Part 4
“Soo, I invited my mother over,” Taash stated. Kaya looked up from her sword, tilting her head at the qunari.
“Okay?”
“Can you…I don’t know, now I feel stupid.”
“Taash, I’m happy to help you with whatever you need.”
Taash sighed and their shoulders sagged. “Can you come and be my support. I was going to ask Lace, but she’s with Bellara and Davrin looking for those Veil Jumpers.”
“I’d be happy to join. When is she getting here?”
“Any minute now,” Taash answered. Kaya placed her sword on the weapon rack before placing her wet stone down.
“Do you need me to get anything ready?”
“No. I got it all, I just need you there,” Taash spoke. Kaya smiled and patted the qunari’s shoulder.
“Let’s go then!” Kaya beamed. Taash returned her smile and they went to retrieve their mother while Kaya went to the kitchen. She was glad that Taash trusted her enough to eat with their mother again. The last time she went, it was awkward. Hopefully, this time would be different. She opened the kitchen door and saw that the table was already set. Maybe Lucanis was here too. He’d be in the pantry, listening in on their conversation. The door opened and Kaya turned to greet the qunaris.
“This is where we eat,” Taash explained.
“I see,” Shathann hummed in an unimpressed manner. Her eyes landed on Kaya and she inclined her head.
“Shathaan. It’s good to see you again,” Kaya respectfully spoke. The older qunari walked to the table, sitting where she chose.
“My child wished to show me where she now lived,” Shathaan drawled. Kaya scowled at the use of ‘her’. That wasn’t who Taash was. Her friend shook their head and Kaya took a breath. They’d tell her. That’s what she was here for.
“I made food,” Taash stated. They walked by her and patted her shoulder before heading to grab the food. She took a seat at her usual spot and Taash returned with a platter of meat and cheese. It looked good. Shathaan didn’t seem amused. “Here. Armada Special. It’s what the pirates eat when they come to port.”
“This is too rich for me. Perhaps you could prepare some vegetables,” Shathaan suggested. Taash had an unsure look on their face but nodded and headed to grab some vegetables. Once they were gone, the older qunari turned her attention to Kaya. “A few weeks in your company, and my child has lost what little civility she had. This is what I face for removing her from the Qun.”
“Taash is making a life here with us and wanted to share that with you.”
“So I can see how happy my child is to have abandoned the ways of our people?”
“You’re the one who brought Taash to Rivain, and to my team for that matter. If it’s not what you wanted…”
Shathaan held up her hand to her. “I have failed. Yes. I was never taught how to be a mother. Under the Qun, children are raised by those suited to such pursuits. I trained as a scholar. I was taught to think critically, to analyze without passion, and correct mistakes. You need not tell me that I am an inadequate mother. I am aware.”
“That’s not what I’m saying,” Kaya huffed, crossing her arms. She was thinking it, but she wasn’t going to say that to the older qunari’s face. Taash returned with vegetables and placed the plate before their mother. They took a seat with a grunt and then looked at Shathaan.
“So, I’m non-binary.”
“What does that mean?”
“It means that I don’t feel like a man or a woman.”
“If you are neither a man nor a woman, then what are you?”
“Non-binary. I just said. And I’m going to use ‘they’ instead of ‘she’ from now on.”
“If this is because I have criticized your dress or manners…”
“It isn’t,” Taash snapped. They lowered their gaze and Kaya wanted to wrap her arms around her friend. Shathaan sighed and leaned back in her chair.
“Under the Qun, the term for one whose gender does not match the one given to them at birth was ‘aqun-athlok’. Perhaps you are like that.”
“Why do you have to keep picking at it? Why can’t you just be happy for me?”
“Evataash, shokra toh ebra.”
“So I’m supposed to struggle with who I am?! Even if I don’t feel like it? Even if I feel wrong?!”
“No, you misunderstood—”
“Then say it better. Why am I never enough for you,” Taash sadly spoke. Kaya reached across the table and placed her hand on Taash’s shoulder, giving it a light squeeze.
“I will go. Thank you for inviting me to your home. Panahedan,” Shathaan sighed. She stood and left, leaving them in silence.
“Your mother is wrong. You shouldn’t have to struggle with who you are,” Kaya angrily stated. Taash gave her a small smile.
“It’s okay. I’m not hiding anymore. How she takes it is her problem,” Taash assured.
“Taash…” Kaya sadly spoke. Taash reached out, ruffling her hair.
“I’m fine. Promise. Let’s just eat. Don’t let food go to waste,” Taash smiled. Kaya hated that Taash pushed their feelings down. It wasn’t fair to them. If Shathaan couldn’t see how amazing they were, then she was a fool. Kaya picked up her water and went to drink it when Taash spoke again. “So, how’re you and Neve?”
Kaya choked on her water and coughed, trying to catch her breath. Taash chuckled and patted her back. “Y-you—"
“Didn’t mean to make you choke,” Taash grinned. Kaya flipped them off, earning a snort in return.
“You and Bellara are so nosey.”
“I mean, I can smell you when you’re around her,” Taash smirked. Kaya blushed and buried her face in her hands. Stupid dragon smelling. “Neve smells the same, by the way.”
“Nope! Don’t need to hear that!”
“Ah, come on! Make a move already! She obviously likes you!”
“Why are you so involved in my love life?”
“Neve has Bellara as a sister and well, I know Davrin thinks of you as his little sister I sort of think of you as my little sister as well. So, I’m interested in your wellbeing.”
Kaya peeked through her fingers, seeing the genuine smile on Taash’s face. “I’m older than you.”
“So? You’re smaller than me so technically you’re my ‘little’ sister,” Taash affectionately teased. Kaya smiled and playfully shoved their shoulder.
“You’re a Qunari and I’m an elf. Of course you’re taller.”
“Schematics…answer the question.”
Kaya sighed and poked at her food. “I don’t know. She bought me new armor and a new jacket which was nice of her. She also stays close now and talks to me nearly everyday.”
“That scarf is from her too, right?” Taash asked. Kaya nodded and ran her finger over the soft fabric. She loved this scarf. “I think you two are good for one another.”
“We’re too different.”
“Different is good,” Taash shrugged. Kaya picked up a piece of cheese and tossed it at the Qunari.
“Eat your food.”
“Alright, alright. But you’ll have to talk to me after we eat.”
“Fine….just so you know, you are a pretty cool sibling to have.”
“Damn right I am!”
Point of View Change, Neve
“Rook, are you sure this is a good idea?” Neve questioned.
“No, but we need to rescue the Dalish,” Kaya answered. Neve saw the way her hands shook. Saw the way she tried to keep herself together. They had found the Dalish, but they were being held captive for a Venatori ceremony. Strife said the only way to them was through the crowd…which meant they needed disguises. Bellara, Davrin, and Kaya had to pretend they were slaves. Taash, Lucanis, and Lace were mercenaries for hire. Neve and Emmrich were Venatori mages, which gave them power here. Neve would have Bellara and Kaya with her which was preferred. She could keep an eye on her. “Bellara, when we get there, keep your head down. Don’t look at any of them and only respond when spoken to.”
“Got it,” Bellara nodded. They glanced around the corner, seeing the Venatori heading inside. They could to this.
“Neve? Are you ready?” Kaya asked. Neve nodded and she adjusted the collar of her disguise. Ready as she’d ever be. She stepped around the corner and she made sure she exerted dominance. Power. Her steps were sure as they walked through the temple. Venatori were gathered around them, but not in a large number. They must need to go deeper.
“They’re bleeding a Dalish deer!”
“That’s a Halla,” Bellara whispered. Neve glanced to their left and cursed lightly under her breath. That was cruel.
“Don’t draw attention to us. Keep moving,” Kaya murmured. Neve hurried to the ladder on the other side of the room, climbing it and ignoring the sickening squelch of the Halla. That had to have been painful for the poor creature. She dropped down on the other side of the wall, heading towards the next part of the temple. This part was more crowded. Several Venatori poked and prodded at Bellara and Kaya, making her bite back a growl. She couldn’t do anything. There were other elves here. She saw them doing anything and everything for the Venatori. Some were even seats for the cult. She needed to get them through this before someone got too handsy. There was a guard standing nearby and she led them to the burly man.
“Halt! I don’t recognize you.”
“You don’t recognize me?” Neve growled.
“I don’t…uh, Magister…uh, Lady…uh…”
Neve placed her hand on her hip, leveling the man with an icy glare. “Appalling. They’ll hire anyone these days.”
“I-I’m sorry m’lady. I was given instructions to—”
“Tell someone who gives a damn,” Neve scoffed. She waited for the guard to move, but he didn’t. “Why am I still waiting? Where are the Gods? When does the ritual start?”
“G-Gods? But only the lord Elgar’nan is here, and he is still preparing—”
“Useless. My servants are more useful than you. Get out of my way,” Neve ordered. The guard quickly stepped aside, allowing them passage. She glanced back at the elves, seeing the amused look on Kaya’s face and the shocked one on Bellara’s. “They expect power from a mage like me. Show it and you’ll get anywhere.”
“It was impressive,” Kaya shrugged. Neve chuckled and there was a sharp pain in her head. Kaya winced and so did Bellara.
“Ah, the detective from Minrathous. I can feel your anger. Your pain from the destruction of your city,” Elgar’nan’s voice rang through her head. She shook it and continued leading them to the gathered crowd. “You feel betrayed. By the bribery and by your little elf. She betrayed you.”
“I forgave her,” Neve hissed under her breath.
“You’re wrong,” Kaya murmured.
“N-no. Not like that. Never like that,” Bellara whined. Neve tried to keep them on a steady path forward, blocking out what she could. Elgar’nan wouldn’t tempt her. She wouldn’t let that happen. They stopped beside their other teammates, falling in line with the gathered Venatori. Elgar’nan stood before them with arms outstretched.
“For hundreds of years, you have mourned the loss of you dragon Gods. From beyond the Veil, I heard your lament and have come to deliver you from desolation. Dragon of Night, I break your chains. Hear my voice and rise!” Elgar’nan announced. The ground shook as the largest dragon Neve had ever seen rose. It’s wings blocked out the light and she could feel the heat on its breath. “I am Elgar’nan, once called Lusacan, and I have returned!”
“The Archdemon is already fueling him,” Kaya whispered. She stepped back and Neve stepped closer to her, ignoring the fact that they were supposed to be undercover. She needed to be close to Kaya. The elf was shaking.
“Child of my children, I will shower you with the glory of the ancients. All you must do is obey me. Worship me. Love me. And kneel,” the God demanded. His magic shot out, entangling them and making her thoughts fuzzy. He was trying to control them.
“I…I know this magic. It’s old. And dangerous,” Bellara stammered. The familiar shimmer of her magic made Neve shake her head, clearing some of the control that the God had on her. She had to help. “Mythal’enaste…it’s too strong. I can’t break it.”
Neve let her magic join Bellara’s. “We’ve got this.”
The two of them worked together, weaving a spell around their group and protecting them from Elgar’nan’s power. His magic dispelled and she felt her body obey her.
“I’m trying to conceal us, but he’ll know someone broke his hold!” Bellara panicked.
“Bellara bought us some time, but we have to go,” Neve spoke. She looked at Kaya, seeing the way she glared at the God. The far off, angry look on her face. Kaya was going to get them caught. Neve stepped in front of the elf, blocking her view and taking her hand. “Rook. Now.”
Kaya met her gaze, and Neve squeezed her hand at the pained look she saw. They needed to move. She pulled the elf with her, and they ran for a crack in the wall that was marked with an elf rune. That was their way out. The others went through, and Neve pushed Kaya through with Taash grabbing her on the other side. Their gear was on the other side, and they quickly changed before running.
“We have unwelcome guests! Venatori, bring them to me!” Elgar’nan’s voice boomed. Neve saw the Venatori materialize before them and drew her weapon. They’d get through this. Taash and Davrin charged forward first, with Lucanis taking out stragglers. The rest of them attacked from a distance as the cult came for them. Kaya used her magic, zipping between Venatori, slashing and stabbing as she went.
“Rook! Shouldn’t we try and get Elgar’nan?” Bellara asked.
“Not when there are Dalish lives at stake! Besides, we can’t do anything with his Archdemon in play!” Kaya yelled in return. She shot an arrow at an attacker who got too close to Neve with a grunt. “Keep moving!”
Neve followed Kaya as the Venatori chased them. Venatori fell to them as they ran, the God screaming at their uselessness. They could get out of here. They could do this. Kaya punched one Venatori, using them as a shield to block the magic that flew at her.
“Keep pushing!” Kaya shouted. It amazed Neve how aggressive the rogue could be. She was always so gentle with the team that her aggression was startling. Bellara shot several magic arrows, clearing more of a path for them. On the other side of the clearing was a gate. That had to be their way out. Kaya threw the Venatori aside and shot an arrow at another. “Go!”
Lucanis and Emmrich ran through first with Davrin close behind. Neve slid to a stop beside Lace, the two of them waiting for Taash, Bellara, and Kaya. The three of them were running for the gate with Venatori on their heels. Come on. Come on! Neve used her magic, sending a flurry of icicles at the cult members. They yelled in pain as they fell, and Lace shot arrows to assist her.
“Hurry!” Lace yelled. Taash glanced behind them and cursed, turning on their heel to spew fire at the Venatori. Kaya and Bellara turned to help the qunari, shooting their arrows.
“Rook!” Neve shouted. Kaya stole a glance back at her before looking forward once more.
“Lucanis! Grab them!” Kaya ordered. Neve felt an arm wrap around her torso, pulling her back. She heard Lace’s protests and the gate between them fell closed. Taash, Bellara, and Kaya on the wrong side. They backed up to the gate, keeping their eyes focused on the path they had taken to get here. “We’ll find another way around. Find the Dalish!”
Neve shook her head and reached through the gate, grabbing Kaya’s jacket. “That’s a terrible plan!”
“It’s the best one I’ve got. Elgar’nan will be looking for whoever is fighting his Venatori. His focus won’t be on all of you. We’ll create a distraction while the rest of you find the Dalish.”
“Rook—”
“Neve, it’ll be fine,” Kaya assured. She turned and gave her a reassuring smile. “I promise. We’ll meet you at the other side.”
“We’ll be fine! We’ve fought worse,” Taash grunted.
“Fighting a bunch of Venatori will be easy!” Bellara added. Neve held Kaya’s gaze, staring into her gold eyes. They were determined, but nervous. She was going to get them through this even if her hands were shaking. Neve reluctantly released Kaya’s jacket and stepped back.
“You owe me dinner after this.”
Kaya grinned and looked back forward. “I’ll buy you drinks too.”
Neve turned and looked at the rest of the team. “Let’s go.”
They nodded and Lucanis led the group. They weaved through the ruins and through the fallen temple. There were no obstacles in their way as they ran to find the Dalish. No enemies for them to focus on. Kaya’s group really was attracting the attention of the cult. The only time they saw Venatori was when they got to the building that led to the Dalish. Crystals were powering the barriers and Neve knew they had to fight their way through it. Davrin and Lucanis charged forward, slashing through the Venatori in their path. Lace shot her arrows as Emmrich used his magic to conjure skeletons to fight with them. Neve used her ice to propel herself forward, freezing those in her path. She broke one crystal and focused on the second one. This one was guarded by a construct. It spewed its magic at her, and she dove for cover. It slammed into the stone she hid behind, heating it as it did. Lucanis flipped around the metal monstrosity, slashing at weak points as he did. Neve got to her feet and let her magic surge, freezing it as it tried to hit Lucanis. It slowly stilled as she pressed her ice against it.
“Neve!” Lace warned. Neve dodged the scythe too late, feeling it slice into her side. She hissed at the pain and spun, grabbing the Venatori’s wrist and freezing him solid. The construct broke from her magic and barreled towards her. Before it could flatten her, Kaya appeared in a flurry of movements. The elf’s electricity engulfed the construct, making it spark and creak. Her swords slashed the already weakened points and it fell with a thud. The Venatori around them didn’t have time to react before Kaya shot between them, slashing through the rest of their men. Bellara ran to her and helped her stand, pressing her hand against her wound. She grit her teeth at the feeling and the elf started to heal the injury.
“I’ll do enough to make sure you can move,” Bellara spoke. Her face was covered with dirt and muck. Blight?
“Rook! Let’s go!” Taash yelled. Kaya stood in the center of the bodies, gripping her head. The qunari cursed and ran for the elf. “I got her! Get the Dalish!”
Neve and Bellara ran with the others, breaking the final crystal. The barrier fell and the Dalish let out their thanks.
“This way!” Kaya yelled. She started running for a path, almost as if someone was guiding her. They followed their leader as they ran from the ruined temple. The Archdemon roaring in the distance. Kaya placed her hand against a stone, and it slid open, revealing an Eluvian. Their group ran for the mirror and the moment they were on the other side; Kaya used her electricity to break it. The mirror shattered and she shook her head. Neve could see the blood dripping from her nose and the bleeding scratches around her ears. “We’re safe for now. Solas said Elgar’nan can’t follow us. Stay here for a bit before heading back to Aarlathan.”
“We will,” Strife nodded.
“Rook?” Neve called out. Kaya stared at the mirror, face scrunched as she listened. Who was she listening to? “Rook!”
“Wha—sorry. It was loud for a bit there,” Kaya apologized. She rubbed at her temple with a groan. “Fricking Solas and Elgar’nan were having a hay day with my head.”
“Are you going to be alright?”
“Yeah. Nothing a healing potion won’t fix,” Kays huffed. She turned to face her and her eyes widened. “You’re hurt!”
“You’re one to talk,” Neve countered. Kaya reached for her side, pressing her fingers against the torn fabric of her attire. She winced at the feeling.
“Does it hurt?”
“Of course it does. You just pushed on it,” Neve snapped. Kaya retracted her hand quickly and looked to Bellara.
“We should hurry back to the Lighthouse,” Kaya spoke. The others nodded and Davrin stepped forward, pulling out a handkerchief. He ran it under Kaya’s nose, wiling away the blood.
“Oh…”
“Did you not feel it dripping from your nose?”
“No. I was a little preoccupied with the Gods fighting in my head,” Kaya shrugged. Davrin shook his head while Neve rolled her eyes. That wasn’t the reason why she ignored it. Kaya didn’t notice because she chose to focus on everyone else. “Let’s get going.”
Back at the Lighthouse, their team patched up their injuries and recount what happened. Kaya and her group had gotten stuck in a loop made by Elgar’nan. They only escaped because of Solas’s help. He argued with the other God in Kaya’s head, making her life difficult as they made their way to Neve’s group. The elf looked tired from the interaction, but she still joked with Bellara and Davrin. They were celebrating as a team. They had rescued the Dalish.
“She’s relaxed,” Lucanis spoke. The Crow took a seat next to her and Neve sighed, sipping at her wine.
“Too relaxed considering she had Gods in her head.”
“It’s probably a good thing. She hasn’t been this relaxed in some time.”
Neve nodded and watched as Davrin challenged the smaller elf to an arm wrestle. Bellara cheered on Kaya with a smile on her face. “The mission was a success.”
“It was…and there were no casualties.”
“That’s probably why she’s happy,” Neve hummed. Lucanis nodded and took a drink of his coffee.
“Maybe you and Rook should go out tomorrow. Get that dinner she promised you,” Lucanis suggested.
“When you take her, you should buy her another scarf. She hasn’t taken that red one off since you bought it…she ‘really’ liked what you got her,” Taash smirked. Neve frowned and looked at the qunari. They pointed to their nose. Neve hid her smile behind the wine glass.
“Interesting.”
Taash snorted in amusement and Lucanis shook his head. Neve would have to buy Kaya another scarf. Maybe some gloves. She kept her eyes on the elf, seeing how she kept the scarf tightly around her. A blanket or quilt would be a good idea. “Just make sure you two take a bath after you have sex. I don’t need to smell that.”
Neve choked on her drink and coughed, placing her glass on the table. Damn it, Taash! Lucanis handed her a napkin and Kaya looked over at her with a frown.
“You alright over there?” Kaya asked. Neve gave her a thumb up while glaring at Taash. The qunari grinned and Neve excused herself from the table. She told them that she was tired and needed rest. It wasn’t entirely a lie. She was tired. But she didn’t want to continue sitting there if the others teased her. Yes, she was falling for Kaya. Yes, it made her stomach flutter knowing Kaya enjoyed her gift. But she couldn’t fall for her. She couldn’t.
Neve pushed the door open to her room, seeing the wisps fluttering about. Her papers were spread along the floor, and she groaned. “Really? You couldn’t have moved something less important?”
The wisps jittered and floated around her papers. Maybe she could lure the wisps and figure out what notes were attracting them. She set up a few traps and placed bait in them before leaning against her desk. She’d have to be patient and wait. There was a knock at her door, and she looked up.
“Come in!” Neve called out. Kaya pushed the door open, carrying two glasses. “Hey, you should be celebrating with the others.”
“I should be saying the same thing to you,” Kaya shrugged. She walked over to her, leaning against the desk beside her and holding out the glass. “Water?”
“Thank you,” Neve thanked, taking the glass. She drank the cool liquid and Kaya stared at the traps.
“What are you doing?”
“The wisps are drawn to something around here. The boxes are baited with notes, baubles, things they steal.”
“Maybe they’re drawn to you,” Kaya teased. Neve smirked at her and playfully shoved her shoulder.
“They’ve been seen here when I’m not. There’s more to it…besides, they grow more excited when you come along,” Neve smirked. The wisps proved her point by landing on the elf, making her giggle. She looked ridiculous.
“If you’re looking for backup, I’ve got you covered!”
“You’ve got me covered or the wisps?”
Kaya smiled and shooed the wisps away. “Eh, they’ll grow bored of me.”
“I somehow doubt that. You surprise them like you do to me,” Neve argued. Kaya grinned like a fool, making her sigh. “What?”
“I like surprising you.”
“Is that so? It’s been interesting, I’ll give you that.”
“I’ll take that as a compliment.”
“You should,” Neve smiled. The trap sprang and Neve stood, heading to the basket. She opened it and the wisps flew out, flying around them.
“Something else is bothering you.”
Neve sighed and returned to leaning against the desk. “I don’t ask for much. Or anything. You know, the world’s not fair on a good day. You and me Rook, we chase trouble. So what can we ask for?”
Kaya hummed in thought, looking at the ceiling. “Right now, a wisp hunt. I think that went well. Earlier, a successful mission. I’m hoping tomorrow, we get that dinner I promised you. We take it one day at a time.”
“Is that so?”
“You deserve to have a good day,” Kaya softly spoke. Her gold eyes found hers and Neve found herself staring into them. They were full of kindness and love. She shouldn’t love her. Not one bit. They were too different. Neve was too harsh for Kaya. Too hard compared to the kindness that emanated from the elf. The wisps flew around them and Neve gave her a soft smile.
“You know, I think you might be trouble,” Neve murmured. Kaya’s eyes drifted to her lips, and she found herself leaning forward. Maybe it was the wine giving them courage. Maybe it was the fight with Elgar’nan. Whatever the case, Neve felt herself being drawn to Kaya. Before their lips could meet, a wisp floated between them. She pulled away with a laugh and watched as the wisp touched Kaya’s nose before floating into the air once more. She looked back at Kaya, seeing the disappointed look on her face. There was a slight frown on her face and Neve reached out, cupping her cheek. She ran her fingers along the frown and the elf’s face relaxed as she leaned into her touch. It was a small gesture, but one that made Neve’s chest warm. She cleared her throat and stood, walking around her desk. “You should get some sleep. We’ll have a busy day tomorrow.”
“Alright,” Kaya sighed. The elf pushed away from the desk and headed for the door. “You should get some sleep too. G’night, Neve.”
“Good night, Kaya.”
Point of View Change, Kaya
Kaya sighed as she waited for Neve. They had gone to Minrathous for drinks, but the mage had her wait on the nearby rocks for her. Neve didn’t tell her what they were doing. All she did had her do was dress in something comfortable. The gentle breeze against her skin was welcome. The city was still Blighted, but it could be worse. The water way wasn’t contaminated here. The ocean was still clear.
“Hey, thanks for being patient,” Neve spoke. Kaya turned, seeing Neve walking towards her. She was holding a handful of rocks.
“What’re those for?”
“Have you skipped rocks before?”
“Can’t say I have,” Kaya shrugged. Neve smiled and placed the rocks down before handing her one. She showed her how to throw the rock and Kaya tried to mimic her, succeeding in tossing the rock straight down. Neve snickered and Kaya turned to glare at her. “Don’t—”
“I didn’t say anything.”
“You were thinking it,” Kaya huffed. Neve smiled and tossed a rock, making it skip four times before it sank. “Show off.”
“You’ll figure it out,” Neve chuckled. Kaya threw another rock and it sank again. This was just embarrassing. “Maybe.”
“It’s not like I had the luxury of learning,” Kaya huffed. Neve stepped closer and her body pressed up against her back. The mage’s hands gently gripped her own as she slid a rock into her hand. She startled at the contact but Neve didn’t back away.
“You’re throwing it down. You have to throw it more outwards,” Neve explained. One hand steadied her by her hip while the other one showed her the correct angle. Neve leaned close to her ear, and she kept herself from shivering at her warm breath. “Flick your wrist like so when you throw it.”
Kaya followed her instructions and threw the rock. It bounced twice before sinking and she smiled. “Hey! It skipped!”
“Nicely done,” Neve complimented. Kaya turned in her arms, looking up at her. Up this close, Kaya could see Neve’s freckles on full display. They were cute. Neve looked down, meeting her gaze. A blush came to her face and the mage stepped back as she cleared her throat. “Now try on your own.”
Kaya picked up a rock and tossed it, watching it skip twice again. That was better than nothing. The two of them tossed rocks in silence, well until her wrists hurt. They only stopped when her stomach growled. “Neve? Are we eating soon?”
“Ah, it is getting late. Let’s head to Hal’s,” Neve spoke. She led the way and Kaya followed closely. Their hands brushed on occasion as they walked, and Kaya wanted to take the mage’s hand. Intwine their fingers and hold her tightly.
“Are you going to let Hal treat us to dinner?”
“Trying to get out of paying?”
“No. He’s going to be upset you’re not letting him treat you.”
“He’ll get over it…eventually,” Neve chuckled. They stopped at Hal’s fish stand and he frowned at them.
“Neve Gallus. Are you going to let me treat you this time?”
“No. Rook is buying,” Neve smiled. Hal shook his head, grabbing a few fish for both of them. He handed them to Kaya and she dropped her coin onto his stand.
“Thanks, Hal!”
One of these times you tow will let me pay for you.”
“Sure thing Hal. Whatever you say,” Neve chuckled. The two of them walked back to the Eluvian. The air felt different around them and she glanced up, seeing the storm clouds.
“It’s going to rain,” Kaya pointed out. Neve hummed and bit into her fish, heading for the shopping district “Neve? We should go before it rains.”
“We will. I’ll be quick,” Neve assured. Kaya frowned and followed the mage to the shopping district. The woman went to the tailor and picked up a burlap sack that seemed to be filled to the brim. Before Kaya could question her, the woman started leading them in a familiar direction.
“Why are we going this way?”
“I’m following through with a promise,” Neve answered. As they walked, Kaya saw the homeless folks along the walls. She saw the alleyway where she used to drop off food, collapsed and full of rubble. She wondered where that mother and kids went, but a part of her was scared to find out. The orphanage came into view and Kaya stopped.
“I-I don’t think it’s a good idea for them to see me,” Kaya stammered. Neve turned, raising an eyebrow at her.
“Why not?”
“You know why,” Kaya sighed. Neve didn’t respond to that. She merely looked back forward and headed for the orphanage. Kaya moved to a more secluded spot and leaned against the wall, watching as the mage knocked on the door. It opened and the children squealed in delight, leaping at her and hugging her legs. She recognized the two kids that she had been wondering about. Damn. Their mother must’ve died in the chaos. Or from the chaos that came after the dragon attack. Neve handed the now empty stick to one of the kids who promptly ran it inside while another took the burlap sack from her. They spoke to her in excitement and Neve smiled at them as she spoke. She was curious what the woman was saying to them. One of the children handed her a scroll and Neve took it with a nod before standing. She waved goodbye to the kids, and they ran back inside. “You promised to bring them something?”
“Gloves and jackets. Theirs are starting to get too small for them,” Neve shrugged. She held out the scroll to her and Kaya frowned. “That’s for you.”
Kaya took the scroll and unwound it, feeling tears come to her eyes at what she saw. It was a kid drawing of a dead dragon with stick figures drawn around it. One for each of the kids in the orphanage. Standing on top of it was what she assumed was herself.
“I told them a while ago that you slayed the dragon that attacked Minrathous,” Neve spoke. Kaya held the picture to her chest with a sigh.
“You should’ve said you or Davrin killed it. Not me.”
“That would be lying. I’m not going to lie to a bunch of kids.”
“It’s not a complete lie. You two were there.”
“Yes, but you dealt the finishing blow,” Neve countered. She tilted her head at her with a small smile. “You’re their hero.”
Kaya averted her gaze, feeling the blush on her face. “I-I’m no hero.”
“To them, you are,” Neve beamed. She patted her shoulder before heading for heading back in the direction of the Eluvian. Kaya followed her with a sigh. The kids were wrong. She was anything but a hero.
The next day, Kaya found herself back in Minrathous, searching for a possible demon that was lurking below the city. Taash and Bellara had agreed on going with her. While she wished Neve was with her, she knew the woman was busy. She was searching for Aelia and needed to focus on that. Everyone else was busy doing something else.
Kaya tripped on a crack and cursed, leaning against the wall to steady herself. There was no path. Just a bunch of debris.
“Are you going to trip on things the entire time we are searching for this demon?” Taash teased. Kaya flipped off the qunari, earning a laugh in return.
“Aw, don’t be mean to Rook. We all know she has a hard enough time walking on flat land. This is anything but flat.”
“I hate you both,” Kaya deadpanned. She heard her friends chuckle at her annoyance and they continued through the underground temple. They had cleared this path of darkswpawn earlier in their travels, which made it easier to traverse…minus the cracks and debris. They came to the catacombs and used the zipline there, flying across the chasm beneath them. When they landed, Taash went to inspect the now destroyed wall. There were bodies in the rubble and fresh blood.
“Looks like the Venatori were here,” Taash spoke. Bellara knelt and picked up a note.
“Aelia is the one Neve is looking for, right? She sent them here. Said something about a desperation,” Bellara added. Kaya frowned and took the note from her. Desperation. A Desperation Demon? They were similar to Despair Demons. Large and difficult to beat. She looked to the hole in the wall, gripping her sword.
“Let’s be careful,” Kaya cautioned. Her friends nodded and Taash walked through the opening. Bellara followed and Kaya went after her. The room was large. An old worshiping room? It was open due to the catacombs falling apart and she could smell the death in here.
“Fenedhis,” Bellara cursed. Taash grunted and Kaya looked up. A body hung from the line on the other side of the room. Curly blonde hair caught her attention, and she saw the familiar markings on that battered face.
“Alana?!” Kaya screamed. She ran for her friend, dodging Taash’s attempt at stopping her.
“Rook!” Taash shouted in alarm. Kaya ran for Alana and the demon they were searching for erupted from the ground. Desperation swung at her, and she leaped back, drawing her swords as two more demons rose from the ground. She could feel the emotions emanating from them. Isolation and remorse. Bellara’s arrows flew through the air, striking Isolation and drawing its attention. Taash ran for Remorse and Kaya focused on Desperation. She felt the emotions drown her senses. She would stop them. She had to. Alana was there. She had to get to her friend! Her swords struck the large demon, making it roar in pain. Darkness exploded out around them, and she cursed, eyes darting around to find Taash and Bellara. They shouted for her, and she barely dodged the strike of the demon. As it swung again, she used her magic, darting out of the way again. Her movements were fast as she slashed at the demon. The darkness disappeared around them and an arrow struck the demon in the head. Kaya focused her magic on her sword and swung, decapitating the demon in one fell swoop. Desperation faded from existence and the other two demons disappeared as well. She sheathed her swords and ran for Alana. The noose around her neck was tight and the blood that dripped from her body pooled on the ground.
“No…” Kaya gaped. She reached up, touching the elf’s bare feet. They were cold. Too cold. Vacant green eyes stared down at her and she choked back a sob, falling to her knees. Alana was dead. The blood soaked into her pants and she bit her lip, trying to stop herself from crying. Taash stepped in front of her, blocking her view. They knelt in front of her and held her gaze.
“Rook,” Taash spoke. Kaya stared at where her friend still hung and Taash turned. “I’ll get her down.”
Bellara replaced them and the taller elf pulled her close, holding her as she tried to keep it together. Her hands ached from her magic and she pressed her forehead against Bellara’s shoulder. “I’m so sorry. I’ve got you.”
Kaya had failed again. Her friend was dead. Alana, the last person who was a part of her past. Her ragtag family was all gone.
Point of View Change, Neve
Neve stepped through the Eluvian, seeing Ashur and Tarquin standing there. The seemed agitated. “Is something happening?”
“You should head to the Cobbled Swan,” Tarquin answered.
“Why?”
“Kaya…”
“What happened to her? Is she alright?” Neve questioned.
“Alana is dead,” Ashur answered. He turned and looked at a body that was covered by a blanket behind him. “We asked Kaya to investigate a demon in the area. She found Alana strung up by a noose.”
Neve paled at that. “I-I didn’t know. I just got here.”
“Taash said you’d likely find your way here when you noticed they hadn’t returned.”
Neve nodded and thanked them before running from the decrepit base. She had to get to the Cobbled Swan. It had started to rain and her clothes stuck to her skin. The streets were empty and she was thankful for that. She was at the Swan before she knew it, seeing Taash leaning against a pillar.
“Taash?” Neve called out. The Qunari turned and gave her a sad smile.
“Hey.”
“Where—"
Taash gestured with their hand. “Right here.”
Neve walked up the the Qunari, seeing Kaya with a few bottles lying around her. Lace and Bellara were sitting next to her, watching her with worried eyes.
“We couldn’t convince her to go back to the Lighthouse. She was adamant about helping Lace with finding the missing dwarves and then she came here. Didn’t give us a choice,” Taash explained. Neve walked to Kaya’s side, placing her hand on her shoulder.
“How many has she had?” Neve asked.
“Not a lot. She stopped after two,” Lace answered. Bellara looked up at her, eyes filled with sadness.
“Did The Viper tell you what happened?”
“Yes.”
“Taash got Alana down and we brought her back to the Shadow Dragon base. It was…hard,” Bellara trailed off, looking back at Kaya. The shorter elf had her fingers tangled in her hair as she stared at the bottles on the table.
“I caught them as they came back to the Lighthouse. Rook wanted to help me and well, she did…” Lace started.
“But?”
“But I almost lost myself to the Titan’s fury. She helped me remember who I was. I am Lace Harding. Not the Titans. When she hugged me, I felt the magic in me drain her. I could’ve killed her had I not gotten control of my powers,” Lace explained. She was drained by Lace? Lyrium. Lyrium was in the dwarf’s blood. It must’ve interacted poorly with Kaya. She’d have to look into that later. Right now, she needed to focus on Kaya.
“Why don’t you and Taash head back to the Lighthouse.”
“I-are you sure? I don’t want to leave her here. Not when she’s hurting like this.”
“I’m sure. Bellara and I can bring her back,” Neve spoke. Lace sighed and stood from the table, reaching out to squeeze Kaya’s hand. She went to Taash and the Qunari inclined their head.
“We’ll be waiting,” Taash spoke. Neve nodded and took the vacant seat.
“Rook?” Neve softly spoke. Kaya hummed in response but continued staring at the bottle in her hand. “Let’s get you back to the Lighthouse.”
Kaya shook her head and tightened her grip on the bottle.
“What do you need?” Neve asked. She had a feeling she knew what the elf needed. It wasn’t the drink she craved. That was just the ‘safer’ option. Kaya turned, looking at her with pained gold eyes. Right. She stood and held out her hand to her. “Let’s go.”
“Neve?” Bellara questioned.
“We’re going to the crossroads.”
“What? Why?”
“She needs it,” Neve responded. Kaya took her hand, and she pulled her to her feet. She made sure to leave coin on the table and she didn’t drop Kaya’s hand as they walked to the Eluvian. This would be tricky, but Kaya needed this. She needed to feel something other than pain.
They walked through the Eluvian, feet hitting snow as they did. This would give them. One-up on Kaya. The elf would likely struggle in the terrain.
“Is this really a good idea?” Bellara questioned. Neve watched as Kaya unsheathed her swords before leaving them against the Eluvian.
“No. But she needs to feel something,” Neve answered. Kaya walked away from them and turned, getting into a fighting position. “When we win, we go back to the Lighthouse.”
Kaya nodded and Neve glanced back at Bellara. The elf sighed and readied herself. They weren’t as skilled at hand-to-hand combat, but they just needed to use their magic to tire Kaya out. They’ve done this hundreds of times. They had to keep Kaya away from them. If the elf touched them, they lost. Kaya normally didn’t win this little sparring ordeal, but it helped her learn their attack styles.
“We’re ready when you are,” Bellara spoke. Kaya’s body blurred and Neve felt the electricity in the air. She used her magic, blocking her with her ice. The elf weaved around her magic and Bellara used her own to try and throw her off balance. Kaya was fast, but she was predictable when she was upset. She charged right at them and Neve used a blast of softened ice to knock her back. She grunted as she hit the snow, rolling back to her feet. The elf charged again, and the electricity surrounded her. Bellara used her own magic, sending a current of electricity at her. Their magic clashed and Kaya growled in frustration. Her magic gathered in one of her hands and Neve saw the way it flickered dangerously. She jumped between them and conjured a shield to block the blast of power that flew at them. The air crackled around them and Kaya appeared behind them. Bellara gasped in alarm as Neve froze Kaya’s feet to the ground. The elf cursed and tried to pull her feet free. There was a bit of blood trickling from her nose and her face was contorted in discomfort.
“That’s enough, Rook. We’ve won,” Neve calmly spoke. Kaya let her magic surge once more and broke the ice on her feet. She darted at them and her speed was impressive, but her coordination was sloppy. She stumbled over her feet and Neve used that to her advantage. As Kaya hurdled towards her, she flipped the woman over her shoulder and onto the snow. The elf gasped as her back hit the cold ground. “Are you cooled off?”
Kaya glared up at her and she raised an eyebrow at her. If she wanted to try again, then she could. She hoped the elf wouldn’t try again. The blood coming from her nose meant that she was pushing herself too hard. Her fingers twitched and Neve squared her shoulders.
“Don’t make me freeze you to the ground,” Neve threatened. Kaya huffed and rolled onto her stomach before pushing herself to her feet. She brushed off the snow and Neve could see the way her eyes glistened with tears. “Bel? Mind giving us a moment?”
“Not at all!” Bellara beamed. She hurried to the Eluvian and Neve stepped closer to Kaya. She helped brush off some of the snow, glancing at her face as she did. Kaya was staring at the ground.
“You lost your footing there,” Neve pointed out. Kaya grunted in response and Neve grabbed a handkerchief, wiping the blood from her nose. “I’m surprised you didn’t face plant. You had two drinks which is a lot for you.”
“I wanted to feel something,” Kaya murmured. Neve nodded and tucked the handkerchief into Kaya’s pouch.
“I understand. There are better ways than drinking.”
“…I know.”
“Next time, spar with us. We’re more than happy to beat you,” Neve smirked. Kaya chuckled and her eyes filled with tears. She cursed and wiped at her eyes. Neve cupped her cheeks, feeling the woman shake. “I’m sorry.”
“I-I never got to talk to her again. The last time we talked…”
“I know. I’m sorry you didn’t get the chance to talk to her.”
Kaya looked away from her. “It’s not fair. She-she shouldn’t have died.”
“No. She shouldn’t have,” Neve agreed. Kaya’s body tensed and she looked up at Neve. The look in her gold eyes made her stomach drop. They were hardened. Angry and upset. A storm of emotions.
“Aelia sent the Venatori there. They killed Alana.”
“Rook—”
“I’ll kill her. Her and all the Venatori in Minrathous. They won’t hurt anyone else in the city,” Kaya growled. She stepped away and Neve could see the change in the elf. The kindness that she was so used to seeing in those gold eyes was gone. “Let’s go. We’ve got work to do.”