Moving back to Antiva was happening earlier than expected, but the growing failure of the wards protecting Orlais were slowly but surely failing. Adaria could sense it in the magic, sensitive as she was and warning her aunt that she should sell up and leave quickly before the markets fell and she left the land in a poor state, burdened by an unsellable, inhospitable city. Francesco would have chuckled at the economics of it and it seemed only fitting to weasel out a small fortune from the Frogs for no risk. If anyone came biting at their heels over it, Adaria had told her to send them her way.
A bulk of the large items had already made their ways to Mica’s new estate back in Antiva though Adaria was carefully watching as the staff removed her things, quietly fretting over the pieces she really cared for like her mechanical puzzles. She feared they would lose pieces and when there was a crucial point in the mens handling the tension in her shoulders rose to snap her back straight. The iron grip she had on the violin box shook, clutching the wooden box close and every offer to take it from her was met with a stern refusal. No. Her father’s instrument would remain with her until they made it home to her palace in Antiva City.
Ugh. Enzo. She would see him earlier than expected too. Was he to greet her home with a fellow sycophant at his side ready with a ring? She hoped not, her already fraught mind became more stressed and unable to watch the movers any longer retreated to her empty room. Considering everything was removed the princess took a seat at the window unclasping the locks of the case and pull the instrument free.
A light hearted farewell was the piece of the day, strings slowly warmed into the melody, her life again interrupted by circumstances outwith her control. How utterly maddening.
Rafael moved stealthily through the bustling streets of Val Royeaux, his eyes scanning the surroundings with a mix of concern and determination. The city was alive with activity, people frantically packing their belongings and preparing to flee from the darkspawn threat looming just outside the city walls. The tension in the air was palpable, a stark contrast to the usual vibrancy of Orlais’s capital.
He had made his way here through the eluvian network, his worry for Addy overriding any sense of caution. Despite knowing that Addy was more than capable of handling herself, Rafael couldn't shake the nagging fear that had driven him to seek her out. The thought of accompanying her back to Antiva had solidified his resolve; he wouldn’t feel at ease until he knew she was safe.
Rafael considered sneaking into her aunt’s home, but quickly dismissed the idea. The chaotic atmosphere in the city meant that no one would care or notice him anyway. Besides, he wanted to surprise Addy, not cause any unnecessary alarm. With the Tevinter Ball Puzzle wrapped and tucked behind his back, he followed the sound of a violin, the familiar melody guiding him through the packed hallways of the grand residence.
As he approached the room where the music played, Rafael slowed his pace, taking a moment to listen. The sound was unmistakably Addy’s—each note played with the skill and passion that always captivated him. He stood in the doorway, watching her, his heart swelling with a mixture of love and relief. For a few moments, he simply enjoyed the sight and sound of her, the worries that had plagued him easing slightly in her presence. When the final notes of her song faded into the air, Rafael cleared his throat softly.
While her time studying with Rene had been short, Adaria had naturally inherited her father’s ear and talent for the strings. Continuing to study back home was a natural progression though she was hesitant in roaming the halls her Father had, it invited scrutiny and expectation and there was enough of that weighing on her shoulders. The melody began to shift from its upbeat, jovial farewell into a distracted, disoding and fading until dropping the instrument into her lap, the bow dropped to the floor.
She sensed him the moment he crossed over the house's threshold, but the Princess refrained from acknowledging him for staring out the window. Addy huffed, leaning back into the cushion of the window seat. There are too many people touching my things.
Her gaze flicked to meet his, I hate moving. I hate being forced out even more. It just reminds me of the last two years, when we fled in the night and everything began falling to pieces.
The Crow’s had put the bounty on their heads and in a blink they had all been scattered and she’d been left to endure the belief her Father was dead months before he truly was. While meeting Rafael had been one of the few brighter moments, Adaria was still working through the murk and dark path of grief mingled and intertwined with the heavy weight of her duty.
Rafael leaned against the doorframe, his trademark smirk softened by genuine concern as he watched Addy wrestle with her emotions. The tension in her voice didn’t surprise him—moving was always a hassle, but this felt like something more, something deeper.
Yeah, moving sucks, he replied, his tone light but laced with empathy. It’s like the universe’s way of reminding us that we’re never really in control of anything. One minute you’re settled, the next, everything’s in boxes, and nothing feels quite right.
He stepped into the room, casually tossing the Tevinter Ball Puzzle onto a nearby chair before crossing over to her, clearly she was in no mood for the puzzle he’d brought. But hey, it’s just stuff, right? I mean, I get it, though—those things are pieces of your life. But they’re just things. You? You’re still here, still standing. And that’s what matters.
Rafael settled beside her on the window seat, close enough to offer comfort but giving her the space she needed. He glanced out the window, taking in the chaotic scene outside with a sigh.
It’s okay to be pissed off about it. About all of it, he continued, his voice dropping to a more serious tone. The running, the uncertainty, all the crap that’s been thrown your way—it’s enough to make anyone lose their mind. But you’re tougher than that, Addy. I know you are. And I’m here, alright? You’re not going through this alone.
He reached out, brushing a stray lock of hair from her face, his touch gentle, almost hesitant. We’ll get through this. We’ll get back to Antiva, and we’ll figure it out. Together.
Rafael paused, letting his words sink in before he flashed her a small grin, the familiar mischievous spark returning to his eyes. And if your brother tries to pull any of his sycophant nonsense, well, you know I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve to deal with that.
Adaria’s shoulders slumped, her eyes tracing the pattern on the windowpane, avoiding Rafael's gaze. She wanted to believe him, to lean into the comfort he was offering, but the thought of returning to Antiva felt like stepping back into a gilded cage.
Raffy… she began, her voice barely above a whisper. It’s not just about the stuff. It’s everything waiting for me back there. I’m not sure I’m ready to face it.
She glanced at him, her eyes searching his face, trying to gauge if he could truly understand what she couldn’t quite put into words. My brothers, they will expect me to just fall back in line, like nothing’s changed. Like I’m still the same girl who left Antiva all those years ago. The baby sister. But I’m not, and I can’t be that person anymore.
Her gaze shifted to the chaotic scene outside the window, where people moved hurriedly, shoving crates and furniture into wagons, as if trying to outrun something unseen. It mirrored the turmoil inside her.
And what about Antiva? Everyone’s playing their own game, and I’m supposed to just walk back in and pretend? As if our Father’s death wasn’t still hanging over everything. Enzo is drowning under it. I’m worried about what’s going to happen. About what they’ll expect of me. What they’ll expect of us, she added, her voice faltering slightly on the last word.
She took a deep breath, fighting back the tightness in her chest, forcing a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. And then there’s us. I don’t want to be someone’s pawn, Raffy. I don’t want them to use me against you, or vice versa. I don’t want to drag you into my mess, not when… not when it could end up tearing us apart or worse. You, dead.
There was a moment of silence, and she turned back to him, her expression softening, a rarity, almost as if she was pleading with him to understand. You’ve always had a trick up your sleeve, but this… this isn’t like the games we play. It’s the court, Talons, everyone with their own agendas. I don’t want you to be a piece on their board, one taken out in a manoeuvre to win.
Her hand reached out to him, fingers brushing against his, finding a small sense of grounding in the familiar warmth of his touch. I’m scared, Rafael. I’m scared of going back and losing myself, and I’m scared of losing you. I’m scared that once we’re there, everything will change, and I’ll have no control over it.
The words hung in the air, raw and heavy, and for a moment, she wished she could take them back. But they were out there now, and she looked at him with a mix of defiance and vulnerability, bracing herself for whatever came next. I just… I need to know that we’ll still be okay. That no matter what happens, no matter how tangled things get, we’ll find our way through it. Whatever comes.
She forced a small, almost bitter laugh, shaking her head. Expressing her feelings, her fears had never been a comfortable discussion. Because if I’m going back to face my brothers and the chaos of Antiva, I need to know that I have something real, something solid to hold onto. You’re the only thing that’s solid ground.
Rafael held her gaze, his smirk fading into something softer, his expression lined with genuine understanding as he absorbed each of her words. She was right—going back to Antiva would be a game, one that everyone played ruthlessly, and no one cared about who got hurt in the process. But that wasn’t his worry. She was, and keeping her safe from all of it was a promise he’d made to himself a long time ago.
Addy, love, he said quietly, taking her hand more firmly, you’re not losing me to any of this. Not to your brothers’ schemes, or the court’s little games. I’ve dodged worse messes, believe me. And more than that, I’m not about to let them use you, either. Antiva’s got enough vultures to circle a battlefield, but that’s all they are—circling, no real teeth. He brushed his thumb over her knuckles, grounding her and, in a way, grounding himself too.
He shifted to face her more fully, his gaze unwavering. If it makes you feel better, I’d be just as wary if I were you. But you’re stronger than they think. And if they can’t see that yet? Well, I’ll be there every step, watching you prove them wrong. His grin returned, a spark of mischief in his eyes, though it was softened by sincerity. And if Enzo’s foolish enough to try using you as a pawn, he’ll have me to deal with. I’ve learned a trick or two in my time, you know. I realise my father is just a minor noble, but that doesn’t mean it’s always been easy for me.
A heartbeat of silence stretched between them, his grip still warm and steady in hers. As for us, he continued, his voice gentle now, I’d wager on us, Addy. Antiva’s just a place, the court’s just noise. The only thing that matters to me in all that is you. The rest of it? It can burn for all I care.
He smiled then, leaning in, his voice a soft murmur just for her. So if you’re ready to face whatever’s waiting there, I’m with you. For as long as you’ll have me.
Adaria felt a warmth spread through her chest as Rafael spoke, his words cutting through the fog of doubt and fear that had been clouding her mind. It was like he had a way of making everything seem possible, even when the world felt like it was spinning out of control. She held onto his hand a little tighter, as if that simple act could tether her to the one solid thing in her life.
She looked up at him, her lips curving into a small, almost shy smile. You always make it sound so easy, she said, her voice barely more than a murmur. Like we can just waltz back into Antiva and stare down everyone who thinks they can control us. I wish I could see it that way.
Her eyes drifted away, staring out at the bustling scene beyond the window, a frown tugging at her brow. But I know what they’re capable of, Rafael. My brother… he’s had time to perfect his game. And the court, the Merchant Princes - I don’t want to be a weapon they can use against the people I care about. If they tested her magic, her reach of power to infiltrate the mind, it could reveal her hand too quickly.
Her gaze flickered back to him, the vulnerability in her eyes mingling with a steely resolve. I know you’re not afraid, and maybe I shouldn’t be either. But I am. And I’m tired of pretending that I’m not. She let out a shaky breath, as if finally admitting it was like releasing a weight she’d been carrying for too long.
… Weakness.
But… I believe you, she added, her voice softening as she looked at him, really looked at him. I believe you when you say you’ll be there, that we’ll get through this together. And maybe that’s what scares me the most - because if I lose that, if I lose you... I don’t know how I’d handle it.
For a moment, she seemed lost in thought, her expression caught between fear and hope. Then, she straightened, as if mustering all the courage she had. So maybe you’re right. Maybe we make it dance to our tune for once. Her smile widened, a flicker of mischief lighting up her eyes, a glimpse of the old Addy, the one who hadn’t been so burdened by the world.
And as for my brothers, Gio especially… She shook her head, a hint of defiance in her tone. If he thinks he can control me, he’s got another thing coming. I won’t be their pawn. Not again. Not ever. And if they try to use me against you, I’ll make sure they regret it.
She laughed then, the sound light but real, and she felt some of the tension in her chest ease. Her expression softened, and she reached up, brushing her fingers along his jaw, her touch gentle, reverent. Is… that your way of a proposal? Because frankly that’s… we can do better, Rafael. A proposal didn’t come from a place of fear, or helplessness. It came from certainty, and currently Adaria was unsure of everything, even the length of their time together.
Try again when you find a ring… or kil- No. I cannot ask you to kill Gio, that’s too far.
Rafael let out a small, nervous laugh, feeling his cheeks heat up as Adaria’s words settled between them. Her teasing comment about a proposal had caught him off guard, but the warmth in her touch, the tenderness in her gaze, made the moment feel more real than any formal declaration ever could. He gently brushed his thumb over her fingers, his heart swelling with affection despite the heavy conversation they’d just waded through.
Proposal? he echoed, his grin returning, though it was tinged with an awkward chuckle. Well, that wasn’t my *plan*... but I guess I’m not the smoothest guy when it comes to grand gestures, huh? He tilted his head slightly, letting his smile soften as he gazed at her, his tone playful but sincere. Though, I’d have to agree. I think we could definitely do better than a hasty 'let’s survive Antiva together.' Maybe something with fewer death threats and more champagne?
Rafael’s eyes glinted with amusement, but underneath it, there was a current of seriousness. It wasn’t that he wasn’t afraid, the idea he could lose Addy was something he didn’t like to think about, or worse, what if he died because of his closeness to her, would she ever be able to forgive herself if something happened to him.
He leaned in slightly, his expression softening further. Addy, love… I don’t need a ring or a big speech to tell you what you already know. I’m in this, with you. For the long haul. And whether it’s dodging your brothers’ schemes or standing with you in the chaos of Antiva’s court, nothing’s going to shake that. His tone grew serious, his voice dropping to a near-whisper, as if the words were meant just for her ears. I’m afraid I’m falling for you Addy
Rafael’s hand found hers again, squeezing it gently as he let out a small, resigned sigh, the usual teasing glint returning to his eyes. But yeah, maybe we’ll hold off on the whole 'killing Gio' plan—for now. Though if he pushes you too far, we can always revisit the idea. Just, you know, purely hypothetical. He winked, the playful edge returning to his voice.
Fewer deaths? Are you even Antivan? she’d scoff awkwardly, trying to shift past the sudden nervousness that sought to overwhelm her. But you’re halfway there with the champagne, so I’ll allow it. Even if his eyes glinted with amusement and teasing she could see the familiar fear, the mortality of the other weighed heavily.
He’s falling for me? The thought sent a warm rush through her, but it was tangled with nerves that she hadn’t felt in so long. She wasn’t sure she could remember how to let herself feel this way again—this vulnerable, this open.
A small smile curled at the edges of her lips, though she looked away for a moment, her voice soft. Raffy… She managed, her fingers closing around his instinctively. You… you make it sound easy. A faint laugh escaped, but it was laced with uncertainty. What kind of mess we’d be in together? Yet, when she looked up and caught the steady, unwavering warmth in his gaze, the shadows of doubt faded just a bit.
Letting out a breath, she squeezed his hand, grounding herself in the moment, her voice gentler now. As much as I love the idea of ‘purely hypothetical’ revenge plots, she smirked slightly, a trace of teasing returning, I think we’ll leave my brothers be. For now. It’s not like they’re going anywhere anytime soon. The thought of her brothers, their scheming and their shadows, faded for once. Right now, all she wanted was to be here with him.
She paused, glancing back at the scene outside where boxes were stacked, the endless packing and sorting an exhausting backdrop to her thoughts. She didn’t want to go stay here, to face the movers and the hollow feeling of leaving. Just for a little while, I want to be away from it all.
Raffy, she began, her tone uncertain, almost hesitant, do you think we could… just go somewhere? Even if it’s just for a few hours. Her fingers tightened in his as she looked back at him, her expression softening. Anywhere you want. I just… I need to get away from it all for a bit. The movers, the boxes… just us.
Inside, her heart whispered the truth that her mind was just beginning to realize. I want to be with him. The more time she spent with Rafael, the harder it was to deny the tug that pulled her toward him. The absences caused her anxiety to peak higher. Every teasing exchange, every gentle touch and shared look was planting itself somewhere deep, past the walls she’d built around her heart. It was terrifying and thrilling in a way she hadn’t let herself feel for so long.
Maybe, just maybe, she didn’t have to run from this.
Rafael’s eyes softened, losing some of their mischievous light as he took in Adaria’s expression—both resolute and vulnerable, a rare and beautiful contradiction. The idea of her reaching out, asking him for just a moment away from all the chaos, made his chest tighten in a way that felt far too real.
Somewhere? he echoed with a smile that was more gentle than his usual smirk, as if the weight of the moment had stripped away any need for pretense. Well, Princess, I think that’s the best idea I’ve heard all day. And who am I to deny a royal request? He stood, their fingers still entwined, and glanced out the window with a quick flick of his eyes, noting the swarm of movement and noise that mirrored the anxiety that had settled into every corner of the house.
We’ll go somewhere quiet, he said, squeezing her hand lightly. Someplace where the world can’t find us for a little while. I know just the spot. It’s a bit out of the way, but worth it. Trust me.
The way he said it, with that unshakeable confidence that seemed to come so naturally to him, made it feel like it was possible to escape, even if just for an afternoon. Without letting go of her hand, he led her toward the side door, casting one last glance at the controlled chaos in the room. He offered her a reassuring wink.
Besides, movers can do their thing without us watching over them, right? Let them earn their pay.
As they stepped into the crisp afternoon light, Rafael felt a twinge of relief. Here, outside of packed crates and expectations, they could just be Rafael and Adaria. Not the dutiful noble, not the grieving daughter with Antiva’s eyes on her. Just them. And if he could make her laugh or even just help her feel a moment of peace, it would be worth every whisper of trouble that might follow when they returned.
Ready, love? He glanced at her with a grin that promised mischief, adventure, and something deeper that only she could name.
Adaria let out a soft, almost shaky laugh as they stepped outside, the sunlight warming her face and easing some of the tension knotted in her chest. Rafael’s hand in hers, warm and steady, felt like an anchor, a lifeline in the chaos that had consumed her for days. She glanced up at him, her lips curving into a small, genuine smile—one that hadn’t surfaced in far too long.
Somewhere quiet, she echoed, her voice carrying a note of relief. You have no idea how good that sounds right now. All the noise, I can’t even hear myself think. She shook her head, exhaling slowly, her shoulders finally beginning to relax. Thank you…. It’s like you know exactly what I need before I do.
Her grip on his hand tightened briefly, a silent acknowledgment of how much his grounding presence meant to her. I’m always the one trying to hold it all together, you know? It feels strange to let go of all that, even for a moment. But with you… it’s easier. You make it easier.
She glanced at him, her smile softening. You don’t even ask me to explain. You just… get it. And that means more to me than I can say.
As they moved further from the house, the sounds of the movers and the weight of responsibility began to fade into the background, replaced by the soothing hum of the outdoors. The idea of going somewhere quiet, somewhere secret, where no one could find them, sent a small spark of excitement flickering through her.
So, a secret spot? she asked, her tone lighter now, curiosity piqued. Are you finally going to let me in on one of your mysteries? Or are you just going to keep me guessing the whole way there? Her teasing smile grew, the rare glimmer of mischief dancing in her eyes.
She tilted her head, studying him as they walked. You’re being very cryptic, Rafael. Should I be worried? The corner of her mouth quirked upward, the teasing laced with genuine anticipation. For once, she didn’t care about the consequences, about what needed to be done or who might be looking for them. For the first time in what felt like forever, she let herself trust him completely, let herself be led.
Alright, Raffy, she said, her voice softening again, though the excitement still lingered. Show me your quiet little corner of the world. I think I’m ready to escape with you. Maybe this secret place would be their refuge in the days to come?
Rafael led Adaria down the winding path, his grip on her hand steady and warm. The sounds of the movers faded into the distance, replaced by the soft rustle of leaves and the faint murmur of a stream. His gaze flicked to her occasionally, catching the way her shoulders eased, her tension slowly melting away.
I’ll let you in on a little secret, he said, his tone light but carrying a quiet sincerity. This spot? I only found it after I started visiting you in Orlais. It’s not exactly marked on a map, but I needed somewhere to breathe... somewhere that wasn’t court intrigue and stifling nobles. So, yeah, it’s kind of my escape. But now? He glanced at her, his smile softening. Now it feels like it’s worth sharing.
The path opened into a small, sunlit clearing. At its heart was a flat stone, ringed by wildflowers swaying in the breeze. A stream wound lazily along one side, the water sparkling as it caught the sunlight filtering through the trees.
Rafael stepped aside, letting her take it in. What do you think? Quiet enough? He grinned, his tone teasing but his eyes searching hers for a reaction.
He moved to the rock, patting the spot beside him. Come on, Addy. No scheming brothers, no movers, no expectations. Just us. For a little while, anyway.
Settling back, he tilted his head, the teasing edge returning. Unless you want to fill the quiet with more ‘hypothetical’ death plots. In which case, I might have to rethink this whole sharing idea.
The playful grin lingered, but his gaze held a steady warmth, inviting her to let go—if only for now.
