merlindaw

[merlindaw]

https://archiveofourown.org/works/60840646/chapters/161984659

The final chapter of Rook to Crow One it up!!

Hey all, I hope you've enjoyed Rook to Crow One. I'm thinking about writing a sequel story about what comes next for Rook and Lucanis. No promises on when/if it will be coming out but let me know if that's something you'd be interested. Either way Cheers and thanks for making it to the end :)

Rook walked through her allies as they rested. They had fought hard to make it to this point and deserved a moment to breathe. She was particularly glad to see Emmrich fussing over Strife who had been injured in the fight. Mourn Watchers, Wardens, Veil Jumpers, Lords, Shadow Dragons, Crows and even Inquisition members were all here. So many had rallied to help fight the gods. As she moved through them people looked to her, some bowed their heads even. Rook gripped the hilt of the Lyrium Dagger. Solas was still planning something. There was a final move that she couldn’t see. A watcher stood in front of a closed door.

“If you wish to pay your respects, the fallen lay beyond. We will watch over them until they can be given proper funerals.” He gestured to the door. Rook nodded and pushed the door open. Inside white sheets draped across bodies. So many. Rook looked at them. She had been lucky, her team and pulled through this fight but now. Taking the dagger from her hip, Rook looked at it. Once Elgar’nan was dead, what did she do with Solas? She had seen his memories, spoken with Mythal. A part of her hated him and another part pitied him. Varric believed Solas would make the right choice in the end but did she. Could she risk the world on Varric’s faith? Rook resheathed the dagger. Talking to her team would clear her mind. Rook looked one last time over the fallen bowing her head. Their sacrifices would not be in vain.

Rook found her team gathered around Neve. She still looked like hell but there was fire in her eyes.

“The bastard was in my head the whole time. All I could think about was making him happy.” Neve spat.

“That’s messed up.” Taash said.

“There’s blight flowing through him- and now through me.” Neve noticed her approach. “Rook.”

“The gods have taken too many people from us already.” Rook said. “Maybe when all this is done the Warden can help you, Neve. But even if they can’t. I promise you that Elgar’nan will die.”

“You can’t.” Neve said her voice hard. “That’s what I needed to tell you. My connection with Elgar’nan went both ways. I could sense him. His mind, his magic, his life force. He’s tied to the Veil. His life is holding the Veil in place.”

“I felt the Veil weaken when Ghilan’nain fell.” Morrigan said, stepping up to the table with Adaar. “I expect that when Solas Imprisoned the other gods, he bound them all thus. And now that Elgar’nan is the only one left…”

“We kill him and the Veil collapses.” Neve finished.

“Which is why Solas gave me the dagger.” Rook said, shaking her head and slamming her fists against the table. “He swore to me that the Veil wouldn’t fall by his hand…” The wolf was as sly as ever, “knowing the whole time it would fall by mine. His betrayals are creative, I’ll give him that.” Rook said, running a hand through her hair. She had been right not to trust him. Rook pulled the dagger from her belt and set it on the table. “We still have to kill Elgar’nan. So what can we do? Can we tie the Veil to something else to keep it in place?”

“I doubt any simple substitution would suffice. The Veil was made to be tied to the ancient elven gods.” Morrigan theorized.

“Then let’s tie it to Solas.” Rook suggested. “He’s the only elven god left.”

“Binding him will require drawing his blood with the Lyrium Dagger.” Emmrich said

“And I doubt he’s going to like that idea.” Lucanis added.

“I can be very persuasive.” Rook said, looking at the dagger. “It has to be me. I’m the only one he’ll let close enough while holding the dagger.” Then she remembered. “What about this?” She said, pulling the copy dagger from her armor. “Once Elgar’nan’s dead, odds are good that Solas will need to do something else to complete his ritual. This dagger looked identical, but it can’t cut through enchantments like the real thing. So if he tries to use it…”

“The backlash of such magic would render him helpless.” Morrigan finished.

“Unless he notices.” Taash said. “You really want to try a bait-and-switch on the Dread Wolf?”

“Is there any chance-any chance at all- that he could listen to reason?” Adaar asked.

“Varric tried to reason with him. And he died for it.” Neve snapped.

“As did Mythal, when Solas took her power.” Morrigan added.

“We have you, Morrigan. You have Mythal’s memories.” Rook said. “And we have the essence of the other fragment of Mythal, from the Crossroads.”

“Such power, even fragmented, is not to be taken lightly.” Morrigan warned. “Hold it for now, and when the time comes, if you believe the Dread Wolf’s heart can be turned from this course…I shall try.”

“Because of everyone here,” Rook started looking around the table, “and everyone we lost to get here-we’ve got options for dealing with Solas. For now, let’s focus on Elgar’nan. He’s in the palace above us. We’ll climb the blight tendril to get there. Once Solas takes down the Archdemon and renders Elgar’nan mortal, we hit him with everything we’ve got.”

“Damn right we do.” Taash agreed. “For Lace.”

“Time’s running short. Stock up on supplies, pay your respects and say goodbye to the people you love.” She said looking at Lucanis. “Be ready to go when I signal.” The team dispersed to take care of whatever it was they needed to do. Lucanis walked over to Rook taking her hand in his.

“We’ve made it here, but not without cost.” He said. “Now we have only to wait. But, Spite grows impatient. As do I. This may be the calm before a final storm, but I don’t feel it.”

“If there’s anything I can do…” Rook said.

“Your presence has already helped.” Lucanis said, pressing his brow to hers and taking a deep breath. “Spite is calmer when you’re near.”

“It won’t be much longer.” Rook promised, pulling back enough to look at him.

“Elgar’nan’s life is measured in hours. As for Solas…” Lucanis' lip curled at the name. “He used blood magic against you. He betrayed us. He pulled you into that prison. I leave his fate to you, but I will not let him hurt you.”

“Lucanis.” Rook loved him so much.

“Whatever happens, my contract was for the blighted gods. Today it is fulfilled.” He said resolutely.

“If I’d never gone to the Crows, if I’d never found you,” Rook took a deep breath, “I’m just so grateful I did.”

“As am I. More than I’ve ever told you.” Luanis paused looking into her eyes. “Rook…saying I owe you my life is not enough. You know my mind. I’ve assumed you know my heart because…it beats for you. It’s been beating…When I wanted you. When I was afraid to want you…Tell me this ends with me asleep in your arms, and I will kill any god you ask.”

“Lucanis, I…” She said with a smile he still wasn’t good with words but she loved him for it.

“I love you, Rook.” Lucanis said with such truth in his voice it made her heart ache. “And I won’t let you down.” Rook kissed him. She knew he wouldn’t. He kissed her back. It wasn’t a kiss goodbye it was a promise that they would live to see tomorrow.

[merlindaw]

https://archiveofourown.org/works/60840646/chapters/161620360

The next chapter of Rook to Crow One is up!!

Time to face the Elgar’nan in Minrathous

Lucanis watched as the fish swam ideally by in the large windows of Rook’s room. One of his hands traced patterns along her spine while the other held the hand she had thrown over his chest. Rook was sound asleep on his chest, her breathing deep and even. Lucanis had gotten a few hours of sleep but not that many. The nightmares still plagued him. Some from the Ossuary, some from Tearstone. He looked down at Rook. She was so peaceful when she slept, her face relaxed and her hair a tousled mess. His hair probably wasn’t any better. Lucanis couldn’t stop the smile that tugged at the corner of his mouth when he reflected on the night. They had made love three times each time better than the last as they learned each other's bodies and what they liked. Lucanis looked over to the door. Spite was standing guard. He was still trying to understand exactly how this would work with the demon. The fact that Spites wings had appeared multiple times seemed to speak to the fact that the demon was approving of the whole situation. Not that Lucanis needed to be told that. Spite had made his affection for Rook clear long ago. Rook groaned and shifted. Her eyes fluttered open.

“What time is it?” She asked.

“Almost time for breakfast.” Lucanis said, brushing the hair from her face. Rook rolled onto her back and stretched causing her back to arch, giving Lucanis other ideas about ways to get her back to arch like that. Rook relaxed into the bed and stared at the ceiling for several moments.

“Our allies are meeting us here to go over the final plan.” Rook said. Lucanis wasn’t sure if she was talking more to him or herself.

“They’ll be here.” Lucains said, rolling onto his side sliding a hand across her waist. “Viago said he’ll be here, and Cassio is coming as well.” Rook shot up in the bed.

“Gods, Cassio, I didn’t even,” She groaned and buried her face in her hands, “I’m the worst daughter.” Lucanis sat up and ran a hand up and down her back.

“You’ve only been out of the prison for less than a day.”

“That’s the thing. You told me I was in there for three weeks but to me it felt like only a few hours.” Rook said, pushing her hair back from her face.

“How did he handle…everything?” She asked looking back at Lucanis.

“Not well.” Lucanis admitted. “Rook, none of us handled this well. We…I thought we’d lost you for good.” He laced their fingers together. “If not for Emmrich and Bellara I don’t know if we’d ever have found you.” Rook pressed her forehead to his.

“But you did. We can’t dwell in the past.”

“I have no intention to.”

[merlindaw]

https://archiveofourown.org/works/60840646/chapters/161337808

The Next Chapter of Rook to Crow One is Up!

While Rook is trapped in the Prison Lucanis struggles to adapt to a world without her.

With every ounce of strength she had left Rook ripped the dagger from Ghilan'nain's corpse and all became still.  

She panted for a moment bent over as the silence closed in around her. For just a moment she breathed. They had done it, Lucains had done it. Ghilan’nain was dead. She needed to check on the team. Rook pushed herself to her feet, stumbling the dagger still held tight in her hand. She turned gasping for air. 

“Lucanis?” She asked, looking around. Her heart stopped. He was laying on his side a few dozen feet from her. His back was to her, he wasn’t moving.

“Lucanis!” Rook screamed running over to him. Please, no. No, not him. Please. She fell to her knees and rolled him onto his back. His eyes stared blankly at the sky. 

“No, no, no. Please.” Rook reached to touch his face, tears already running down her face, when he shifted. It wasn’t Lucanis lying before her but Varric. Rook gasped, stumbling to her feet and away from the body.

“And so you have your victory.” Solas’ voice was calm behind her. “You live… and Ghilan’nain does not.” Rook spun trying to see him but all she saw was Ghilan’nains’ body. She turned again, Lucanis laying in front of her unmoving. The light gone from his eyes. Tears ran down her face, she wanted to scream and be sick all at the same time. The man she loved and she’d never told him. She’d been so close before they left. She should have said it anyway. 

“Are you not proud to finally reach this moment?” Solas asked. “Or did you think you’d win the day without some painful sacrifices?” Lucanis’ body turned to stone before her eyes as if time was taking him further from her. Stone groaned, Rook gasped looking up as a giant statue of Ghilan’nain came crashing towards her. 

 Rook tumbled into darkness. Ruins and fragments of stone flying around her voices from her past echoing around her. Doubts, fears, anger, their voices bombarded her. Rook smashed into a chunk of stone gasping but drove the dagger into the stone catching herself. She looked down, the bottomless pit opened wide beneath her. A gaping maw ready to swallow her whole. Rook strained trying to find a hand hold. She had to get on solid ground

 “You and your friends stood against the gods.” Solas said, his voice seeming to be coming from everywhere and nowhere. As Rook struggled to pull herself onto the ledge statues rose above her. Lucanis, Neve and Harding. 

 “Solas?” She strained. Rook tried to comprehend what was going on. Nothing made sense.

 “...but mortals cannot win this battle.” The states fractured and crumbled before her eyes. Rook’s heart ached as she fought to keep herself from falling.

 “I am sorry.” Solas said. “It is what it must be.” The statute of Harding tumbled towards her, the stone shattering sending Rook falling into the void once again.

 “I did everything for you, Rook.” Hardings voice echoes around her. “You’re worthless.”

 “Varric never believed in you.” Neve added her voice hard as ice. 

 “You're no leader.” Lucanis hissed. She slammed into stones rolling as the world twisted around her. 

 “You were never up to it.” Davrin.

 “You failed us all.” Emmrich.

 “What failure cuts your conscience now, I wonder?” Solas asked. Rook landed on what once must have been a wall and rolled to her feet. As she did she saw a statue of Neve in front of her arm outstretched as it started to fall. 

 “Neve!” Rook yelled, lunging, grabbing the statue's wrist as it began to fall away. Neve who she had failed so many times.

 “Blood on your hands.” Neve said. Rook held the dagger behind her; it acted as an anchor even now. Rook strained as the stone beneath her tilted. Neve growing heavier and heavier with each passing moment.

 “Your friend is dead.” Bellara snapped. 

 “Dead and gone.” Lucanis added.

 “Your fault.” Taash snarled. 

 “Regret, like all emotions, is a powerful thing.” Solas said standing far above her looking down at her his face twisting into anger. “It can bruise us, break us…or blind us to the truth. Regret is even strong enough to serve as the lock on a prison built to hold gods.” He was moving towards her. “But such a prison can hold any captive…even you.” Rook strained, her body was being torn in two as she desperately tried to hold on to Neve. The weight increased. Rook looked down to see Lucanis and Hardings statues holding on to Neve, all three of them pulling her down. No she wouldn’t fail them not again. She strained, gasping as she slammed the dagger back behind her as if finding a new hold and it did hold. Rook looked up at Solas snarling. 

 “You were never ready to make the sacrifices that leadership requires.” Solas said his face hard. Rook groaned and gasped trying to pull her friends back up the wall. “So, through our connection, I molded you into someone the prison would accept in my place. The statue slipped. Rook looked down and froze. It wasn’t Neve, it was Varric. His name rattled around inside her. Pain and anguish twisting in her heart. Tears dripped onto his frozen face. Her grip on the dagger slackened. Why, why did it feel this way?

 “Your work is done.” Solas said. Her fingers slipped from the dagger. Rook plummeted into darkness. 

 Lucains sat in the living room completely numb; he couldn't feel anything. Spite was somewhere far away. The demon had retreated in his own grief. What remained of the team sat around the table in silence. Emmrich was sitting with his head resting against his staff. Bellara was curled into the corner of the sofa sniffing a rubbing tears from her eyes. Taash looked like a statue still staring into nothing. Darvrin had a half completed carving in his hands just looking at it. 

 “The island, what happened?” Lucanis asked, he had been in such a state after Rook died he hadn’t even noticed. All but Taash looked at him.

 “You don’t remember?” Davrin asked.

 “Rook was pulled into the fade.” Bellara said with a hard sniff. “I think that’s what happened. I saw someone in the fade grab her. I think it was Solas.” 

 “Then we ran.” Emmrich said. “Elgar’nan leveled the island, we only just made it away in time.”

 “Elgar’nan’s still alive.” Lucanis said fingers tightening around the hairpin he was still holding. His contract still needed to be fulfilled. For Rook, for Rook he would kill them all. “We still have a contract to finish. What’s our next step?” He asked. 

 “Next step?” Bellara asked, her face was tear stained. “Rook was the one who,”

 “We still have a contract.” Lucanis said. “Elgar’nan is still alive.”

 “What’s the point?” Taash said under their breath. 

 “What did you say?” Lucanis snapped looking at them.

 “I said what's the point?” Taash shouted getting to their feet “Neve’s gone! Rook’s gone! Lace…” Angry tears ran down their face. “You killed Ghilan’nain and for what? We lost them all anyway!”

 “Taash.” Bellara said softly. “Elgar’nan is still,”

 “Screw Elgar’nan.” Taash bellowed. “All this is vashidan. We fight for what? We just lose the people that matter most. How is that worth it? How is any of this worth it?” 

 “And we do what instead?” Lucanis said, squaring up to the Qunari. “You would rather dishonor their sacrifices by letting the world fall?” 

 “That is enough.” Emmrich said, getting to his feet. “Arguing is pointless. Rook may still be alive. She was pulled into the fade. Mortals have survived such experiences before.” Lucanis didn’t want to hear this. Hope would kill him. 

 “Do you think we could find her?” Bellara asked. 

 “If we work together I believe it is possible.” Emmrich said. “If we create a replica of the dagger and perhaps with the right augmentation.”

 “We could track the resonance to the prison!” Bellara said. “It would be the most likely place she would have been pulled. That dagger was made by Solas so it makes sense that it would create a bridge to the prison. We’ll need to talk to the dwarves about getting a Lyrium dagger.”

 “I’ll do it.” Taash said. “The Kal Sharok dwarves will want to know about Lace and if we can make a dagger then we can kill Elgar’nan.”

 “It’ll be tricky.” Bellara said. “The enchantments on the dagger were incredibly complex.”

 “Just do it Bellara.” Taash said heading towards the Eluvian room.

 “We should check in with our allies.” Lucains said, he needed to tell the Crows what had happened. “Elgar’nan won’t be down for long. He’ll make his move soon.” 

“Lucains.” Bellara started but Lucains didn’t listen; he pushed himself to his feet and headed up the stairs. He was unsure why his feet were taking him to Rook’s room. He should be headed for Treviso but he needed this. Lucanis pushed through the door to Rook’s room, part of him expecting to see her pacing the floor trying to come up with a new plan. Instead all he saw was Spite sitting on her bed looking, he didn’t know how to describe it except, distraught. Her room was exactly how she had left it. Varric mirror and her mother's hair pin sitting on the table just waiting to be picked up. The bed covers haphazardly pulled back into place. Her casual clothes thrown across the back of the sofa just waiting for her to return from the island. But she wouldn’t return. 

 “I. Can’t. Feel. Her.” Spite said with pain and furry twisting together in his voice. “No. Sunlight. No. Wildflowers. No. Canals.” The demon hung his head but his shoulders shook with rage. Something about seeing Spite like this made everything too real. Pain lanced through him. 

 “Rook.” Lucanis said, his voice breaking. He expected her to appear from the shadows. Smiling at him. That smile that was just for him. 

 “Rook!” He screamed. The silence was deafening. It pressed in against him. Lucanis screamed, falling to his knees. Sober wracked his body, tears streaming from his eyes. His world vanishing before his eyes. Her face flashing before his eyes, her smile, her laugh, her determination and fire. All the dreams and hopes he had for their future slipped through his fingers like sand. He dug his hands into his hair, his mind reeling trying to comprehend the unbelievable. The job had been done. He had done what they had set out to do. He had killed a god and it still wasn’t enough. Rook was gone. His Rook was gone. How long he stayed there Lucanis didn’t know. An icy numbness seeped into him. He was going to kill them. He would kill them all. Elgar’nan would die first, swift and brutal. The job completed. Solas. The rage he had for the Dread Wolf was boundless. Solas would die slowly. Lucanis would make sure that the god of lies suffered. Lucanis would keep him alive for days, weeks if it could be done. Solas would suffer more than any creature ever had before. Then the Venatori and Antaam. He would wipe them from the face of this world for what they had done. Tears streamed down his face as he planned her vengeance. Lucains would see them all burn for taking her away from him. 

 His path was set before him. Lucanis climbed to his feet. He would avenge Rook. He would destroy every person that had taken her from him. Walls began going up in his mind. The way it had been in the Ossuary. Walls that would allow him to survive. Spite was looking at him, the demon snarled.

 “We’ll make them suffer.” Lucanis swore, the demon nodded in agreement. Lucanis went back down the stairs. Everything felt numb but the numbness was welcome. It meant there wasn’t any pain.

[merlindaw]

The next Chapter of Rook To Crow One is up!

Time to face the gods on Tearstone Island.

Rook arrived at the Cobbled Swan, she had decided to come alone, no need to drag the rest of the team to Minrathous. They needed to be rested and ready for the fight ahead. They had delivered Ivenci to justice and now all their allies were ready. This was it, the final act had come. She looked around the bar and found Morrigan waiting at a table. Rook the seat opposite of her.

“Greetings.” Morrigan said.

“Nice to see you.” 

“Events are weaving together quickly now, Rook. For good or ill the fate of the world shall be decided soon.” Morrigan warned. “I received Hardings missive. Your plan is sound.” 

“So the Inquisitor’s in?” Rook asked.

“Indeed, although he requires a few days to set events in motion.” Morrigan clarified. “Time is needed to allot his responsibilities to those who are capable of managing them. Once settled, he has pledged himself to your cause. The snake's head must be severed, else the body simply grows anew. And what of your other allies? Will they also be ready? There is no room left for doubt or hesitation.”

“We’re battling two gods.” Rook said, leaning against the table. “Who's ever really ready for that? But they’ll be prepared. I know they will.”

“As they must be. There will not be another opportunity to foil the schemes of Elgar’nan and Ghilan’nain.” Morrigan said. “If we fail in this, they gain all that is needed to reshape the world in their twisted image. The evil put into place with the aid of their Antaam servants at Tearstone will cover the entire world.”

“Look, the gods can’t blight the world without their dagger.” Rook said. “And they can’t finish their dagger until the eclipse, which isn’t for another-” Screaming, people running in the streets. Rook didn’t hesitate; she flew out of her chair running through the press of patrons all doing the same thing. Outside her stomach dropped. The sun and moon were shifting in the sky moving together to create an eclipse. How was this even possible? She knew the gods were strong but this was another level. Solas had told her Elgar’nan’s powers came from light and dark but to move the heavens themselves. 

“Elgar’nan.” Rook snarled.

“I shall find the Inquisitor while you gather your people.” Morrigan said. 

“Right.” Rook agreed before running towards the Eluvian. The city had started a full blown panic. People running and shouting, guards trying to keep order but it was far too late for that. Rook shoved her way through the crowds fighting against the current of people. She had to get back to the lighthouse. She needed to get to the team. All their careful planning had just gone up in smoke. The time they thought they had was gone. It had to end today. Rook would end it today.

[merlindaw]

The next Chapter of Rook To Crow One is up!

The effects of Arlathan still linger as Rook searches for where the gods will hold their ritual.

Lucanis nursed his hangover with a cup of coffee leaning against the railing overlooking the living room. They had their meeting set for tonight with Viago for now the team could enjoy the peace. Bellara had some contraption taken apart on the table and was explaining it to Neve and Rook. Rook kept throwing glances up to him and smiling. It made his heart light to see. Lucanis couldn’t believe she looked at him like that. The way her eyes softened and the dimple that appeared when she smiled.

“Lucanis,” Emmrich said, appearing next to him, “I meant to say thank you for your advice.”

“What advice?”

“About Strife. It turns out he actually collects knives.” Emmrich said with a secret smile. Lucanis stared at him stunned.

“You mean that actually worked?”

“Yes, but I still worry.”

“Why?”

“While it’s true we share the thrill of discovery but is it enough?” Emmrich said, his hand tightening around his staff. Lucanis was surprised to see the necromancer so genuinely worried.

“You actually like being around each other.” Lucanis emphasised. “That’s already better than any of my cousins' romances.”

“Illario didn’t strike me as much of a romantic, no.” Emmrich said with a nod. He didn’t know the half of it. For Illario it was all about the chase, filtering and bantering and eventually tumbling into a bed, but after that his cousin lost all interest. Lucanis didn’t think Illario had ever had a fling that lasted longer than a month. “What of your own relationships?”

“All one of them?” Lucanis said, looking back down at Rook. “I’ll let you know.” She looked up at him and smiled again. “I don’t know what she sees in me but, I’m happy. Just being around her.”

“To find true affection and companionship is a marvelous thing.” Emmrich said with a wistful sigh. “People go their whole lives looking for it.” Emmrich rested a hand on Lucanis’ shoulder.

“It is a precious thing. Savor every moment you have.” Emmrich said before heading back to his room. Lucanis watched Rook the way she kept sweeping her hair behind her ear as Bellara explained the artifact how her lips pursed as she focused. It was so strange for him. When he looked at Rook he could see a future with her. He wanted a future with her. Lucanis had never really wanted for his future before. His life had been laid out before him for so long that he had never thought there were other options. He wanted to give Rook everything. Lucanis wanted to romance her and woo her. Give her the romance she deserved. But that wasn't possible right now, not with two blighted gods to kill. Till then he would savor every moment he had with her. Though that wouldn't stop him from planning for the future. Once all this was over he planned on taking her back to Treviso a night of dinner and dancing then they would return to Villa Dellamorte and he would spend the night worshipping her till the sun rose. Then they would go to the summer villa. He wanted her to see the lakes he loved so much and it would be good to get away from everything for a time. Just the two of them. The Crows could give him that much. Then maybe in a few years a ring and a chantry, if she would have him.

[merlindaw]

The next chapter of Rook To Crow One is up!

The gods are plotting in Arlathan. It's up to Rook and the team to stop them.

Rook and Lucanis sat across from each other in Cafe Pietra. Rook breathed deeply the sweet aroma of the coffee. Moments like these were starting to feel more and more stolen. She looked out over the canal. They had stopped Hezenkoss, whose skull was now harassing everyone who went into Emmrich’s room. Rook didn’t know how he delt with her constant griping and complaining. They had saved the griffons who were finding a new life in Arlathan. Though Assan had decided to stay with Davrin much to Rook's joy, and the Veil Jumpers were almost ready to move on the Venatori. Together they would root them out of the forest once and for all.  “Rook?” Lucanis asked. She snapped back to reality. “Sorry, were you saying something?” Rook asked, looking at Lucanis.  “I was just asking how your coffee is.”  “It’s good. It’s always good here.” Rook said, looking at the empty seat with its own cup of coffee. “Do you think they’re wondering why you ordered a drink for an empty chair?” “If they are, they won’t tell anyone.” Lucanis said with a shrug. “The Crows own this cafe.” He paused looking at the empty seat. “Just try it.” Lucanis encouraged. Rook smiled to herself as she sipped her coffee. Things had been so much better between Spite and Lucanis since they had saved Caterina. Lucanis was even able to sleep more. “It’s good to see you two getting along now.” Rook said but considered. “Is Spite okay with everything seeing as you have Illario another chance.” “That wasn’t our deal.” Lucanis said. “We said we’d save Caterina and we did. Even I believe we did. So there’s peace, for the moment at least.” “How is your grandmother doing?” Rook asked.“You’ve met her. She was hewn out of dragonbone.” Lucanis said. “She’s pretending not to be upset by Illario’s betrayal and my possession. Which means she’s making everyone else as miserable as possible. Except Teia. She likes Teia.” “Teia’s hard to not like.” Rook agreed. “But, are the other Talons okay with the whole…abomination thing?”“Probably not.” Lucanis said with a shrug. “But they prefer me to Illario or the Venatori. I suppose the Crows have had worse First Talons.” “How is that by the way? I’ve noticed a lot more letters coming to the lighthouse for you.” “Mierda.” Lucanis said, shaking his head. “I had no idea how much work went into just keeping the villa up and running. Something is always in need of repair or someone needs something. The contracts are the easy part.” “Well, I can’t help with the contracts.” Rook offered. “But I can help with the other things if you need me.”“You’re kind to offer.” Lucanis said. They lapsed into a comfortable silence for a moment before Rook spoke up.“Is it strange that I’m enjoying being out with you and your imaginary friend?” She teased wondering what Spite would say to that. “It isn’t exactly normal.” Lucains shrugged before looking at the empty seat and sipping his coffee. He looked contemplative for a moment.“I don’t know what I thought it would be like.” Lucanis started. “Getting out of the Ossuary. Getting my life back.”“You mean you didn’t spend all that time dreaming about having coffee with your inner demon?” Rook quipped. Lucanis looked down, giving an almost sad smile before getting up from his seat and walking over to her. “And with you. But here we are.” Lucanis looked at her with such care. “Whatever this is. I’ll take it.” He leaned down and kissed her softly. It was a perfectly chaste kiss. When he pulled away Rook looked up at him. He hadn’t tried anything more intimate since their gondola ride but Rook didn’t mind. She wanted him to be comfortable and if that meant waiting she was happy too. They would face whatever came together. 

[merlindaw]

The next chapter of Rook to Crow One is up!

Time for a trip home to Villa Dellamorte.

Rook was sitting curled up on a sofa in the living room reading one of the romance novels Lucanis and Bellara had suggested to her. She smiled to herself. It was another thing she had learned about him recently. The Demon of Vyrantium had such a soft side. Rook was surprised to find herself genuinely enjoying the book, it was romantic and tender leaving her smiling and heart fluttering. She would have to talk to Bellara about it.

“Rook.” Lucanis said. She looked up from the book smiling at him, but her smile dropped at the expression on his face.

“What is it?” She said setting down the book and standing.

“I just received a note from Viago.” He said, that could only mean one thing.

“Illarios making his move.” Rook stated.

“A big one.” Lucanis said. “He’s hosting all the Talons of the Crows at Caterina’s villa.” Lucanis looked so focused. Rook knew what meant to him but she still wanted to make him smile.

“Oh sounds fancy and he didn’t invite me.” Rook said with a mock pout. Lucanis gave her a half smile before wrapping an arm around her waist and pulling her close.

“Don’t worry,” he said, kissing her temple, “you can be my date.” She watched his good humor fade as his arm dropped from around her waist.

“We have to do this carefully, Illario has to be expecting us.” Lucains warned.

“You think he knows that we know about him and Elgar’nan?” Rook asked.

“He wouldn’t be avoiding us otherwise. Be ready for a trap.” Lucanis warned. Rook was sure he was right. Every time they had gone to Treviso since the incident with Zara Illario had been nowhere to be found.

“I always am.” Rook said. “When is this party happening?”

“Tonight.” Lucanis said.

“That doesn’t leave us much time to plan.” Rook said.

“The plan is simple,” Lucanis said, “we get to the villa, find Caterina and stop Illario.” Rook took Lucanis’ hand entwining their fingers together.

“We’ll save Caterina.” Rook said. “I promise.” Lucanis smiled but it didn’t reach his eyes. Rook gave his hand a reassuring squeeze.

[merlindaw]

https://archiveofourown.org/works/60840646/chapters/159987331

The next Chapter if Rook to Crow One is up!

Time to dive into Lucanis' Inner Demons.

It had taken Viago’s people nearly a week to successfully steal Zara’s body and deliver it to the lighthouse without raising any suspicion in Treviso. Lucanis stood in Emmrichs’ room as the necromancer explained how the corpse whispering was going to work. Not that Lucanis cared about the finer points, Lucanis just needed Zara’s corpse to give him information. Spite was off playing with Manfred. Lucains didn’t know what Spite saw in the skeleton but if it kept him preoccupied he wasn’t going to complain. He looked down at her body, a cold rage mixed with fear in his heart. He needed answers but Lucanis had a sinking feeling that he wasn’t going to like the answers. The door to Emmrichs’ room opened and closed. The footfalls said it was Rook. Lucanis looked over as she walked into the room.

“Is that Zara Renata?” Rook asked, looking at the body. “This place isn’t big enough to keep every corpse you guys find.” She quipped hands on hips. Normally that would have made him smile but not now, not when answers were so close.

“Zara spoke to Illario before she died.” Lucanis said. “Emmrich can talk to the dead…I have to know.” Emmrich cleared his throat.

“I wouldn’t have offered my skills if I thought it was unsafe.” He reassured Rook. She looked between the two men and the corpse.

“Are you ready for this?” Rook asked, placing her hand on his arm.

“Yes.” Lucanis said, turning from her. Rook's hand fell away. Emmrich began his invocation. The eerie green light filled the room as the necromancer worked his spell. Lucanis watched his jaw set and his arms folded over his chest, this had to work. The corpse gasped drawing in a lung full of air.

“Tell us about Illario Dellamorte.” Emmrich commanded.

“Amatus…” Zara’s corpse wheezed. Lucanis' whole body clenched at that word. A Tevinter endearment for a lover.

“He fooled us both.” The corpse said its head moving towards Lucanis, dead eyes seeking him.

“Elaborate.” Lucanis demanded.

“You took what he wanted most in this world…more than coin…pleasure…family…” The corpse said.

“The title of First Talon.” Lucanis said. Something inside him broke. It had never been a secret that Caterina had intended to name him her heir and that Illario had wanted the title but to find out that Illario had coveted it so much. At least he thought Illario cared enough about him to give him a swift death and not lock him in a prison to be tortured.

“Illario had you imprisoned and tortured for a promotion?” Rook spat. Her voice brimming over with anger.

“Well…” The corpse continued. “The job was to kill you…but this one doesn’t waste those with potential…”

“Yeah, that’s not any better.” Rook snapped. As strange as that would have been to anyone else, it comforted Lucanis to know that it had been Zara not Illario who had imprisoned him.

“And Caterina…” Lucanis asked. “Did Illario hire you to kill her?” Coming after him was one thing but if Illario had hired this witch to kill Caterina. There wasn’t a place in this world far enough that Illario could run where Lucanis wouldn’t find him.

“No.” The corpse answered.

“Illario used blood magic to control Spite. How?” Rook asked, stepping up to the body. “He’s not a mage.”

“Our risen gods give many gifts.” The corpse said.

“Elgar’nan?” Rook asked, disbelief and rage mixing in her voice. “Illario is working with Elgar’nan?”

“Her spirit’s strong.” Emmrich warned. “Haste...would be appreciated.”

“Let her go. We’ve heard enough.” Lucanis said harshly. He had enough to put the rest of this together. Zara’s corpse gave one final sigh and went still. There was a moment of silence as everything they heard sunk in.

“I’m sorry, Lucanis.” Rook said. He didn’t look at her, his eyes were still fixed on the corpse. Illario had betrayed Treviso. Betrayed the Crows. Betrayed him. And worst of all, betrayed their family.

“So am I.” Was all he could say.

“What are you going to do?” Rook asked.

“Take away everything from him.” Lucanis growled as he left the room. He needed to get word to Teia and Viago. He needed to plan. Illario was going to pay for what he had done. Lucanis would take his life apart piece by piece if he had to. Lucanis didn’t stop till he made it back to his room. Once the door was shut behind him. He leaned back against the wood and dug his fingers into his hair. It felt like his heart had just been ripped out of his chest. Without thinking he grabbed the nearest thing and threw it. A coffee cup shattered against the far wall as he yelled. He fell back against the wall. Illario, for so long it had just been the three of them. Lucanis sank to the floor, rage and grief turning inside him so quickly he didn’t know what to feel. Every breath felt like knives.

“You know what to do.” Spite growled in his ear. Lucanis did, looking at the far wall unseeing.

“He has to pay.” Lucanis spat. The question was how. A part of Lucanis knew he couldn't bring himself to kill Illario. He was still family but Illario had gone too far. Lucanis would take his life apart piece by piece if that's what it took. Illario would know the pain he had suffered.

[merlindaw]

https://archiveofourown.org/works/60840646/chapters/159732403

The next Chapter of Rook to Crow One is up!

One of the blighted dragons has taken up residence in the wetlands and it's up to Rook and her team to stop them. With a dragon hunter on their side how hard can it be?

Rook took her seat in the living room as the rest of the team settled in. Whatever Harding had to report was obviously important.

“We've gotten word for the wardens.” Harding started.

“Have they found Ghilan'nain?” Rook asked. They needed to take her out. Her archdemon was dead so she was vulnerable. And if the memories they had gathered from the crossroads were anything to go on she was the architect of the blight monsters.

“Not yet, but they found something else worth killing.” Harding informed them. “One of her blighted dragons.” Not Ghilan’nain but it was something.

“The one that attacked Minrathous?” Neve said her voice eager.

“No, the one from Treviso.” Harding clarified. The ice spitter Rook flexed her hands, the scars pulling as she did. She wanted another crack at that dragon. She was stronger now than she had been when it first attacked but she couldn't risk what had happened at the Cauldron again.

“Damn it.” Never swore.

“Where is it?” Rook asked.

“Hossberg.” Harding said. “Not far from Lavendale.” Rooks stomach twisted this felt off. Something wasn't right.

“So this blighted dragon just happens to lick its wounds near a bunch of Wardens. Seems convenient.” Rook said, it felt like a trap. “I don't trust it.” She looked around at her team to see if they agreed with her or not. No one raised an opinion.

“Everyone's coming on this one, no exceptions.” She ordered. “We need to put this thing down. For good.”

“This time, we've got a dragon hunter on our side.” Harding said, looking fondly at Taash. “Right Taash.”

“Right, that's me.” Taash said, Rook could see their focus. Taash wanted to take this dragon down as much as the rest of them.

“We took down an archdemon.” Rook said, trying to get their spirits up. “And we nearly defeated this dragon last time. We'll handle whatever the gods throw at us. Now let's go kill this thing.” Rooks saiding getting to her feet. Flexing her hands as she did. Rook was going to take this dragon no matter the cost.

[merlindaw]

The next Chapter of Rook to Crow One is up! Rook, Lucanis, and Davrin head for the Cauldron in hopes of finding a lead on the missing Griffons.

Rook, Davrin and Lucanis trudged through the boggy blighted water of the Hosberg Wetlands. This was far and away the worst place they had to go but they had a lead on the griffons. An old warden fortress called The Cauldron. She also hoped doing this together would help Lucanis and Davrin work out their remaining issues over Weisshaupt. They weren’t outwardly hostile anymore; there was still tension there. Rook shot off another spell causing blight boil to explode. It showered the area around it in thick black sludge. Even far out of its range it made Rook shutter.

“Does anyone else feel like they need a bath after popping one of those?” Rook asked.

“There’s some of the good lavender soap back at the lighthouse.” Lucanis said. Rook smiled at him. He was always making sure of things like that. He noticed the little things that people liked and made sure that they always had it on hand. Like Nevaran red wine for Emmrich, extra spicy peppers for Taash, and lavender soap for her. 

“Good cause I think I’m gonna need the whole bar after this.” Rook said. Davrin led them on; Rook hoped that they were getting close the number of Darkspawn were only getting higher so she hoped that was a good sign. Then looming out of the mists came a giant structure.

“Davrin, I think we found the Cauldron.” Rook said.

“Stay sharp.” Davrin said as they moved towards the gates. It looked like they had been blown apart.

“A bad day at the Cauldron.” Davrin said. Assan squawked next to him.

“What could do that?” Rook asked. The gate had been solid steel and yet it was twisted as easily as clay. 

“And what have they been hiding inside?” Davrin shot back.

“Maybe their best drinks?” Rook said with a shrug, trying to lighten the mood.

“Unlikely, get a Warden drinking and the good stuff doesn’t last the night.” Davrin said with a smirk. “It must be something for the Wardens to keep it this secret. Be ready for anything.” They fought their way into the Cauldron destroying blight and darkspawn as they went. Rooks skin crawled, she decided she was taking the longest hottest bath of her life after this. Finally they made it inside. A horde of dangerous weapons awaited them and doors. Massive locked doors each covered with a warden shield and a year.

“What do the dates mean?” Rook asked, looking up at the nearest date 9:31. 

“It’s Blights.” Davrin said. “The years they ended.” 

“And what would the Wardens be keeping from the end of blights?” Lucanis asked. Something about this place set Rook on edge. The fade here didn't feel right. If Emmrich was here he'd know, all Rook could feel was a deep wrongness that had the hair on the nape of her neck standing up.

[merlindaw]

The Next Chapter of Rook to Crow One is up! Chapter 10: Confrontation

Emmrich said they needed to work out their issues, that includes Rook. What was supposed to be a simple conversation with her recently discovered father turns much more complicated when Rook finds out Strife has been keeping secrets.

https://archiveofourown.org/works/60840646/chapters/159263123

Rook sat at one of the tables in Cafe Pietra sipping her coffee and looking out at the canal. It was early evening, the sun just starting to slip below buildings. Rook felt so at peace in this moment. She loved this city, loved its sights and smells. The noise and bustle of it all. Cassio should be arriving soon. She was glad that he had agreed to meet with her here. She wanted somewhere neutral to meet. They hadn’t spoken since their big talk in the lighthouse and Rook wanted somewhere more casual.

“Stellina.” Cassio said, drawing her attention from the canal. Rook stood turning to greet him. Cassio kissed each of her cheeks. Rook was going to have to get used to that as it seemed to be the common greeting for family.

“Cassio, I’m glad you agreed to meet me.” Rook said, holding out a hand towards the empty seat. It still felt strange to call him Dad. In the heat of the moment it had felt right but now that her emotions had cooled it felt odd.

“Of course. I see you have good taste.” He said with a smile, his eyes crinkling at the corners. She studied his face. It was strange that outside of his eyes she really didn't look like him. Maybe her skin tone was more of his than her mom's but everything about his face was Antivan down to his black hair and perfectly styled mustache and goatee. She thought perhaps he looked a bit like Viago if not for the long pointed ears.

“Yeah, I’ve really come to love Treviso. Maybe I get that from you.” Rook said smiling and added. “And Lucanis showed me the Cafe.” Cassio looked around before responding,

“I’m surprised Lucanis isn’t with you. Every time I’ve seen you in the city he’s been practically attached to your hip.” Rook paused mid sip.

“You’ve been keeping an eye on me?” She asked.

“Naturally.” Cassio said with a shrug. “I may not be a Talon but what kind of father would be if I didn’t keep an eye on my daughter who is trying to bring down the elven gods.” Rook gave a tilt of her head, she wasn’t sure how to feel about that. Just having a father around was such a new experience.

“Speaking of which, have you told Viago about me?” Rook asked. Cassio rubbed the back of his neck. That was one of the things they had talked about at the lighthouse. As his daughter that made Rook a part of House De Riva even if she wasn’t a Crow. Any weakness of their members was to be noted and accounted for by the head of house.

“Viago isn’t the kind of person you just spring something like this on.”

“I’ve guessed that much but this,” she gestured between the two of them, “makes me a part of House De Riva. He should know.” Cassio chuckled.

“Not that you need it.”

“Why do you say that?”

“Piccola,” Cassio gave her a knowing look, “I saw you wearing the Crows Tear at Teia’s party.” Right, she had forgotten about that. The party felt like a lifetime ago. “And besides I’ve seen how you and Lucanis look at eachother.” Rook felt her cheeks flush and stammered,

“We don’t need to talk about that.”

[merlindaw]

Okay here is another one. My Mourn Watch Rook (Dalla) and Davrin. She is small and I couldn't resist Davrin doing a princess hold.

[merlindaw]

The Next Chapter of Rook to Crow One is up. Get ready for Bloodbath. Rook and Lucanis are finally ready to face Zara but the Venatori Blood Mage is an ease task compared to their budding feelings.

Here is the first part of this chapter

Rook walked into the dining room to find Lucanis sharpening his knives. He looked extremely serious. Usually Lucanis would say something when she entered the room but now he was completely silent, eyes fixed to the blade he was working on.

“This is ominous…”Rook said.

“Viago found something.” Lucanis said stowing the blade.

“Something bad I take it.” Rook said. It wasn’t likely to be good news from Viago. It had taken a bit longer than she would have expected. It had been over a month since Weisshaupt and in that time they’d become allies with the Threads, continued to try to understand the Hardings stone power, Bellara found her brother just to lose him again to a Forgotten One, and were helping Taash try and work out their new identity.  

“Venatori in Treviso. Like I thought.” Lucanis said. “One of them might know where Zara is. Viago has Crows watching them. We find them, we find Zara.”

“Everything she did to you…” Rook said with a sneer. “We’ll make her pay, Lucanis. Side by side.” She wanted a piece of the blood mage for herself. For everything she had done. For hurting Lucanis.

“We just have to get this done.” Lucanis said, his voice cold and void of emotion. “I’m not losing anyone else. We only get one shot at this. We’ll go when you’re ready.” 

“Then let's go now. The sooner we finish this the better.” Rook said. “I’ll grab Taash and meet you in the Eluvian room.”

The three of them ran across Treviso’s roof tops. Lucanis was so close to Zara he could taste it. He had the location, the Chantry. He and Caterina would be avenged tonight. One thing still nagged at his mind: he didn't know who the traitor was. Someone in the Crows was protecting Zara and they still didn’t know who. The plan was simple find Zara and kill her. Taashs ability to breathe fire would put the witch on the backfoot and Rook. Lucanis had been serious about not losing anyone else. Which tore him in two. She was an amazing fighter who he was glad to have at his side in this fight but if Zara hurt her. No, the witch wouldn't take anything else from him. As they rounded the next corner Lucanis was shocked to see Illario seemingly waiting for them.

“There you are!” Illario said, like this had been a planned meeting. “Did you stop for coffee again?” He teased.

“Illario?” Lucanis asked Rook at his side. “What are you doing here?”

“I’m coming with you, cousin.” Illario said. “No arguments.”

“This is my job.” Lucanis shot back. He was seeing it to the end and he was already risking too much by having Rook here. Illario needed to stay far away from Zara.

“This is Crow business.” Illario countered. 

“How did you even know we’d be here?” Lucanis asked.

“Rook. Always a pleasure.” Illario said, completely ignoring the question. “Touring the city with my cousin? You must allow me to show you the sights.” Rook went rigid. Lucanis wasn’t the only one feeling like something was off.

“Treviso is the best city.” She said with a smile that made Lucanis wonder what she was planning. “Seeing the sights, murdering them, sneaking away on rooftops. It’s got everything.”

“That’s the spirit.” Illario said with a smile. He had no idea that Rook felt something off. “Listen to Rook, cousin.”

“Rook. Don’t encourage him.” Lucanis said, exacerbated with both of them. He focused his attention on Illario. “This isn’t your kind of job, cousin. There’s no one you can charm into dropping their guard. Only fanatics. All you can do is get yourself killed.” He wouldn’t lose Illario to Zara as well. No matter how much of a pain in the ass his cousin was. 

“You think I’m not good enough.” Illario said with a scowl. Lucanis had hit that old wound squarely. 

“Are you?” Lucanis asked. 

“Fine, have it your way, cousin.” Illario said with a smile that even a novice could tell was forced. “You know best.”

“Let’s go, Rook.” Lucanis said to her. “Zara is waiting.” Rook nodded and they took off again. 

“He doesn’t smell right.” Taash said from behind them.

“It’s probably whatever collagen he’s wearing.” Lucanis said dismissively. 

They had fought their way through the chantry and into a Venatori safe house. So many of Zara toadies were here. Each one that they killed was a salve to his year in prison. She had to be here. They ran across the next courtyard as they approached the side door pain exploded behind Lucanis’ eyes. Spite snapped and snarled. He barely stumbled in his stride.  The pain told him they were going in the right direction. 

“Someone’s using blood magic.” He said. “A lot of blood magic.”

“How can you tell?” Rook asked. 

“It makes the back of my eyes hurt.” Lucanis said as they pushed into the room. The scent of death was nearly overpowering. Bodies lay scattered around the hall. Insects buzzed and hummed in thick masses around the carcasses. 

“That’s a lot of bodies.” Taash said, gripping their axes tighter. Rook had gone deathly pale.

“With this much blood…” Rook trailed off. 

“We’re close.” Lucanis said. Spite was growing restless. Another set of double doors block his way. Pushing them open revealed a lavish bathing room. But the pool wasn’t filled with water, it was filled to the brim with blood and in the center was Zara.

[merlindaw]

So here is version 2.0. Not a lot of difference but I wasn't super happy with how Emmrich looked so he got some light changes. I also forgot how long Rook's scar was supposed to be me and that she has vitiligo. And drawing this really inspired me to write so that's what I'm currently working on.

[merlindaw]

Decided to draw my Crow Rook (Aurora) and Emmirch. Might write some fics about them later.

[merlindaw]

Rook to Crow One: Tallis "Rook" Aldwir was recruited to help hunt down the Dread Wolf Solas. Now she finds herself leading a rag tag band, gathering allies and facing horrors beyond her worst nightmares. And in the middle of all this the Demon of Vyrantium. A man she can't help but be drawn to in spite of everything going on around them.

[merlindaw]

So I'm currently working on a Lucanis fill fic and decided to take my shot at this awesome reference. So here is my Rook (Tallis) between my favorite boys.