The deed had finally been done. The Dowager Queen was dead. Justice had been served.
Although it came at a price, Adaria had willingly paid it. Her curse? To lose a few years of her life and the inconvenience of mana sickness. She was a pitiful state when finally stumbling through the eluvian into Amaranthian, barely able to get on a horse and get herself towards a haven she knew she would be able to rest at. Arriving at the Peak the guards almost caught her a few times, but she managed the rest of the way unhindered, only getting lost and turned around a few times. Her head was awash with thoughts, the trailing edges of spells and the rituals toll on her.
Yet when finding his chambers empty but already prepared for a bath, Adaria had her suspicions. No-one should have known her whereabouts, was it mere coincidence? Providence? A frank appraisal of the room, her condition and the consequences rendered the matter moot, the bath too welcoming a prospect and given its readiness, she did not have the time to linger.
Her hair hastily tied into a bun, the exhausted Princess slipped into the waters. A groan intertwined itself with a content sigh as the relaxing heat soothed the aches and bruises sustained. Even if most of her revenge had occurred in dreams, the body still suffered some physical effects, and she had compounded the effect with her deal and over extension. It was startling being unable to hear the backdrop hum of minds around. Almost lonely.
Gathering the bar of soap and a cloth, she began to summon the energy to scrub herself of the scent of death. A few flecks had landed on her cheeks, smeared in the haste to flee the murderous scene. She found her mind drifting, going over her mothers words when she knew no good would come from anything she claimed to believe. Selfish individuality. Not the collective health and wellbeing of the rest.
It had been a long day for Raphael, ever since he’d decided to join the Aerial Protectorate he’d gone through a lot of training. Not that he wasn’t up for the challenge, after all his mother had never coddled him. He’d been training as a rogue since he was old enough to hold a dagger, his mother had made sure of that.
Of course, right now his mother was missing, they’d searched everywhere around Amaranthine and the surrounding area with no luck. He didn’t think she’d stay away this long without a message, but she was also a grown adult and there was only so much he and Ragnar could do.
At least things were going well on the AP training front, though he hadn’t bonded with a Griffon yet, he felt like he was making a lot of headway. His sister had agreed to take over the barony. Something that had made Raphael feel completely entirely relieved.
It was funny really, he still wasn’t sure how he felt about Adaria, but it was talking to her that had finally made him come to the realisation that he didn’t want to be Baron. So whatever their time together had been worth, there was at least that.
He was looking forward to the nice long bath he’d poured himself, only he’d gotten called away just as it was full. So when he returned, his hope was that it hadn’t gotten too cold, he never imagined what he’d actually find in his room. He walked in.
Who the…… He started, then suddenly realised who it was and sighed. Adaria. As he took a closer look, he realised something rather quickly, she didn’t quite look her usual self. Something was wrong, or off, he wasn’t entirely sure. Are you all right? You look like shit. Were it anyone else he probably would have been nicer about how he said it, but it was Adaria, he didn’t want to be too nice and have it thrown back in his face.
The cloth against her skin felt far away, hardly noticing she scrubbed the same spot almost raw. As if that would wipe clean the action of her hands. The click of the door however, echoed, a startling reminder that part of her was missing. Sullen, tired blues followed him in, noting the heaviness of his brow before offering an amused curl of her lips when he quickly exclaimed his surprise at finding her there.
[color=#9a00b2]“Your powers of deduction are impressive…”[/color] she’d sigh, head rolling to stare at him from the suds. Was she alright? No. Not in the slightest. Yet she still hesitated, regardless of seeking his place for shelter, for… and it felt irritating to admit it, but his help. [color=#9a00b2]“I’d rather not talk about the details, but… no. I have…”[/color] she laughed, the sound hollow and bitter even to her own ears.
Raising her hand she attempted to pull on a thread of magic, the slightest bud of light bloomed at the tips of her pinched grasp. Then nothing. The bead of light vanished and in the effort of conjuring that pathetic display the Princess sank back heavily against the tub. [color=#9a00b2]“I survived, this is just… a temporary situation. Of course, so weakened, it was only natural for me to seek shelter with someone of… well, some vigour.”[/color] A sly smile spread casually across her face. [color=#9a00b2]“You gave me bruises for nearly a week, Baron. Seems fair your bath is all you lose.”[/color] Unless. [color=#9a00b2]“I’m afraid I can’t return the favour, but I’m happy to share your bed tonight, for assistance. Or do you wish to share both?” [/color]
Raph did his best not to roll his eyes at the comment about his deduction skills, but as she talked more about how she was, his face turned more serious. There was a part of him that was thrilled to see her, but if she was in trouble or hurt, he wanted to be able to help somehow.
At first he wasn’t sure what she was trying to do, but he quickly realised that clearly whatever was wrong, her magic had been effected. He tried to think what might do that, but as he didn’t even have an ounce of magic, he really didn’t know much about it.
Well, you’re alive, so that’s something. No details though, but the magic thing is temporary? So I guess whatever happened involved your magic. He was curious, but he also wasn’t about to press, he cared, but he also didn’t want to just end up pushing her away, and at the moment he was also a bit giddy over the fact that in her time of need she’d chosen him to go to. At the comment about him causing bruises he was conflicted, part of him wanted to grin, and part of him wanted to apologise for being so rough, but he quickly decided grinning was probably the best option, Addy was like no one he’d ever met before, and he didn’t want to show any weakness.
Do you think there’s room enough in that bath for two? He asked, he was upset about his mom and needed the distraction, and regardless of how Addy could completely infuriate him, she also made him feel like he’d never felt before. Was it possible to want someone and hate them at the same time?
While she couldn’t sense anything from his mind, his flitting expression tugged at her lips, curious how irritation quickly shifted to concern for her. Sinking back against the tub after her pathetic display, Adaria hummed in agreement.
[color=#9a00b2]“Mercifully, yes. For how long? I’m uncertain. I knew the risks, this… is the better of the outcomes.”[/color] Death could have been on the cards, while sundering her magic completely was another, however, to the relief of the Princess she could still sense it, the spirit within her remained though equally exhausted. Lids feel over her eyes again [color=#9a00b2]“... I didn’t expect to feel so… feeble. It’s odd. I don’t enjoy it.”[/color] She’d ‘tsk’ but soon was grinning again after reminding him of his lingering presence on her skin. It was a pity she wasn’t in the position to return such a pleasure.
Her smile slowly became a smirk with his question and Adaria couldn’t help but let her eyes wander over him then back to meet his gaze. A brow arched. [color=#9a00b2]“Adding another few coals would be wise then,”[/color] she’d offer, legs shifting languidly under the suds. [color=#9a00b2]“You can scrub the bits I missed, help me with my hair? If I do it I might accidentally drown,”[/color] she’d chuckle, [color=#9a00b2]“and that’s a terrible way for me to end. In a bathtub, in Ferelden of all places.”[/color] No. She had too many things to do, reclaiming Antiva for her Family, to fall here and now.
While her tired gaze fell back on him, Adaria made the effort to move, creating space for him to join her. He had captured her full attention now, suddenly gripped that his company brought about irritation, but an overwhelming sense of calm that swept her up and ground her. [color=#9a00b2]“... Do I also get a show?” [/color]
Part of Raphael wanted to feel worry, and probably did, but he was doing his best not to show worry simply because he didn’t want to see what Addy’s reaction to his worry would be. Was there a chance she’d think fondly of the fact he worried about her, perhaps, but he also felt there was a very good chance she would simply be annoyed with and/or make fun of his worry.
Well, you’re here now, we might as well make the most of it, I mean if you think you can keep up with me… He said with a teasing grin, pushing all thoughts of worry or concern out of his mind. Because she was here, she was in relatively one piece, so what was the point in worrying now about something that had already happened.
Raphael chuckled at her comment, already beginning to loosen the ties of his shirt. Only if you promise not to laugh, he retorted, flashing her a teasing grin. With that, he began to undress, preparing to join her in the bath. Not that she hadn’t seen him naked already, but the last time, well the only time so far, had been wholly unexpected. Not that he’d expected to find her naked in his bath today, but it just felt different somehow. More planned and less rushed.
It may have surprised her to know how worried he was for her. The condition she’d arrived in was unusual for a person, let alone a woman, in her position. Adaria was no wallflower certainly, she seemed to tackle her problems head on, without flinching, from his perspective. His gentle teasing was actually a welcomed relief to the Antivan; a lecture would not change any of the events that brought her to his door.
[color=#9a00b2]“Mmm you say that, but I remember giving you quite the run around. It’s only fair this time around I’m completely at your mercy.” [/color]
His genuine chuckle, caught her breath a moment. Her hawke-like gaze following the path of his hands steadily unbuttoning and shedding his shirt. Gods he was beautiful, his form carefully sculpted and chiselled with the robust training with the mythical beasts. An approving hum escaped between her lips the more skin became exposed, and while his retort earned him a scoff, Adaria continued to stare teeth nibbling her lower lip until he sank under the suds next to her. [color=#9a00b2]"What now, my Baron?"[/color]
With a playful smile, Raphael turned his attention back to her. **Well, my Princess, I believe we have a deal to uphold. You mentioned something about scrubbing hard-to-reach places and helping with your hair, didn't you?** His tone was light, but his eyes held a silent promise of the care he intended to provide.
There was so much that he wanted to do, but this time, in the comfort of his home in Amaranthine, he wanted to take his time. He wanted to really enjoy every moment that he had with Addy, while he wasn’t worried about being walked in on.
And, of course, I wouldn't want to be accused of being a poor host. Let's start with getting you clean and comfortable, shall we? Raphael suggested, reaching for the bar of soap, ready to fulfil his part of the bargain.
There was something about the way he called her Princess that sent a skip across her chest. Something about the tone, or how it vibrated in his throat, it simply eluded her the reason. You do, her own voice softening in return. Gods. She’d never imagined willingly being at someone else’s mercy, nor find it so intoxicating.
Still, she had to have some control, taking the opportunity while he reached for the soap to slip into his lap, pulling her wet hair across one shoulder. Adaria couldn’t help but chuckle though, his playful jab just that. Mmm, You are learning. With a sigh she’d lean back into him, I’m more than comfortable, especially when my company is so attentive.
She’d watch, aiding when she could, as he lathered her skin piece by piece with gentle care. Mind massaged into a state of muddled delirium if not for the soft tune hummed, his hands working the ails of the day out though the fatigue would linger for weeks. His hands were working the soap out of her hair when she breathed the slight confession.
I... killed someone today... and while they deserved it. Every piece of it. My heart and mind are still not at ease... They didn’t suffer nearly enough as their victims did, have.
His hands fell still, the soft hum that had been filling the air died away. He was silent for a moment, processing her confession. Then, in a voice barely above a whisper, he asked, Do you want to talk about it**?** He knew better than to push her, but he wanted her to know that he was there for her, ready to listen if she needed to unburden her heart. That and he was a bit curious, not that it would alter how he felt about her.
He continued to gently wash her hair, his touch steady despite the shock of her revelation. It was not his place to judge her actions, not when he didn't know the whole story. His role, he decided, was to provide comfort and solace. Whatever happened, Adaria," he murmured, "you're safe here. I'm here.
The sudden silence felt worse than the exhaustion. His thoughts were silent, closed to her for the time being and the loneliness of her own mind, her demons, were too loud. Adaria tried not to shrink though there was no hiding anything with this fatigue. The whisper to her ear felt almost like a lifeline and even if her own voice failed to answer in the moment, Adaria turned into him for comfort. ...Maybe, but not tonight.
She pressed her cheek against his chest, offering a slight scoff of a laugh. I am a Dreamer, I’m barely safe from myself on a good day. And today has not been a good day, Raphy. She tensed suddenly, realising she shortened his full name instead of the playful ex-title she teased him with. Agree to dismiss that and I’ll admit that yes... I do feel… she chewed over the conclusion of her sentence.
I do feel safer. And I have not felt like that in… in a long time.
Raphael, gently cradled Adaria in the warm bath, looked into her eyes with deep affection and understanding. He softly brushed a strand of hair from her face and spoke, You don't have to talk about anything right now, my love. Just know that I'm here for you, always. Whatever you’re feeling, whatever thoughts trouble you, you’re not alone in facing them.
He smiled, the warmth of his gaze never leaving hers. You're safe here, Addy. And as for the name... I think I can handle 'Raphy'. His voice is gentle, comforting. We'll face tomorrow together, and the day after that, and every day that follows. And don’t freak out about that or anything, I like you all right, in whatever way that’s allowed to mean, for however long.
The Princess would stare, gaze uncertain while she considered a response. The way he cradled her in the water, keeping her afloat from not just drowning physically, but emotionally, mentally.
What a fool, a voice whispered in the back of her mind.
His tease over the pet name allowed her slight smirk to return. I can think of others. You might not like those as much. Her eyes fluttered closed, letting the remaining heat soothe her ails. I like you too, but you should be careful, affection and my family don’t often go hand in hand, or does it survive. One of us, or both, may have to make a choice.
In her heart she knew it would always be Antiva that won. Such was the burden of the crown. But, it was not yet hers to claim. She had time to lose herself, recover her strength, her magic, with his support and... safe embrace.
Rafael held her a little tighter, the warmth of the water a comforting contrast to the chill of her words. Her smirk and the teasing about pet names brought a smile to his lips, a small relief in the midst of the weighty conversation.
Well, he began, keeping his tone light, I'd like to hear those other names, just to see if they're as bad as you think.
But then he grew serious, sensing the depth of her concern. Her warning about affection and her family was no small thing. He understood the gravity of her words, the heavy burden of duty and expectation that came with her title.
I know what I'm getting into, Rafael said softly, looking into her eyes. After all, he was from a lower Antivan Noble family, he understood what it meant to be nobility, and though he wasn’t royalty, still understood the even greater weight on their shoulders. Your family, your responsibilities—they're all a part of who you are. But I believe we can find a way to navigate it.
He paused, brushing a strand of wet hair away from her face. Choices may come, and they won't be easy. But right now, in this moment, I choose you. And I hope, even if it's just for a little while, you'll choose me too.
Rafael's heart ached at the thought of the inevitable challenges ahead. He knew that her loyalty to Antiva was unshakable, but he couldn't help but hope that they could carve out a space for themselves within those constraints.
We'll take it one step at a time, he continued, his voice steady. You don't have to make any decisions now. Let's just focus on the here and now, on finding your strength and your magic again. We'll face whatever comes later. He didn’t care to think about tomorrow, for the moment the here and now was just fine for him.
I’ll whisper them, I won’t make it easy, she’d tease.
There was an ease with their jabs at each other. An outsider might see it as competition, and it was to some extent, but it also served as a smokescreen to hide the hidden meaning underlying their taunts. The Princess was realising how quickly they had found themselves here, not just sharing a bath, but investing into each other’s lives.
You might not like where this goes, she warned, meeting his gaze seriously. It is not just about family, it is about Antiva, her people, and their wellbeing. That is the responsibility of the crown. She could not, no, would not shirk the responsibility that so many Campana’s had before. My Father and Mother tried… they’re both dead…
Her gaze trailed off, realising too late that the secret was out.. Whether he pieced it together or not was debatable, but no word of the Dowager Queen’s demise had filtered through yet.
Recapturing her attention by peeling away the wet strand, Adaria listened to his council, his proclamation and promise to her, wishing the same in return. Adaria felt her heart hammer wildly in her chest, I choose you, no-one ever chose her, only three people in her world had and they were all dead. As the youngest she was passed off, the heir and spare already ahead of her Adaria was merely the extra icing, the People’s Princess.
He might regret it. She caught herself thinking, paining her expression briefly. So might I.
I choose… to take one step at a time. It was the logical answer, no path could be carved without a progression of steps and while the future lay ahead obscured by uncertainty, for the moment she had someone. But even in the here and now, she couldn’t remain in Antiva. But I made a decision to go to the University of Orlais. My Aunt is there so I will be safe… though I won’t object to you visiting, announced or otherwise. Lifting her head a fraction, Adaria placed a series of soft kisses along his jaw, help me into something comfortable and I can tell you the best trellis to climb, which times to avoid my aunt's security.
