the subject. He rose a brow at you, knowing what you were attempting to do. He sighed heavily in defeat and shook his head, placing a fork and knife on the cloth napkin beside you.

"Well go on then. Tell me about him." He said. Your eyes lit up as you told him all about your, albeit short, conversation and how he helped you with a new spell. Amnon couldn't help but smile, "Well well, seems you quite like this fellow already... And your parents would likely approve considering his social standing." He teased slightly. You flushed and shook your head.

"It's not like that! It was a scholarly conversation, Amnon, I promise!" You chuckled, though you'd be lying if you didn't find Rolan quite handsome. The image of his dark brown hair and fiery golden eyes slid back into your mind, not even considering his sharp and angular features. Your eyes narrowed for a moment and you sighed again, "Regardless... Even if it was like that Mother and Father wouldn't approve." You said, Amnon looking quizzically at you, "He's a Tiefling." You sighed in frustration towards your parents prejudices. Amnon frowned.

"Regardless of your parents... Opinions of my kind, that shouldn't stop you from finding happiness." He said, caressing your cheek in a fatherly way, "You, my dear, are not like them and have no reason to bend to their will." He smiled as your eyes met, "You have so much love to give, anyone, Tiefling or otherwise, would be lucky to receive it." You smiled bashfully. Amnon was always much more of a father figure to you than your own father. He had children of his own that he loved dearly and considered you a bonus child in his family.

"Well, like I said, it was a scholarly conversation so no need to hypothesize how my parents would react to it." You laughed. He pinched your nose affectionately and chuckled.

"Eat your breakfast before it gets cold." He smiled, "I put your books in the dumbwaiter and sent them to your room."

"Thank you, Amnon." You said. He smiled and nodded before leaving you to your breakfast, beginning his morning chores before the rest of your family were roused from their slumber.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

"I heard you met our regular today." Lia said to Rolan as her and Cal placed a few groceries on the kitchen table in the upper tower. Down below Rolan's astral projection tended to their clients so he could enjoy breakfast with his siblings.

"Are my private conversations often the topic of your own?" He sighed, helping Cal put away the dry goods. He never put them away right which frustrated Rolan. He wondered if he did it on purpose just to tease him. Lia shrugged with a smile towards Cal.

"Well, when our curmudgeonly brother is finally attempting to be personable... Obviously we're going to talk about it." She smirked. Rolan sighed heavily as the wooden cabinet creaked closed. Rolan and his siblings had worked hard to make their kitchen feel more like home, Lorroakan had... Peculiar and megalomanic tastes in decorations and furniture. The amount of intimidating self portraits they had to get rid of were to numerous to count. The kitchen now had a modest wood table and chairs that could sit four people, a plush burgundy rug underneath to keep the cold stone tile off their feet. There were dried herbs hung on the walls while a nearby window across from the table provided an early morning glow inside. Rolan had hung a commissioned portrait of him and his siblings near the arched doorway, despite their bickering he loved them dearly. He was more than happy to have them living in the tower with him, finally providing them the lives they deserved.

"I'm not curmudgeonly." He huffed, "Wanting to maintain my own privacy isn't much to ask for." He took a carrot from Cal right as he was about to bite into it, "The carrots are for everyone you know, you can't have them all to yourself this time." Cal pouted.

"I thought you'd be more flexible after moving in here." He huffed in response.

"Being flexible and being responsible are not interchangeable." He responded, narrowing his eyes. Lia cracked some eggs into a cast iron skillet as she requested Rolan help light the wood burning stove. He sighed and did so, complaining about misuse of magic as always. Regardless of his frustration he felt relieved his siblings still needed him. Or at least still asked things of him. The three of them had changed into more casual clothes, Rolan mainly not wanting to stain his robes. Cal wasn't the most graceful person and often spilled things. It's why he wasn't allowed around the alchemy lab anymore... Not after a particular incident with a certain iron flask and a certain beholder.

"Anyway, so our little regular." Lia brought the conversation back, much to Rolan's dismay, "You two seemed to get on well." She commented, nudging the eggs with a wooden spatula as Rolan crossed his arms and rose his brow.

"I can appreciate a fellow scholar of magic, one should always encourage learning for the sake of learning I think." He said, Lia and Cal shooting each other glances and giggling slightly to themselves. Rolan flushed slightly, rolling his eyes, "You two are making something of quite literally nothing."

"Well it says a lot they weren't turned off your grumpy personality." Cal sat at the kitchen table and leaned back against his chair with a content sigh, "Oh Rolan, please teach me about magic... I want to have a private study session with yoooou~" He sang teasingly, his older brother dragging his hand down his light, dusty scarlet face.

"I think you two spend more time annoying me than actually working." He commented. Lia nudged him.

"You wouldn't have it any other way right?" She smiled. He sighed, shaking his head and smirking slightly.

"Of course not." He answered. Rolan paused for a moment, he thought about you and how nice it felt to have someone to talk to that genuinely enjoyed wizardry as much as he did, "I... Suppose I'm looking forward to our next meeting." He admitted, referring to you, "Strictly in a professional sense." Cal and Lia smirked to each other.

"Oh Rolannnn, you're so talented with your fingers, please show me how deft they areeeee..." Cal sang again, Lia grimacing at the thought.

"Ew, Cal! I don't want to even think about that!" She said in a disgusted tone. Rolan groaned.

"What have I done to deserve this?"

Chapter Text

"So this passage particularly is strangely worded, they say flourish in this line but then in the next they say flick, those are two different things aren't they?" You asked Rolan as he organized the Abjuration tomes at the far end of Sorcerous Sundries. He stood on a wheeled step ladder, carefully examining the books levitating around him. You stood below him, looking up at him as you pointed to the passage you were referencing.

"Flourish first, then flick." He said simply, squinting at the books on the shelves in annoyance, "I swear Lorroakan must of been illiterate, how are these alphabetical in any shape or form?" He huffed and rolled his eyes.

"Do you want some help? I enjoy a good organizing party." You smiled. He chuckled and smiled slightly back down at you.

"As much as I appreciate your offer it'll be easier if I do it myself. I'll have to tell Cal and Lia where everything is regardless, can't have them pestering you about it too." He said with a sigh, "How is it going with the other tomes you checked out? Was this the only one you needed help with?" He asked, changing the subject.

"I haven't gotten to the others yet, I've been more busy than I thought with... Family matters to put it lightly." You sighed heavily in annoyance, "I wish I could spend my day studying like you do." Rolan laughed at your comment, stepping down from the ladder still chuckling slightly.

"Trust me, I wish I could too." He smirked, finding your comment endearing, "Cal and Lia keep me on my toes and, on top of running Sorcerous Sundries, I have political duties as well sadly." He explained, "Though it's cute that you think all I do is sit in my tower and study, did you get that impression from my siblings?" You flushed at the realization you had, Rolan laughing again at your reaction, "It's alright, I wouldn't be surprised if they told you all sorts of strange things. They've taken to making up fantastical rumors about me to tease our clients... Despite my request they stop but I suppose it's harmless... For now." He furrowed his brow as he thought of all the possible strange things they could come up with.

"They actually didn't mention you much aside from telling me you're they're older brother." You said, "Maybe they avoided that considering how I'm here almost every day." You chuckled, your imagination running off now, curious as to what things Cal and Lia were telling people. Rolan sighed in relief.

"Well that's... Encouraging I suppose?" He commented, a slight frown spreading across his face as he saw Lia bounding over from behind you. She wrapped her arms around your neck and smiled.

"Hey there!! Why don't you join us for breakfast today? Rolan was telling us all about how he just loved talking to you yesterday and wanted to show his appreciation for such a wonderful conversation." She grinned at her older brother who now was fighting a growing scowl on his face.

"Oh, are you sure? I wouldn't want to impose." You said, Rolan opening his mouth to say something before Cal slapped a hand on his back, surprising him and making him jump.

"No imposition at all! We'd love to have you, especially Rolan." He grinned at his brother, his grin being returned with a glare. You laughed.

"You're all so silly." You chuckled, thinking of Amnon's mild teasing from the other day. Being around such a happy family was refreshing, "I suppose I can, I'll just need to send a letter to my... Dad!" You said quickly, clasping your hands together with a smile.

"Oh Rolan knows all sorts of delivery spells, he can definitely help you with that!" Lia suggested. You shook your head and smiled.

"I actually just learned one! Though I wouldn't mind your supervision of course." You said to Rolan, an expectant and excited twinkle in your eyes. He sighed heavily and couldn't help but smile at you.

"Alright fine, I don't see the harm in that." He said, Cal squeezing his shoulders as he noticed Rolan's tail flicking slightly. He shooed his brother away with an annoyed and embarrassed expression, "Do you have any idea of how to properly conduct yourselves in front of company?" He sighed.

"They're not company, they're a friend! It's different, right?" Lia said to you with a smile, pinching your cheek. You chuckled and shooed her hand away.

"I should get to writing before he gets worried." You smiled in thought, 'And so he can cover for me... Sorry about this, Amnon, please don't be too mad...'

Cal and Lia hurried upstairs to set up for breakfast as you and Rolan wandered over to the front desk for a piece of paper. You wrote a quick letter to Amnon letting him know you'd be late to return before rolling the paper up and concentrating for a moment. You paused and then glanced over at Rolan. He rose a brow at you before realizing you were looking to him for guidance, "Picture the person in your mind and close your eyes..." He started, you doing just that. He placed his hands over yours, the hum of his magic feeling warm and comforting, "Focus on the letter and..." The letter disappeared in a puff of smoke, surprising you, "Poof." He smiled, pulling his hands away. You chuckled and placed your hand on your chest, the puff of smoke startling you slightly.

"I wasn't expecting it to disappear so suddenly!" You explained with a heavy sigh, smiling at him.

"It usually doesn't disappear in a puff of smoke, you must have a bit of the fire of Avernus in you." He teased, knowing full well it was his intervention that caused it. Rolan had a bit of a mischievous side thanks to Cal's influence, though it reared it's head rarely. You rose a brow at him.

"Uh huh, fire of Avernus..." You crossed your arms and looked at him knowingly, "You're just as bad as Cal with jokes like that." You teased him back, "We should head upstairs and meet them before they start wondering where we are." You smiled, Rolan agreed and followed you to the third level of the tower. The walk wasn't too long thanks to a few teleportation apparatuses, one of the few good things Lorroakan added to the tower. You hoped Amnon got your letter, a small pit of anxiety settling in your stomach at what would await you when you returned. You hoped it would only be Amnon scolding you and nothing more, you could deal with that for a morning of fun. Entering the kitchen with Rolan was like entering a home you wished you had, it was so welcoming and warm. Cal and Lia greeted you, already laying things out for breakfast.

"I was thinking pancakes today! What do you think?" She asked you.

"Pancakes sound wonderful honestly." You said, Rolan removing his robe and hanging it on a nearby wall hook. His casual clothes looked very comfortable and unassuming, wearing a typical white blouse rolled up to his elbows and black velvet, waist high trousers. You noticed some filagree like patterns embossed onto the velvet. He caught you staring at him, raising a brow at you, "Oh, sorry! I was thinking your clothes were nice!" You said honestly.

"Rolan has always been the fancy one of our trio." Cal said, sitting at the table and propping his legs up onto it. Rolan huffed and swatted his legs off.

"How many times do I have to tell you not to put your feet on the table?" He said with annoyance. Cal huffed in retort.

"I didn't put my feet on the table, it was my calves!" He specified.

"No lower extremities on the table! Is that specific enough for you?" Rolan insisted, pinching the bridge of his nose. You smiled warmly at the two of them, finding yourself wishing you and your sister would bicker like that. That twinge of sadness settled in your chest, but Lia quickly pulled you out of it.

"You wanna help?" She asked, smiling at you. You nodded quickly, Lia handing you a whisk and a bowl of batter, "Beat that for me until there are no lumps!" She instructed, you quickly getting to it, "Rolan! Can you light the stove for me again?" She asked sweetly. He sighed heavily.

"You know they make matches for this very reason." He said, begrudgingly kneeling down and opening the cast iron door to set the wood alight.

"Ah the fire of Avernus makes an appearance again!" You chuckled, Rolan flushing heavily as his siblings looked at you oddly, "Oh uh... Never mind!" You flushed yourself now, feeling incredibly awkward. Cal and Lia were chatting amongst themselves as you leaned down to whisper to Rolan, "I guess that'll have to be a joke between us, yeah?" You chuckled. He narrowed his eyes at you, not knowing how to respond as his embarrassment grew.

"What are you two whispering about?" Lia asked, Rolan standing up suddenly and hitting his head on the bottom of the stove with an annoyed groan. You had to hold in your laughter, turning away from him as your face reddened. Cal had no qualms about laughing at his brother, absolutely wheezing from it in his chair.

"Must've been something good for him to react like that!" He cried, wiping at his eyes as he gasped for air, still laughing. Lia scolded Cal for laughing so much at him.

"Alright alright, that's enough, let's leave a good impression on our new friend, yeah?" She said, slapping Cal on the back. Rolan was turned away from you, not wanting to show you his much redder than usual cheeks. He nudged the door closed with his foot as you told Lia the batter was ready. Lia happily took it from you, "Why don't you go sit with Rolan and Cal while I get these ready? It won't be too long."

"You sure? I'd love to help more if I can." You insisted, really enjoying assisting. You never got to do that in the kitchen at home. Lia nodded and nudged you towards Rolan.

"Yes yes, go sit! Out of my kitchen!" She teased, swatting at your ankles with her tail. You hopped to the side and smiled guiltily at her before going to sit next to Rolan who was still quite flustered. His face was in his hands as Cal tried his best to breath and stop laughing at him.

"How's your head?" You asked, leaning towards him slightly, "I've done that before, it always hurts so bad."

"I'm fine." Rolan responded simply, his face still hot.

"Come on, Rolan... We want to leave a... Good impression on our new friend." Cal giggled, covering his mouth.

"Oh shut up, Cal." Rolan sighed before clearing his throat, trying to quell the burning heat behind his face. You felt your chair yank closer to Rolan as Lia walked behind you to give the two of you your own plate of pancakes. Rolan huffed in annoyance before taking his plate from her.

"Breakfast is served! Enjoy!" She smiled, "There's fruit and syrup in the middle of the table for everyone." Cal happily took his plate from her as well and began to happily eat his meal.

"Sorry... About them." Rolan muttered to you, taking note of the close proximity Lia pulled you in to. You shook your head and smiled.

"Amnon gave me the same treatment, think nothing of it. You should have heard him yesterday when he asked about you." You whispered back, giggling slightly. Rolan smiled softly and chuckled as well, eating his breakfast beside you quietly.

"So... Aside from... Wizardy things, what do you like to do in your spare time?" Lia asked you, trying to strike conversation. You couldn't tell them that you literally had no time for hobbies, the only thing you did for fun WAS wizardy things.

"Oh uh... I like to read..." You started, Lia and Cal looking at you expectantly, "In the... Garden at my home." You continued, "Oh! I enjoy dancing!" You said, remembering the only parties you liked that your parents threw were the extravagant balls. You hated the outfits but you loved the music and dancing.

"Dancing huh?" Cal said, "If you get a few drinks in him Rolan will dance for you." He said while cutting up his pancakes.

"Hardly." Rolan scoffed and rolled his eyes playfully.

"I don't know, I remember you dancing a bit after we helped save all of Baldur's Gate... But the wine was flowing that night." She said, chuckling a bit. Rolan shrugged.

"Most people were, not that I remember that night much." He admitted.

"That sounds like amazing fun." You sighed wistfully, remembering all the stuffy parties you had to sit through. Your family would have an aneurysm if they found out you were making a drunk fool of yourself in public. A loud crash was heard outside, you instinctively grabbing Rolan's forearm as your heart pounded in your chest, fear taking hold for a moment as Lia got up to check what it was.

"Rolan, one of the elemental's got into the alchemy lab again!" She called as she ran after it, Cal following behind her. They always jumped at the opportunity for some fun like that, Baldur's Gate having quieted down mostly now aside from the occasional pick pocket or robbery. You still gripped Rolan's arm, him looking at you with concern.

"Are you alright?" He asked, you taking a moment to snap out of it and release your hold on him.

"Oh yes! Sorry I... I should go, I need to go." You said quickly, your mind racing still, "This was great, I promise." You insisted as you stood, stumbling a bit over the table leg. Rolan stood with you and gently grabbed your elbow.

"Are you sure?" He pressed you further. You nodded and smiled at him.

"Yeah, my dad is probably worried about me, ya know?" You responded in an attempt to diffuse his worry. He furrowed his brow at you and frowned.

"Of course..." He slipped his hand from your arm and lead you back downstairs, not wanting you to get lost from all the different teleportation devices. He opened the front door for you, "You're welcome any time." He assured, you smiling warmly at him and nodding.

"I appreciate it. I hope you get your alchemy lab back in order." Rolan grimaced at the thought and you laughed before bidding him good bye.

The walk back to the manor was longer than usual, you couldn't help but drag your feet. You worried what awaited you, it was well past 10:00am now and your family was certainly awake. Before you knew it someone was yanking you off into the shadows, startling you and jump starting your heart once again. It was Amnon, much to your relief. He was furious at you though so your relief didn't last as long as you'd hoped.

"Do you enjoy causing trouble for me? Galivanting off to live some pipe dream of being a wizard while I have to distract your family so you don't get in trouble?" He fussed at you, his brow furrowed and his expression disappointed and frustrated. You looked down and away from him, knowing he was right to be angry with you. He sighed heavily, "Look, the next time you want to stay out slightly later in the morning please tell me first. For both of our sakes." He requested.

"You're right, I'm sorry." You apologized. A letter appeared in front of you with a smoky poof, startling the two of you. You grabbed it as it began to float gently to the ground below, quickly stuffing it into your tunic without another word. Amnon raised a brow at you, "It's nothing! Don't worry about it!" You said with a reassuring smile.

"Let's just get you inside, we'll have to go the back way since I told your parents you weren't feeling well this morning. If they see you you better act sick, understand?" He said firmly, you nodding quickly and doing your best impression of a cough. He hurried you back onto the manor grounds through the back entrance of the steel fence surrounding the property. The two of you slipped through the kitchen and up the servant's stairs to the upper levels of the manor, managing to avoid being seen by anyone that would care or say anything. Once you were back in your bedroom you quickly undressed to put on your night clothes, you needed to sell the sick act after all. You quickly tucked into bed with your letter, pulling the plush covers up over your head and unraveling the scroll. You knew it was from Rolan immediately when it appeared, it was exciting to have a little secret like that with someone else. You enjoyed your time together wholly, not only for the magic lessons.

I hope this letter finds you well.
If you'd find it agreeable I'd appreciate your company tomorrow night at Elfsong Tavern.
A few of our friends from our travels will be visiting and Cal and Lia wanted to treat them to drinks.
I figured your level headed conversation would help keep me sane during the ordeal.
I do hope you'll stay longer this time.
Sincerely,
Rolan

'A party? A real party?' Your heart pounded at the thought, resting the letter on your chest as you sighed heavily, "Amnon is going to kill me." You chuckled at the thought of sneaking out again, but you couldn't pass this up. Meeting real adventurers at a real tavern party is something you'd always dreamed of. You scurried to grab some paper of your desk and quickly scrawled out a reply.

Dear Rolan,
I'd love to accompany you!
What time should I meet you there?
I'm looking forward to maybe seeing some of your dance moves.

You signed your name and tried to remember what Rolan had said about the spell. You closed your eyes and pictured him in your mind, the feeling of warmth from his magic returning to your hands for a moment before the letter levitated and disappeared in an elegant sparkle. You chuckled to yourself at how differently the letter sent, "Maybe it's because he's so hot headed." You giggled to yourself. You heard footsteps outside your door and quickly made your way back into bed, throwing the covers over yourself and pretending to sleep.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

"What'd they say, what'd they say?!" Lia asked, jumping excitedly behind Rolan's chair as Cal tried to read over his shoulder. Rolan glared back at his siblings for a moment.

"You can afford me some privacy as I read considering you were the ones that forced my hand in this." He said.

"Well forced is a bit of an overstatement... It didn't take that much convincing." Cal responded. Rolan huffed and unraveled the scroll, reading your message. The tip of his tail began to sway back and forth slightly as he sat there in silence for a moment.

"Sooooo..." Lia pressed him, Rolan closing his eyes with a calming sigh.

"They said yes, they will be joining us tomorrow evening." He explained, his two younger siblings getting very excited at this prospect.

"You've made a friend, Rolan!" Lia exclaimed, hugging her brother tightly around the neck. He flushed and patted his sisters arm, clearing his throat bashfully.

"The two of you act like I have no friends already..." He huffed. Cal looked away from him and chose to remain silent this time, not wanting to spoil the moment for his brother with another teasing jab.

"Be sure to wear something nice, alright?" Lia instructed firmly, pulling away from her brother. He rolled his eyes.

"It's not a date, why does that matter?" Rolan asked, "Can I not wear casual clothes to meet with a friend?"

"Well we want to impress them of course, it's still a new friendship after all! And who knows..." She glanced over at Cal.

"It could be?" He answered with an unsure tone and shrug.

"Exactly!" Lia smiled, turning back to Rolan. He groaned and put his head in his hands.

"Hells... You two will send me to an early grave."

Chapter Text

Anytime the door to Sorcerous Sundries opened Rolan's attention was drawn, eagerly awaiting your arrival that early morning. Cal and Lia took notice of this but said nothing, quietly chatting amongst themselves away from their brother as they pretended to work, as usual. He had something he wanted to give you, unbeknownst to his siblings. They'd surely take it the wrong way and he'd never hear the end of it if they knew what it was. Rolan tried to occupy his thoughts with more reshelving of old tomes. The irritation from Lorroakan's previous "organization" a welcome distraction.

"Did he organize these by colour?" Rolan said in an annoyed tone to himself, staring angrily at a Transmutation tome that was tucked away in the Evocation section of the shop. Cal and Lia called Rolan for breakfast, making him realize what time it was. A disappointment set in as he realized you likely weren't stopping by this morning, that sullen mood of his transferring to the breakfast table as he poked at his eggs with his fork, pushing them around his plate with a heavy sigh. Cal and Lia watched him with concern, unsure what had him so down in the dumps.

"Sooo... What's got you pouting?" Lia asked before eating a forkful of eggs herself. Rolan sighed heavily again and looked away from her and out the window beside him. That warm glow of the morning sun reflected onto the table and floor, only furthering his moody emotions.

"I'm not pouting." He huffed out, still very much pouting. Cal snorted slightly and Rolan shot him a glare, "I'm simply not a morning person is all." He continued, grabbing the mug next to his plate and taking a sip of his coffee.

"Are you an anything person?" Cal asked with an eye roll before Lia kicked him in the leg, making him wince and huff at his sister. She glared at him and shook her head, motioning for him to be quiet.

"You must be looking forward to the party tonight, yeah?" She asked him with a smile, crossing her arms on the table and leaning forward slightly.

"It will be nice to see everyone from the grove again, it has been awhile." He commented in reference to the other Tieflings that Cal and Lia invited, "It's convenient so many of them stayed in Baldur's Gate even after the attack." His gaze didn't leave the window, almost as if he was looking for something. Or someone. It clicked with Lia in that moment and she smiled, though chose to say nothing. She didn't want to push her brother too much, but she was glad he seemed to be enjoying the company of another so much after all this time.

"Have you thought about what you'll wear?" She asked. Rolan took another sip from his coffee and absent mindedly nodded, not really paying attention to her for a moment. Lia chuckled and took his mostly empty plate from him and left him to his thoughts, "Come now, it's your turn to do the dishes, Cal." She said, glaring at him for his earlier comment. He looked at her as if he was faultless and caught in the crossfire of her anger.

"What did I even do?" He asked, holding his arms out slightly in exasperation.

"Now." She demanded, placing hers and Rolan's plate in the nearby sink. As Cal was begrudgingly doing the dishes a scroll appeared before Rolan, him taking it quickly and hurrying out of the kitchen, receiving an odd look from Cal on his way out. Rolan wandered up to the fourth floor of the tower and retreated to his room for a momentary reprieve of privacy. His siblings at least respected a closed door. He sat on his bed, unfurling the scroll.

Hi there! Sorry I wasn't around this morning, I thought I'd send you a letter so you didn't worry.
My dad made me promise to stay home this morning and help out around the house before going to the party!
He wasn't too happy with me yesterday when I sprung our breakfast on him so last minute.

Rolan chuckled at how casually you wrote, it almost felt like you were talking to him right then. Hearing the reason why you weren't around gave him some relief, though the disappointment of having to wait to give you your gift still lingered. He'll have to find a way to sneak it to you at the party.

I'm really looking forward to the party, it's been so long since I've been invited to one.
I'm looking forward to meeting all of your friends too! Do you think they'd mind if I brought my instrument?
I don't usually get to play at home, and I'd love to play for everyone if they would be alright with that.
I'm looking forward to seeing you tonight too, I'm happy to have a new friend to talk magic with!
See you there!

He folded the letter and tucked it away in his desk. Rolan sighed heavily and glanced over at his modest wardrobe, narrowing his eyes, 'I suppose I should pick out a nice outfit for tonight...' He thought to himself begrudgingly as he began to sift through his robes. A sudden knock rang out at his door, startling him from his focus, "You may enter." He said before turning back to sorting through his clothing. Lia opened the door, carefully tucking a parcel behind her back to hide from her brother.

"I've got a little something for you, Rolan." She said, sidling up next to him with a smile. Rolan glanced over at her curiously, raising a brow, "I promise you'll like it." She pulled away slightly and bestowed the package. Wrapped in brown paper and tied with a tawny string. Rolan took it from her gingerly, untying and unfolding the parcel carefully. He was surprised to say the least, looking at his sister in disbelief.

"Lia..." He began but she quickly stopped him.

"Cal and I went in on it together so I'll hear none of your 'fiscal responsibility' lecture today!" She smiled, crossing her arms over her chest confidently, "Well... Do you like it?" She asked him. Rolan looked down at the gift again, sighing heavily.

"It's... It's lovely... And too much." He commented, feeling guilty his siblings got him something so lavish.

"Try it on then! We got it for you for the party tonight, had to make sure you were well dressed after all." She chuckled, "I'll wait for you here, go into the toilet and change!" She ushered him into the bathroom and closed the door behind him, not waiting for Rolan to retort in protest. He unfurled the lavish robe and slowly began to undress, donning the matching pants and blue velvet vestments. He fastened it closed and smoothed the wrinkles out, staring at himself in the mirror for a moment with a sigh.

"This really is too much, Lia!" He called to her from the bathroom, turning to the side and looking over the delicate silver accents and embroidery around the hems and sleeves. The robe itself was short sleeved, a matching tunic worn underneath to accent the decorative trims. The shorter sleeves were cut lengthwise at the shoulder seam down to the bottom and trimmed with an elegant silver ribbon. The embroidery around the ribbon looked like something fitting of an Archmage as well, the decorative stitching being fantastical yet debonaire. The caplet around the chest and back had matching embroidery and silver accents, the band collar coming just under the swell of his throat. A silver satin sash fit snugly around his waist, a long tendril of fabric draping down between his legs while a stunning ember jewel secured the sash closed with a hidden pin. The rich navy velvet of his robes was soft and gentle to the touch while the silk of his matching tunic was cool and smooth. He twisted and turned in the mirror, looking over all the intricate embroidery and decorations of the outfit, the tones complimenting the reds of his skin, "How much did this cost you two?" He huffed to himself in annoyance, feeling guilty his siblings likely spent a bit too much on him by his definition. Though... He did like it, he felt very suave in it. Perhaps Lorroakan was right about one thing, a wizard should be as well dressed as possible... Even if his personal style was gaudy.

"Come show us already! We want to see our Rolan all dressed up for a night on the town!" Lia called, Rolan immediately groaning in mild annoyance. He slowly creaked open his wooden bathroom door with an flustered expression. He loved his siblings dearly but he still hadn't gotten used to all the fawning over his new role. Cal and Lia looked him over with gleeful expressions.

"I told you the blue one would fit him the best." Cal said, nudging his sister. She looked at him in surprised frustration.

"I was the one that said we should get him the blue one! You wanted to get him the green set!" She retorted. He scoffed and shook his head.

"Noooo YOU wanted to get him the green set and I told you it would make him look weirdly festive... Like a holiday decoration!" Cal huffed at Lia. Rolan sighed and couldn't help but smile at his siblings effort. They clearly wanted this night to go well for him and that was very appreciated after such stressful times before.

"Holiday decoration is a bit harsh..." He chuckled, approaching his siblings and pulling the two of them in a hug. They happily returned it.

"So you like it then?" Cal asked a bit nervously.

"Yes, I love it. Thank you. Both of you." Rolan squeezed them a bit closer and tighter before letting them go, "I should be more appreciative of your efforts and the peaceful times we've earned. Allowing a bit of frivolity never hurt anyone."

"We just want to see you happy, Rolan, that's all. Despite our teasing." Lia smiled at him, rubbing her brother's arm affectionately and then admiring how soft the velvet was, "And... We know a certain someone makes you happy..." She mentioned cautiously, Rolan rolling his eyes playfully and shaking his head, "Even if it's only friends! We're glad you found someone to connect with."

"Alright alright, get out so I can change back into something less flashy. We have work to do still." He shooed his siblings out of his room. A renewed sense of vigor came over him as he inspected the outfit in the floor length mirror near his arched window once more. He felt excitement over the gathering for the first time in awhile, usually he dreaded public get togethers. He was always more introverted than most when it came to that, but the thought of having something so nice to wear and seeing everyone again after such a tumultuous adventure was invigorating.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


"Remember our deal." Amnon said to you, securing a dark cape over your shoulders. You sighed playfully and nodded.

"Don't come home drunk, don't do anything stupid, and don't tell anyone who your family is." You recited to him with a smile.

"And?" He pressed with a raised brow. You groaned.

"And I'll help with the party dishes for a week." You said begrudgingly. He smiled at you and caressed your cheek.

"I can't help but feel a sense of pride when I look at you." He said to you softly. You smiled and pulled him into a hug, Amnon squeezing you tightly and resting his cheek on top of your head.

"You're talking like you're giving me away at my wedding." You laughed, pulling away from him, "I'll be back tonight, I promise."

"I know you will... Oh and don't damage your instrument!" He said sternly to you as you pulled the hood up over your head to shield your face in shadow. A violin case was slung over your back, hidden by your cloak.

"I won't, I won't. I have to get going, I don't want to keep my friends waiting." You said, glancing over at the wrought iron fence gate. You were leaving out the back way again and Amnon had created a plan of entry for you when you returned. Spark was covering for you in your bed for when your sister's butler made their rounds. You were to enter through the back gate once again and throw three pebbles at your bedroom window. Spark would then lower a rope down for you to climb so the two of you could switch places once again. It was a fairly simple plan, easy to remember if there was drink in your system as well, "Thank you, Amnon. For everything." You said, pulling your cloak close to your chest and hurrying out of the gate into the dark city streets. Amnon sighed heavily in worry as he watched you go.

"Please don't do anything stupid." He furrowed his brow, standing there for a moment before turning back to the manor, entering through the servants doors.

"And just who were you talking to so late at night?" A feminine voice asked him suspiciously. Amnon stopped in his tracks but remained poised as he turned to face your younger sister. He bowed to her respectfully, lowering his gaze.

"My son, young master Lillia." He lied.

"Why did you allow him onto our grounds in the first place?" She spat, crossing her arms over her chest with an angry expression. Despite her cute, ringlet curls and her pink silk night dress she was anything but sweet and kind. Your sister was vengeful and spiteful, especially towards you. She hated how you were to be the next heir to the family business, she knew she deserved it more. It should have been hers by right, she wanted it more than you ever did.

"His wife is pregnant and fell ill, young master Lillia." Amnon remained in the bowed position. Lillia did not allow the servants to address her face to face. She felt they were beneath someone of her status and must show their submission to her, "I was delivering medicine to him."

"And did you buy this medicine or did you steal it from my mother and father's personal collection?" She accused, narrowing her eyes down at him.

"I bought it, ma'am." He responded simply, "I would never dream of disrespecting the Lord and Lady of the house in such a way." Lillia glared at him for a moment before sighing heavily.

"Fine, I suppose I believe you... Hell-spawn." She grinned, wanting to get a rise out of him. She tormented all of the servants, but Amnon was her favourite. Likely because he was someone you cared deeply about but also, equally likely, because she inherited her hatred of Tieflings from your parents. Amnon said nothing, remaining in his bowed position. She grew annoyed, "Well thank me for my kindness and understanding!" She demanded.

"Thank you, young master Lillia." He gave in to her. She seemed satisfied for now, allowing him to rise but still not look at her.

"Go about your chores then, maybe one day you foul-bloods will learn some actual manners." She huffed out, rolling her eyes at him. Amnon left her presence, Lillia returning to her lavish bedroom upstairs. He sighed heavily in relief, meeting Calista in the kitchen.

"Just as lovely as always wasn't she?" She said with a laugh, patting him on the back. Calista towered over him as she did most people. The only person that didn't receive Lillia's torment was the incredible orc maiden. Not only because Lillia feared her but also because your mother and father valued her cooking skills deeply, her talent in the kitchen not being easily replaced, "I'll fix you something to ease your worries, I'm sure they'll be alright." She said to him, referring to you now.

"That would be a welcome distraction." He sighed, sitting himself at the kitchen bar with his head in his hands, "I will never understand how they're related to such an... Abhorrent woman." Amnon placed an angry emphasis on the word 'abhorrent'.

"People like that will never admit they're wrong, they'd rather be comfortable in their own bubble than question their way of thinking." Calista said, scooping a ladle into a stock pot to pour him some of tonight's dinner left overs. It was a hearty meat stew, filling and warming meals being something she did best. A majority of her recipes were taught to her by her father, her mother having been an adventurer often off on one travel or another. As she placed the bowl in front of him and handed him a spoon she spoke again, "What we can appreciate though... Is that our friend isn't like them. Once they become head of the family I'm sure things will change for the better... One way or another anyway." She shrugged with a chuckle, "At least most people now don't feel that way anymore, though I suppose there will always be those that cling to the past." Calista thought of her own hardships and prejudice her and her father faced. It was true that after the calamity Baldur's Gate had become a more unified and progressive city, but there were still a few rotten spots here and there, slowly dwindling as people retaliated against it more. Your family was good at hiding it.

"Is it wrong that I'm hoping something happens between the two?" Amnon chuckled, spooning a mouthful of stew with a happy sigh, "Seeing the shock on their faces... I hate to admit it would be quite funny." Calista laughed at the thought and shook her head before shushing him.

"We shouldn't talk about that here." She whispered, glancing over at the cracked kitchen door, "Eyes and ears everywhere you know?" Amnon sighed and went back to eating, nodding in agreement.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


The walk to Elfsong was a long but calming walk, the cool night air washing over you. The stars glistened in the sky as you wondered what the tavern was like, your family had never gone and you certainly weren't allowed to go alone. You had passed it numerous times as your father made his visits to local business partners and it always seemed to have such a fun hustle and bustle inside. As you entered the tavern the warm and festive atmosphere washed over you almost immediately. Your shoes clacked on the rich parquet floors beneath them, shedding your cloak and hanging it over the coat rack by the entrance. Many people sat at the numerous round tables scattered about the tavern but you didn't see Rolan, Cal, or Lia. You approached the bar, about to ask the barkeep where the private party was being held when a familiar voice called to you from upstairs. Lia and Cal were draped over the railing.

"We're up here!" Lia called with a smile.

"We got one of the private rooms." Cal said with a proud grin. Your face lit up immediately when you saw them, hurrying up the the stairs to meet them. You made sure to wear something nice, wanting to leave a good impression on their friends.

"Rolan is inside, he's been anxiously awaiting your arrival all evening." Lia grinned teasingly at you. You laughed and shook your head.

"Yeah yeah, sure." You chuckled, Cal wrapping his arm around your shoulders with a smile.

"I see you brought some entertainment, Alfira will be glad to have an accompaniment." He commented about the instrument on your back. You blushed, feeling a bit bashful over playing for what seemed to be so many new people.

"Rolan had said everyone would like it... So I thought I'd bring it." You muttered, glancing away from him.

"Oooooh, Rolan said huh?" Cal smiled, "Glad to know your conversation continued after his initial invitation."

"Oh stop, you're just as bad as Amnon." You sighed, shoving him off of you playfully. Lia looked at you quizzically.

"Amnon?" She asked, furrowing her brow. Your heart stuttered in your chest as you quickly changed the subject.

"I better get inside, I'd hate to keep Rolan waiting obviously!" You said, hurrying past them and leaving the siblings questioning.

"Amnon's an infernal name." Lia commented to Cal. He shrugged. She thought for a moment, the name sounding familiar, "No wait, I think I might know him... He works at-" The music swelled suddenly and Cal grabbed her wrist to drag her inside.

"We'll talk about that later, we should get to drinking already!" He laughed, Lia going along with it with a shrug and laugh herself.

Inside you saw many unfamiliar faces, most of them being Tieflings with a few elves, gnomes, orcs, and halflings scattered around, but you hadn't seen Rolan yet. As you were glancing around someone tapped you on your shoulder, making you turn. Your face lit up when you saw it was your wizardly friend.

"Rolan! Wow you look..." You eyed his lavish garments up and down, "Incredible." He grew a bit bashful at your compliment, looking away from you and clearing his throat to collect his thoughts.

"Yes well... You look rather nice yourself." He repaid your words in kind.

"No I mean, you really look amazing. Very handsome." You smiled at him, "I'm sure you've had your fair share of flirting this evening." You chuckled. Really he agreed to wear the outfit to impress you, though he'd never admit that to himself or his siblings. His tail swayed slightly in response to your words despite the fact he didn't take compliments well. He cleared his throat again and changed the subject.

"Why don't I introduce you to some people?" He offered, noticing Zevlor nearby. He was happily drinking with familiar faces, an air of poise and confidence around him as he smiled and spoke. He noticed Rolan approaching with you and he nodded a hello.

"So good to see you again, Rolan, I'm happy you've seemed to make quite a home for yourself in the city." He smiled. He reminded you of Amnon in a way, he had a fatherly aura around him and his face was aged similarly to his. His tawny hair and scarlet skin complimented the silver metals of his warrior garb. It seemed you two weren't the only ones wanting to dress to impress, "It's a pleasure to meet you as well." He nodded at you, you introducing yourself politely while shaking his hand. He smiled at you warmly.

"They're an aspiring wizard and a regular at Sorcerous Sundries." Rolan said with a friendly smile.

"Yes, I love the Magic Library! Thinking of I still need to return the tomes I checked out..." You realized, looking away with a guilty expression. Zevlor laughed and patted your shoulder.

"Well, young Wizard, you have a fantastic teacher. Aside from Gale I don't think there's anyone more learned than Rolan." He complimented his friend, Rolan growing bashful again.

"Alright, enough of that now." He cleared his throat, "Why don't you and I get a drink? Join in on the merriment?" He mentioned to you.

"I won't keep the two of you of course, there's plenty of drink to go around so be sure to enjoy it." Zevlor said, raising his mug at the two of you. The same excitement from before created butterflies in your stomach, making you giddy.

"Yes! I'd love to!" You said to Rolan, the excitement evident in your voice, "Oh does that mean I get to see you dance later?" You snickered. Rolan was relieved to be handed a drink by the barkeep, passing it to you and avoiding answering your question. You brought it to your lips, the rich and bitter taste of the alcohol nothing like anything you had tasted before. You had never had ale, your family only buying the fancier brandies and wines to sate your guests appetites. Rolan had his own tankard now, taking a hefty swig followed by a content sigh, the alcohol helping wash away his nerves and earlier embarrassment.

"I've missed this taste... Though it's much better now in happier times." He said to you with a smile. You took another swig yourself, enjoying the new flavor. You knew how to handle your liquor so you weren't worried about any sort of inebriation creeping up on you. Rolan took his time introducing you to everyone, you hearing fantastical stories from all of them. Hearing about the Shadowfell, the Grove, and the Nautaloid crash alone was incredible, but hearing of Rolan's exploits specifically really sent home just how powerful of a Wizard he was. You felt very privileged to be able to learn from him, "Oh please, I didn't fight the shadow curse on my own." He chuckled, the drink beginning to take hold just a bit. He was coming out of his shell more as his brother exaggerated just a bit.

"Fine, it was a few shadow cursed entities or whatever, but still!" Cal insisted, puffing out his chest and continuing to brag about his brother. Rolan laughed and shook his head.

"The Hero of The Gate saved my hide actually, but I appreciate the vote of confidence." He smiled at his brother, the other people around them chattering and chuckling while listening to Cal's dramatic retelling. Rolan glanced down at you and smiled warmly, "I hope this isn't too much for you, this lot enjoys a good tall tale." He spoke to you lowly so only you could hear. You shook your head.

"Not at all, I'm having a lot of fun. Thank you for inviting me." You smiled back. Rolan's tail shifted again happily, though only slightly. The alcohol hadn't rid him of all his inhibitions just yet.

"Oh oh, Rolan!" Cal drew his attention, "Show them the light trick!" He requested, the drink having a bit more affect on his younger brother. He had been drinking much longer than Rolan and yourself, always quick to start the merriment.

"You mean Dancing Lights?" Rolan chuckled, motioning for you to hold his drink, "I suppose I can, I'm never one to turn down such a willing audience." He nudged you slightly, "And it'll be a good learning experience for you as well." You watched him with eager excitement. He clasped his hands dramatically, straightening his shoulders before raising his arms above him with a flourish. The lights sparkled in multiple colours, blues, greens, reds, it was astonishingly beautiful. The crowd gasped in amazement as you watched the lights completely speechless.

"Oh so you can do more than one colour now." Cal smiled, taking another swig of his ale, "My brother everyone! The new master of Ramazith's Tower!" He proclaimed proudly, the crowd around you clapping. Rolan rubbed the back of his neck a bit shyly, chuckling to himself.

"Well I appreciate that this was much better received than the first time I did it for you, Cal." He recalled how unimpressed his brother was. You offered his tankard back to him, Rolan graciously taking it and having another drink himself. Cal had begun to regale the crowd with another embellished tale of him and his siblings. Rolan rolled his eyes and smiled at him before the two of you wandered outside to have a reprieve from the noise.

"That really was amazing, I've never seen anything so beautiful." You said, still a bit stunned, "Magic is so incredible. You're incredible!" He chuckled and shook his head, drinking a bit more.

"It's a very simple spell, wait until you start learning the trickier ones like Dimension Door." He sighed, remembering how much he struggled with that specific spell. You placed your cup on the wooden railing of the expansive deck outside.

"Would you teach me? Since we didn't get an opportunity this morning." You smiled. Rolan smiled back at you and motioned for you to hold out your hands before placing his mug on the railing as well. The two of you were mostly alone, everyone still currently inside and enjoying the warmth of company and food. You held your hands out, Rolan gently cupping the top of them as he focused on gathering the weave around the two of you. That familiar warmth of his magic tickled your skin as you watched his motions.

"I know you know how to channel the weave, you're rather adept at it actually..." He complimented, "But for this spell we'll need to condense it into the palms of our hands." Your eyes met for a moment, this lesson with Rolan being a bit more intimate than before, "Close your eyes." He spoke softly to you. You did as you were told, taking a calming breath as you began to focus on the weave, "Feel the weave in your hands and shape it into a tight ball." He instructed further. The weave was warm and caressing in your grasp, Rolan's magic intertwining with yours as the two of you focused together, "And..." He took your hands and threw them up into the air suddenly with gusto, the weave bursting into beautiful lights above the two of you, "Throw it into the air!" He chuckled, looking up at the lights and then back to you with a smile, "Fantastic job!" He cajoled. You couldn't help but flush, smiling bashfully at him and looking away.

"Well it helps to have such a fantastic teacher." You replied. Music began to play around you, a lute being deftly strummed somewhere above. Rolan looked up to the rooftop to see Alfira, a flamboyant looking bard with a young and pretty face. You listened for a moment before shifting your violin case off your back and propping it up against the railing, "How about that dance? Have you drunk enough for that?" You asked, holding your hand out for him again. Now he fought back a blush, grabbing his drink and taking another swig for a moment to calm his nerves.

"I don't see the harm in it..." He muttered, having trouble meeting your gaze. You chuckled, finding his bashful behavior very cute. You wrapped an arm around to the back of his waist and pulled him close to you, surprising the wizard.

"I hope you don't mind if I lead." You said coyly, narrowing your eyes. Rolan cleared his throat.

"Not at all, I'm sure you're much more skilled in this than I am so it only makes sense for you to lead... Of course." He rambled, feeling increasingly nervous.

"Place your hand on my hip." You said, taking his wrist and guiding him there. His heart pounded in his chest and he swallowed hard. Rolan didn't have much experience with this, dancing or being this close to another person in a more... Intimate manner. You took hold of his other hand gracefully and began to lead, dancing slowly to the music at first to help him get the rhythm. After a few minor stumbles he eventually got the movements down, making you smile, "There you go, you're a natural."

"The teacher becomes the student I suppose." He commented, having calmed down a bit. He caught your gaze for a moment, the two of you locking eyes as you danced. Rolan found himself unable to look away from you, his expression softening as the two of you danced together gracefully.

"How lucky am I..." You chuckled at him, catching his attention, "My teacher isn't just a talented wizard but also a fantastic dancer."

"Talented is... Exaggerating a bit." He said, very distracted by you in the moment. You smiled warmly at him, allowing yourself to get swept away in the rhythm with him. The music ended shortly after, though the two of you remained close for a moment. You placed a hand on his chest, admiring him and the brilliant golden glow of his eyes.

"You really are incredible." You whispered, moving a lose strand of hair behind his ear. His eyes narrowed and he leaned into you slightly, you following his lead before a realization set in for him. He cleared his throat and quickly pulled away from you, beyond flustered. His tail was coiled around his ankle nervously.

"Yes I appreciate the compliment, but we should be getting back to the party now don't you agree? Can't have everyone wondering where we ran of to now can we?" He rambled again, his heart pounding in his chest.

"Rolan!!" A feminine voice called to him from the roof top. It was Alfira.

"Oh thank the gods- Alfira! What a pleasure to see you!" He called back as he turned away from you, the young Tiefling smiling back at him. She took notice of your violin case propped up against the railing.

"Hey! You play?" She called to you now. You looked behind you and grabbed your case, unlocking it and pulling out your violin to show her with a smile, "Excellent! Come on up, let's play together!" You excitedly ran to a nearby ladder and carefully climbed up it, Rolan following behind you to join the other party on the roof. There weren't many people up here, just a few looking for some fresh air to either sober up or escape the noise. Alfira motioned for you to join her in front of the other guest, "It's been awhile since I've played with someone else, why don't you start us off and I'll follow your lead?" She smiled, Rolan sat on a nearby wooden bench slightly away from the audience, the majority of them standing near the center of the walled patio of the rooftop. Your nerves were getting the better of you as you took a deep breath, glancing over at Rolan for a boost of confidence. He smiled at you and gestured for you to begin. Another deep breath and you positioned your violin under your chin, correcting your posture and slowly sliding your bowstring over the strings of your violin. A deep melody played as you started off slower, gradually picking up speed to a more upbeat tune. Alfira joined you shortly, matching your rhythm with gusto. As you felt more confident you put more pizzaz into your motions, putting on more of a show for everyone as your tune got faster and more boisterous. The stone floor and stucco walls created fantastic acoustics for the two of you. Rolan was at a loss for words, not expecting you to play like a master of the craft. You seemed so in your element behind your violin, Alfira and yourself having fantastic musical chemistry together. As your song came to an end you were a little out of breath with all the dancing and moving around the two of you did. The small audience up roared in applause and cheers, making you blush and take an awkward bow, "What a lovely addition to our usual tunes! Now, something very near and dear to my heart, a song for my dear Lihala." As Alfira began to get ready to play her next song you made your way over to Rolan, sitting next to him with an exhausted sigh.

"So... What did you think?" You asked, nervously awaiting his answer and approval. Rolan looked at you in awe, taking a moment to gather his words.

"What do I think?" He chuckled, "I think you are incredibly talented and I can't help but wonder why you'd want to be a wizard after hearing you play like that."

"Awe stop it, you're too sweet." You blushed at his compliments. Before the two of you could continue your conversation Alfira began to play her song, drawing you in to the melodious harmony of her music. It was slow and yearning, pulling you into the emotions of her words. The Tiefling beside you took a modest drink from his tankard as he listened. You glanced cautiously over at him, the music emboldening you slightly. Deciding to take the plunge you hesitantly leaned on his shoulder, Rolan stiffening for a moment in surprise and almost dropping his drink. He cleared his throat, relaxing a bit and leaning into you slightly. You were on his left, him shifting his arm slightly behind you to allow you to scoot closer. You nuzzled into his neck slightly, scooting closer and placing a hand slightly above his knee. The heat emanating off his neck spoiled any sort of effort he had to hide his nerves. A smile spread across your lips as you felt his tail wrap around your ankle, squeezing you slightly, "I hope this is alright, Rolan." You spoke to him softly, him taking a moment to respond as he collected his thoughts and calmed down.

"Yes I would say this is... Agreeable..." He muttered out. You couldn't help but chuckle at how desperately he was trying to maintain his composure. Your hand found the area just above his knee, caressing his leg with your thumb affectionately.

"Good, I was hoping that's what this means." You said, pointing to his tail wrapped around your ankle.

"Oh... Gods..." He covered his face to shield his embarrassment, making you laugh.

"Don't worry, I think it's charming." You said, closing your eyes and relaxing into him with a sigh. Rolan allowed himself to relax as well, even if it was only a little. He hesitantly rested his cheek on top of your head, enjoying the music with you. As the audience dwindled and Alfira followed them inside to enjoy more drink the two of you lingered, "Can we stay like this for awhile?" You whispered, enjoying his company and warmth. Rolan smiled softly.

"I suppose so." He slipped his hand into the breast pocket under his robe, clearing his throat once more as he stilled his nerves, "I do have a... Gift for you one could call it. If you'd like it." He said, pulling out a small, book shaped, brown paper parcel. You stayed close to him but lifted your head off his shoulder, taking the package from him with a warm expression.

"I would have gotten you something in return if I had known." You said, unwrapping your gift as Rolan watched you eagerly and nervously. It was a leather bound journal, you opening it and examining the blank pages in curiosity, "Oh is it to take notes from our lessons?" You asked with an excited gleam in your eyes. He chuckled and shook his head.

"No, it's a magical item, one of a pair." He pulled the other journal from his cloak as well, showing he had the copy to yours, "It's called The Book of Correspondence, anything you write in it I'll receive in my copy of the journal." He pulled the pen from inside the binding and wrote a simple 'hello' to you as an example. The book grew warm in your grasp and you opened it, seeing Rolan's handwriting inside. You were amazed then disappointed when the words disappeared, "The best part is after you read the message it disappears, making it completely private."

"What happens if I want to re-read what you wrote to me?" You asked. He smiled at you.

"Say the incantation revocare and the words will appear once more. Though I don't think I'll have very many interesting things to say to you that would warrant you reading them again."

"I think everything you have to say is interesting, Rolan." You smiled at him, "Even if you just tell me about your day, I'd be happy to read it more than once." Rolan sighed at you in playful annoyance, shaking his head.

"You... Are too sweet for your own good." He teased. You flushed and then grew disappointed again when you realized what time it was after a nearby bell tolled at the top of the hour.

"I have to go, I promised my dad I wouldn't be out too late tonight." You stood and immediately felt a chill as Rolan's warmth left you.

"I could walk you home." He suggested, standing up as well. You refused, smiling kindly at him.

"I'll be alright, thank you for the offer." He seemed disappointed at your refusal, but didn't press you further. You turned from him to leave, but hesitated. Feeling emboldened once more you whipped back around a placed a tender kiss on his cheek, your face flushing as you pulled away, "Thank you for tonight... And the journal. I had a wonderful time." Rolan was speechless, looking at you dumbfounded. You chuckled and waved to him, "Bye bye."

"B-bye uh... Good bye." He stumbled over his words, waving back at you before watching you go. He immediately drug a hand down his face and sighed in annoyance, "Hells... I'm such a blubbering fool."

Nearby Cal and Lia were snooping on the two of you from further away, Lia holding her hand out to her brother with a cocky grin.

"Pay up." She demanded, Cal huffing in annoyance and rummaging through his pocket while muttering angrily to himself.

"Fine! Ugh, you always win our bets..."

Chapter Text

You couldn't help but feel a bit giddy when you woke up the next morning. The journal Rolan gave you was hidden under your pillow, you fishing around for it and pulling out with a smile. You pulled the pen from inside the crease and wrote a quick, 'Good Morning' to him. You couldn't help but wait to see if he'd respond, laying on your stomach and staring down at the page expectantly. Slowly, letters began appearing in the journal, your heart pounding in your chest excitedly. He wrote 'good morning' back to you.

'You're up early.' He said. You smiled and scribbled a reply.

'I could say the same to you.' You chuckled to yourself and continued, 'I had a really great time with you last night.' There was a long pause in the conversation, making your heart pound in your chest again but this time out of anxiety. Were you too bold? Did you make him uncomfortable?

'I did too. I hope your walk home wasn't too long.' He replied. You chuckled at how dry he wrote to you, it was a bit hard to read the emotion of his words, 'Forgive me if I'm too bold, but would you like to come over for dinner one night soon?' Was this him asking you on a date? The feeling of butterflies filled your stomach and you couldn't help but smile again, but the feeling quickly faded. You knew you wouldn't be able to go, it would be too suspicious if you weren't home for dinner with your family. God this was frustrating for you, you didn't want Rolan to think you didn't like being around him or you were getting cold feet. A heavy sigh passed your lips and you replied.

'I'd really love to but I can't, and I mean that in honesty.' You worded it carefully, 'My family is a bit weird about having meals together.' Which was putting it lightly. That and you couldn't exactly tell them you were seeing someone in secret.

'I understand.' This time you could feel the disappointment behind his words. You thought for a moment.

'How would you feel about having a night time picnic together? In the park nearby Sorcerous Sundries?' You suggested. Rolan replied very quickly.

'That sounds perfect.' You didn't expect to grow fond of him like this, but it was hard not to when he behaved so cutely. He was brilliant and well spoken which hooked you initially. So many people around you were usually so shallow in more ways than one. They cared more about money and social image which made conversations one sided most times.

'I'll bring the drinks if you bring the food?' You smiled to yourself, loving this back and forth.

'Sounds like a date.' You flushed as more words appeared, 'Not a date date, I mean that it sounds good. Enjoyable even. Not that someone wouldn't be happy to take you on a date I'm sure, but somewhere nicer. More sophisticated.' You had to stifle your laughter so you didn't wake anyone else. He couldn't hide his bashful nature even in writing apparently.

'I understand, don't worry. A picnic with a very good friend.' You smiled to yourself at the idea, your face growing warm, 'I've got to go now, let me know when you're free for that picnic.' You closed your journal and slipped it under your mattress this time. Your sister often snooped in your room, but she never thought to turn over your mattress. You saw the tomes you needed to return stuffed under there as well, being reminded they're likely overdue in a sense now. There wasn't time limits but it was the courteous thing not to keep them too long. You decided you'd hand them over at your picnic. A knock at your door.

"Young Master, it's time to wake up." Amnon called softly with a gentle tone. You opened your door and pulled him inside, closing it behind you quietly, "I... Take it you have something you wish to discuss?" He chuckled, "I'm assuming about a specific party and a specific wizard?" Your face flushed and you fought back a smile. He rose a brow at you knowingly and you had him sit on your bed. You sat beside him and rubbed the back of your neck.

"Well..." You started, the blush creeping down your neck, "It was really fun, I had a fantastic time... Rolan offered to walk me home and it tore me up inside having to decline." You huffed in disappointment, "But! I did give him a kiss... On the cheek. So nothing serious but... It was still a bit thrilling." Amnon looked at you with kindness in his eyes, like a father looking at their child when they tell them about their first crush.

"So I take it you like him then?" He pressed gently. You smiled again and looked away from him to hide it.

"I think so, but I'm not sure he feels the same." You said, a knot twisting in your stomach slightly, "Is that normal? To be worried about that?" You asked him. You really hadn't had that much experience with this, you've been intimate with people before but only just for fun. It was always a thrilling thing you'd get up to while sneaking out at night occasionally, a way to get back at your family for being so uptight and horrible. The thought of that made you embarrassed, finding it very spoiled of yourself. Amnon chuckled again and rubbed your back.

"Yes, of course it is." He said, "If he doesn't feel the same then he's the most idiotic wizard to ever exist." He said in a very fatherly manner. You rolled your eyes and shook your head before leaning on his shoulder with a sigh.

"You're biased I fear." You smiled, closing your eyes and taking a deep breath, "He gave me a magic journal so we could talk to each other while we're apart. The words disappear after we read them so even if Lillia finds it she won't think anything of it." You explained, "Do you think that's a good sign?"

"Yes I'd wager that's a very good sign. At least it means he enjoys your company and talking to you." Amnon reassured.

"Oh, I invited him on a night time picnic." You told him with a guilty expression, "You think you'd help me see him again?" Amnon rolled his eyes now, but playfully.

"You know I can't say no to you... Especially when it's something that would make you so happy." You hugged him tightly and he returned it, resting his head on yours.

"Thank you, Amnon... I'm so happy I have you." You hugged him for a bit longer, closing your eyes and relaxing into him. He kissed the top of your head lovingly.

"You'll always have me, that won't ever change."

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

"I swear I know that man that they mentioned... Amnon." Lia said to Cal at the breakfast table.

"Why does it matter so much?" Cal asked, sipping his coffee and leaning back in his chair.

"It wouldn't normally... But if I'm remembering correctly Amnon works for one of the richest mercantile families in Baldur's gate." Lia rested her chin in her palm and leaned over onto the table, furrowing her brow, "I heard through the grape vine that he's a personal butler to one of their children. Why would they know him?"

"Maybe they have a thing for Tieflings?" Cal joked with a snort. Lia shook her head, still wracking her brain.

"No, Amnon is like... Older than Zevlor." Lia commented, "Old enough to be our dad easily... Maybe even his dad..." She thought, playing with a strand of her raven hair near her face.

"That's... Pretty old honestly." Cal responded, furrowing his brow as the image of a decrepit Tiefling filled his brain.

"You don't think that they're the kid he works for do you?" Lia asked.

"I mean, that'd mean they'd have a lot of money right? Isn't that a good thing?" He shrugged, not understanding why his sister was so obsessed over this.

"Obviously, Cal." Lia rolled her eyes in frustration and let out a heavy sigh, crossing her arms over her chest and leaning back against the chair she sat in, "But I can't shake this feeling... Like a pit in my stomach." She paused, a worried look on her face, "Do you think we should tell Rolan?"

"I think you're worrying too much." Cal responded, patting his sister's shoulder, "Besides, if Rolan gets with someone that's that rich think of all the fun stuff we could do without him lecturing us about responsibility." He cooed with a grin, Lia chuckling and shaking her head. She brushed her worries to the side and agreed with her brother begrudgingly. Rolan opened the door to the kitchen with an unusual pep in his step, a slight smile on his lips. His siblings knew immediately what it was about.

"Good morning, Rolan." Lia said, smirking at Cal.

"Good morning. I hope the two of you are ready for another busy day." He responded, pouring himself a cup of coffee with a hum. His tail swayed back and forth slightly, "Not too hung over from the night before I hope."

"Ugh, don't remind me." Cal winced, still nursing his throbbing head. He went a bit overboard with a drinking, but it was hard not to with everyone having so much fun. Lia paced herself better than her brother and only felt mildly tired.

"How did you like the party last night, Rolan? It seemed like the company you kept was... Invigorating." Lia chuckled, commenting on her brother's good mood. A flush crept up his neck and he sighed heavily, sitting at the table with his siblings now and taking a sip of his coffee.

"I will not be dignifying that with a response, Lia." Rolan said, closing his eyes as he drank.

"We saw you two dancing, they looked awfully smitten with you." Cal teased back, trying to get the details out of his brother. Rolan set his coffee cup down with a mildly annoyed but playful expression.

"All it was was a quick lesson, a repayment of the magic I've taught them." He insisted, narrowing his eyes before taking a sip of his coffee with a content sigh, "The two of you need some sort of hobby, anything to get you out of my personal affairs for a change."

"Affair is definitely the right word for it." Lia smirked, Rolan rolling his eyes at her and shaking his head.

"You two are quite honestly making assumptions over absolutely nothing." He took another sip.

"Their little good bye kiss didn't seem like nothing." Cal added, also grinning at his brother. A flush threatened to creep up his neck again as he cleared his throat to maintain his composure.

"So the two of you have taken to spying on me? Are you really that bored with yourselves?" He scoffed, growing annoyed with his siblings.

"It's not really spying when the two of you were in earshot of the party." Lia retorted with a chuckle, "Seeing you so flustered over dancing with a very good friend was adorable I'll admit." Rolan wanted to disappear after hearing that from his sister, laying his face in his palms with a soft groan, "So?"

"So what?" He huffed, his face still in his hands. His tail was coiled tightly around one of the legs of his chair as he tried to fight off his growing embarrassment.

"Do you fancy them?" She continued with narrow eyes and a cheeky smirk. Rolan paused for a moment before sighing heavily, furrowing his brow and massaging his temples in annoyance.

"Why must the two of you insist on prying into every intimate detail of my private affairs?" He glared over at Lia who's smile only grew.

"Oh he's got it bad for sure." Cal chimed in. Rolan's expression turned to one of exasperation, growing angry now. Lia picked up on this and immediately de-escalated the situation.

"Okay okay, that's enough now." She chuckled, "We only want to know what you get up to outside of your office, it's good to see you putting yourself out there for a change." Lia's tone was warmer now. Rolan huffed and shook his head.

"Oh I'm sure you do, Lia, you two want to know everything that I get up to in this gods forsaken tower." He snapped at her with an eye roll.

"Well obviously." She teased with an eye roll and chuckled again, "You're our big brother after all."

"How lucky am I." Rolan sighed heavily, not answering his sisters question. She looked at him expectantly and he gave in, "Fine, fine!" He surrendered, "I... Suppose... Last night was..." Rolan's face reddened as thoughts of you filled his mind, "More enjoyable... Than usual." He forced out, glancing away from his siblings with a furrowed brow once more.

"Aww our Rolan is growing up." Lia cooed, "Young love..."

"Rolan is far from young." Cal laughed, Lia kicking him in the leg and making him wince.

"Shut up, Cal!" She huffed.

"I will if you stop kicking me all the damned time!" He huffed back.

"Well I'll stop kicking you when you stop being an idiot!" Lia glared at him.

"That will never happen." Rolan sighed heavily, staring longingly out the window with his chin in his palms. Cal decided to let that comment slide this time, but still glared at his brother.

"Cal and I will go downstairs and tend to the shop, take as long as you like." Lia smiled at her brother, placing a hand on his back. She dragged a protesting Cal out of the kitchen and closed the door behind her, Rolan sighing heavily in content once the noise was gone and he could enjoy his coffee. His pocket grew warm, a new message from you waiting for him in his journal. He couldn't help a soft smile spreading across his lips as he opened it.


I finally got around to reading the other tomes!
I can't wait to show you the new spells I learned, nothing fancy of course but I think you'll be proud!
I showed my dad the spell you taught me at the party, Dancing Lights.
You should have seen his face, he was so impressed!


Rolan chuckled and took a sip of his coffee before scrawling out a reply, that same warm smile on his face. He paused for a moment, thinking to himself, 'Do I... Fancy them?' His face reddened at the thought, his heart thudding in his chest. He shooed the thoughts away and steeled himself with a heavy sigh, "Don't be ridiculous, Rolan, you've made a dear friend." He talked to himself assuredly, nodding in satisfaction, "That's all this is."


Of course he would be, you're a talented young Wizard after all.
I look forward to seeing what you've learned.
Try not to study too hard, I'll see you soon.


"Yes... That's all this is."

Chapter Text

Today was incredibly boring and exhausting for you, having been stuck home the last few days with the family affairs you so dreaded. Every moment you had to sneak away and write to Rolan you took, the journal stowed away in the breast pocket of your clothing. The four of you were sat at the family table for dinner currently, three guests joining you tonight. Your father had invited the Portyr family, Leopold, Camille, and their son Harrison. They owned a powerful Maritime shipping company and they had one of the few remaining Ducal seats left in parliament. Not only would they be a fantastic business ally, but they could also be the key to your father gaining that parliament seat he so desperately wanted. He was doing his regular cajoling of his guests, you maintaining a polite smile despite wanting to disappear. Harrison wouldn't stop staring at you all evening either, casting flirtatious glances and grins in your direction that made your skin crawl. If you were remembering correctly, this man wasn't exactly picky about who he slept with. He had a long list of bed partners and enjoyed all manners of tastes inside the bedroom as well. He often used his father's position to get what he wanted, whether that be trinkets, clothing, men, women, it didn't matter to him and he showed no shame in it.

"I will say your home is divine." Camille said to your father, "I see you have fantastic taste in decorations." Your father gave out a hearty laugh and shook his head modestly.

"Not at all, it was my wonderful wife Ophelia that picked them out. She's the interior decorator of our family, her and our younger daughter, Lillia." Your father placed a sweet kiss on Ophelia's hand, making her giggle shyly. This was all performative of course, to put on the show of a perfect family for their guests. Your father, Duncan, was decorated in the best finery he owned, an expensive looking silk and velvet outfit with delicate golden embroidery that sparkled in the light. Your mother matched him in colours, cream, deep navies, and purples decorated her extravagant dress. Her hair was styled and done up in an elegant up do, complete with hair ornaments of pearls and gold as the lace standing collar around her neck and shoulders framed her face. Camille and Leopold Portyr were dressed in equal finery, Leopold wearing a black silk doublet with puff sleeves underneath of burgundy velvet while his wife wore the most recent designs of one of the best tailors in Baldur's Gate. A gorgeous dress made of imported brocade fabrics that created a delicate silhouette of her waist before her skirt swelled from the flouncy petticoat and hoop skirt underneath.

"Well then my compliments to you, Lady Ophelia." Leopold held up his glass of wine to her before taking a modest sip. Your father had brought out the crystal wine glasses for this evening, the candlelight dancing and sparkling off of them as Duke Leopold set his glass back down. The colours reminded you of Rolan, the night he taught you dancing lights. It was only a few days ago but it had felt much longer. You zoned out for a moment, getting lost in your thoughts of him before your sister kicked your chair in annoyance while maintaining that sweet expression of hers.

"Pardon me. I was lost in thought for a moment, I've been so busy with my studies lately." You were quick to slip back into your role as heir to your family's fortune, years of practice making it second nature.

"Oh it's quite alright, dear, my husband and I were only asking what you enjoy doing in your free time." Duchess Camille smiled. She seemed like a kind woman, you were quick to pick out whether someone was putting on a show or if their behavior was genuine. Every now and then you'd get a moment to speak with someone who was truly kind and wonderful, despite their wealth. You had heard that Camille gave much of her wealth back to the community, the Portyrs having spent a lot of time rebuilding Baldur's Gate and hiring outside contractors to ease the strain of the civilians. To bad their son didn't seem to have that same humility.

"How kind of you to ask, Duchess Camille." You smiled back at her, remaining poised, "I enjoy reading and wandering the garden in my spare time, though I am dedicated to my studies. I want to make my father proud after all." Your answer was satisfactory to your family, though your sister seethed internally.

"Perhaps we could wander in the garden together after dinner, I'd love to hear all about the pretty flowers outside." Harrison grinned at you, narrowing his eyes as he toyed with his food absentmindedly, pushing it around on his plate. Your father immediately took this opportunity.

"Oh but of course, they'd love to. They were the ones that designed our garden after all, they know all about the delicate flora outside." He said with a welcoming smile. A knot formed in your stomach at the thought.

"I believe it's supposed to rain tonight, father, perhaps another time." You responded, taking a sip of your wine politely.

"I'd be happy to show him around our home, father, I did just pick out some new rugs and sconces for the upstairs library." Lillia chimed in with a syrupy sweetness to her voice. Harrison narrowed his eyes in annoyance and sighed heavily.

"I suppose that's fine." He answered, your father taking note of the favouritism he showed towards you. Amnon wandered up behind you to take your mostly empty plate in a refined and practiced manner, keeping his eyes low. He reached over to take Lillia's plate as well, just as practiced before.

"Bring out dessert now, I believe we're finished with this." Your father demanded firmly, trying to impress his guests. Amnon nodded in response. Camille addressed him.

"Oh and please give our compliments to your chef, the food was delectable." She said. Amnon smiled and bowed to her.

"Of course, Duchess." He made his way around the table, collecting everyone's dishes before heading out of the room and back into the kitchen. Harrison watched him go with a disgusted expression.

"They always sour a party." Harrison muttered to himself, rolling his eyes in reference to Amnon. Your blood boiled, unable to help yourself.

"Who do you mean?" You asked, still maintaining your polite demeanor. Your father shot daggers at you, though you ignored him.

"Those foul-blooded Tieflings. Baldur's Gate would be much better without them, they're an eyesore." He scoffed. Duchess Camille chimed in now.

"I'll hear none of that now, many people, including Tieflings, lost their lives defending this city." She scolded him, "You will show respect where it is due, Harrison, we raised you better than that."

"Oh come now, Camille, let the boy have his opinions." Duke Leopold said, hushing his wife, "I've heard the new master of Ramazith's tower is a Tiefling actually, never in my days did I think I'd ever see one in the house of Parliament." He sighed heavily. You were doing your best to maintain your composure, not wanting to face your father's wrath later. Amnon had returned with a few other servants, all holding plates with delicate slices of a chocolate mousse dessert topped with ripened raspberries. He placed yours in front of you first and you smiled up at him.

"Thank you, Amnon." You said. He nodded with a slight smile back at you.

"Aren't you supposed to serve the guests first?" Harrison spat at him in annoyance, having been served last by the other servants. Amnon looked over at him as he rose, nodding his head in a slight bow of respect.

"The young master will always be my first priority, my lord, I apologize if that isn't satisfactory." He responded. Harrison glared at him, a prejudiced anger boiling within.

"I suppose it's hard to find good help these days isn't it, Lord Duncan? What with all this muck running about." He spat. Lord Duncan grew nervous, not wanting to anger Harrison or his parents.

"I deeply apologize, I'll be sure to correct him after dinner, do forgive us for his transgressions." Your father tried to calm him down, Duchess Camille growing very embarrassed of her son's behavior.

"Harrison, calm yourself!" She spoke lowly but firmly to him, having been sat next to him.

"It's fine I suppose, I wouldn't want the hands of a hell-spawn to taint my food anyway." He further insulted Amnon.

"That's enough!" You rose suddenly and slammed your hands on the table, surprising everyone. Your father and mother stared at you with shock and anger, your sister was taking enjoyment of knowing you were likely going to be severely punished later after this outburst. You didn't care, the anger inside you no longer wanting to be contained, "His name is Amnon, you will address him as such!" You spoke directly to Harrison. He stood now as well, enjoying a challenge. He placed his palms on the table and leaned over it slightly, maintaining eye contact with you.

"And if I refuse?" He grinned. You bared your teeth, your expression viscous. You felt the weave around you, your hands growing hot as the glasses and plates on the table began to rattle.

"W-what's happening?!" Lilia asked, looking over at her father in fear. Amnon placed a hand on your back, attempting to calm you. He spoke to you lowly.

"Calm yourself..." He said. Your heart thudded in your chest still but you relaxed, the rattling coming to an end as you took a breath. Amnon ushered you into the kitchen to further calm yourself, not waiting to hear any protests from the others at the table. Camille stood and slapped her son in the back of the head, making him wince.

"What was that for?!" He snapped. She said nothing to him, but the anger on her face was evident. A mother's rage. He shrunk slightly and sat back down in his chair without another word. Duke Leopold cleared his throat and attempted to continue the conversation.

"Yes, well, about those contracts you mentioned..." He started, your Father regaining his earlier demeanor and happily talking business.

In the kitchen you fumed and paced, "He is so detestable!! He's just as bad as my sister, if not worse!" You ranted and raved. Spark sat on the counter eating an apple, enjoying the show as a few other servants near by tended to the dishes. Calista leaned on the counter with her palm, another hand on her hip, "Did you hear him out there? The way he spoke to Amnon?! And the Duke, bringing up Rolan like that!!" You continued, Amnon allowing you to blow off steam, "I could... I could!!" You started, not finding the words in the jumbled mess of your brain.

"Give em what fer?" Spark suggested.

"Yeah!! Exactly!" You said.

"No, not exactly." Callista spoke now, trying to calm you as well, "You need to calm yourself, take a breath." She said. You stopped your pacing for a moment and did just that, closing your eyes and trying to center yourself. You felt the weave again but this time it was calmer, more of a caress. It helped bring you back down, settling your anger as you let out another deep breath.

"I'm sorry, Amnon." You said to him, "I shouldn't have shouted like that... But you shouldn't be spoken to like that either." Amnon smiled at you, walking over and bringing you into a hug. Calista joined and hugged the two of you, picking you up off the ground in a tight squeeze. Spark hopped off the counter and hurried over to you.

"Ya got nuthin' to apologize fer!" He said with his hands on his hips and a proud nod, "I'd've givin 'em a wallop fer sure!" Calista lowered the two of you back to the ground and tussled Spark's hair, making the gnome sputter and swat her hand away. You laughed at their interaction, always finding comfort with the three of them. They all felt more like family than your actual family. A warmth spread over your chest, at first you thought it was you appreciating the moment before you realized it was the journal Rolan gave you. You happily pulled it from it's hiding spot and opened it. Calista and Spark were immediately interested, Amnon was concerned.

"You told me you would keep that hidden." He scolded you slightly, dipping his brow and narrowing his eyes. He worried deeply about you, knowing if anyone found the journal and found out what it was there would be grave consequences for you.

"It's fine! It's secure in my pocket, I promise!" You responded, holding it close to your chest.

"Let them have their fun, Amnon, I want to know what he said!" Callista said with a laugh, Spark nodding in agreement.

"Yeah, open it already!" He ushered you. You rolled your eyes playfully as you finally opened the journal. The two of you had been writing so much you were at the middle of the book now. Even though the words disappeared the magic in the pages dwindled after you sent the message. Once you filled a page you had to go on to the next one. Your eyes narrowed and a small smile formed on your lips as you read to yourself.

It's looking like it's going to storm pretty heavily tonight, try to stay dry.
Cal and Lia gathered firewood for the firepit in our living room, they want to cook dinner over it.
Please tell me you think this is as bad of an idea as I do, I'm already picturing the disaster they'll cause.
Thank the gods for magical firepits I suppose, at least I don't have to worry about them burning down the tower.
They miss you, they asked when you'd be back next.
I hope your family isn't driving you as crazy as mine does.

"Apparently Cal and Lia are wanting to build a fire with the weather outside, maybe we should too tonight?" You suggested. Spark was immediately in on the idea, Callista agreeing and Amnon begrudgingly approving.

"Can we make some Marshmallows?" Spark asked Callista, giving her big puppy dog eyes. She rolled hers and gave in to him, despite them being a hassle to make. He hopped and cheered. You took a moment to respond to Rolan, sitting at the counter and scribbling on the paper.

A fire sounds like a wonderful idea, though knowing Cal and Lia it will be a bit of a disaster I agree.
I'm sure they're excited though, I mentioned the idea to my family too and it sounds like we're going to make a fire of our own!
Are you going to roast marshmallows?
I'm holding in there, though I'm ready for all this to be over already.
Tell Cal and Lia I miss them too, I hope one day you'll get to meet my family.

You stayed your hand, pausing for a moment. You missed Rolan too, but you were unsure of telling him that. Amnon took notice of your hesitation and sat beside you.

"Trouble in paradise?" He teased, making you chuckle slightly. Callista and Spark were busying themselves making the marshmallows mentioned from earlier. You shook your head.

"No... I just..." You paused again, narrowing your eyes and resting your fist on your cheek with a sigh, "I miss him, Amnon... But I don't know if I should tell him that." You flushed.

"Well why not?" He asked you, smiling softly still.

"I don't know... What if he doesn't feel the same? Or I freak him out or... Ugh this is so confusing." You huffed, massaging your temples and furrowing your brow in thought. Your mind was jumbled for other reasons now. Amnon chuckled at you and placed a fatherly hand on your back.

"But what if he does?" He asked. You glanced over at him, then back down at your journal. You squeezed the pen in your grasp and let out a heavy sigh before continuing your message.

I miss you.

A simple phrase that started a bubble of anxiety in your stomach, "There, now it's done so I can't take it back! It'll be fine!" You said, trying to convince yourself. You closed your journal quickly, not wanting to think about it, "It'll be fine right?" You asked Amnon, laying your cheek on the counter and letting out a huff.

"I'm sure it will be." The two of you heard the familiar footsteps of your father, you hurriedly stowing the journal back in your breast pocket. He came bursting into the kitchen, grabbing you up by your arm in a fit of rage and dragging you out of the door. Amnon went to follow defensively but Callista stopped him, grabbing his arm as well and shaking her head.

"He's going to hurt them!" He pleaded, Callista and Spark knowing this information as well. Her expression saddened.

"It'll be worse for them if you get hurt too. You know that would tear them up inside." She said. Amnon felt so defeated, covering his face with his other hand and letting out a shaky sigh. Callista was often the voice of reason in the group, even when it was painful to hear, "Right now all we can do is comfort them when it's over. The least he'll do is fire us and it'll be so much worse if they're alone here."

Your father had yanked you up the stairs and thrown you onto the floor of your room, your sister tailing behind with a gleeful expression and your mother having made herself scarce. You gasped in pain as your knees hit the floor, staring up at your father defiantly as he towered over you in a fit of rage. His face was red, the veins in his forehead pulsing as his fists were tightly balled at his sides.

"I know what that was at the table, do not lie to me!!" He shouted at you, tossing all of the study materials on your desk to the floor violently, "Where are you hiding them!?"

"Hiding what!?" You yelled back as he grabbed the small bookshelf near by and slammed it to the floor in a loud crash. You couldn't help but flinch at the sound, him stomping over to you and grabbing you up by the chest of your tunic and holding you just of the ground, shaking you as he spoke.

"Those magic books!! I will not have any child of mine waste their life way on the stupid fantasy of being a wizard!!" He shook you more, you grabbing his forearm and struggling in his grasp.

"Daddy..." Your sister said in a sweet voice. He looked over at her, halting his assault for just a moment, "You should check under the mattress, Luth said he saw them hiding something under there a few days ago." You seethed. Luth, your sister's butler. He was a young human that enjoyed the drama your sister caused, often assisting her in getting information to use against anyone she decided to direct her wrath towards. Your father dropped you onto the floor again before tossing your mattress over. Five tomes lay bare before him, his anger erupting as he yanked you up onto your feet. As he did so the journal in your breast pocket fell to the floor with a clattering thud. He stared down at the journal, a look of horror on your face as he released his hold on you to open it. You saw the words clear as day on the page and so did your father.

I miss you too.

Your heart skipped a beat. Rolan missed you? Your father noticed the flush of your cheeks and a now shoved the journal in your face, startling you.

"Who is this!? Who are you speaking to!?" He demanded. You refused to answer. He slapped you hard in the face, "Tell me now!!" You winced and held your cheek, glaring viciously at him. You felt the similar fire burning within you from before.

"No." You spoke one simple word, defying your father. His face twisted in a fiery fury as he grabbed up your tomes as well.

"Then they burn." He said. Your sister was smiling evilly at you as she skipped off, following your father out of your room.. Horror settled onto your face once more as you ran after your father as he left, stomping down the stairs and towards the fireplace in the front room of the manor. It roared with a hungry flame as Duncan began to toss the tomes into it, them crackling and being engulfed by the heat.

"Please stop, don't do this!!" You begged him, trying to claw the tomes out of his arms. He shoved you away, tossing another one into the hearth, "I'm begging you!!" The commotion drew a lot of attention, servants both upstairs and downstairs watching from afar. Amnon, Callista, and Spark had entered the dining room, peering out of the doorway. Spark made a move to confront your father and Callista quickly pulled him back. Tears began to stream down your face as he held your journal above his head.

"I will give you one last chance to obey me." He spoke firmly as you fell to your knees. You knew even if you did tell him about Rolan you'd never get to see him again. He'd never approve of the two of you being together. A feeling of hopelessness washed over you as you fell to your knees, staring down at the cold tiled floor below you. Amnon realized what he was holding in the air, covering his mouth with his hand for just a moment.

"No." You spoke lowly. Your father took no time to throw the journal into the fire, it's orange glow reflecting off the tile and your face as you watched it be consumed by flame and ash. Your eyes narrowed as the tears began to dry on your cheeks from the heat, Duncan now stepping in front of you.

"I do this for your own good. One day you'll see that." He said before leaving you there in your misery. He yelled at the servants to get back to work as your sister skipped past you with a happy hum, following him. Your face stung in pain from the earlier slap, a reddened mark having appeared now. You watched the flames still, disassociating as the fire danced and burned before you. All of the tomes and journal were ash now, unable to be salvaged. You were disheveled from being thrown around and hit, Amnon approaching you quietly. He kneeled beside you, placing a familiar warm hand on your back and pulling you from your daze. You immediately pulled him into a hug, collapsing in his arms as he held you close, petting your head. The tears flowed once more as you cried into his shoulder, sobbing into the fabric of his vest and tunic. Callista and Spark watched from afar, sadness on their faces too.

"He's downright evil..." Spark muttered to Callista. She nodded in agreement. They watched Amnon rock you as you cried, trying to provide any sort of comfort to ease the pain.

"Let's go get that fire going... That'll at least be a pick me up for them."

Chapter Text

Rolan was working at his desk the next morning, going through paper work and correspondences with other Wizards in regards to organizing the growth of the Magic Library. The Journal of Correspondence sat nearby, him paying it no mind as he scribbled away on countless scrolls. A quiet rattling and shaking started, annoying him and pulling him out of his concentration.

"Ugh, Cal!!" He yelled for his brother, assuming it was him creating the racket before the journal beside him opened suddenly and flipped violently through it's own pages, "What in the hells?" He moved back with his chair, watching it in shock as it rattled and shook before bursting into hot flames, settling into ash a moment later. He was speechless and wide eyed, staring at the pile now settled on his desk. Rolan leaned forward slightly, studying the dusty mountain with a confused expression. His mind was racing with all possibilities as to what could have caused this. Cal entered his study a moment later in response to Rolan's yelling.

"I didn't break anything, why are you yelling for me!?" He asked, a defensive yet guilty expression on his face. Rolan narrowed his eyes at his brother with a raised brow, almost certain he did absolutely that. The younger tiefling shied away from his brother slightly, looking away from him and rubbing his neck. A heavy sigh passed Rolan's lips as his attention was directed back to the ash on his desk, his eyes narrowing once more in thought.

"I'll address what chaos you've caused this time later, assuming there isn't some sort of elemental running amuck somewhere in the tower or in Sorcerous Sundries?" He pried, his brother further shrinking in his gaze.

"Nooooo..." He elongated the word, stepping backwards towards the door, "Anyway, there's a certain someone down in the shop with a magic question..." Rolan didn't let Cal finish, rising from his seat and leaving his study in a hurry to greet who he hoped was you waiting for him. Stepping through the portal the scenery around him changed in a sudden rush, the archmage now back in his shop once more. He glanced down below, the eager expression on his face turning to one of disappointment.

"Gale, what a pleasure." He greeted the other wizard as he descended down the staircase. Gale, the auburn haired and bearded man, smiled at him.

"It does my heart good to see so many people so eager to learn the ways of the weave, you've done well for yourself here, Rolan." He complimented with a warm smile, his tone one of a proud professor speaking to a long time student. Rolan chuckled, meeting him at the front desk finally, Gale patting his arm in a friendly manner.

"I appreciate that, Gale, I almost had an aneurism organizing all of the tomes. I'm almost certain Lorroakan sorted them by colour... " Rolan rolled his eyes at the thought, Gale chuckling.

"As I said before he was known to be a bit of a cad... I'm not surprised in the least that his library was reminiscent of a child's picture book collection rather than a learned scholar." He said. Gale was a very accomplished wizard, he rarely visited Baldur's Gate due to his new, but returning, role as a professor of illusion at Blackstaff Tower in Waterdeep. Regardless of this, he often kept in contact with Rolan, interested in how Sorcerous Sundries was changing and growing ever since he took charge, "I have brought the books you requested, many of my students were more than happy to donate their old tomes to the Magic Library. I also included some of my personal favourites of course, I'm very eager to assist in spreading the love of magic throughout the realms..." Gale motioned towards a rather large crate he placed adjacent to the front desk, "They're all individually wrapped to maintain the integrity and quality of the tomes as well." Gale took pride in his attention to detail and his knowledge of the arcane arts, Rolan respecting his opinion greatly.

"Speaking of..." Rolan began, furrowing his brow, "I have a question for you, scholar to scholar." He said, Gale listening expectantly, "Do you know of the Journal of Correspondence?"

"Ah of course, a fantastic tool for not only teachers and students, but also friends and family to keep in touch with each other!" Gale smiled, waving his hands around slightly as he talked. He often spoke with his hands, most likely due to the nature of his work and his expressive manner of speaking, "I've also heard that lovers would use it as well... To keep their conversations private or to keep their relations a secret. Very intriguing and scandalous I think." Rolan pursed his lips.

"Have you ever heard of one suddenly... Bursting into flames before?" The Tiefling asked, crossing his arms over his chest in thought as his tail coiled around his ankle anxiously. Gale looked more than surprised.

"I haven't... But one could assume that if that were to happen it was likely due to the other journal succumbing to the same fate. I've heard that certain magical items cannot exist without the other once they're linked to one another." Gale rubbed his chin in thought, looking away from Rolan as he placed a hand on his hip, "This is a very specific question, I'm assuming you had one of these journals in your possession until recently?" Rolan nodded, looking away from him and towards the empty return cart.

"I've... Taken on a student of sorts. They're incredibly talented though sometimes too busy to stop by the shop." He started, looking back over to Gale, "I had given them a journal so we could maintain correspondence if they had any questions, but this morning my copy burst into flames and is currently a pile of ash on my desk." Worry settled in the pit of his stomach, Gale noticing him being a bit more tightly wound than usual. Rolan wasn't a personable individual, but he had relaxed quite a lot after settling here with his siblings.

"Then it's likely their journal met the same fate, though how is another question entirely." He explained, "Perhaps pay your student a visit, I'm sure it was a simple mishap regarding their casting. I cannot begin to count how many books and papers I incinerated when I was young!" He chuckled at the thought. Rolan smiled slightly, though the realization came over him that he had no idea where you lived or how to find you in the first place. His stomach felt like it was twisting inside him, all manner of possible catastrophe that could have occurred leaving his mind swimming. Gale heard the bell toll outside, signaling for him to take his leave, "I hate to cut our discussion short, I have plans to reunite with some old friends this evening that I must prepare for. Feel free to write me if you have any other questions, Rolan, I'll be happy and more than willing to answer them."

"Thank you, I will." Rolan replied simply, watching the wizard leave. He looked over at the crate, his expression falling slightly. There was this dread inside him when he thought of you, he wanted nothing more than to see you bound through the front doors and excitedly exclaim how much you were looking forward to studying all the new tomes. He lost himself to his thoughts for a moment, the expression on his face troubled.

"Rolan?" Cal was suddenly in front of him, startling him slightly as his brother pulled him from his daze.

"It's nothing, just figuring out the best way to store the books for now... Behind the desk somewhere most likely..." He waved his hands fluidly, enveloping the crate in a magical glow and levitating it.

"I can tell when something is bothering you, you can talk to me... And Lia." Cal said, feeling worried for his brother. Rolan sighed heavily, settling the box back down and turning towards his brother.

"It's nothing worth worrying over." He said, "Have you cleaned up your mess from earlier?" He asked, noticing the broom in his hands. Cal quickly hid it behind his back and pursed his lips, looking away from Rolan.

"Yes, it's also nothing to worry about!!" He reassured his brother with a slightly higher octave to his voice. Rolan rolled his eyes and shook his head, turning his direction back to the crate and the task at hand for now.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


You were confined to your room, absolutely beside yourself as you sat in your desk chair next to the window. You peered down at the garden outside, your eyes puffy and red from crying the night before. Your father had almost completely stripped your room with exception to your bed and the chair you currently sat in. Your clothing was hung on a wooden rack now, no way to hide any sort of paper, pens, books, anything you could use to possibly contact Rolan and let him know what had happened. You wanted to desperately to hear about his day, what Cal and Lia had gotten up to, anything. Simply talking to him was all you wanted. As your forehead pressed against the cold glass of your window your door opened, though you didn't turn around to see who it was.

"I have lunch for you." Amnon spoke to you in a gentle voice, wandering over to you and placing the plate on your bed. You said nothing to him, your attention still directed at the garden and the street of the Upper City beyond it. The walls around the city almost taunted you, a reminder that you were caged in this home. Amnon dipped his brow, staring at you for a moment, "You should eat, it'll do you good to get food in your stomach."

"I'm fine." You responded. That wasn't good enough for him, Amnon tugging you up from your chair in an attempt to encourage you. A heavy sigh passed your lips and you begrudgingly sat on your bed and forced yourself to eat. He sat with you, moral support for everything you went through. Your chin quivered slightly, the tears welling in your eyes again as you tasted the delicious food on your plate. Callista had made you a fantastic meal of steak, potatoes, and greens. Eating it felt like a warm embrace. You cleared your throat, attempting to quell your tears as one fell on your plate. Amnon stroked your back, trying to comfort you once more, "Why is this so hard..." You choked out, setting your fork down on your plate as a heaviness invaded your body. He narrowed his eyes, feeling deeply saddened for you, "What's wrong with me learning magic? What's wrong with..." You trailed off, thinking of Rolan making your heart ache.

"Absolutely nothing." Amnon assured you. The tears came once again, you being unable to hold them back as the flood gates opened.

"What if I never get to study magic again?" You sobbed, covering your face in shame, "What if..."

"You never see him again?" He asked. You couldn't get the words out yourself, thought they were equally painful to hear coming from Amnon instead. You managed a nod, looking away from him now as you wiped your face, "I don't think that will happen." He assured you, rubbing your back still. You let out a shaky sigh and curled up on your bed, your back to him.

"I'm tired..." You muttered out. Amnon frowned, looking down at your half eaten plate. He decided to take it and place it on the chair by your window, guiding you to lay more comfortably in your bed before pulling the covers over you.

"Then rest, I'll be downstairs if you need me as always." You said nothing in response, pulling the blanket up over your head as you curled up once again. A forlorn expression settled on Amnon's visage as he turned to leave you, closing the door behind him as quietly as possible. He lingered for a moment before seeing Luth approaching him.

"And how is the young master doing today?" He asked, a false tone of worry and concern in his voice. Amnon straightened himself to address him, narrowing his eyes slightly.

"Just fine given the circumstances. Now, if you'll excuse me." He made his way to pass the fair haired man, Luth smiling slightly.

"I'm sure I don't need to tell you..." He began, Amnon stopping in his tracks for a moment, his back turned to Luth still, "That whatever help you may be thinking of providing for the young master won't go undiscovered... Or unpunished." Luth was on the same level as Amnon when it came to position at the manor, though he often used Lillia as leverage to get what he wanted. Luth held his hands behind his back at turned to Amnon now, "I'd hate for you to be separated from the young master as well... Do mind yourself, won't you?"

"I appreciate the concern." Amnon answered simply, continuing his decent down the balconied walkway and to the stairs. Luth watched him the whole way, like a beast stalking it's prey. He had no particular quarrel with Amnon, he simply loved playing his games just as Lillia did.

Once he reached the servants quarters, outside the manor adjacent, he changed out of his uniform and into his common clothes. With you on punishment your father had him leave earlier in the day, to avoid any sort of conspiration between the two of you. As far as he knew no one had found out that it was him that helped you escape during your adventures through the lower city. Though, instead of going home first today, he decided to make a stop by the shop you frequented until recently. A note addressed to Rolan stay hidden in his pocket as he began his journey with quick footing, weaving through the alleys and shadows to avoid the chance of being questioned if he was seen making a diversion to his usual path. It wasn't long before he was at the doors to Sorcerous Sundries, staring at an unaware Rolan organizing the crate of tomes behind the welcome desk. The doors to the shop often remained open to invite people in and be welcoming. Amnon hesitated for a moment, unsure if his plan would actually help or only cause more turmoil. Seeing you so distraught and miserable, even if only for a day, was so painful for him. Doing this could put his job on the line as well, though he wasn't sure he cared. You were an adult now and he had been considering retiring for quite some time, but stayed instead after your father's demeanor changed drastically following the mindflayer invasion of Baldur's Gate. He took a deep breath and stepped inside the shop, approaching the desk and Rolan with a determined expression. Rolan noticed him and rose to greet him.

"Welcome to Sorcerous Sundries, we hold all sorts of-" He began, Amnon interrupting him quickly, surprising Rolan.

"I'm looking for the archmage of Ramazith's tower. I believe his name is Rolan?" He said, determined to make this quick. The longer he lingered the more he worried he'd be discovered by one of Luth's many acquaintances. Rolan furrowed his brow at Amnon's blunt and rude behavior.

"Speaking." He responded, "May I ask why you're looking for me?" Amnon felt so relieved to hear that, though after seeing Rolan for the first time he couldn't help but chuckle. Rolan bristled slightly and pursed his lips, now annoyed at the unknown tiefling he assumed was laughing at him, "If you've come to gawk for whatever reason I ask that you leave and allow me to assist someone who's here for an actual reason." He said firmly. Amnon apologized.

"I'm sorry for my rudeness, I'm in a hurry you see." He explained, "Though seeing you does explain a lot..." He couldn't help but chuckle again, thinking of you and the types of men you were usually interested in before, "I have something to give you." Rolan wasn't convinced, moving to refuse as Amnon pulled out a folded piece of paper from his trouser pocket, handing it to him, "I don't think I need to tell you what this is in reference to." Amnon looked at Rolan expectantly, the wizard raising a brow at him for a moment before a realization struck him. His eyes widened slightly as he looked at Amnon, taking the paper gingerly from him. The older tiefling turned to leave the shop now, Rolan speechless for a moment before calling after him.

"Are they alright?" He asked, the words leaving his mouth before he had an opportunity to stop them. Amnon stopped and turned to him with a warm smile.

"Open the letter when you're alone." Was all he instructed before he made his exit. Rolan stood there dumbfounded for awhile, squeezing the note slightly in between his thumb and curled index finger. Cal was nearby sweeping up around the tables, having seen the whole exchange.

"Who was that?" He asked, Rolan looking over at him as he slid the note into his trouser pocket now.

"Watch the front for me..." He turned to leave up the stairs before pausing, "Actually... Have Lia watch the front. You continue doing what you're doing." He said sternly. Cal was now the dumbfounded one, clutching his broom and staring at his brother as if to ask for an explanation, "I have business to attend to." Rolan said simply, turning from him and ascending up the stairs and through one of the portals above. Cal let out an annoyed sigh and dropped his arms to his side, his broom clattering to the floor in just as exasperated of a state as he was in.

Rolan now sat in his study, staring at the folded note for a moment, hesitating to open it. The pile of ash still loomed beside him on his desk, urging him to open it and read the paper's contents. Against his better judgement he did just that.


Upper city, 3rd manor from the east side entrance. The home with the overgrown garden. 4th window on the second floor.


Was all the note said. Rolan narrowed his eyes, leaning over his desk and resting his cheek in his palm.

"The upper city?" He muttered to himself. He was almost certain this letter pertained to you but why would you be living in the upper city and making the journey to Sorcerous Sundries on foot? None of this made sense to him, the book, the letter, the unfamiliar tiefling that came looking for him. He remembered a name you had mentioned to him in passing. Amnon.

'He's my... Dad!' Your words suddenly came back to him, his eyes widening in realization. Something wasn't adding up, but he was certain that the man that visited him was Amnon and that this was your address. He could fill in the rest of the blanks later, now he had to decide what to do with this information. He was worried about you for sure, but he couldn't exactly go barging into your home and demand to see you. He closed his eyes and furrowed his brow in frustration, tapping his foot against the rug underneath his desk. If he was to go see you he'd have to come up with some sort of excuse to tell Lia and Cal, he didn't want to deal with their questions or risk them spreading any silly rumors around the shop.

"I suppose I could tell them I have a council meeting..." He thought aloud, opening his eyes narrowly. He wasn't sure if it was his worry about your well being or the fact that he missed your presence that was driving him to see you. All that he was sure about was his want to see you again, regardless of where it stemmed from. He recalled how cryptic Amnon was being and decided it was best to delay his visit for a few days, there had to be a reason he behaved that way.

Rolan decided to tell Lia and Cal over dinner that he was going to be away on work related business for the day in three days, hoping that'd give them enough time to prepare and actually run the shop properly in his absence, "I don't want to come back to a catastrophe, I have enough on my plate as it is." He said firmly to his siblings.

"We'll run this place as tight as a ship!" Lia said confidently, Cal agreeing.

"You won't even recognize the place when you get back!" He said with a grin. Rolan let out a groan of worry and frustration.

"That's what I'm afraid of..."

Chapter Text

Today afforded you some peace as the rest of your family were summoned to the Portyr's estate. You felt more comfortable wandering the manor without them around, especially after everything that happened. A bruise formed around your cheek just under your eye from where you father hit you, though it had healed some now. It was more of a greenish hue than the reddish purple it was a few days ago. Amnon was relieved to see you in higher spirits as you joined him the library, it being a few doors down from your room upstairs.

"It's such a breath of fresh air when they're all gone." You sighed heavily in relief. Amnon agreed as he motioned for you to sit in one of the ornate, plush chairs in the center of the room. The library was a close second to the garden outside for you, the dark tones of the mahogany coloured bookshelves, the dusty smell of the parchment within the publications around you, even the lighting provided a warm and inviting glow. You relaxed into the chair with another content sigh, closing your eyes.

"Are you planning on staying in your night clothes all day?" Amnon asked, teasing you a bit. You shrugged and leaned your head back against the chair.

"I'm so tired of being stuffed into those suffocating clothes..." Part of the punishment your father had decided for you was increased studies and business meetings with him and his clients, you having no reprieve to the stuffy clothes he demanded you wear to keep up appearances, "Please don't make me change." You looked at him with a pleading expression. Amnon chuckled and shook his head, patting yours.

"I won't, don't worry." The chair creaked a bit as you shifted, laying your hands in your lap and closing your eyes once more, settling into an absent minded daydream while Amnon worked dusting and cleaning the study adjacent to the library. Rolan wandered into your mind again, you settling on the vision of practicing magic with him. The daydream changed to you, Rolan, Cal, and Lia spending time together, but you shooed it away. A tightness formed in your throat as you furrowed your brow, opening your eyes narrowly.

"I'm going to go get something to eat downstairs, do you want me to bring you anything?" You asked him. He was stacking and organizing your father's business ledgers in his desk, Amnon shaking his head in response.

"Don't worry about me, go enjoy your day of freedom." He smiled. You smiled back, leaving him alone once again and heading downstairs to the kitchen. Callista and Spark were no where to be seen, likely off doing shopping errands. It felt lonely in the kitchen, but you didn't want to be around anyone currently. You sat at the marble island in the center of the room, hunching over and covering your face with your hands, sinking into yourself as you let out hushed sobs. A loud knock echoed throughout the adjacent front room, one of the servants downstairs answering the call. You didn't pay attention to their conversation outside, folding your arms over the countertop and burying your face in them. It was likely one of your father's clients coming to look for him anyway.

"The young master of the house isn't available currently, they are unable to visit with guests without the Lord of the house." The servant responded to the unexpected guest. There was a pause in the conversation for a moment.

"They're a student of mine, can you not make an exception?" The voice said in a frustrated and worried tone. The servant eyed him suspiciously, furrowing her brow. He all but glared at her in annoyance.

"The Young Master doesn't have any tutors outside the manor, I suggest you leave before the Lord of the house returns. He doesn't take kindly to Tieflings." She didn't bare the same prejudice, it was a warning for him.

'Tieflings?' This caught your attention, you lifting your head to listen for a moment now. The man outside scoffed in a familiar tone.

"Then can you please let them know the Master of Ramazith's Tower attempted to pay them a visit? Or will your Lord have a problem with that as well?" Rolan scoffed at her. You all but leapt from where you sat, rushing out of the kitchen and to the front room, stopping in your tracks as you stared dumbfoundedly at Rolan. His eyes widened in surprise when he saw you, the servant in front of him turning and looking horrified.

"Young master, you're barely dressed!" She said, attempting to hurry over to you and pull you away. You shook your head at her, holding a hand up in an indication to stop as your gaze hadn't left his. The look of concern, confusion, and relief on his face was evident as the two of you stood there speechless. She stepped between you two and placed her hands on her hips, "Luth won't be happy to hear you're out of your room." She threatened, trying to get you to obey. An expression that Rolan hadn't seen you make before settled on your face. Anger. Your brow furrowed and you scowled at the servant in front of you.

"Personally, I don't give a fuck about Luth and his reaction to things. Go and tattle to him for all I care." You spat, surprising her as she faltered in your gaze, "Now, get out of my sight." You hissed at her between clenched teeth. She quickly made herself scarce, direction your attention to Rolan once again as the two of you stood in silence for a moment. You gestured for Rolan to step inside, him hesitantly doing so as you met him at the door, closing it behind him. He looked around the foyer with a furrowed brow, the shock of it being a bit overwhelming. You looked away from him with a guilty expression, "I'm sorry I never told you... Who I really am I mean." Rolan sighed, shaking his head and pinching the bridge of his nose in frustration, though it wasn't directed at you. Despite the circumstances the relief you felt seeing him was exponential, "I... Promise I don't talk to the keepers of the house like that normally." You flushed, embarrassed that he saw that side of you for a moment. His eyes scanned your face, noticing the bruise. He pursed his lips as a look of disapproval settled on his visage. You turned your head from him slightly in an attempt to hide it but he stopped you, taking your cheek gently in his palm and brushing his thumb over the space under your eye.

"What happened?" He asked you lowly, thinking aloud while he peered at you. You felt the tightness in your throat again, turning away from him and shielding your face. Amnon had made his way out of the library, stopping at the top of the stairs. Rolan noticed him, dipping his brow slightly. Amnon flashed him a reassuring smile and a nod before making himself scarce, giving you two some privacy. Rolan placed a hand on your shoulder, "Please talk to me." He requested, seeing the injuries on your face reminding him of his time under Lorroakan. If anyone was to know how you were feeling in that moment it was him, though you denied him with a shake of your head.

"I'd rather talk about anything else, truthfully." You said, your voice wavering as you swallowed back tears, "Will you come with me into the kitchen? We're less likely to be bothered there." You said, still not facing him out of a shame.

"Absolutely." He followed you to the nearby kitchen, you closing and locking the door to the dining room and the foyer shortly after. The last thing you wanted was anyone else to see him there and tell your family. You took solace in the fact that the servants entrance was a quick getaway for him if it called for that. You turned to him once more, seeing him again being overwhelming for you as tears welled in your eyes again.

"Gods dammit..." You huffed, wiping them away with a frustrated expression, "I'm sorry you have to see me in such a state." Rolan shook his head.

"Believe me when I say I've seen people in much worse states than this, I'm just relieved to see you're alright... Physically." He specified. You let out a quick chuckle though the tears kept flowing, still attempting to shield your face from him.

"Well I don't want you to see me like this..." You choked out, your frustration only growing, "I hate this, I wanted to see you so badly and this is how I react? I'm so tired of feeling this way..." You confessed with an annoyed groan and soft sob. Rolan let out a sigh but couldn't help but smile slightly at your words.

"Eager to continue our lessons?" He asked, knowing that isn't what you meant. You shook your head and moved closer to him, burying your face in his shoulder with a shaky sigh. He wrapped an arm around your shoulder comfortingly and allowed you to sob into him for a moment, "I do hope you'll be able to cover my dry cleaning if you soil my robes." He tried to make light of the situation, though spoke to you in a soft voice. He heard you chuckle slightly, the reaction he wanted from you. His hand rubbed your shoulder idly, feeling his claws brush against you through your night shirt occasionally.

"I don't want you to go..." You admitted, wrapping your arms around him now and squeezing the back of his robes. Your words cut through him like a knife, seeing you so pitiful and begging wrenched his heart.

"I'm not leaving..." He answered, his other hand rubbing your forearm now. You shook your head and shuddered slightly.

"You'll have to eventually..." You blinked away the last few tears and now rested your cheek against his shoulder, closing your eyes and settling against him. He smelled like Sorcerous Sundries, old books and the slight hint of a bourbon-y cologne. He brought his hand up to brush away the tears staining your cheek.

"Let's appreciate the moment as it is for now... That's something I've learned to do as of late." He still spoke to you in a soft and dulcet tone, the lull of his voice calming you.

"Will you tell me about Cal and Lia?" You asked, one of your hands now caressing his lower back. He chuckled, swaying with you slightly now.

"Why you want to hear about those two is beyond me, but alright." He teased you sweetly, "Well Cal of course still makes it a habit to break anything he touches, though at least he isn't freeing anything dangerous any more... As far as I know." Rolan recounted the past week to you, the stories he told you making you laugh and smile.

"I'm so happy you came today..." You said, pulling away only slightly and resting your hands on his waist, "It was a very pleasant surprise." Rolan smiled softly at you before realizing the position the two of you were in. He was far more concerned with comforting you than noticing how flush your bodies were against each other. He moved to put some distance between the two of you but you stopped him, squeezing his waist for a moment, "If it's alright with you... I'd like to stay like this for now." You requested, a light flush to your cheeks from your earlier tears. Rolan let out a heavy sigh, composing himself and allowing it.

"This isn't exactly a proper display for a teacher and student..." He voiced his concerns, making your brow dip in disappointment.

"Is that all I am to you?" You asked him, your question catching him off guard as he struggled to reply.

"No! No you're-..." He gathered his thoughts, "You're a very dear friend to me as well." Rolan responded, the disappointment evident on your face. You let out a soft chuckle, feeling like a fool as you pulled away from him.

"You're a dear friend to me as well." There was a sadness in your tone, Rolan looking at you quizzically as the warmth from your body left him feeling colder than before. You heard someone at the front door, the familiar voice of your father softly echoing behind the kitchen door, "You have to go, through the servant's entrance." You instructed, urging him through the door, Rolan having no time to ask the many questions he had, "There's a back way that you can leave through, try not to be seen." You closed the door and hurried back up to your room using the servant's path up to the second floor. Rolan stood outside your manor now, a bit dumbfounded. He followed your instructions, safely finding himself back on the streets of the Upper City and beginning his long trek back to Sorcerous Sundries. Cal and Lia were at the front, surprised to see him back so soon.

"You're back early." Lia commented as she handed Cal a stack of tomes to organize. Her brother grunted at the weight in his arms and trudged off to the opposite end of the shop. Rolan was relieved to see the shop completely unscathed.

"The council meeting didn't last as long as I originally expected." Lia rose a brow at him, narrowing her eyes.

"You told us you were off on work related business, not a council meeting." She caught him, Rolan cursing himself internally, "Where were you really?" He rolled his eyes in frustration to his sister's prying.

"Why does it matter?" He huffed, Lia placing her hands on her hips and rolling her eyes back at him.

"Fine, whatever. I don't have the energy to deal with your attitude today." She snapped at him, turning her attention back to her work.

"My attitude?" He rose a brow, glowering at Lia. She shook her head, choosing not to respond to him which only aggravated him further, "Fine! I'll just go up to my study then since clearly I'm inconveniencing you two by being here." He scoffed, Lia looking up at him with narrow eyes.

"Yeah you go do that." She said, turning her back to him. Rolan turned her nose up at her defiantly and marched off up the stairs and into his office. He sat at his desk, placing his head in his hand and trying to concentrate on his work. Your words raced around in his mind again, unsure of what you could have meant when you asked him that.

Is that all I am to you?

"Why is nothing easy in this gods forsaken city?"

Chapter Text

A longing feeling settled within you when you woke the next day, the chill of Rolan's absence still lingering. Amnon had informed you that the Portyrs would be around again today and that your Father had arranged a private meeting for you and Harrison, which was as horrible as you thought it was going to be. Harrison was a braggart and very full of himself, the entire conversation either being about him, his exploits, or the fanciful foods and wines he'd had the privilege of imbibing in. On top of being stuffed into your usual and uncomfortable outfit the day could only drag on and on. Every word out of Harrison's mouth sounded like nails on a chalkboard; your Father and his parents watched eagerly from a distance which seemed very strange to you. You noticed Duchess Camille give a look and a nod to her son, Harrison clearing his throat and taking your hand in his. You fought a scowl on your face, trying to be polite.

"I must say you do look absolutely charming today." He complimented, leaning down to place a chaste kiss on your knuckles. You yanked your hand away quickly, though remained poised.

"How kind of you to say, should we not continue our tour of the garden?" You desperately wanted to change the subject, especially after it involved his lips anywhere near you. He narrowed his eyes slightly, finding your denial irritating while straightening his posture and offering you his arm. You refused it, your eyes wandering over to your father who shot you a glare. Despite the daggers he stared at you, you refused to give in. Amnon was serving the family, insisting on doing so to keep an eye on the two of you. Or to save you from the dukes son should the need arise. Harrison went to say something else to you before he noticed the sky growing dark with heavy rain clouds, the pitter patter of heavy water drops following a moment later. He quickly hurried over to the covered patio where your families sat. You lingered for a moment, both to further annoy your father and enjoy the feeling of the rain on your skin. Camille chuckled at your behavior.

"They're very free spirited!" She said, finding your mannerisms charming. Duncan chuckled nervously as he watched you in the rain, irritation bubbling in his blood. He pulled Amnon to the side and directed him to retrieve you, him doing so reluctantly. You took his arm in your own as he lead you over to everyone, your clothing now damp and soiled from the rain. Your father sighed heavily at you.

"Go take them upstairs and have them change." He ordered, your mother looking disgusted at your behavior. Harrison was equally disgusted, pulling away to avoid touching you and chance ruining his own clothes in the process. Amnon guided you upstairs without another word, your parents speaking amongst the Portyrs in your absence.

"Oh I do like them, dear, I think they will be such a perfect addition to our family." Duchess Camille said to Duke Leopold. He nodded in approval, taking a sip from his wine filled goblet.

"I'm looking forward to renewing our trade partners, Duncan. Our deal will definitely be a very lucrative one on all accounts." He addressed your father with a grin. Harrison looked dejected and annoyed, crossing his arms over his chest with a heavy sigh, earning a look from his father, "Despite my son's opinions on the matter." The rain pounded the ground outside, it slowly beginning to drown out their voices. Your father recommended they head inside, seeing as Callista was likely close to finishing dinner for the seven of you.

"Do I really have to do this? They're cute and all but I'd prefer to have my freedoms, father." Harrison complained, following everyone inside to the foyer, settling in front of the fireplace on the warmed, plush sofas.

"Oh you'll still have your freedoms, don't worry." He spoke to his son so his wife couldn't hear, "Besides, if you grow bored you can pay a visit to one of the many festhalls... Or take on a mistress." He nudged his side with a grin, Harrison's attitude renewing slightly at the suggestion.

"You know me so well, father!" He chuckled, a maid handing Harrison a towel to wipe off what little rain speckled his hair and clothes. Leopold smiled knowingly at this son with a raised brow before turning back to idle conversation with your family, your sister now making an appearance and sitting beside Duncan.

Upstairs, Amnon waited for you as you changed your clothing with an glower.

"It'll be over soon, no need to pull such a face." He chuckled at you, the door closed behind him. You threw your head back like a child and stared at him with shock on your face.

"Are you serious right now?" A huff passed your lips, "Besides, if I don't pull a face in private I'll definitely do it during dinner." You pulled your arm through the sleeves of your overcoat, clasping it shut with another groan, "Ugh why do these clothes have to have so many layers..."

"Lord Harrison is an interesting character." Amnon commented, rolling his eyes a bit himself now. You shuddered at the thought of him, your hand feeling dirty from where he kissed it.

"I feel like I need to have a hot shower after being near him for so long, he's disgusting." A sneer upturned your lips slightly, "Gods do I wish to be free of this place." Amnon nodded in acknowledgement as you finished clasping shut the rest of your outfit.

"You will be one day, this won't be forever." You looked sad for a moment, staring at him. Your mouth opened to say something but decided against it, opening your bedroom door and descending to the foyer without Amnon in tow. Once you joined everyone your father directed the group over to the nearby dining room. Harrison sat down across from you, his parents sitting to the left and right of your father Duncan. You were beside your sister on the right, Harrison and you both being situated at the end of the table while your mother sat beside his father. Your sister was next to Camille, the Duchess leaning back slightly to address you quietly.

"It has been so good getting to know you, you are such a unique person." She complimented you, "I mean that in the best way of course." You smiled politely at her as the food was brought out. Callista had made small game hens for everyone, the poultry resting on a bed of deliciously creamy looking potatoes and surrounded by carrots of orange, purples, and yellows. You sighed blissfully at the plate, everything looking absolutely exquisite to you though Harrison poked and prodded at the carrots in a picky manner. God he annoyed you. Your father continued to speak business with the Duke as you ate, your sister trying her best to get Harrison's attention instead though he paid her no mind. The food was such a welcome reprieve to the day, the warmth and flavors sending you into comforting bliss.

"The marriage will of course have to be in the summer, we can import all sorts of decorations and wines for the occasion." The duke said to Duncan, your father agreeing with a large smile.

"Oh of course! I'll be sure to contact the local tailors to handle the garments, we have a few in mind already." He responded. You didn't pay any attention to their conversation, assuming it had nothing to do with you. Camille addressed you once again.

"What are your favourite colours, dear?" She asked with a kind smile. Her question threw you, not sure why that was relevant. A harrowing theory entered your mind as your fork and knife halted on the plate, your eyes widening slightly before looking over at Harrison. He smirked at you knowingly.

"Father." You cleared your throat, trying to steel your nerves, "Who's wedding is this exactly?" Camille was surprised at your question.

"It's yours, dear. Yours and Harrison's." She explained, glancing over at her husband and then to your father, "Did no one tell you, darling?" Your heart thudded in your ears, anxiety growing in your chest as you found it hard to breath for a moment.

"What?" Was all you managed, your father immediately trying to smooth the situation over.

"I assure you they're just as eager and willing, they enjoy Harrison so much already!" He smiled at the duke, Leopold chuckling at him and brushing your father's anxieties away.

"Oh don't worry, Duncan, arranged marriages aren't new to my family. It's always a shock at first but things always level out, you'll see." He addressed you now. You scoffed, unable to hide your true feelings now.

"Do I not have a say in this?" You spoke up, your father fighting the urge to glower.

"It's for the good of both our families and our business, you'll grow to appreciate this arrangement." He explained, Camille still in shock at hearing what her husband had said in response.

"No, I refuse." You shook your head, placing your fork and knife down on the table and taking a hefty swig from your wine glass, spilling some on your overcoat and staining it red. Harrison was disgusted at your manners once again, grimacing at you.

"Ugh, can you at least behave in a way that's befitting of an heir?" He sucked his teeth at you.

"Sure." You slammed your glass down on the table, glaring at him, "If you stop behaving like a spoiled pig." Your sister was eating up this outburst, watching you in amazement as your father fumed near by.

"That's enough now!" He finally chimed in, though you continued.

"I don't know of anyone that would want to marry someone like you!" You snapped at Harrison, him glaring at you before looking over at his mother then father for some semblance of defense.

"I will not allow you to insult my son like this!" Duke Leopold spoke firmly, his face twisted in anger, "You best silence yourself now, before you'll say something you'll regret." You rose from your seat, taking a breath and brushing off your clothing.

"I'm excusing myself from this gathering." You said simply, starting towards the door. Your father rose now, grabbing your bicep firmly and speaking to you through clenched teeth.

"Sit down." He demanded. You got close to his face, sneering at him back.

Fuck you." You yanked your arm from him, storming off and leaving him there in silence. Duke Leopold cleared his throat, your father turning to him to apologize.

"Excuse me for just a moment, I'll go and speak with them. I'm sure they're just in shock." He explained. The Duke rose a brow at him, pursing his lips.

"You go do that." He responded, taking a drink and closing his eyes. Your sister followed your father out as well as Amnon. He had found you first in the upstairs library, you leaning against one of the many windows inside to stare out at the rain pounding against the streets. Amnon sighed in relief, approaching you. You glanced over at him with a glare, half expecting your father but quickly breathing a heavy sigh once you realized it wasn't.

"I know that was stupid of me, you don't have to say anything." Amnon shook his head and rubbed your upper arm, looking out into the darkening night with you now. A moment later your father burst into the library, that same rage from before on his face as Amnon moved to step between the two of you. Your sister followed him in, closing the door quietly behind her.

"Get out of my way, devil." He spat at Amnon, though he refused. You stepped out from behind him, facing your father despite your fear of him. One thing you'd never do was give in to it, you refused to let him control you anymore after hearing what you heard at the dinner table, "Why do you insist on being so ungrateful of everything I do for you?! For this family!?" He shouted at you.

"Everything you do is for yourself, don't pretend to care about us." You stared him down, your words steadier than you felt in the moment, "You are not my father and never were." He looked shocked at your words, his eyes flashing over to Amnon behind you.

~*~*~*~*~*~ TW Violence Ahead ~*~*~*~*~*~

"You think this foul blood cares about you? You're a paycheck to him." He laughed at you, grabbing you by your forearm and pulling you towards the door and away from Amnon. You snapped your arm away again with barred teeth. He backhanded you, but you stayed steady. Amnon attempted to intervene but you stopped him. You felt a fire boiling within you again, the hairs on your body standing on end as lightning flashed for a moment outside. The air tingled with electricity as he scoffed at you, "What, have nothing to say now? Are you done being a defiant child?"

"As long as I am in this house there won't be a day that goes by that I won't fight you. I will not be a pawn in your pissant little game." You spat at him. Your sister started to look a bit nervous, backing away from the two of you slightly and towards the door. The lightning outside flashed again as Amnon took notice of the static in the air, but chose to say nothing. Your father grabbed you up quickly, slamming you up against the near by wall and holding you slightly above him. You winced and grabbed at his shirt as well, balling it in your fist as you grasped his forearm with your other hand.

"I gave you everything you could have ever wanted!! And you repay me like this?" You managed to knee him in the stomach, him releasing you with a cough as he stumbled back slightly.

"Why would I ever want this!? To be married off!? Disposed of!?" You shouted, the weave around you flowing erratically in tune with your growing, intense emotions, "Sold off like cattle?!" Your father was on you again, this time punching you hard in the face. Amnon grabbed his arm in an attempt to stop him, but was quickly shoved against a nearby table. The rage in you peaked as you let out a yell of anger, grabbing your fathers face and sending a shock wave of painful electricity through his body. He fell to his knees, his teeth clenched as his body tensed from the lightning shooting through his nerves. The surprise you felt was short lived, unable to process what happened fully before Duncan grabbed at your ankle and yanked you to the ground with a loud thud, winding you. Gasps wracked your body before you felt strong hands wrap around your throat, your gasps giving way to chokes as your father's grip tightened.

"If you so badly wish to leave this family..." He huffed out, still reeling from your attack, "Then do so!" You clawed at his arms, face, and hands, attempting to free yourself as panic set in. Your sister was horrified at your father now, this being all too much for her. She clenched her teeth, her hands shaking as she watched your eyes flutter, fighting to stay conscious as your pulse thudded in your head and ears.

"Daddy, stop!!" She screamed, trying to yank him off of you. He was blinded by rage, but Amnon managed to grab him by the collar and throw him off you. A sharp gasp filled your lungs with much needed air as you held your throat, coughing and gagging.

~*~*~*~*~*~ End Violence ~*~*~*~*~*~*~

"Go! Now!!" Amnon demanded of you, Duncan groaning on the floor as he attempted to climb to his feet. You were conflicted, looking to Amnon, then back down at your father.

"I can't..." Your voice was raspy, "I can't leave you here..." Amnon pulled you to your feet and shoved you out of the door. Surprisingly your sister followed his lead, shoving you as well until you gave in and ran out of the manor. Amnon turned to your father, your sister at his side as he watched him breathing heavily on the floor.

"You are a disgrace." He said, venom in his tone as he shrugged off his uniform coat, tossing it at him, "I hope you realize what you've done here." Lillia pursed her lips, staring at Duncan in shame, turning from him as Amnon left his presence. Your mother had come upstairs to see what the noise was, Amnon stopping in front of her with a glare, "I quit."

You ran as fast as your feet would carry you, stumbling and slipping a few times on jagged rocks and puddles from the heavy rain. It took no time at all for you to be completely soaked by the downpour. Before you knew it you were in the Lower City, stopping at the gate entrance for a moment to catch your breath, coughing harshly, your throat burning still. Despite your injuries you were free, a sense of relief overcoming you before stumbling back into a run.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

"I've had enough of this!" Lia shouted at Rolan, throwing her arms up in the air, "You're just as bad as when we were traveling to Baldur's Gate!!" Rolan scoffed at her and pointed an accusing finger at Lia.

"I actually have responsibilities that, I don't know, allow us to continue living in this gods forsaken tower!" He shouted back at her. Cal had his head in his hands, frustrated at the two for carrying on like this. The three of them were in the family room that evening, Rolan and Lia having butted heads all day over anything and everything.

"Why are you two fighting now?" Cal asked, exhausted by all of this. Rolan and Lia both turned to him and glared.

"Because she's a bullheaded, nosy-" Rolan started, Cal interrupting him.

"I need a REAL reason for a change!" He shouted back for once, uncharacteristically. Rolan and Lia were shocked to say the least, "I don't want us to start fighting again... I'd like to leave all of that behind... Please." He pleaded with his siblings. Rolan and Lia now felt guilty, glancing at one another and begrudgingly apologizing.

"You are more wound tight today, at least tell us why." Lia asked of him, sitting beside Cal on the velvet settee. Rolan sighed heavily, looking away in thought, a hand on his hip. He admitted to his siblings where he really was the other day, how he saw you and the state that you were in. Lia and Cal listened with worried expressions as Rolan continued.

"Seeing them like that... The bruises on their face..." He recalled, furrowing his brow and pursing his lips, "It reminded me of things that are better left forgotten." Lia sighed, furrowing her brow slightly as well now.

"Why don't they just leave? Certainly there isn't some force keeping them there is there?" She asked him. Rolan covered his face with his hand and groaned in frustration.

"Obviously... Hells I should have just taken them back with me." He was annoyed with himself for not thinking of that originally, "Though I'm not sure they'd want to, they seemed oddly disappointed when we last spoke." Cal and Lia looked at each other with raised brows of suspicion before Cal chimed in.

"What exactly did they say that makes you think that?" He asked.

"Well they-" He stopped himself, growing a bit flustered at the memory of your closeness, clearing his throat, "I had referred to them as my student and they had asked if that was all I saw them as, so of course I said they were a dear friend as well." He explained matter-of-factly, "It was such an out of place question, is that not obvious?" Lia stared at her brother, her mouth slightly agape as Cal's face fell into his hands in exasperation.

"Rolan." He groaned out in frustration.

"What?" He responded, looking at his siblings with an annoyed yet confused expression.

"How are you so smart yet so stupid all at the same time?" Lia asked her brother, squinting at him. Rolan squinted right back at her, not understanding why she was saying this, "Rolan... Let's use our brain for a moment and think about all the actual reasons they'd be disappointed by what you said." She said, Cal sliding his hands down his face as he rose his head once again with another groan.

"Lia, I'm positive they could throw themselves at him at this point and he'd still not get the message." Rolan picked up what they were implying now, rolling his eyes and shaking his head.

"Oh please, they have no reason to feel that way about me." He huffed, his brow tightly knit together.

"Didn't they kiss you at the tavern party?" Lia questioned, still squinting at him.

"I attribute that to the ale, Lia." Rolan still trying to stamp out the idea, "Besides, it was very chaste, nothing to get worked up over."

"Fine! Let's change the question then!" Lia was getting annoyed at him now, "Do you like them, Rolan?" He faltered, looking away from his sister as a deep red dusted his cheeks.

"I hardly think that's important." He avoided the question.

"Hells you are the most stubborn, emotionally constipated person I have ever met." She massaged her temples, extremely frustrated with her brother, "Just go do something to get them out of the situation they're in. Can't you use your position to leverage that or something?" She gave him an idea with that question, Rolan cursing himself for not thinking of it sooner.

"I could take them on as my apprentice, then they'd be contractually obligated to stay in the tower with us as part of their continued study!" He said as if the answer was obvious, "Gods why didn't I think of that before?" Lia gestured to him in an aggravated manner, rolling her eyes.

"Because you're you." She answered his rhetorical question. He shot a glare in her direction and chose not to respond to her comment for once.

"I'll get the paper work drafted up tonight and go collect them in the morning, do you two mind getting a room readied for them in the interim?" He asked of his siblings, them agreeing without complaint. Cal pulled Lia out of the living room with him as he left, seeing on her face she wanted to spit more venom at their brother and not allowing her to spark another heated yelling session. Rolan lingered for a moment, lost in his own thoughts before his feet carried him over to the balcony door, opening it carefully and stepping out onto the circular wrapped porch outside. Each level of Ramazith's Tower had these balconies, making for quite a fantastic view of the city despite weather or time of day. He hunched over the railing, staring out into the dark, rainy night before him. Rolan suddenly heard Lia shouting out in the hall, going to see what the fuss was with an annoyed groan.

"Who is pounding on the front door at this time of night?!" She spat out, motioning towards the portal to Sorcerous Sundries as an annoying but dull thudding echoed from it. Rolan sighed heavily and took the matter into his own hands, directing his siblings to continue preparing your room. Once he entered the portal the incessant knocking echoed loudly around him, rolling his eyes in frustration as he made his way down the stairs. He flung open the door, prepared to tell off the person behind it before he saw you collapse into the shop before him, gasping for air and coughing. His eyes widened as he took in your disheveled state, moving to his knees to help you up.

"Hells, what happened to you?!" He asked, noticing the fingermarks on your neck and the marks on your face. You shook your head, unable to stand despite his help. Rolan moved you onto your butt and scooped his arms up under your knees, attempting to lift you on his own though to no avail, "Ugh, godsdammit-Cal!! Lia!!" He called for his siblings. They were at the top of the stairs a moment later, Lia rushing down after seeing you.

"Zurgan, what happened to them?!" She asked her brother, him brushing her question off for now.

"Just help me carry them!" He said desperately, Lia having Rolan position you on her back and carrying you with ease. He was frustrated by that sight, but cared more about your wellbeing in the moment than his own pride, "By any stroke of luck is there room ready?" He asked Cal, him meeting the three of you at the bottom of the stairs. He shook his head, "They can have my room then, I'll stay in my study." You were slumped over Lia's shoulders, her arms wrapped under both of your legs as she hauled you back up to the portal and to Rolan's room at the tower. Rolan instructed her to bring you to the bathroom, setting you inside the shower as he began to peel off your wet clothes, "Go get them some warm clothes from the laundry." Cal nodded and hurried off, Lia helping Rolan with your clothes, holding you steady. You let out a groan of pain.

"I always thought..." You huffed out, your eyes screwed shut for a moment before they opened, lidded and heavy, "You'd take me on a... Date first before stripping me." You joked, wheezing a bit. Rolan looked aghast, rolling his eyes in annoyance and shaking his head.

"That's the first thing you say to me after coming here in such a state?" He chided, extremely worried about you. Lia's brow dipped as she lifted you up so Rolan could remove the rest of your clothing.

"Sorry..." You muttered out, your head leaning back against Lia's shoulder as it felt heavy on your own, closing your eyes.

"I suppose it's some relief... If you can joke at least it isn't as serious as it seems." He sighed out heavily, Lia and him hoisting you over to the claw foot tub adjacent to the shower. Rolan rolled up his sleeves before turning on the faucet, warm, steamy water caressing your limbs as you sighed in relief, "I can take it from here." He spoke to Lia, though she hesitated to leave. She was also concerned for your wellbeing, but you flashed her a lazy smile.

"I'll be okay." You reassured her. Lia sighed heavily and nodded.

"I'll make sure Cal picks out something comfortable for you." She left the two of you alone in Rolan's bathroom, the wizard before you now sorting through the soaps stored on the nearby wall.

"Rolan..." You called to him, the water soothing your tired aches as you settled into it. He turned to you, furrowing his brow, "Are you angry with me?"

"What-No, what a ridiculous question." He responded quickly, foaming a wash cloth up with soap as he began to was the mud off you, careful of your injuries, "Will you tell me what happened now?" He asked, washing away the small amount of blood off your face and mouth from where your father struck you.

"Amnon told me to run... So I ran away from that place." You said cryptically, your eyes remaining closed. Rolan further pressed you.

"And the injuries?" He asked.

"My father." You responded, smiling a bit, "I shocked him though." Rolan thought you meant 'surprised' initially until you elaborated, "I don't know how I did it, but I grabbed his face and shocked him..." You droned off, his brow raising curiously.

"With electricity?" He asked you. You nodded, swallowing hard for a moment as the ache in your throat returned periodically.

"I felt it... In my hands... All around me." Your eyes opened, sitting up though Rolan urged you not to, "Does that happen to you too?" You asked, Rolan taking the opportunity to scrub your bruised back.

"No." He responded, "It took me ages to perfect thunder wave let alone shocking grasp initially." His lips pursed in thought, "Congratulations, you're a sorcerer."

"A sorcerer?" You repeated, looking back at him. You were more awake now, Rolan sitting back on his haunches with a heavy sigh.

"Yes, it explains why everything came so naturally to you." He explained, "Though your control of the weave is still commendable regardless, I'd be honored to help hone that skill... If you'd like to become my apprentice here at the tower."

"Your apprentice?" Excitement overwhelmed you as you turned towards him quickly, wincing a bit in pain. You almost splashed him with water, Rolan moving back just in time with a mildly annoyed expression. He calmed himself with a heavy sigh, finding your question endearing.

"Yes, you'd stay in the tower here with us, I was drafting up the paperwork to deliver to your family earlier." He said, "If that would be agreeable to you of course." Cal knocked on the door to the bathroom. He entered a moment later, covering his eyes and stumbling around with clothes for you.

"Where should I put these? Do they have a towel on, can I look?" He asked, Rolan rolling his eyes and meeting his brother to take the outfit.

"Help me get them out of the tub." He requested, Cal immediately floundering at the thought. You managed to get out on your own, your legs sufficiently less jelly like as you began to dry off with a towel.

"I'll be fine to walk on my own now." You said, wrapping a towel around yourself so Cal could uncover his eyes. Rolan handed you the clothing his brother picked out, a comfortable night tunic. As you pulled it over your head you let out a content sigh, the feeling of the soft cotton fabric incredibly soothing. Rolan helped you over to his bed, Cal making his way out of his brothers room to give you some privacy. You laid back against his plush pillows and were enveloped in his scent, closing your eyes with a relaxed sigh as he pulled his blankets over you.

"So? What do you say?" He asked you almost nervously, "Cal and Lia are preparing a room for you down the hall." You smiled warmly back at him.

"I'd love to be your apprentice, thank you, Rolan." He matched your smile, sighing in relief to know you'd be safe now. Whether or not you remained permanently at the tower didn't matter to him currently, but in the moment he was happy to have you. Once you were settled in his bed Rolan turned to let you rest. You grabbed his wrist, stopping him as he turned back to you, "Will you stay?" Your expression was pitiful, Rolan sighing and grabbing his nearby desk chair and pulling it beside his bed.

"Until you fall asleep." He said simply, settling beside you. You felt sheepish and vulnerable, the events of the day weighing on you.

"Will you hold my hand?" You asked him softly. Normally he'd protest but he gave in to you this time, taking your hand in his. Your fingers laced together, pulling his hand close to you as your eyes closed and your brow furrowed. He could feel you trembling slightly, Rolan leaning towards you and petting your head to soothe you. A soft sigh escaped you as you nuzzled his pillow slightly, enjoying his touch. He had so many questions for you, but decided not to pry and allow you to tell him in your own time. He'd be sure to tell his siblings to do the same as well. Between his caress and the comfort of his bed you succumbed to sleep quickly, your grip on his hand loosening. A soft chuckle came from him as he continued to pet your head, watching you sleep for a moment. His fingertips brushed against your cheek, a growing fondness for you making it impossible for him to ignore or dismiss. He cautiously leaned forward, afraid to wake you and hesitant of his own emotions. A gentle kiss met your temple, Rolan lingering for a moment and nuzzling into you slightly. The clink of a dish sounded next to him, Lia placing a saucer and teacup down with a soothing tea inside. Rolan startled at the sudden presence in his room, but didn't want to wake you. He glanced over at his sister nervously, furrowing his brow and flushing a deep crimson. She said nothing, instead smiling warmly at him and patting his back before leaving him alone with you once more. Despite the inevitable teasing he'd receive from it, he decided to stay with you for the night, settling beside you and folding his free arm on the edge of his bed. He laid his head down and closed his eyes with a sigh.

"Sleep well..."