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@shepherds-of-haven, nothing like a reunion between long lost childhood friends to complicate a dire situation. Spoilers for alpha build chapter 4, AO3 link!

simple charm part 2

Something had to change.

Actually, a lot of things needed to, but the latest one was occupying Halek’s thoughts. The epidemic was whittling away at the Reach, with no end in sight. Twenty funerals, despite the quarantine. And the only viable cure was beneath a mountain of profane spawn that would trigger any Hunter’s blood rage. Focusing on supplies had occupied his attention, but after a month of winter, that distraction was waning. Time was running out.

“If I may speak, sol.” A soft voice interrupted.

He grimaced. Of course, she wouldn’t leave him be. “Go on, Moonsilk.”

Fabric rustled, as his dreaded fiance moved to stand in front of him. Swathed in red, she looked like a bloody nightmare. “You must decide. The lachryma is the only thing that can save our people.”

“We can’t spare anyone in the city.”

“Send a refugee, or a mixed-blood.” The latter term was delivered with an edge of disdain.

But he wasn’t going to sacrifice anyone, regardless of where or who they were born to. “You’re talking about civilians. They’d be ripped to shreds before getting anywhere near the lachryma. I’d rather go instead.” Wasn’t that a thought? A horrible end, certainly, but maybe faster than the slow torture of having Moonsilk for a wife.

“You cannot, as our destined savior. Our people rely on you for guidance.” She somberly said, though her blue irises glinted. “Unless, you first secure the line of succession?”

His skin crawled at the suggestion. “Fine. An outsider, then. But I’m not letting them enter the Cave without knowing the dangers.” This spiraled into another argument, about how much to convey, what secrets of the Reach were worth divulging. His head was pounding, and he barely registered the faint bell that his brother had returned from the hunt.

“Sol, I encountered Shepherds. You’ll want to speak to them.” There was a note of urgency in Naolin’s voice that couldn't be ignored.

He glanced in his twin’s direction and his breath stopped in his throat. Both of the strangers were dark-haired and clad in navy, but they looked nothing alike otherwise. The man was tall and held himself with the uprightness of a Ket warrior, a longsword hanging at his side. However, all of his attention was on her, as if a beam of soft light illuminated her presence. Wavy locks were marked by a white streak, and her pale anxious face stared back at his. Bright violet eyes glowed with power.

“Diru, it’s Kalmia.” His brother’s words barely left his mouth, before Halek closed the distance and embraced her. She was a foot shorter, and she made a soft sound of surprise, as he lifted her. The scent of edelweiss filled his nose, and his chest ached. It was her.

“You’re alive.” He choked out and set her down to look over her. He damn near pinched himself, just to make sure that he wasn’t dreaming. “Kalmia Metella. You…how are you alive?” He had so many questions, and he didn’t know where to begin.

She looked downcast, her soft voice tight with emotion. “Halek…it’s a long story. I’ll tell you later. Naolin said there’s a plague? Commander Bronwyn and I are here to help.”

“We were sent to investigate.” Her companion said. He glared at everyone else with open suspicion. “Captain Metella, you know these people?”

“The twins, yes. They often visited my hometown when I was younger. You could say we grew up together. And, um…” She trailed off, unsure how to address the woman she didn’t know.

Halek awkwardly cleared his throat, and then, he remembered he was still clasping Kalmia’s shoulders. Reluctantly, he let go and stepped aside. “This is my…this is Moonsilk.”

“We are betrothed.” Moonsilk swiftly added.

Kalmia’s expression froze. “Oh.”

Somehow, he felt strangely guilty, and it wasn’t helped by Moonsilk’s piercing stare at him, before she curtseyed. Kalmia bowed her head in response, and only he caught the slight smirk on his fiance’s lips.

“I don’t believe I’ve heard your name before. Maj was known to have been destroyed by demons, and yet, you escaped.” Moonsilk intoned, and Halek bristled. Why did she have to open her mouth?

“And I’m the only one who survived.” There was bitter grief in Kalmia’s words, and he heard no falsehood in them. “But like I said, that’s a long story and we have more pressing matters.” Her burning eyes turned up to Halek. “I’m Elae, a Healer. I can try curing everyone.”

“A Healer? It suits you.” He could have laughed out loud at the irony. “But we’ve had Healers come and try, without success. This plague is something else.”

“But there is another way you can help.” Moonsilk cut in. “The sol can tell you.”

He glared at her, but the infuriating woman was already examining the other Shepherd, declaring he was sick. She ushered the commander away to the infirmary, throwing Halek an impassive stare. An outsider, without a Hunter’s blood-rage. Damn it.

He took Kalmia’s arm, leading her to the inner sanctum, and Naolin’s footsteps echoed in their wake. “I’m sorry about Moonsilk.”

“The one the council chose?” She seemed to mull over her words, settling on a halting description. “She’s a bit…strange.”

He scoffed. “That’s a way of putting it. Personally, I think it’s all a conniving act.”

“And you’re not married.”

“As long as I have the will to fight her off.”

“The engagement still stands though.” Naolin reminded them of his presence. “Despite your many attempts.”

“I don’t blame you. You wouldn’t be happy.” Kalmia stated.

“Not that a sol ought to be.” Halek stole a glance at her again, as if to make sure she was still there. Her coat was standard issue for the military, but insufficient for the harsh winters here. “Are you cold?”

“I’m alright. It’s been quite a day. I didn’t expect to reunite with you so soon.”

“Well, I didn’t think you were alive.”

She winced. “Sorry.”

“Don’t apologize.” He tried a smile. “There are far worse things than seeing an old friend back from the dead.”

Kalmia looked askance. “Are your parents alright?”

“Mother’s sick. Father passed away last year, naturally as possible for a Hunter.”

“It was his time.” Naolin somberly added.

“I’m so sorry. I remember him. When my parents were alive, they always spoke well of him.”

The main door of the sanctum came into view, and Naolin took point. “Diru, you should show her.”

“I was going to.” Instead of walking past his brother, he headed for a side corridor, to the new room of remembrance. The array of candles was unlit, but the smell of fragrant smoke lingered permanently here. The gray stone slab was placed in the center, and he gestured towards it. “I guess we’ll have to remove your name.”

She cried out, upon reading the inscriptions. Each line was the name of someone from Maj, and her fingers landed on her father’s, then Zori’s. Fresh tears gathered at her eyes, and she hurriedly scrubbed them away. “A monument to Maj?”

“It took some time but our father commissioned this within a year. He always regretted not convincing yours to bring everyone here. Trust me, we would have rather had the people, instead of their names. But they’ll never be forgotten. In our records, everyone’s a martyr, the highest honor we can afford to civilians who died fighting demons.”

“Thank you. This means so much to me.” She clasped her hands in a moment of quiet prayer, before taking a shuddering breath. “I’ll pay more respects later, after this is over.”

He would have given her another minute, but she insisted. They entered the sanctum, and she stared at the murals in awe while he opened the books. Why couldn’t it have been a random stranger, instead of her? But he didn’t have any qualms about spilling the whole story. He explained the disease, the lachryma, and finally the Cave of Many Mouths filled with Ghasts. It was a daunting task to anyone, yet she only nodded.

“Of course, I’ll do it. Even if it wasn’t my job, I’d want to.” It struck him then, how completely different she was from Moonsilk.

“Thank you.” He exhaled, and the tension of the past weeks lifted. “Then again, you’ve always been unbelievably kind. I’m glad that hasn’t changed.”

A nervous laugh followed. “It doesn’t bother you that I’m a Shepherd?”

“Still not a fan of the Autarch, but right now, we need the lachryma. How long have you been working with the Shepherds?”

“Since early summer. Not that long.”

“Your boss said you’re a captain.”

“That’s only because Blade needed another squad leader.”

“No offense, but he doesn’t seem like the type to randomly promote people. Knowing you, you’ve earned it. And you look a little different.” An understatement. No longer the coltish teenager in his memory, but a young woman who could effortlessly turn every head in a room. He focused instead on the white streak in her dark hair. “Not in a bad way. Confident in that cloak, and more comfortable with your Mage abilities…” Sad. She looked as if she’d been through so much, and he desperately wanted to sit her down and give her a warm drink. If only they had time. “You’re shining too.”

“What?” She was bewildered.

“I can sense it.” He admitted. “I don’t know whether it’s because I wasn’t fully trained when we were kids or it’s something new for you, but it doesn’t feel of this world. I don’t mean to scare you, I could be imagining it. We’ve had a rough time here.” He told her how many they’d already lost, and she frowned.

“I understand. I’ll bring the lachryma back.”

“Thank you.”

And then, Moonsilk somehow sidled her way in. The look she cast was frigid. In that strange ethereal tone she affected, she announced that Blade Bronwyn was confined to the infirmary. And Kalmia had to depart.

He and Naolin would escort her to the opening of the Cave, and they headed to the stables together. Her ahfuri perked up immediately, nuzzling into her welcoming embrace. She always did like cats. Halek couldn’t resist smiling as he saddled his elk. Then, to his chagrin, Moonsilk was pulling at his coat, acting the part of the devoted fiance making sure he was warm for travel. He turned his gaze away, unwilling to play along when people were dying. He caught Naolin’s uncomfortable expression, and for an instant, Kalmia’s violet eyes observing them, before her ahfuri yowled. As soon as Moonsilk’s grip relented, he snapped the reins.

It wasn’t until a few minutes into their ride that Kalmia slowly said. “You two haven’t really changed.” The snow had settled in the dark locks that escaped her hood, and her scarf covered the lower half of her face.

“Taller, I thought.” Halek drawled.

“Well, yes!” She gave a short laugh, more like a puff of air. “But I’m glad you’ve stayed true to yourselves.”

“So have you, even as a Shepherd. I guess it’s still a way of killing demons and saving lives.” He could sympathize with that much, at least.

“Speaking of which, I should tell you about Maj.”

“It can wait-”

“No, I want to. It started on my thirteenth birthday.” She sucked in a breath, and delivered a tragedy. The strange figure in her room, a haphazard celebration broken by an intrusive presence, the Endarkened’s indiscriminate slaughter. Lothar’s limp corpse on the blood-soaked ground, and overwhelming tragic defeat. Despite the passage of time, Kalmia’s voice was raw with anguish. “I heard Zori screaming and screaming, then nothing. Just gone. Everyone, gone. What else did I have? I thought it was the end. But something welled up inside, a power that wasn’t magic, and I gave it a word. I don’t know what it was, but I wanted the demon to go away. It did, and so did everything else. I’m not sure what kind of power it is, but it’s limited, at least that’s what the figure said.”

“I don’t think I’ve heard of anything like this.” Halek said. “But whatever it is, it saved you. What about if you’re in danger?”

“Yes, I can use the Words in those situations. I joined the Shepherds because I used one in a church to save two civilians from a Cacophant, and since then, two more times against Faceless Lords.”

“Wait.” Naolin blurted. “Did you say Faceless Lords?!”

“Oh, sorry. I should have mentioned that. I’ve destroyed three Faceless Lords.”

Halek and Naolin simultaneously turned to each other in astonishment. Five elusive Defilers, so-called generals of Tapyt’s Horde, and she’d taken down more than one? Halek managed to speak first. “You only used two, but you killed three. So you defeated a third without this weird power?”

“Quiial was kind of weak, and not worth spending a Word on.” The funny thing was that she delivered this knowledge in a matter-of-fact tone, like the Dream-Eater was a measly bug. Halek snorted.

“…who’s left?” Naolin stuttered.

“From what I remember, Buubas and Jarkyth.”

They almost missed the Cave’s opening, already barely discernible from the rocky landscape. They stopped just in time and Kalmia was laden with supplies, although she wisely declined the torch that Naolin offered. She double checked the ties on the gourds and canteens, meant for collecting the lachryma. Halek went over the paths to avoid and the legends of the glowing moss that marked the path, but he was becoming uneasy with each piece of thousand-old information. What if everything was useless? He passed her the final item, a spool of thread. “You’re insanely powerful, but this can help in finding your way back. Be careful.”

“Of course.” She tugged the scarf down and smiled at him. “I’ll find the lachryma. I promise.”

His chest squeezed and he had to resist the urge to hug her again. “Thank you.”

She turned, facing the crevice for a still moment, the snow swirling around her. Then, she walked forward and vanished out of sight.

***

The wait soon proved to be excruciating. In a rocky alcove that diverted the brutal winds, the twins huddled, feeding and watering the elk. The ahfuri, Uwala, skeptically accepted a bag of chow. Jerky, hardtack, and dried berries gradually restored their weary bodies, enough to talk.

“Buubas is which one again?”

“The Infected One.” Naolin answered, a touch of exasperation in his voice. “Pestilence, blight, sickness.”

He pointedly looked at his twin. “It’s possible.”

“A likelier cause than the Blood Drinker, but the records only tell of affecting natural resources and agriculture.”

“What if it decided to target humans directly? It would explain why the Wildfire Fever hasn’t been cured.”

“If so, the Faceless Lord has been feeding on the life forces of our people.”

At the grim sentiment, Halek had to change the subject. “So…did you recognize Kalmia?”

“Yes, but she knew who I was first, by a split second.” Naolin tended their small campfire, and his brows pulled together. “I don’t know why she didn’t come to Uth Baryd, after Maj was wiped out. We would have taken her in.”

It was mysterious, but Halek stifled his curiosity for the time being. “She must’ve had a reason, although the early days weren’t pretty to witness. Too much infighting and prejudice. And even after demons invading Blest, we’re still too slow to change.”

Naolin’s frown deepened. “Yes, but in the grand scheme of things, almost ten years isn’t that long.”

“That kind of thinking is what got us into this mess!” He snapped. “Waiting and watching this plague, twiddling our thumbs during quarantine. Maybe this would’ve already been over, if we called for help sooner.”

“From who, diru?” Naolin retorted. “We would’ve risked spreading the disease, especially if it is Buubas. Not even the Shepherds existed before summer, and I doubt the Autarch gave us a passing thought until we shut down the city.”

“This is just conjecture on our part, we didn’t even ask. And here we are, relying on Kalmia. She went into the mountain, without expecting a single favor in return.” His temper flared. “If anything happens to her, I’d never forgive myself.”

“It’s only been a few hours. She could be here any minute, and she’s powerful.”

“But she’s still mortal.” Not even his brother had a counterargument.

Then, there was faint noise from the crevice. Halek stood, hurrying towards the opening, as a gloved hand emerged. He took hold, feeling her flinch, but continued to pull. He didn’t account for the extra weight of sloshing gourds though, and he fell on his back, Kalmia landing right on top of him. Naolin went to them, retrieving the containers with haste, all full of lachryma.

“You’re unbelievable.” He breathed and his gaze moved from her bright eyes to her lips. He could have kissed her in this moment; his hand moved on its own, wrapping around the back of her head. Then, his brain kicked in, and he bumped their foreheads together. He muttered nonsensical praise, but that was better than dangerous temptation. “Do you have to rest? It’s almost dawn.”

“I’m okay. Let’s go to the patients.”

The urge flared again, and he turned away from her smile, giving the excuse of helping her up. Her quiver was noticeably emptier. “Did you fight the Ghasts?”

“No, I managed to evade them. When I came to the pool, I drank a little and noticed an opening of light, so I shot my arrows through it. That way, we can find the pool from aboveground if we need more.”

And that reminded him. “Good, because we can protect it. If we seal it off from the rest of the tunnels, we’ll accomplish something else: flood the caves and be rid of the Ghasts forever.” And a Faceless Lord, if that was the real cause. But they’d never know for sure, and frankly, he had no inclination of confirming as much.

Nevertheless, the lachryma had been retrieved, and as they rode home, the sun was rising on a victorious day.

***

Slowly, Uth Baryd was healing. The last of the sick beds were emptied, the hearth fires were lit, and the city would devolve into raucous celebration in a few days, to celebrate the end of quarantine.

In the meantime, they were going to secure the lachryma. Blade and Naolin trudged ahead, talking about the flooding logistics. Meanwhile, Halek was content to match Kalmia’s pace. He had told the civilians not to bother the Shepherds, but that didn’t stop them from smiling and waving in their direction. Kalmia mirrored the gestures, and he noticed how her gaze lingered on the mixed-blood families, the Hunter refugees with their spouses and children.

Quietly, she asked. “Are you wondering why I never came here in all this time?”

“Wondering doesn’t turn back the clock. You’re here now, and that’s what matters.”

She stared into the distance, and her fingers played with the new amethyst ring. “When Maj was attacked, I couldn’t fight or use magic. I was helpless. It was only because of the Word, that I just barely escaped. I only went to Leore first because it was closest, so I could earn money. And in Leore…” She trailed off, eyes glassy with remembering. “That’s a story for later. But I felt lost the whole time. Not a Mage and not a Hunter. I was trying to learn how to protect myself, to make sure what happened to Maj couldn’t happen again if I was around, before I could think of the Reach. And as the months turned to years, I thought it was less and less likely I’d be accepted. I’m ashamed that I thought wrong.”

“It wasn’t like this at first.” He insisted. “At the beginning, there was friction between the Hunters and the incoming refugees. Arguments, brawls, you name it. It took time and the reminder of Maj that we became used to living together. I wouldn’t say it’s perfect coexistence, but this wasn’t even possible ten years ago.”

“And it’s amazing to see.” By now, Blade and Naolin were waiting for them, and once they were in earshot, Kalmia paused. “Also, I’m sorry. I might have been young and alone and scared, but there’s no excuse for worrying you, Halek and Naolin.”

They were facing the southern peaks, he realized, and the memories of pathetic teenage angst rushed in, along with secondhand embarrassment. He cracked his neck, relieving the tension. “I’m sorry too, that you suffered all these years.”

“And we are forever indebted to you, for saving our people.” Naolin somberly said.

Indeed, they really did owe her. It was actually funny, to see the array of arrows studding the snowy ground around a small hole. But the pool itself shone like a jewel, untouched as the explosives went off. It was worth dragging his feet to the council, to see their stunned expressions at the report.

Afterwards, they were free to laze about. Halek caught up on sleep, dozing off to Naolin’s pen scritching. And just like old times, the twins and Kalmia ducked from responsibility. They visited her chambers, procuring books, card decks, and snacks. She’d found a liking for tea, always ready with a pot and three cups. Day by day, she was looking better.

It also provided the opportunity to introduce her to Mother, now that she was cured from the plague. Although Halek and Naolin had given her one of the first doses of lachryma, she was still very weak. They’d placed a firm restriction against visitors, to give her some peace; it hadn’t stopped her from inquiring about the state of things and how the lachryma was obtained.

Torassa had been a formidable archer in her youth, but since the twins’ childhood, she’d settled into her role of managing the flow of intelligence in and out of the Reach. Not quite a spy, but more discreet than others were aware of. She rarely raised her voice, yet under her polite demeanor, a core of steel remained strong as ever. She was sitting up in bed, propped up with pillows and skimming documents.

At the threshold, Kalmia immediately made the greeting gesture, and when she spoke, it was in Uth. “Greetings, aunt.”

Mother’s eyes widened, but she gave a pleased smile. “Greetings, child. It is so good to finally meet you. Thank you for being friends with my sons.”

“I’m very happy to be friends with them too.” She smiled. “How are you feeling?”

“Much better, thank you. Halek and Naolin told me everything, about how brave you were. You hold your colleagues to a high standard.”

The praise visibly flustered her, but she said instead. “I would’ve done it, even if I wasn’t a Shepherd.”

They had an hour together for mint tea, cider, and gingerbread. The small talk wasn’t new, mostly Kalmia sharing memories of Maj and the twins in their childhood; the atmosphere was pleasant and cozy, nothing like the frigid courtesy whenever Moonsilk tried to pry information out of Mother. It was refreshing.

After Kalmia left, to take her restless ahfuri for a run, Mother folded her hands in her lap. “She’s a sweet girl.” She pointedly looked at Halek.

“What?”

“Are you going because of her?”

“That was decided by the council.” His attempt was rewarded with a smack from his dear brother.

“Yes, and you gave them the idea that you should join the Shepherds! With me, as acting leader in your place!”

“You’ll do great, you’re much better than I am.” And he meant it. It wasn’t fair that Naolin was forever treated as second choice due to an incident of birth.

“Moonsilk will sulk.”

“She won’t argue against the council’s decree. Besides, isn’t the savior’s destiny of saving the world more important?” He glanced at Mother. “And Kalmia’s been through enough, I want to help her. As a friend.” He tried not to think about her fuller bottom lip.

“I understand, but you should be careful. Haven is the home of the Autarch, the place where our people were banished from.” She took each of their hands, and his stomach twisted at how fragile her touch was now. “Of course, I’ll worry, and for both of you. Half a year is the longest you’ll be away from each other. Will you at least write?”

“I’ll send letters as often as I can.” He promised and was drawn into the familial hug that Mother pulled them in.

At the end of the week, the celebration was initiated with an overly long ceremony. Drowning in the heavy formal robes of the sol, Halek idly scratched at the fur collar. To his right, Naolin sat properly in the matching garb of the sola. The chair to his left was empty, reserved for the sol’s consort, although he sensed Moonsilk’s stare radiating from her seat by the council. One of the old geezers must have spilled it beforehand, because she made her displeasure known, blatantly ignoring his entrance. Whispers had scattered amongst the crowd, the intensity of gossip would rival the bonfires by nightfall. Not that he particularly cared.

His gaze drifted to the guests of honor. Blade had opted for his Shepherd uniform, while Kalmia wore a charcoal gown, paired with an intricately embroidered turquoise shawl. The latter was an obvious acknowledgment of the lachryma pool, and later, it was easy to find her in the city streets.

He had to suffer all of the etiquette and platitudes, letting Naolin do the talking for them. Meanwhile, he spotted her in the distance. Kids were clamoring around her, and she knelt to meet them at eye level, answering their questions. They brought black and white flowers, angel’s nightshade, as little offerings. At his next glance, she was weaving a crown, her hands twisting in practiced motions.

When he was finally released from formal duties, he headed in her direction, only for Blade to step in line with him. His new boss too, now. Blade was reiterating the duties of a Shepherd, that he’d be a Captain overseeing a unit of exorcists. As it turned out, the Order desperately needed some.

“There are children staying with us, who need to be cleared before returning to their families. They were under the sway of a Faceless Lord’s cult, but Metella saved them.”

“Of course, she did. Why doesn’t she have her own unit?”

“I plan to assign her a group of new recruits when we return. She’s proven her value, many times over.” Blade nodded in her direction. The flower crown was perched in her matching hair, and Halek smiled.

“Her deeds have already been added to our historical records, to tell her story for generations.”

“She was also gracious enough to forgive your fiance for that stunt.” He practically snarled the last word, and Halek hung his head.

“Unfortunately, it didn’t surprise me. Moonsilk is conniving and scheming. But Kalmia’s always had a good heart.” He recalled her slight frown, her voice carrying on the wind despite obvious exhaustion. I don’t agree with what you did, I think it was wrong. But I won’t ask for payback.

Blade gruffly informed. “We also have days off. Feel free to use yours to catch up.” Funny guy, he had a soft center deep down.

“Appreciate it.”

The kids had dispersed, but Kalmia had been bombarded with more gifts. She was holding two tankards of mead, clearly stymied on what to do with them. Halek grabbed both by the handles, and winked.

“I’ll take these. There you go, Commander.” He passed one over. “Can’t have the Mage getting drunk.”

“I agree.” He took a sip, though Halek suspected it was out of politeness.

“Thank you.” Kalmia said. “Nobody wants to hear me decline anything tonight.” Right on cue, a squawking old woman thrust a vase into her arms.

It became almost a game, to sort through the sheer amount of presents she was receiving. When Naolin rejoined them, he grudgingly accepted his share of liquor and homemade goodies too. As the moon climbed higher, the dancing began. Halek pointed out buxom girls, Naolin’s type, for his twin to ask, only to receive vigorous head shakes in response.

“No, I’m not going to dance!”

“I’m already spoken for, so you should have fun for both of us. Same goes for you, Kalmia.” He had noticed the stares on her left temple, the obvious interest emanating from the people around their age.

Her gaze skimmed over the crowd of firelit shadows, and her lips pressed together. “No, I’m fine here.”

Blade then said. “You danced with Lady Ushala once.”

“Well, I felt so sorry for her. Oh, I should tell you about the gala.” Kalmia turned to the twins and put an end to their bickering, relaying the details of her adventures so far. Blade rarely interjected, only to clarify a thing or two. However, the stories enveloped their little huddle, and the music faded away into the night.

And two days later, Halek locked the door to his room, giving the key to Mother. He leaned down for her to kiss the top of his head, a long-standing gesture that sprouted nostalgia in his heart. Then, he shouldered his pack and descended the long stairs out. Through the windows, he glimpsed the Black Shield members, the ones he trusted most to accompany him in Haven. They were saying goodbye to their families and partners, and he was about to find his elk in the stables, when his path was blocked.

Moonsilk was cloaked in white, perhaps attempting a bridal appearance, ruined by her petulant expression. “You were leaving without a farewell.”

He heaved a sigh. “I haven’t seen you since the party, and I didn’t have the time to search. So, bye. Is there anything else you want to hear?”

She glared outside, her fingers twisting in her long skirts. “Not from you. I will tell you this: remember our people rely on you, our destined savior. The prophecy-”

“None of this is new.” He cut her off, walking around her figure. “And you should remember that our people were just saved, but not by me.”

It was a relief to step into the crisp winter air. Blade was already scouring through the maps, and Naolin was speaking to Kalmia. He enclosed a shard of the Mornhaven Gate in her palm. “May it protect you and my brother.” So serious.

“Halek can protect himself.” Kalmia countered but tucked the shining white stone away in a drawstring bag. “Thank you, Naolin. Please take care too.”

As for Halek, he hugged his twin one last time. “See you later. I’ll write once I’m in Haven.”

“Stay safe. And diru…I hope you’ll be careful of everything.”

“I will.” Much later, he would realize the implication of Naolin’s words. Still, he didn’t look back at all.

***

The Shepherds’ compound was a veritable maze, and Halek was quickly introduced to the others in charge. Trouble clapped his back and boisterously offered a tour, while Tallys mentioned the garden had space for herbs and vegetables to grow. Shery adjusted her glasses, her voice barely above a whisper as she said there were some relics to purify. Riel brought him a stack of paperwork to sign, only for Chase to swipe it away and crow over the stuffy language. The last two were also newcomers, Red and Ayla; the former shook his hand, the latter gave a curt nod. And besides them, there were many others who had joined the ranks; residents of Haven, merchants, thieves, Mages from Capra.

There was one more that Kalmia personally introduced. “This is Caine, he’s our…junior recruit.” The curly-haired boy couldn’t have been more than twelve years old.

Caine looked between them. “So you grew up together?”

“Yes, he came to Maj every few months, since I was even younger than you.” Kalmia explained.

“Huh.” He had to crane his head to fully look at Halek. “I can’t really imagine you as little kids…”

He shrugged. “It was years ago but I still remember our first meeting. She was small. Cute.”

Kalmia made a sound of protest, turning away in embarrassment. But he already caught the rising flush in her face. Still cute, actually.

He couldn’t resist tousling her hair and her hands instantly flew up, her fingertips brushing his wrist. The familiarity of the gesture struck something within him, like a flame, warm and strangely intense. He grinned and clasped her shoulder, pulling her towards his chest as he held on tighter.

“Halek, what are you…wait-” She was trying to say, between gasps and laughter.

“...I think it’s about time to feed Dog. Yeah. I’m gonna go…” Caine squinted, as he backtracked. “Kalmia, let me know when we can practice!”

“Of course, I will.”

“Practice?” Halek repeated.

“I promised I’d teach him how to use a weapon. Just for self-defense!”

It wasn’t her only commitment. While he and the other Hunters sent the quarantined kids home for Wintersun, she was running drills with her new unit and volunteering in the infirmary. Kalmia was frequently sought after, probably because she was so kind and approachable. Everyone seemed a little in love with her, asking for her attention. At first, he found it amusing, but as time passed, he was feeling…annoyed? Dismayed? He didn’t know how to name the emotion.

“Not to mention, our own Black Shield. Veos is very charmed by her.” Valka dryly said. “And so are Jansa and Ekkelar and-”

“Yeah, she’s popular.” He muttered.

“What’s this, are you moping?”

“No, I’m saying she barely has time to take care of herself. Between missions, newbies, and patients, she’s bound to collapse.”

“Give her an excuse to take a break. Your birthday’s coming up, after all.”

That was certainly an idea, but he didn’t want anyone to make a fuss. So, when he overheard the Hunter recruits’ plans of honoring that day, he hid in the secret spots he uncovered within the tower. A blind alcove, a cleared supply room, a terrace. Sure, he missed Mother and Naolin, but he enjoyed actually having the day to himself for once. No groveling at his feet, no droning about destiny, no beseeching expectant smiles.

The wind carried the scent of edelweiss. “Halek? I thought I’d find you here.”

“Damn, I should’ve worn camouflage.”

That earned him a laugh, as she sat beside him, nudging a slim green book into his hands. “But I have your present. Happy birthday.”

“Oh…thanks.” Somehow, he was embarrassed. His thumb pried it open, and landed on a page filled with instructions. Instructions on how to make pumpkin dumplings. “Isn’t this…?”

“It’s the Metella family recipe book. At least, all the ones I knew when I was thirteen.” She wryly said. “I wrote them down, I was afraid of forgetting. And I added some more, my favorites I picked up over the years. It’s not very extensive though.”

He looked incredulously at her. The book wasn’t only an appreciation for his love of cooking, but also a collection of her memories. “It’s amazing. I’ll make everything in here, what do you want first?”

“I’ll leave it up to you. I trust your palate.” Her response pleased him to no end.

Now, he had to find something for her birthday. He finally scrambled it together the week of, and was relieved at the news that she was adamantly refusing a party. Then, he understood why, which twisted his stomach. Still, that hadn’t stopped people from visiting her room.

Kalmia looked alright, but a weight had settled around her, tinged with sorrow. She welcomed him into a sparse but cozy living space; dried flowers hung above the window, a lone candle on her nightstand. He could identify that the book of Healing spells was Red’s present, and the seed packet could only have come from Tallys. Blade had actually procured a retractable scalpel of all things, lying beside a silver set of lockpicks that screamed of Chase’s inclination. Trouble had brought a loaf of apple bread, the crust golden, and the foreign piece on her table was an infuser from the West, where Ayla was from. A small glass jar of rosy marzipan was from Riel, apparently. Shery had given a tea blend smelling exactly like lemon cake, which was honestly the biggest competitor.

He almost felt silly, revealing the wreath from behind his back and placing it on her head. He’d asked Tallys for her recommendations, especially for healing and gratitude. She had smirked as she enunciated the names. Purpleheart and honeysuckle.

“Happy birthday, Your Highness. I’m your servant for the day.”

A startled laugh escaped her, recognition sparking in her eyes. “What game did I win?”

“Take your pick. Hide and seek with Ghasts, put a pin on the lachryma, steal the sol-”

“I don’t think I’ve stolen you. Yet.” She added. “Not until you stay here forever.”

In her room? Unconsciously, his gaze slid to her bed, only a stride away. Damn, he hadn’t been laid in five years, and he was acting like a green youth. “Borrow the sol, then. Expiration date is nightfall.”

“Well, I do need help with some errands. We’ll be back for dinner.”

The first stop was a one-clown circus, a man in garish makeup and clothing who exuberantly greeted Kalmia. She gave a polite smile, focused on replenishing her supplies. At least, the prices explained why she came to this stall.

Halek noticed a lacquered case of metal bits. “Is this where you got your clasp?"

“You noticed?”

“It’s an eagle.” The Hunters’ favored animal, due to the myths of the birds aiding Narthax.

Her fingertips ran over the edge of a wing. “Yeah, it caught my eye right away.” The bronze surface glinted in the sunlight, as they walked on.

Their destination was a stationery store, and although she bought paper and envelopes, she continued to inspect the wares. “I’m looking for a wax seal. Lately, the others have been using personal ones for their letters, and I’d like my own.” She was completely focused, her face turned away.

The array was overwhelming, up to his eye level. And there, the perfect one. His fingers closed around the handle, and he offered it to her.

“Found a winner.” He showed her the emblem. A mountain peak, surrounded by a serrated border like laurel leaves. She reached for the seal, but at the last second, he lifted it over his head.

“Halek!”

He grinned at her indignant expression. “You have to look above you sometimes.”

“For the seal, or you?” Ah, she saw right through his ploy. She poked his midsection, then appeared surprised at the resistance. Her fingers hovered in the air, and for a searing second, he wanted her to touch him again.

Then, the owner demanded to know whether they were going to pay, and they did, hurrying out. From then on, they didn’t overly linger, eventually turning to the tower again. She talked about her new unit members, what they were like and how they seemed to have the wrong impression of her.

“Is this how you’ve been treated your whole life?”

“Pretty much. We’re infallible beings to the people. Sol of the Reach, Hero of Haven.” He said. “And it’s ignored that we’re people too, with desires of our own.”

“What do you desire?” She quietly asked.

The image of her bed flashed in his mind, the same question in her soft voice but the pitch uneven, dark lashes low over violet irises. He didn’t blink. “Sleep. You know I love naps. And you?”

“Huh?” Her eyes widened, and he realized how that must have sounded.

“I’m asking what you want.”

“O-oh. Probably the same thing. Sleep would be nice. We’ve been so busy.” She was talking faster, her sentences clipped.

He cleared his throat and changed the subject. “The next holiday is Wintersun, so I’m going to help with the cooking.” They talked about the upcoming celebration, the differences from their homes, and what the menu would be. The conversation was enough of a distraction, to last the entire way back to the tower.

Outside her door, she paused and turned to him. Stray white petals were suspended like stars in her hair. “Thank you. This was the best birthday I’ve had in years.”

“You’re welcome.” He gently said. “We should do this more often.”

“Yes, but not as queen and servant. We can just be ourselves next time.”

He gave a crooked smile at her suggestion. “Sounds good to me.”

The next couple weeks were unfortunately occupied by patrols, sick patients, and calls for exorcisms. One of the Black Shield members retrieved his mail, and his attention locked on to the small envelope, with a mountain peak and laurels in pearlescent lilac wax. He tore it open, a standard Wintersun invitation but the message was hers.

I’ll save you a seat, meet me before midnight!

There was nowhere else he’d rather be.

#the continuation of this story was wonderful!#there were so many little moments I loved #like Naolin’s 'warning' before Halek left or his mom's subtle nudging #it's a really great AU and I'm looking forward to more #shepherds of haven #shoh #other people's writing #fan fiction

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