Wander into the whimsy
None
Cooper stood behind the worn oak bar, wiping down a glass with a rag that had seen better days. The tavern was quiet in the early morning light, the kind of peaceful quiet that made him appreciate the life he’d carved out for himself here. Sunlight streamed through the dusty windows, casting a warm, golden glow over the tables and chairs that would soon be filled with the usual mix of locals and travelers.

He could hear the soft creak of floorboards above him, where Mina was likely playing or getting into some kind of mischief. The thought brought a smile to his face. That girl was a handful, no doubt about it, but she was his handful, and he wouldn’t trade her for anything in the world.

Today’s gonna be a good one, he muttered to himself, setting the glass down with a satisfied clink. He could feel it in his bones—the kind of day where everything went right, the kind of day where maybe, just maybe, he wouldn’t have to deal with any trouble.

The door creaked open, and Cooper glanced up, his expression a mix of curiosity and practiced indifference. Another customer, most likely here for the breakfast special or just a drink to start the day. Without missing a beat, he leaned an elbow on the bar and gave a nod.

Mornin', he greeted casually, his voice gruff but not unfriendly. What’ll it be? Cooper’s sharp eyes took in the newcomer, sizing them up out of habit. It was a skill he’d honed over the years, knowing exactly who was walking into his place and what kind of day they were going to bring with them. But for now, he was content to let things play out, still holding on to that feeling that today was going to be just fine. Maybe even a little better than fine, if he was lucky.

He reached for another glass, giving it a quick polish as he waited for the customer’s response, already mentally going over the day’s to-do list. But at the back of his mind, he was thinking about Mina, hoping she’d be in a good mood when she came down later. Maybe they’d have time to sneak in a game of cards before the afternoon rush.

Yeah, today was gonna be a good one. He could feel it. Then he realised there was someone behind the newcomer as well, someone that, wait, was that?

@Maika Arainai
"Well I don't know what he wants but I was expecting at the least a greeting" said Maika from behind the newly arrived customer. It had been years since she had left the tavern, after spending other three mourning the death of Arissa. After her recovery she had left, not being able to remain in the tavern which was full of memories of her little girl but a couple of weeks, after only maintaining contact via letters, she had decided to show up to greet her "old family".

She waited patiently for the customer to be attended before approaching the counter "So how are you? Any interesting news?" she said resting her chin on her hands before putting a small bag with gold on the counter "For looking after me for three years, I promised to return the kindness" said the woman pushing the bag towards cooper.

"How is your daughter? Is she here around too?" She asked looking around to see if she could say hi. After all she had spent so many years with her that it was like her daughter in so many ways.
Cooper froze for just a heartbeat when he heard that familiar voice from behind the newcomer. The glass he was wiping slipped from his hand and clattered onto the bar, thankfully unbroken. He turned, his expression a mixture of surprise and something softer, something that hadn’t seen the light of day since Maika had left.

Maika? he said, his gruff voice barely disguising the shock. For a moment, he just stared at her, taking in the sight of the woman he hadn’t seen in years. She looked different, older, maybe a bit more worn around the edges, but then again, who didn’t after all they’d been through? But underneath it all, she was still the same Maika he remembered—the one who’d come to his tavern with a kid in tow and no place to go, and who’d left five years later, her heart shattered by grief.

He pushed off from the bar, the surprise fading into something closer to relief. Well, I’ll be damned, he muttered, stepping around the bar to get a better look at her. Didn’t think I’d see you back here, not after… well, you know. He didn’t finish the sentence. They both knew what he was talking about, and there was no need to dredge up those painful memories right now.

Cooper glanced at the gold she pushed toward him, then back at her. His brow furrowed, and he shook his head. You don’t owe me a damn thing, Maika. You know that. We looked after each other back then—still do, in a way. He nudged the bag of gold back toward her, a stubborn set to his jaw. But if you’re hell-bent on paying me back, keep it for Mina. That girl’s got a knack for spending and budgeting, and she’ll put it to good use, I’m sure.

@Maika Arainai
“In the flesh” she said with a smile as she sat down in front of the counter. “You haven’t aged a bit haven’t you?” she said with a playful smile. Cooper had aged like she had, but there were things that haven’t changed like his voice and gestures.

“I needed some time to make peace with…everything” she said, his words stinging a little, but unlike back then, she could hear the reference to that terrible day without shattering into pieces. “But I promised that I would return someday and here I am” she said with a small smile “It still hurts but I was strong enough to return.”

“I know but my current job pays very well and I don’t have many expenses nowdays, take it as a gift if you wish” she said with a smile “You could use it for renovations in the tavern if you wish, paint it in a cheerful color like pastel orange” she joked playfully. “Or I can give it to Mina indeed, as long as it goes to your family, I am happy.”

“So, how are you? I guess that things haven’t changed much since I left?” asked Maika, interested in catching up with her old boss.
Cooper took a deep breath, letting out a slow exhale as he listened to Maika. There was a lot to unpack in her words, but more than anything, he was just relieved to see her looking like she’d finally found a bit of peace.

Aged a bit, huh? He chuckled, a gruff sound that held a hint of warmth. I suppose I have, though I’d say the same for you. Time has a way of creeping up on us, doesn’t it? But damn, it’s good to see you, Maika. Real good.

He glanced back at the bag of gold she’d pushed toward him, considering her words. It wasn’t like him to take handouts, and it went against everything in his nature to accept it, but he could see she was determined. Maika had always been stubborn, and some things never changed.

Alright, alright, I’ll take it—for Mina’s sake, if nothing else, he said, relenting with a small, wry smile. But don’t expect me to paint this place pastel orange. That’s just asking for trouble. The old regulars would riot if I tried to pretty this place up too much. He shook his head, still amused at the thought. But maybe we’ll use it to fix up the roof. Damn thing’s been leaking every time it rains, and Mina’s been on my case about it for months.

Cooper leaned against the bar, crossing his arms as he took a moment to just look at Maika. It had been years, and yet, here she was, sitting at his bar like old times.

I’m glad you came back, he said, his tone more serious now. I know it couldn’t have been easy. This place is full of memories—good and bad. But it means a lot that you’re here. This place hasn’t changed much, and I guess I haven’t either, but Mina... she’s growing up fast. Got more opinions than a Chantry sister and twice as much attitude. You’ll see her soon enough, no doubt. She’s always poking her nose around, and I’m sure she’ll be down here as soon as she hears we’ve got company.

@Maika Arainai
“I don’t age I just mature like good wine” she said tossing a bit of hair over her shoulder “Just joking I do have wrinkles that I didn’t when I left but I guess that I should be thankful to be alive. It’s amazing to see you Cooper”

“Exactly!” she said with a smile “Your patrons would get confused if you changed the everlasting brown and perhaps Orlesians would come and call this tavern the new place to go in the Marches and we can’t have that do we? “ she said playing along with the joke “Do you want me to take an eye to the roof? I am a rogue, I am agile and not bad with the tools” she offered.

“She’s your daughter, of course that she would be opinionated and stubborn” she said with a smile “I am looking forwards to see her again, I am sure of that she has grown into a beautiful young woman.”
Cooper barked a laugh at Maika’s joke about aging like fine wine, shaking his head with a grin. Wrinkles or not, it’s good to see you back in one piece, he said, his tone softening. Can’t say that about everyone who’s walked out of this place. Seems like the ones who manage to make it always bring a little more wisdom with ‘em, even if they don’t admit it.

He chuckled as Maika played along with the idea of redecorating, waving a hand as if he could picture the scene she painted. Yeah, last thing we need is Orlesians crowding in, sniffing around for “the latest rustic charm.” Might just ruin our cozy little hideaway. He shook his head, but there was warmth in his voice. And no, don’t worry about the roof. I’d hate to see you take a spill. Besides, I’ll get to it eventually—Mina won’t let me rest until I do, anyhow.

When Maika mentioned Mina, Cooper’s expression softened, a hint of pride gleaming in his eyes. You’ll hardly recognize her. She’s grown alright, and yeah, stubborn as a mule. Got a knack for questions that’d make a mage nervous. Keeps me on my toes, but… well, she’s the best thing that ever happened to me, if I’m honest.

@Maika Arainai
“Well they say that wisdom comes with age; sadly what I see, to experience is more back pains, especially when it’s cold or in the morning” she joked. It wasn’t that bad but she could tell that time had passed since she left Cooper’s tavern years ago.

“Exactly, I take happily the title of queen of spices but never queen of Orlesians. If one of them says that they like my cooking or my taste in decoration I will take it as the personal offense that it would be” she joked back. “Tell Mina to give you a break, you aren’t in your twenties anymore you know” she said jabbing at him playfully.

“Do you know where I can find her later in the day? I return to Antiva tomorrow and I would hate to not see her, even if it’s just for a quick hi” asked the brunette. She had been like a sister to Arissa and a huge support after her death.
Cooper gave a snort at Maika’s jab, feigning offense as he straightened up and stretched his shoulders dramatically. What, you think I don’t know I’m not in my twenties anymore? Mina reminds me every chance she gets, believe me, he said with a grin. She’s got this way of rolling her eyes every time I groan after lifting a crate—like I’m putting on a show or something. Smart little thing. Too smart, if you ask me.

He leaned against the bar, giving her question some thought. You’ll definitely see her before you leave. Mina’s got a habit of popping in and out like a damn sprite. She’s usually out back in the mornings, helping with the hens or poking around for something to get into. Shouldn’t be too hard to track her down, though. Just follow the sound of something breaking, and you’ll find her.

Cooper’s voice softened as he met Maika’s eyes. I know she’ll be happy to see you, though. You left a mark on her, Maika. She still talks about you sometimes, you know. About how you made her laugh, how you had all those stories. You were family to her—and to me.

He glanced down for a moment, as if debating whether to say more. Finally, he sighed. I’m glad you came back, even if it’s just for a little while. It’s good to see you again. And, for what it’s worth, you’ve got a place here anytime you want it. Even if it’s just to sit down, have a drink, and tell me how to use cayenne properly.

@Maika Arainai
“Well time passes for everybody, when she starts to get that back pain that never seems to leave your body after you are 35 years old she will remember all the times that she called you old” she said with a smile.

“Don’t be so mean, she’s surely not that bad! She was such a sweet kid I am sure of that you are just exaggerating” said Maika playfully. “I will be around for a day before I return to Antiva, let’s hope I can meet her”

She softened at the mention of the effect that she had in them “You were my family too, you are still nowadays even if I am no longer in the Marches” she said with a soft expression “I…spoke with Zevran again and we agreed to reconnect, I am closing open wounds but let me tell you , here is where I started to heal, I wouldn’t be here without your help Cooper and I will remember it forever” Maika usually was more playful than serious but she wanted him to know how much they meant for her.
Cooper stood there for a moment, the weight of Maika's words settling over him like a comfortable old jacket. He wasn’t the type to get sentimental—not out loud, at least—but there was no mistaking the glint of something softer in his eyes. He ran a hand through his salt-and-pepper hair, letting out a slow exhale.

Well, hell, Maika, he muttered, scratching the back of his neck. You’re gonna make an old man blush over here. I didn’t do anything special, just kept the damn place standing—and maybe kept a few heads screwed on straight when they wanted to spin off. He gave her a look, one that held a mix of gruff affection and genuine pride. But hearing you say that... it means a lot. More than I’ve got words for, if I’m honest.

Leaning forward on the bar, he gave her a crooked smile. Zevran, huh? Now there’s a name I haven’t heard in a while. Reconnecting, huh? That sounds like a recipe for some trouble—but the good kind, I’m guessing. His grin turned wry. That elf always did have a way of stirring things up, but if he’s helping you close some wounds, then maybe he’s not so bad after all.

Cooper straightened, his voice taking on a mock stern tone. But don’t go giving him all the credit now. You did the hard work, Maika. Picking yourself up, finding your footing again—that was all you. I just made sure the drinks were strong, the food wasn’t awful, and the doors stayed open.

He nodded toward the quiet tavern around them, his voice softening again. This place... it’s always been more than just a building. It’s a home for folks like us—folks who’ve been knocked down but aren’t out for the count. And you? You’re always welcome here. Don’t forget that.

@Maika Arainai
“Then is a good thing that you don’t have to say anything; I have learned over the years to understand you even without words old friend” she said with genuine affection as she patted his arm.

“Oh he has already pulled me elbow deep into trouble but it could never be easy or simple with him” she said with a low chuckle “but you know me, I have a type and it’s not the one you retire comfortably with. He knows what happened and he apologized for not being there; it sounds stupid but it closed the chapter completely” it was the end that she needed, to busy Arissa in peace.

“Well then let’s say that we both have merit in the recovery. This is home, as you said and it will forever be. I might bring Zevran here someday, show him the Marches, this tavern…and perhaps the place where Ari rests” if Zevran didn’t want to see it she would understand “I feel I am ready, for once, to bring her flowers. She liked daisies”
Cooper gave a slow nod, his weathered features softening as Maika spoke. The mention of Ari tugged at something deep in his chest, a familiar ache that came with the memory of loss, but also a quiet gratitude for the bond they all shared. He reached out, giving her hand a firm, reassuring squeeze.

Daisies, huh? he said, his voice low and steady. Then daisies it’ll be. And if you do bring that damn elf around here, make sure to warn him that if he so much as looks at my ale the wrong way, I’ll send him back to Antiva with a boot print to remember me by. The corner of his mouth twitched in the faintest hint of a smirk.

He released her hand, leaning back slightly as he regarded her with a rare mix of pride and affection. You’ve come a long way, Maika. Ari’d be proud of you, y’know. Hell, I think we all are—me, Mina, even the regulars who still ask about you like you never left. You’ve got a way of leaving a mark, whether you’re here or halfway across Thedas.

Cooper folded his arms across his chest, his voice taking on that familiar gruffness that somehow managed to feel like a hug. So, you go and do what you need to do. Bring those flowers, tell her everything you’ve been holding in. And when you’re ready, this place’ll still be here. I’ll still be here. And there’ll be a drink waiting with your name on it.

For a moment, the weight of unspoken emotion lingered between them. Then, with a small nod, Cooper turned back to the bar, grabbing a bottle and pouring two glasses of whiskey. Sliding one across to her, he raised his own.

To Ari. To finding your peace. And to good friends who never really leave.

He lifted his glass, waiting for her to join him in the quiet toast.

@Maika Arainai
“I’d say that he’s more of a wine sort of man, but he’s very suave I doubt that you will hear from him nothing but praise” she said with a smile. Zevran did appreciate the finer things in life but he wasn’t the picky sort of person; how could they be with the childhood that they both shared?

“Well as long as it’s a good mark I am happy, people can leave memories everywhere but not all of them are worth reliving” she said as she briefly remembered the encounter with Bastien frost that had lead to the chain of events which ended with Arissa’s death.

“I will give them a few on your behalf; Arissa adored you, you know” she said softly before raising her drink to the toast “And for amazing bartenders that should last forever and happy endings” she added before sipping from her own drink.