Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

Ahri actually enjoys traveling in the dirigible. Turns out flying has nothing to do with sailing.

Every now and then, there’s turbulence, and the pilot recommends them to stay seated. In those moments, Ahri curls up next to Kai’sa to wait it out, and even then, it’s nowhere near as bad as how The Siren used to lurch with the massive waves. 

She likes to spend most of her time sitting on the table by one of the windows, watching Runeterra from above. It’s far more entertaining than staring at the endless expanse of the ocean from a ship. From up here, she can truly appreciate the immensity and beauty of the planet in a way she never thought possible. For a moment, she imagines the landscape below them consumed by the Void, and her ears drop. She quickly shakes her head, trying to push the thought away. 

She feels a kiss being pressed in her head, followed by the soft voice of her girlfriend “Thinking about something?”

Ahri hums into the kiss and smiles before looking up to meet Kai’sa’s eyes “Maybe”

“Wanna talk about it?”

Ahri shrugs and turns her gaze to the window, resting her chin on her hand. “I don’t know, I just—I can’t imagine all of this dying” she points out the window. “How can Bel’veth think killing Runeterra is remaking it? I don’t understand”

Kai’sa sits next to Ahri on the bench and rests her back on it.

“Bel’Veth has a very specific ‘vision’ of the Void,” she explains. “She doesn’t see the Void as something living beneath Runeterra anymore; she sees it as Runeterra itself. She killed the Watchers because she thinks wanting to destroy the world was a waste of power—that the Void is made for something greater” Kai’sa turns to Ahri and sighs. “I’m so sorry for dragging you into this.”

Ahri shakes her head and takes her hands. “I would choose you dragging me into this mess every single time,” Ahri says with a soft but determined voice. “This sucks, yeah, but meeting you and the girls has changed my life. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Kai’sa smiles and kisses the back of Ahri’s hands “Speaking about the girls, could you maybe talk to Seraphine? She seems a bit down and I don’t know what to say to her, I’m not really good with words—or people for that matter” Kai’sa scratches the back of her neck.

“Don’t say that, you always comfort me!” 

“But you are you” 

“Don’t sell yourself short, silly,” Ahri says with a playful smile, slightly poking Kai’sa’s arm. “Now let me out, I’ll go find Sera” Ahri says, gesturing for Kai’sa to move off the bench so she can step out as well.

Ahri finds Seraphine in the bedroom. The dirigible has a small room with two bunk beds they use to sleep, and Seraphine is on one of the lower bunks, sitting cross-legged and fiddling with a bracelet in her hands. Ahri notices she is biting her lip nervously and she doesn’t seem to notice the new presence, so she knocks on the door to get her attention.

“Oh, Ahri, didn’t see you there” she looks up and leaves her lip alone but keeps fidgeting with the bracelet. “Is everything alright?”

“You tell me” she tilts her head “Kai’sa is worried, she send me to check on you”

Seraphine smiles weakly. “That's nice of her.”

Ahri walks over to her and sits on the spot next to Seraphine, crossing her legs as well, and waits until Seraphine speaks again.

“I don't regret coming with you, but I might be feeling a bit scared and anxious about all of this," Seraphine confesses, avoiding Ahri's gaze. “If I can't even get Zaun and Piltover to stop hating each other, how am I supposed to save Runeterra?”

“Seraphine…”

“You know, when I decided I wanted to start performing for both cities at the same time, everyone I knew told me I was crazy. Like, everyone. I got so much hate for it. And I got the point, I got the message, okay? Piltover and Zaun are like oil and water, not meant to mix, or whatever. But I’ve heard their songs , Ahri. They’re beautiful and so similar—they just need someone to help them harmonize, and I thought… I thought maybe that could be me. I still think it could. But—ugh, I don’t know.” She speaks faster with every word coming out of her mouth, the bracelet in her hands spinning without stopping. “I try to keep going, but it’s not that simple. I think I’m a little caught in the middle. And I know I put myself here, okay? But sometimes it feels like what I’m doing is actually working, like I’m making a difference. And then other times, it’s like… what’s the point? Maybe I should just let it go, just stop. But I gotta keep going or they’ll call me a quitter, and I can’t be a quitter.  I feel like I’m a fraud sometimes. I’m not a quitter. And I want to help you guys but If I can't help these two cities how can I help with this? I just—"

“Seraphine, breathe” Ahri interrupts gently, taking her hands and stopping her from fidgeting with the bracelet.

Seraphine shyly returns the her gaze to meet Ahri’s eyes “That was intense, sorry” 

“Why are all of you so determined to apologize to me?” Ahri chuckles softly remembering her talk with Kai’sa “You don’t have to, Seraphine, it’s okay. I think you needed to let all of that out. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and scared—I’m scared too, you know.” She adds in a whisper “Even Kai’Sa is, though she tries not to show it. But don’t tell her I told you that.” Ahri winks playfully, her warm smile offering reassurance.

“It’s hard to believe,” Seraphine admits “Kai’Sa seems so badass and strong, like nothing can stop her. I feel really safe when she’s around.”

“Yeah, she has that effect” Ahri agrees smiling “But what we are facing is terrifying for everyone, so don’t be hard on yourself for that. And in the little time I’ve spent in Piltover and Zaun, it’s become so clear to me that people adore you,” Ahri says with a soft smile. “I was honestly so surprised to see so many people from both sides together, and I think you’re literally the only one who could make that happen without it being for some terrible reason. You’re not a fraud, Seraphine. You know, I can’t hear songs like you do, but I can sense the essence of people. And your essence... I can sense a heart full of fire. And trust me, that’s exactly what we need right now. You can help, just like you’ve already helped Piltover and Zaun.”

Seraphine stays quiet for a moment, processing Ahri’s words. “You’re right. I have actually accomplished a lot. I can help you” she says, her confidence slowly returning. “Thank you, Ahri. I really needed to hear that.”

“Anytime” she squeezes her shoulder “Now come on, let’s go with the other and maybe eat something”

Seraphine nods and they both get out of the room. They find Jinx sitting on the floor with a deck of cards spread out between her and one of her weapons, Fishbones. She's holding the rest of the cards in her hand. Kai’sa doesn’t seem to be there.

“Fishbones, you know what we oughta do?” Jinx asks to her weapon 

“ Stop playing and help that Void girl with the cooking ” Jinx throws her voice to pretend Fishbones is talking like a puppet. 

“Stupid dumb rocket launcher...you’re no fun!” Jinx throws a card at Fishbones.

Ahri has grown accustomed to Jinx's unpredictable interactions, and they don't bother her anymore. In fact, sometimes they even seem endearing. Seraphine seems to feel similar. She giggles as she watches Jinx with her brow furrowed in concentration, completely absorbed in whatever game she's playing with herself.

“Room for one more?” Seraphine approaches Jinx. 

Jinx suddenly turns to her,  a wide smile forming on her face “Wanna join me? Come and play, yes!” then turns to Ahri “Ahri you want to?”

“Thank you, Jinx, but no. I’ll go help Kai’sa in the kitchen, you girls have fun” 

Just like it has a small room for them to sleep, the dirigible also has a small kitchen for them to cook the food Caitlyn has got for them these days. Ahri finds Kai’sa there, just like Jinx, or Fishbones, said. 

Kai'sa is very focused on stirring something, so she doesn’t notice Ahri’s presence. Ahri quietly steps closer, slipping her arms around Kai’s waist from behind. She leans her head against Kai’s back, nestled comfortably between the pods of her second skin.

Kai’sa freezes for a second, surprised, before relaxing slightly, her hands pausing mid-stir.

“Hey, you” she murmurs softly, without turning. 

“Smells good. I didn’t know you know how to cook” she kisses Kai’sa’s back.

“Thank you,” Kai’sa smiles proudly even though Ahri can’t see her face. “My mother taught me how to cook. Not all of us are savages who eat raw meat without cooking it, like a certain fox I know.” Kai’sa teases

“That was low” Ahri replies offended and then bites her on the neck where her skin is still normal, leaving a mark from her fangs.

“Alright, alright! I take it back, ow” she says, rubbing her shoulder “You’re a very refined fox.”

Ahri hums content with the answer, her arms still wrapped around Kai’s waist. “That’s more like it.” She pauses for a second, resting her chin on Kai’s shoulder now. “Maybe you can teach me how to cook too, you know, when this is over. If you like to cook we could find us a small place back in Ionia near to a market or something”

Ahri gets excited thinking about a future with Kai’sa, but when Kai’sa hears this, she tenses up, and Ahri starts to worry. “I mean, if you prefer, we can stay in Shurima. I didn’t mean to imply we have to go back or—if you don’t want to live with me, I guess that’s okay.Um, I’m sorry, I thought—”

Kai’sa turns over now, facing Ahri, and gently places a hand over her cheek. “Ahri, stop,” she says with a small laugh, though her voice shakes just slightly. “It’s not too much, okay? It’s just...”

Kai’sa hesitates, she wants to tell Ahri that there’s nothing more she wants than to spend the rest of her days with her in Ionia, but she can’t do that. Kai’sa can’t set expectations she can’t fulfill, she can’t promise to teach her how to cook or that they’ll move in together, because all Kai’sa will see for the rest of her life is the endless Void. That’s her fate. And she can’t tell her that, because she knows Ahri would try to stop her from going into that battle. There are so many things Kai’sa wants to say, but she can’t.

“I would love to go back with you to Ionia, princess,” Kai’sa says softly. At least it’s not a lie, but it’s not everything she wants to say, and it breaks her heart just a little to see Ahri's eyes light up at hearing that answer from her girlfriend.

Ahri grabs the back of Kai’sa’s neck and pulls her closer as their lips meet in a deep, passionate kiss. Kai’sa, in return, holds Ahri close, as if afraid to let go. There’s a quiet intensity in their touch, a mutual understanding that they never want to be apart. Time seems to slow, and for that brief moment, the world outside ceases to exist.

It’s just them, until Jinx’s voice cuts through the air from across the dirigible. “Hey! Are you two lovebirds gonna keep flirting, or are we eating soon? ‘Cause I’m starving over here!”

Ahri groans, muttering under her breath, “She has the worst timing.” Kai’sa just laughs, not moving from her spot. “Although I’m starving too”

Four days later, they finally land on the northern coast of Shurima, in the city of Bel'Zhun. One of the Shuriman cities that’s currently controlled by noxians, but that has a large rebel insurgency against Noxus, which makes it a safe enough space to camp and prepare.

The group disembarks the dirigible cautiously, scanning their surroundings. The atmosphere is warm, as everything in Shurima always is, and they can smell the salt in the air from the ocean.

Seraphine closes her eyes and hums a melody softly, her expression contemplative.

“Shurima's song sounds…like a mourning song” she murmurs. 

Her words hang in the air as the group exchanges quiet glances. Kai’sa places a hand on Seraphine’s shoulder, a small gesture of comfort, though she says nothing. “Let’s try find the others”

They don’t need to walk far before that happens. Just a few minutes pass when a blonde girl appears out of nowhere, rushing toward them with surprising speed. Before anyone can react, she throws herself at Jinx, wrapping her arms tightly around her in a fierce hug.

“You are here!” her voice filled with a mix of relief and excitement.

Jinx stumbles back a little from the force of the embrace, but then she lifts her up and spins her up in the air “I missed you, sunshine” she says with equal enthusiasm before kissing her.

Kai’sa raises an eyebrow as Ahri smirks. Seraphine lets out a small giggle.

“Is this your super awesome, super scary, super magical girlfriend ?” Seraphine asks tilting her head. 

“Aw, did you introduce me to them like that?” the girl kisses Jinx's cheek “Wait, you think I’m scary?”

“I mean,” Jinx starts with an exaggerated shrug, “your super ultra mega light beam that’s brighter than the freaking sun is scary, but like, in the best way possible! I love it. And I love you, so it’s all good.”

Lux chuckles, her cheeks glowing slightly pink as she leans her head against Jinx’s. “You’re crazy” she mutters fondly, unable to hide her smile.

“Don’t blame me, your love made me crazy” Jinx winks at her.

“I think that’s just her factory settings" Ahri whispers to Kai'sa and Seraphine.

“Ahri!” Seraphine exclaims in a hushed but scolding tone, giving her a gentle tap on the shoulder. Ahri just shrugs innocently, her tails swaying in amusement, while Kai’sa tries to suppress a laugh.

“And here I thought it was impossible to find a couple more sappy than you two,” Miss Fortune says, appearing behind them. “But Lux and your blue-haired friend have beat you by far.”

Ahri and Kai’Sa glance at each other. “We are not sappy” they say in unison, and when they realize it, they both blush.

“Whatever,” Sarah says with a smirk. “Nice to see you again.”

“Yeah, I’m glad to see you too,” Ahri replies with a warm smile.

Seconds later, Akali and Evelynn show up. Akali practically throws herself at Ahri and Kai’Sa, wrapping them both in a tight, enthusiastic hug. “You’re okay! I was so worried about you two, bro” she exclaims, her voice full of relief and excitement.

Kai’Sa pats Akali on the back. “We missed you too, Akali, but...breathing would be nice.”

“Oh, right, sorry!” Akali laughs, finally letting go.

Evelynn approaches more slowly, her arms crossed and once Akali steps back, Evelynn steps forward gracefully, pulling Ahri into a hug that’s much gentler.

“It’s good to see you in one piece, darling,” Evelynn turns to Kai’Sa with a nod. “You too” she smiles and Kai’Sa nods back.

Ahri steps back and gestures to the group behind her. “Well, everyone, let me introduce you. This is Seraphine, she literally has a magical singing voice” she says, pointing to the pink-haired songstress, who offers a shy but bright wave. “And this is Jinx, that has…um, very cool weapons and, lucky for us, good aim as well” Ahri adds with a faint laugh as Jinx grins and gives an exaggerated bow, Fishbones casually slung over her shoulder.

Evelynn raises a brow, her sharp eyes gliding over the new faces. “Quite two recruits you’ve gathered” she remarks with a grin.

“It’s been an adventure,” Ahri replies with a small, tired laugh.

“You should get back to the others, you can explain everything then” Sarah suggests.

The girls led them to a camp set in the outskirts of Bel’zhun, where there’s barely any people who will bother them nor poke their nose in their business. When they arrive they find Neeko with Nidalee, finally reunited, adjusting and fitting the last details of what seems to be some kind of light full body armor suit.  

“Ahri! Happy to see you!” Neeko hugs Ahri once she sees her. Then she turns to Kai’sa unsure if she can welcome her the same way “Can Neeko hug you?”

Kai’sa is still a little uncomfortable with physical contact but she’s already been strangled by Akali, one hug more can hurt, so she opens her arms to let a very excited Neeko wrap her in a warm but quick embrace. Ahri can’t help but feel proud of Kai’sa as she’s changed so much from the first time they met. She also decides that the scene is undeniably cute.

“Hey Nida, we’ve finished the masks we should try—” a new voice steps into view, holding a strange helmet in her hands. The moment her eyes land on Kai’sa, her grip falters, and the helmet slips from her hands. “Kai’sa?” 

Kai’sa glances at her, not expecting to see her here, but happy too. “Taliyah?”

Taliyah’s eyes light up and, without hesitation, she strides toward Kai’sa, wrapping her in a warm embrace. It’s longer than Neeko’s hug but not as intense as Akali’s. This time, Kai’sa does return the hug, a genuine smile forming on her face as she holds her friend tightly.

When Taliyah finally realizes how long she’s been hugging her, she pulls back “Oh, I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to—”

“It’s okay,” Kai’sa reassures her softly, her tone warm. “I missed you too. What are you doing here?”

Taliyah sighs “That’s a funny story, right?” She looks at Neeko.

“Neeko is sorry! I thought you wouldn't catch me” she scratches the back of her neck, her tail swinging. Nidalee chuckles, her golden eyes warm as she takes Neeko’s hand giving her hand a reassuring squeeze. 

“Catch you? What did you do?” Ahri asks, raising a brow.

“We figured we should make some clothes to protect us, as you always say we have to avoid being touched by Void creatures,” Nidalee looks at Kai’sa “We needed materials and we found a big camp with supplies” she adds.

“ My camp,” Taliyah points out.

“Neeko didn’t know!” she exclaims with embarrassment.

“I think stealing is still wrong,” Seraphine giggles.

“I’m sorry!” Neeko covers her face with her hands, her cheeks glowing red.

“It’s okay,” Taliyah reassures her with a laugh. “The thing is, Neeko transformed into Nelly to blend in, but then the actual Nelly showed up, and, well... seeing two of them running around was a little suspicious.” Taliyah giggles at the memory. “At first, I was mad, but once Neeko explained everything, I knew I had to help. And, well... here we are.”

“Well, I’m glad,” Kai’sa says, patting Neeko on the shoulder with a small smile. “Thank you, Neeko, for being a bad thief.”

The girls have done an amazing job with the armor. They’ve crafted it using a lightweight metallic fabric that is extremely resistant and adheres perfectly to their bodies, covering every possible area where they could be touched or attacked. On top of that, Taliyah’s people have designed masks that extend all the way to their necks, providing enough visibility for combat while still having protection.

Plus, not only are the outfits functional, but they’re also stylish, fitting perfectly around their curves, to Evelynn’s petition. Evelynn, wasn’t fond of the idea of covering her body—particularly since she believes her demonic nature makes her immune—, but she agreed after they accepted her demand on modifying the design, and also thanks to Akali’s convincing.

Now they all are sitting around the fire eating some food and getting to know each other. Ahri almost feels like she’s just hanging out with friends, and not like she is preparing herself to war with her companions. Thinking about it has taken her hunger away, she looks at the food on her hands and sighs as she wishes things were different. Kai’sa, sitting by her side, notices the change in attitude and places her hand on Ahri’s knee, rubbing it softly. Ahri doesn’t need to explain for Kai’sa to know what’s going on in her mind. That’s one of the several things Ahri loves about her.

“So, captain” Miss Fortune gets Kai’sa’s attention “What’s the plan for tomorrow?”  

Kai’sa suddenly feels every one of the girls looking at her, expecting an answer. Oh, right—because she’s the freaking leader. How did she go from being alone to... this? She tries to shake her insecurity away.

They all trust her. She can’t let them down.

Taking a deep breath, Kai’sa straightens her posture and answers as confidently as she can. “Something you should know about Bel'Veth is that she believes herself superior to everyone and everything. She won't come to us. She sent me a warning, but she doesn't see me as a real threat. She doesn't think I'm capable of stopping her. So, why waste the effort?"

Kai'sa looks at Sarah “The plan is for us to go to her.”

“Doesn't she live like, in the Void?” Akali points out not convinced with Kai’sa’s intentions.

“Yes”

“What? Are we going into the Void? But there’s no light in there!” Lux panics.

“Uh, I’ve never blown anything up in a place like the Void” Jinx says, rubbing her hands with a grin.

Then everyone starts adding their opinion on the idea of going to the Void and Kai’sa loses control over the situation. Kai'sa opens her mouth but she is silenced by the discussion.

Ahri notices this and whistles to get their attention back.

“Girls, let her finish please” says firmly and then looks back at Kai’sa and smiles to reassure her. 

Akali crosses her arms. “Okay, fine, but you're really gonna need to sell this plan of walking into literal hell, dude”

Kai'sa sighs. “You didn’t let me finish, Kali. No, we are not going inside the Void, we—”

Jinx pouts interrupting her again “So no blowing things up in the Void?”

“Jinx, please,” Lux groans. “Why would you want that? Without light I couldn’t use my magic!”

“Technically, there are some bioluminescent organisms in the Void,” Evelynn shrugs, examining her large claws.

“Oh, Neeko likes pretty lights!”

“How do you know? Have you been there?” Nidalee questions Evelynn with a suspicious look. 

The room is filled with chaos as everyone’s opinions overlap again.

Kai'sa pinches the bridge of her nose and exhales deeply. “Can everyone please just let me explain the rest of the plan?”

This time Ahri’s whistle is not necessary and the girls shut up and let Kai’sa resume the explanation. 

“Thanks” she relaxes “We are going to Icathia, south Shurima. It is a wasteland where only the ruins of the horrors of the Void remain. It is also where the Void originally started devouring Runeterra, so it’s where there’s more activity. It will takes us a few days getting there, but Taliyah’s people has got us a herd of Skallashi to travel there” 

“I am absolutely not getting on one of those big stinky Shuriman horses” Evelynn quickly disagrees with the idea. 

“Here we go again” Taliyah shakes her head.

“Oh, you are absolutely getting on one of those things, Eve” Ahri threatens her.

“Whatever,” Evelynn mutters again with an exaggerated sigh.

“Yeah I'd rather go on foot than on those things” Sarah supports Evelynn.

Ahri narrows her eyes, tail flicking impatiently. “Look, if I rode your damn ship you can ride that damn Skashi”

“Skallashi” Seraphine shyly corrects her.

“Ugh, whatever” Ahri crosses her arms. “You got the point”

Miss Fortune laughs at Ahri’s scolding. “Alright, alright, Fox. I’ll ride your... Skallashi, or whatever it’s called. But don’t expect me to be happy about it.” 

“Thank you”

Kai’sa’s lips twitch with a barely-contained smile. Seeing her normally calm and composed girlfriend trying to fix the chaos of their team is adorable.

“Stop giggling,” Ahri snaps at Kai’sa, though she’s clearly not mad at her. 

“Sorry,” Kai’sa replies, her tone soft  “You’re just really cute when you’re bossy.”

Ahri’s cheeks flush, but she huffs, pretending to ignore the comment as she turns back to the others.

“Anyway, everyone is getting on those things. No exceptions. I don’t care if it doesn’t match your aesthetic,” she says, shooting Evelynn a pointed look. “Now babe, can you go on with the plan?” she signals Kai’sa to keep talking. 

“Okay, so, to stop the Void, we have to kill its master: Bel’Veth. But getting to her will be difficult because she’ll summon her own army of Void creatures, like Rek’Sai, the one we faced in Xolan,” Kai’sa looks at Ahri and Taliyah, “or Cho’Gath, the one who injured Zhonya in Ixtal,” now she looks at Nidalee, “and many others. The point is, we can’t waste time fighting and killing them all. Instead, you’ll have to hold them off, keep them busy, and maintain the battle so I can get close to Bel’Veth alone and kill her,” Kai’sa finishes.

This time it is Ahri who interumps her with a confused and worried look “Wait, alone? Why?”

“Yeah, why can’t we go with you?” Akali’s voice sounds concerned as well. 

She has to be alone because once Bel’veth is dead, Kai’sa will become the next master, and no one can be close because they would try to stop her, especially Ahri, but she can’t let them know that. “May I remind you I’m the only one with a second skin that protects me from the Void? Yes, you have great armor, but it won't be enough, that’s why it has to be me” she lies as good as she can. 

The room falls quiet for a moment as the weight of the mission settles over them.

“We’ll have your back. But... are you sure you can face Bel’Veth alone? She sounds... terrifying.” Seraphine adds ending the silence. 

“Oh, she is terrifying,” Kai’sa admits. “But this is something I have to do. And this time I’m not alone, I know you’ll be there, so it will be okay”

Ahri shakes her head “I don’t like this Kai, you can’t not face Bel’veth alone!” 

Kai’sa places her hand on Ahri’s cheek calming her down “It’s the only way” she rubs her cheek and then turns back to the others “Here is where we make our stand. Do as I say. It's the only way, if we want to live” she repeats.

Taliyah nods resolutely. “I’ll do whatever it takes to help you get to her, Kai’sa. We all will.”

Kai’sa lets out a slow breath, her nerves easing slightly as she takes in their support. “Thanks. We’ll get through this. Together.”

Ahri places a hand on top of Kai’sa’s wrist and leans into the touch, her voice soft but a little shaked “Okay but when this is over, we’re going back to Ionia and you’ll teach me how to cook. No arguments.”

Kai’sa gives her a faint smile, the promise giving her a small flicker of hope. She kisses her unable to actually give a real answer. 

The next morning, just as they promised Ahri, everyone mounts their respective Skallashi, these large quadrupedal herbivores commonly used in Shurima for transportation. Although they are very tall, they’re gentle and docile, which makes them the perfect ride.

Kai’sa notices how different it feels compared to riding a horse—the movement isn’t forward and backward but more side to side. However, she adjusts pretty quickly. She’s also relieved to see that Ahri seems to be handling it well. Miss Fortune, on the other hand, is clinging to her Skallashi for dear life, cursing as she struggles to keep steady.

“Look at you, like a fish out of water,” Akali laughs at Miss Fortune, which makes her earn a deadly glare from Miss Fortune. 

Akali leads her Skallashi near Kai’sa’s so they are next to each other and they walk side by side in silence for a while. Until Akali breaks the silence.

“Hey, can I ask you a question?” she looks back making sure the others are far enough to not hear them.

“Why are you acting so suspicious? What’s the question?”

“Why does it have to be you, Kai?”

“What—”

“Don’t play dumb with me, please,” Akali cut her of “I’m an assassin, remember? The most common reason people usually keep the privilege of killing someone is for vengeance, but I doubt that’s your reason. So spill it. Why does it have to be you?”

Kai’sa starts getting nervous and asks her Skallashi to walk a little faster so she can avoid Akali. “I told you, I’m more protected than you are”

“You are really bad at lying, you know”Akali asks her Skallashi to go faster as well so she can keep up at Kai’sa’s pace. “And don't avoid me, Kai’sa”

“I’m not—I…” Kai’sa looks at Akali and realizes it’s pointless to keep up the lie. Akali is too stubborn, and she already knows Kai’sa is hiding something, so she won’t stop until she gets the truth. 

“I just want to help you, Kai” 

Kai’sa sighs and now she’s the one who turns back to check that the others are not going to hear her, especially Ahri with her hearing. “There’s something I did not mention about the Void” she pauses for a second trying to find the words  “The Void is a mystery, but there is something I’ve discovered about it:  it needs a master—someone to channel its power and magic, to give it direction.”

Akali narrows her eyes. “So you’re saying if we kill Bel’Veth, the Void will stop because she has its power?”

Kai’sa shakes her head  “The Void is unstoppable, if we kill her, we are not killing the Void power, we are just killing its current master. But the Void will always find someone new to claim, someone to inherit its power…”

Akali swallows hard, starting to understand Kai’sa’s point. “Are you—is that why you want to…Kai’sa you can’t do that”

“It’s the only way to stop Bel’veth” Kai’sa tightens the grip on the reins and looks away from Akali, not able to meet her gaze.

Akali’s heart is pounding while trying to find the right words to make Kai’sa reconsider. “No, it’s not. We can find another way. There has to be another way.”

Kai’sa finally looks at her “There isn’t, Akali. The Void will choose someone. And I can’t let it be any of you” Kai’sa sighs thinking about Ahri  “Especially not her ”

Akali shakes her head furiously. “That’s not fair. You—you can’t just decide to sacrifice yourself like this!”

“This isn’t about me ” Kai’sa looks away again. 

“What about Ahri? You have to tell her” Akali voice softens, almost a whisper.

Kaisa’s heart clenches at the thought of telling Ahri they won’t be able to be together, that she won’t teach her to cook and that they are not going back to Ionia. “I can’t tell her, she would try to stop me” 

“Yeah she would! Because she loves you, Kai’sa. You can’t just make this decision for her.”

Kai’sa can feel a knot on her throat starting to form along with some tears in her eyes. “I know okay? I love her too, I just—” she takes a deep breath as she realizes how hard it is to admit that she loves Ahri knowing she won’t be able to spend much more time with her “You think this is easy for me? I don’t want this, I want to spend the rest of my life with her, but if I don’t kill Bel’veth there won't be any life left for any of us. But if I do this, at least you will. She will. I want her to be happy, Akali.”

“Kai’sa…” she starts, but stops herself. She wants to argue, to tell her she’s wrong, that there has to be another way—but she also sees the reality: there’s only one option. 

Akali exhales shakily. “I don’t think she’ll be happy without you”

Kai’sa looks away, “At least she’ll be alive. Akali you have to promise not to tell her, or anyone, please”

Akali wants to refuse, but when she looks at Kai’sa again, she sees the desperation in her eyes. The fear. The pain.

“Damn it, Kai’sa.” She looks away, tears falling down her face. “I hate this. I hate that you have to do this alone.”

Kai’sa stays quiet, waiting.

Finally, after a long silence, Akali sighs. “Fine. I won’t tell her.” She turns to Kai’sa and wipes her tears away “But I still think there could be another way”

Kai’sa gives her a small, sad smile. “I hope so”

With the intense conversation, their Skallashi have slowed down the rhythm and now the rest of the team are getting closer. They can hear them playing “I spy” behind them.

“I spy with my little eye…something beginning with S” Seraphine's sweet voice sings.

“Oh easy, that has to be my Sunshine” Jinx guesses very proudly looking at Lux who blushes and rolls her eyes.

“Her name doesn’t start with an S” Nidalee points very logically.

“You guys are no fun” Jinx pouts.

“Is it Sun?!” Neeko tries to, but Seraphine shakes her head.

“Sand?” Jinx gives it a second try but Seraphine keeps shaking her head.

“C’mon Bubblegum, it's a damn desert, there are no more things here to see, you are cheating!” Jinx accuses her.

“Yeah, Sera cheater” Neeko supports her.

“I’m not cheating! You are just bad at this game” 

Kai’sa and Akali chuckle at this. She might just meet them but she will surely miss them. And she will miss not being alone. 

“It’s Skashi” Ahri stops the debate of cheating.

“Skallashi!” the three girls correct her at the same time.

“Whatever”

Seraphine giggles “Ahri wins”

“Dude, she was not even playing!” Jinx crosses her arms. 

Ahri laughs and catches up to Akali and Kai’sa.

“Hey, you” she smiles at Kai’sa and Kai’sa thinks that is the most beautiful smile she has ever seen. 

She’ll never get tired of seeing her and the thought of not being able to do that in the future wants to make her cry, but she pushes that feeling down and smiles back at her.

“Hey, princess. I see you kicked their butts huh, that's my girl” 

Ahri cheeks grow pink “I really could get use to you calling me that”

“Yo, get a room!” Akali sighs with a smile before going back with Evelynn.

Kai’sa doesn’t answer Akali. She never knows how to answer that kind of comment. She smiles awkwardly and focuses again on Ahri. “You holding okay up there?”

“Mhm” Ahri hums in confirmation “Just a little tired” she yawns and her ears flick.

Kai’sa tilts her head at how adorable her girlfriend is. “The sun is setting, we’ll set up camp soon, don’t worry,” Kai’sa reassures, glancing at the orange and purple sky.

Taliyah’s people had prepared a generous amount of food for them, so together they managed to put together a great feast, which they are now enjoying around the campfire.

Everyone is as relaxed as they can be, given the situation, laughing and getting to know each other better. At one point, Sarah disappears into one of the tents and returns with a glass bottle, a sly grin on her lips. She raises it for everyone to see.

“Well, ladies,” she announces, “since we might not have many nights left before the battle, I say we make this night a memorable one.”

She tilts the bottle slightly “Who’s in?”

Evelynn raises a brow “I like you, darling” She leans forward spreading her arm. “Pass that bottle now, will you”

One by one, the others agree, happy to enjoy the moment while they can. However Kai’sa doesn’t join.

“I don’t feel like it,” she says simply.

Ahri looks at her for a moment but doesn’t push. Instead, she just scoots a little closer, resting her tail lightly against Kai’sa’s side as the others start pouring their drinks.

“Seraphine?” Sarah asks her before pouring the drink for her. 

Seraphine shakes her head with an apologetic smile. “I’ve never tried it before, and honestly, it doesn’t really attract me.”

Miss Fortune doesn’t push either and goes to Neeko, who is actually curious. Neeko grabs Sarah’s recently filled cup, sniffs it cautiously, and takes a sip. The second the alcohol touches her tongue, her face scrunches up in absolute disgust and her head crown starts glowing in different colours at the same time.

“Ew!” she exclaims, sticking out her tongue dramatically.

The group bursts into laughter at her reaction, and Jinx claps her hands. “Oh, that was priceless! Do it again, Neeko!”

Lux crosses her arms and gives Jinx a look. “Jinx! Don’t make fun of Neeko, that’s mean.”

Jinx pouts. “But it was funny!”

Neeko shakes her head “Neeko will not do it again!”

Taliyah chuckles and pats Neeko’s back reassuringly. “Don’t worry, Neeko. The first time I tried alcohol I straight up spit it”

“I’ll take it” Nidalee drinks from Neeko's cup and then kisses her on the lips.

“That’s better,” Neeko smiles.

Ahri wipes away a tear from laughing s o hard, and even Kai’sa, despite everything, can’t help but smile. The girls talk, joke, and share stories until the bottles empty.

Nidalee and Neeko decide to go to sleep. Seraphine has fallen asleep on Taliyah’s shoulder. And a very drunk Jinx is grinning mischievously trying to draw a mustache on Seraphine while Lux is doing her best to stop her from doing it.

On the other side of the fire, Akali and Evelynn are completely lost in each other, making out as if they were alone.

And then there’s Ahri, leaning against Kai’sa’s shoulder, their fingers intertwined enjoying the warmth of her presence. Kai’sa doesn’t move, doesn’t speak—she just holds Ahri’s hand a little tighter, letting herself memorize the feeling while she still can.

But it is getting late and they have to rest and watching the situation she thinks it's time for them to go to sleep “Girls, I think we should try to get some sleep”

Taliyah nods and manages to get Sera on her feet and also convinces Lux and Jinx to go rest. However, Evelynn and Akali remain. Akali sits comfortably on Evelynn’s lap, kissing her with the kind of urgency that suggests she has no worries at all. Kai’sa waits for them to say something but it doesn’t happen. 

Kai’sa clears her throat, feeling awkward. “Uh… we’re heading to the tent, you guys should rest”

Their lips part and Evelynn turns her head toward them, raising an eyebrow “If you think we’re spending the night sleeping , you are very mistaken.”

Kai’sa blushes at what Evelynn just implied and is ready to leave them alone when Evelynn speaks again with a mischievous chuckle “Feel free to stay and enjoy the show… or join it, darlings.”

Kai’sa nearly chokes on her own breath, her face turning completely red now as she panics. “I—I’m going to sleep,” she blurts out.

Evelynn smirks devilishly, clearly enjoying Kai’sa’s reaction. “Oh, come on, darling. You two should definitely make the most of your night too. It might be your last one, after all~”

“Eve!” Ahri scolds her.

Kai’sa ignores the comment and awkwardly walks away into the tent, not even able to look Ahri in the eyes, her heart racing in her chest.

Once inside, she prepares for sleep and sits on the sleeping-bag with her legs crossed, just staring up at the fabric of the tent, trying to calm the overwhelming thoughts in her head.

Why does she feel so uncomfortable at the thought of enjoying the night with Ahri?

Kai’sa loves her, she knows that for sure. She also knows that she feels attracted to her and that she loves kissing her sweet lips. But…taking that to another level makes her feel unsteady and rather anxious than excited, even her symbiote reacts to the thought by twirling as if advertising to her that it is not a good idea.

But why does this happen to her?

She tries to force the discomfort away, but it doesn’t work. Every word, every teasing glance, and every insinuation from Evelynn, Akali or Sarah still lingers in her mind. 

She hates how these moments and comments make her feel, like she’s meant to do something about them other than being uncomfortable. She hates that whenever someone else receives these comments they always have a natural response or comeback. Meanwhile Kai’sa is never never prepared for whatever sexual comment can be thrown at her. She furrows her brow in frustration.

Why can't I just be normal about it?

The teasing, the flirtations, the suggestions—she knows it’s all in good fun, but it still makes her feel like an outsider, like her own discomfort isn’t valid. She can’t help feeling this way but she surely wishes she didn’t. 

Kai’sa sighs and feels the tears coming to her eyes. She wants to stop thinking about this but she has already pushed these feelings down for quite some time now and she can’t not keep doing it. Not only because it will consume her mental health but because Ahri deserves to know. 

She needs to talk to Ahri about this, even though she fears what the conversation might bring. She is not sure if Ahri will understand and Kai’sa doesn't want her to take it personally. But she can’t keep it from her anymore, it’s too important for their relationship.

At that moment Ahri steps into the tent, her ears twitching slightly as her heart clenches at the sight of Kai’sa barely holding the tears—she had a feeling something was off, but seeing her like this confirms it.

Without hesitation, Ahri sits down beside her, close but not overwhelming, giving Kai’sa the space to breathe.

She doesn’t push, doesn’t demand, just tilts her head and softly asks, “Hey… are you okay? Do you want to talk about it?”

Ahri already has a sense of what might be going on, but she wants to hear it from Kai’sa, to give her the space to share what she needs at her own pace. So she just waits until Kai’sa gains enough confidence to face Ahri.

“Yeah” she nods “But I don’t even know where to start”

Ahri takes Kai’sa’s hand in her own “Is it because of what Evelynn said?” she tries softly “We don’t have to do anything just because she said so, you know”

Kai’sa swallows. This is going to be hard .

“It’s not—I um…I don’t feel comfortable with the idea of doing anything but—but not because Evelynn said it, but because I don’t feel like it”

Ahri stays silent but doesn’t let go of Kai’sa’s hand, she starts rubbing it instead.

Ahri has noticed it for a while now—the way Kai’sa reacts to certain comments, the subtle shifts in her body language, the way her shoulders tense and her jaw tightens not out of shyness, but discomfort. 

At first, Ahri thought maybe it was just inexperience or awkwardness, but the more she paid attention, the more she realized the truth: Kai’sa wasn’t embarrassed—she was uncomfortable.

That’s why Ahri has never pushed, never tried to take things further. She loves Kai’sa, adores every piece of her, but more than anything, she wants her to feel safe. 

Kai’sa looks at Ahri’s reassuring touch on her hand and then looks back at Ahri.

“I really like you Ahri, I really do I just—damm this is so hard to put in words and I don’t wanna hurt you” she admits.

Ahri intertwines her fingers with Kai’sa “It’s okay, Kai, you can talk to me”

Kai’sa feels like she doesn’t deserve Ahri’s patience.

“I’m really sorry I haven’t told you this before but I don’t feel um—I don’t feel sexual desire ” she looks away from her and tries not to cry again. “It's not you I promise I— I don’t feel it in general it’s just—I don’t even know why . I think the Void has something to do with it in some way. It took a lot of things from me but—”

Kai’sa feels a gentle touch on her cheek. Ahri’s hand is cupping her face and redirecting her gaze to meet Ahri’s again. Kai’sa closes her eyes as she is not ready to face what Ahri's expression might hold. Disappointment? Anger? Sadness? indifference? She doesn’t know which one is worse.

“Babe, look at me please?” Ahri’s sweet voice asks.

Kai’sa does open her eyes slowly to analyze Ahri’s expression only to find worry . Ahri opens her mouth to speak but Kai’sa doesn’t have the courage to hear what she might say, so she over-explains herself.

“I’m really sorry, Ahri. I wish I was different, that I was normal but I…It is what it is and I understand if you have needs but…I don’t think I can’t satisfy them and I also understand if you need another person wh—”

“Kai’sa”

She shut ups and tries to look at Ahri, but with the tears in her eyes she barely distinguishes her whiskers and her bright golden eyes. Ahri wipes away Kai’sa’s tears.

“I don’t want another anyone, okay? I want you” 

Kai’sa gasps. Is she serious?

Kai’sa first thought is that Ahri has not fully understood how Kai’sa feels and that somehow she might think it’s just a phase, but there’s something about the way Ahri’s is looking at her that makes Kai’sa feel seen . 

“I actually have known this for quite a while now, I was just hoping for you to realize and open up about it” she admits.

Kai’sa shakes her head in shock “Wait what? You knew? I didn’t even know myself” she is just so confused.

“Remember that I can feel people’s essence and read their memories? Not that I needed to though, your body language and your pods are very obvious. Not to mention that I am older than all of you combined. Well at least I think I am.” she giggles. “That means that in all these years I’ve met more people like you, Kai. And they were just as normal as you are”

Not only did she know and she stayed, but she is also reassuring her about it?

“And you..you don’t mind?” Kai’sa asks with her voice shaking, still afraid of the answer.

Ahri looks a little bit more serious now “I mean, don’t get me wrong I do enjoy sex” Kai’sa breathes loudly hoping for the worse, but Ahri face just softens “but, as I said, I’ve lived many years and I’ve had plenty of time to experience everything”

Kai’sa swallows. The tiniest spark of hope setting in her chest “What does that mean?”

“It means that I rather live 300 more years without that, than without you , silly” 

Kai’sa lets out a shaky breath she didn’t realize she was holding. The weight that had been pressing against her chest for so long slowly starts to lift, replaced by the growing spark.

She blinks trying to stop the fresh wave of tears “You mean that?” she whispers, her voice barely audible.

Ahri smiles, her thumb still gently stroking Kai’sa’s cheek. “Of course I do,” she doesn’t hesitate. “I love you, Kai’sa. Not for what you can or can’t give me, but for who you are.”

Ahri loves her . Kai’sa exhales, now she is fully sobbing and the tears are running uncontrollably through her cheeks “I was so scared,” she admits. “I thought—”

Ahri pulls her into a tight embrace, holding her as if she’s trying to piece her back together. “You are not broken, Kai” Ahri murmurs into her hair pressing her in her forehead. “We are okay”

Kai’sa closes her eyes, resting her forehead against Ahri’s shoulder. For the first time in a long time, she feels fully understood, accepted and safe to be her true self. She closes her eyes and holds into Ahri as if it was the last moment they would have together.

Then Kai’sa remembers it actually might be. She slowly pulls back and cups Ahri’s face with her hands. Ahri leans into the contact and kisses Kai’sa’s palm.

Kai’sa examines Ahri. This girl who appeared out of nowhere, searching for her and saving her from Rek’Sai. This girl who insisted on sharing a journey with her, who has always treated her with kindness, who has never been afraid of her. Ahri has saved her in ways she may never truly understand. She has made her feel like she belongs—like after years of being lost in the Void, she has finally found something—someone—who anchors her to the world.

Her hands tremble slightly as they cradle Ahri’s face, memorizing the feeling of her soft skin, the way her golden eyes shine even in the dim light. Kai’sa loves her. She loves her so much it hurts to think she maybe can’t not do the same for her—that she can’t save her. Her heart aches thinking about not being able to protect her. 

Suddenly, Kai’sa feels the weight of something resting against her chest. Zhonya’s necklace is still hanging from her neck, untouched since Sarah returned it to her. She had almost forgotten about it, but now, it seems to be calling her.

Maybe she can’t always be there to protect Ahri, but at least she can give this to her. They don’t fully understand its magic, but if there’s even the slightest chance that the necklace can keep Ahri safe, then that’s all that matters.

She removes the pendant from her neck, holding it tightly in her fist. She looks up to meet Ahri’s gaze and, with her free hand, she brushes away a few strands of hair that are falling into her face. Ahri closes her eyes and hums into the touch and when she opens her eyes again Kai’sa is placing very carefully Zhonyas’s necklace into her neck.

“Why?” Ahri asks in a whisper examining her new accessory. 

Kai’sa smiles “I love you so much, Ahri. And I need you to be safe”

Ahri gasps softly. She has already heard Kai’sa say those three words before, but she’ll never get used to it. She can feel the love in every touch and see it in the way Kai’sa looks at her, as if she is her whole world. The overwhelming rush of love makes Ahri’s heart feel like it might burst.

Her fingers instinctively reach up to touch the pendant now resting against her collarbone. Her golden eyes shimmer and a shaky breath escapes her lips before she breaks into a teary smile.

Then, without another word, she closes the distance between them, crashing her lips onto Kai’sa’s in a desperate, love-filled kiss. Kai’sa barely has time to react before she melts into it. When they finally break apart, Ahri rests her forehead against Kai’sa’s, still holding onto her.

“What about you?” Ahri whispers against her lips, her voice trembling.

Kai’sa lets out a small, breathless laugh, she will not be safe at all, but it doesn’t matter. “I’ll be okay as long as you are okay. I love you princess”

Ahri kisses her again, this time slower, sweeter, as if savoring every second. “I love you too, Kai’sa,” she repeats against her lips. 

Then an unmistakable moan cuts through the night air. Both Ahri and Kai’sa freeze.

Silence hangs between them for a second before Ahri lets out a soft, startled laugh. K ai’Sa covers her face with one hand, cheeks burning, but laughing too. They had forgotten that Evelynn and Akali were out enjoying the night . 

The sun hasn’t come out yet when Kai’sa opens her eyes and even though she is used to sleeping in different kinds of places she wakes up feeling disoriented not able to remember where she is. 

Surrounded by the darkness, she panics thinking she is in the Void again and tries to sit up to breathe better but a weight on her chest doesn’t get her. Ahri is comfortably sleeping on top of her. Kai’sa lets out a deep breath and lies back again relieved.

Right, she is in the tent with her girlfriend.

Ahri is purring so softly Kai’sa can't barely hear it, but it still makes her smile. She would love to stay like this forever, but it’s time for them to prepare for the battle. They don’t know when it will be but they are getting closer to Icathia everyday, so as soon as they resume the journey the better. 

Kai’sa, much to her regret, pulls away from Ahri trying not to wake her up and leaves the tent. The freezing Shuriman breeze hit her and her second skin shivers.

She decides to head toward the spot where they lit the fire the night before and to her surprise she sees Evelynn and Akali still there, curled up together sleeping and she notices, with some relief, that they’re fully dressed.

With a quiet sigh, Kai’Sa kneels down and starts relighting the fire—for herself and for them. Once she’s done, she sits on the opposite side where Evelynn and Akali are, to respect their privacy. She extends her hands toward the flames, letting them warm her.

After a while, Taliyah appears, with a very sleepy but gentle smile and she sits beside Kai’Sa. 

“Taliyah” Kai’sa murmurs looking at her.

“Mhm”

“I’m sorry for not going back with you to the camp after the fight with Rek’sai, and for yelling at you when you insisted on going to Xolan, I was too harsh” she has wanted to apologize ever since they parted ways. 

Taliyah shakes her had and smile “Don’t be silly, Kai’sa, you have nothing to apologize for”

“But I—”

“You came back right?”

Kai’sa nods.

“And you also came with me to Xolan even tough it was a suicidal idea”

“I couldn’t let you go on your own, Nelly wouldn’t have forgiven me”

Taliyah chuckles “Yeah she wouldn’t”

Taliyah watches Kai’Sa for a moment, her smile turning softer. “You know… I’m really happy to see you with Ahri,” her voice warm. “I’m so proud of you. You deserve this.”

A small, genuine smile grows on Kai'sa's lips. “Maybe,” she murmurs, then meets Taliyah’s gaze. “I am really glad I ran into you back when I came out of the Void. If I have to fight this battle… I’m glad it’s alongside you.”

Taliyah’s grin widens “We are finishing this together” 

They’ve been riding their Skallashi for hours now, the sun already high in the sky. Yet the usual chatter has faded into uneasy silence. Neeko and Jinx have stopped playing I spy with my little eye . Seraphine is not humming any song. Lux is not explaining random rainbow facts. And Akali isn’t teasing anyone.

The closer they get to Icathia, the heavier the tension becomes. They don’t know what awaits them. Only Kai’Sa does, but she’s decided that the uncertainty is better than the knowledge in this case. Not because she doesn’t trust them—because she doesn’t want them to fear what’s coming.

Suddenly, the ground beneath them trembles. At first, it’s subtle but then it grows stronger making the Skallashi nervous and leaving the girls no choice but to dismount.

Taliyah immediately kneels, pressing her hands to the rocks on the ground, feeling the movement beneath her fingertips.

“This isn’t an earthquake,” she murmurs, her voice tense looking at Kai’sa “It’s something else.” 

Kai’sa looks at the horizon and sees not very far away the ruins of a city. “We are in Vekaura”

“What’s Vekaura” Nidalee asks.

“One of the first Shurimans cities swallowed by the Void” Kai’sa looks back at them “Put your armors on”

“Already?” Seraphine’s voice comes out barely audible.

Kai’sa nods “Taliyah is right, this is not an earthquake, this is probably Rek’sai moving beneath the ground. They are here”

The girls exchange uneasy glances at Kai’sa’s statement. They all know why they are here, the battle they were about to face. They've joined willingly. But now that the moment is here, now that the ground is letting them know they are coming, the fear becomes real—tangible.

Kai’Sa feels the weight of it, the responsibility pressing down on her shoulders. As their leader, she knows she should say something to steady them, to ease their fear. 

But how? How do you comfort someone when you don’t even know if you’ll make it out alive? She can’t blame them for being afraid, she herself is.

Ahri, ever her savior, steps forward, taking the leader role. Her voice is steady and clear enough to cut through the rising fear.

“The fight in Zaun was the battle,” she says, eyes moving over each of them. “But this is the war. We can’t turn back now. Runeterra is counting on us.”

She pauses for a moment. She doesn’t want to be harsh with them and finding the right words feels difficult even for her. She softens, a small smile tugging at her lips. “I’m grateful to have found all of you and to fight by your side. And no matter what happens next… I’m proud of you.”

The tension in the air shifts—not gone, but lighter. There’s still fear but it seems to have been replaced by something else. Determination .

“Ahri is right.” Kai’Sa smiles gratefully at her girlfriend before turning back to the others.

“Bel’Veth thinks I’m weak. She thinks she can’t be stopped.” Kai’Sa shakes her head, fire burning in her eyes. “But she’s so wrong. You all are so powerful she won’t see it coming. And you have made me stronger—all of you. She can’t stop us, and she’s going to regret underestimating us.”

She takes a breath, steady and sure. “So let’s do this. Let’s save Runeterra”

Ahri looks at her with the proudest smile she’s ever seen on her.

“Hell yeah! Let’s blow them to ashes, and see what pow-pow thinks!” Jinx screams, raising her weapon beneath her head.

“Void dummies with small sho'ma, will regret standing in the way of Neeko and her friends!” Neeko cheers as well.

Just like that, the mood shifts to a brighter mood. They help each other fasten their armor, steadying hands and reassuring glances passing between them.

Kai’Sa moves through them, checking every strap, every buckle, making sure they’re as protected as they can be. When she reaches Ahri, her fingers linger longer than they should, adjusting and readjusting every piece with meticulous care.

She doesn’t want to think about it. Doesn’t want to picture Ahri being touched by one of the Voidlings. So she makes sure nothing is out of place. Not a single millimeter. This armor has to cover her perfectly.

Ahri giggles “Kai, there’s nothing else to check” she takes Kai’sa’s hand so she stops touching the armor.

Kai’sa breathes deep and looks up to meet her gaze “I know…I just want you to be safe”

Ahri shows Kai’sa the Zhonya’s necklace still attached to her neck “You already have done everything in your hand to protect me”

“It doesn’t feel enough” Kai’sa admits caressing Ahri’s cheek.

She leans into the touch and kisses the palm of Kai’sa’s hand “I know babe, but I will be okay” Ahri throws her arms around Kai’sa’s neck “We'll be okay. We are going to kick their Voidly butts and then we are gonna go back to Ionia and do whatever we want together. Okay?” 

Kai’Sa nods, even though she knows that future might never come. But she won’t say it. She can’t take the hope away.

“Be safe,” she murmurs. “Please, don’t do anything reckless.”

She knows she has no right to ask that of Ahri. Not after the choice she’s already made. 

“Says the girl who ran into a fire and got involved in a gunfire” Ahri rolls her eyes.

“Hey! That was different” Kai’sa sighs trying to hide a smile.

“Oh, how so? Enlighten me, please" Ahri teases.

“You’re the worst” Kai’sa smiles wides. 

“And still you love me” 

“I do” Kai’sa stares into Ahri’s golden eyes “I love you so much, Ahri. That’s why I need you to be safe”

Ahri presses a quick kiss to Kai’Sa’s lips “I’ll try,” she promises. “But you need to be careful too—especially with Bel’Veth.”

Her voice drops slightly, a hint of frustration beneath the concern. “I still don’t understand why you have to go alone. I hate the idea.” She exhales, searching Kai’Sa’s gaze. “But… I trust you. And I support you, no matter what.”

Kai’sa’s heart melts. Without another word, she pulls Ahri into a kiss—deep, lingering, as if trying to memorize every second, every sensation. To Kai’sa it feels like a goodbye kiss, even though she desperately wishes it wasn’t.

When they finally pull apart, Kai’Sa swallows hard and gently places Ahri’s helmet over her head, making sure it fits perfectly as well.

Kai’sa steps back and takes a look at all the girls. Quite a team she has found.

A nine-tailed fox, an assassin, a succubus, a luminosity lady, a pirate, a curious chameleon, a cougar huntress, a starry-eyed songstress, a stoneweaver and…well, a Jinx.

Kai’sa smiles. When she got out of the Void and accepted Bel’veth deal she didn’t expect for a moment to end up like this. She feels so grateful to have come across every single one of them.

She looks up to the sky for a moment and wonders if Janna will appear. Kai’sa doesn’t even know if the goddess has listened to them, if she even knows how bad things are. She’s never been much of a prayer, but she is surely wishing Janna is there for them. 

“Okay” Kai’sa gets their attention Void rule number one: don't die .”

“Noted, anything else?” Sarah rolls her eyes with sarcasm.

“I’m serious. Don’t get touched by Voidlings. Don’t do anything stupid. Be safe. And let me be the only one to get close to Bel’veth.” Kai’sa checks all the points one last time “We got this, okay?”

“You got it, sis” Akali smiles at Kai’sa and then speaks to the rest of them “Let’s make them fear The Fellowship of The Void!”

“I hate that name” Evelynn rolls her eyes.

“Don’t ruin it babe!” Akali pouts.

“Wait, we have a name?!” Jinx exclaims excitedly. “Coolest thing ever. I love it!“

“Thanks Jinx” Akali turns to Evelynn again “See, now that ’s the spirit” 

But before Evelynn gets the chance to reply the ground shakes again, this time with so much force that Ahri has to hold on to Kai’sa to not fall over. 

A few meters away from them, a big blue and purple Voidling has emerged from the shifting sands. Ahri's breath catches in her throat. She recognizes it instantly from the first time she ever met Kai’Sa and Taliyah in Xolan.

Rek’Sai.

Ahri looks at Kai’sa waiting for instructions but instead of hearing Kai’sa’s voice she hears Jinx’s. 

“Huh, only one? Boring~” Jinx steps in front of everyone and charges Fishbones on her shoulder while walking towards Rek’sai.

“Jinx, stop!” Kai’sa tries to warn her but Jinx ignores her.

“Any last words Void creature?” she asks Rek’sai “Ha! Heh. No, just die.” she rolls her eyes and starts shooting at her while laughing. 

However, Jinx quickly stops laughing when she realizes Rek’sai isn’t standing in the same spot and has, somehow, disappeared. 

“¡Hey! Where are you? Stay still, I’m trying to shoot y—”

Ka’isa sees the mass moving on the sand towards Jinx before anyone else does, but she doesn’t have enough time to react before Rek’sai appears at Jinx's feet, throwing her in the air and sending her crushing on the ground next to the group.

Luckyly, Lux does react in time and throws her wand at Jinx, bending the light around her to create a shield and protect her from most of the damage. The moment the dust settles, Lux is already at her side, visibly worried.

“Are you serious right now? You have to listen to Kai’sa!” she scolds, exasperated and helping her to stand up.

Jinx grins up at her, a little dazed, but still Jinx. “Thanks, sunshine. Don’t worry, I’m okay.” then she turns to Kai’sa “Sorry”

Kai’sa sighs and pinches the bridge of her nose “This is exactly what I said you must not do, damn it.”

“Um… Kai’Sa,” Seraphine quietly interrupts, eyes fixed on something behind her.

But Kai’Sa keeps going. “I’m serious . Don’t be reckless because—”

“Kai’sa!” Taliyah cuts in, her voice urgent.

“What?!”

Taliyah points behind her where Seraphine was looking and Kai’Sa turns around. Her breath catches as she takes in the sight beside Rek’Sai—a hole has appeared on the ground as big as a building.

Seraphine swallows hard. “What… is that?”

Kai’Sa’s jaw tightens.

“ The Void .”

From the hole, three more creature s emerge. Kai’sa recognizes them as well: Vel’Koz with its unblinking eye scanning them, Kha’Zix with a predatory hiss and his claws ready to attack and Cho’Gath, massive and grotesque.

Kai’Sa’s heart pounds, but she doesn’t hesitate. “Bel’Veth will be near the center of the hole!” she warns them. “We need to get closer while keeping these things off us”

There’s no time for argument. Kai’sa quickly thinks of a strategy and makes signals to the girls indicating them to split in teams to fight the different monsters. 

And so they split up.

Neeko, Evelynn and Sarah run towards the bigger creature of them—Cho’Gath. Miss Fortune fires everything she's got to him, but the bullets barely seem to affect him.

“Ugh. This thing’s a tank! ” Sarah growls, reloading.

Gho’gath lets out a deep laugh “Oh, there will be no end to your suffering!"

Neeko’s eyes flicker with an idea. “Neeko has a plan!” Without another word, she shifts and gets bigger to look exactly like Cho’Gath, who lets out a confused roar. That hesitation is all Evelynn needs to vanish into the shadows, slipping behind the massive creature unseen.

“Just the way I like 'em. Big and stupid.” Evelynn smirks before striking him—blades sinking deep into its thick hide. Cho’Gath screeches in pain.

The distraction has worked: they have him occupied, confused, and vulnerable.  Sarah looks to her right and sees Akali and Kai’sa fighting some kind of floating one-eyed octopus that apparently throws a laser through her mouth. 

“He has a blind spot just right behind him, we have to push him back into the Void!” Kai’sa yells at Akali.

“Bro’s eye occupies 99% of his face and still has a damn blind spot? That’s just so stupid, what?” Akali shakes her head.

“Akali, focus!” 

“Fine!” she rolls her eyes and gets back to it.

They both attack him to force him to float backwards until he is at the edge of the Void and because he can see where he is, a throw of Akali’s kunais is the only thing they need to send him back into the Void.

Before they can catch their breath, three new Voidlings appear from where Vel’koz just fell. Three small and fast Voidly spiders are running towards them.

The moment Kai’Sa sees them, her stomach drops. She knows these creatures.

Akali doesn’t hesitate, flipping forward to strike, but before her blades can make contact, Kai’Sa knocks her aside, pushing her away from the spiders.

“What the hell, Kai?!” Akali snaps as she rolls back onto her feet.

Kai’sa’s fists tighten. “You can’t touch them.”

Akali glares. “Seriously? This again? Your stupid hero complex is gonna get you killed one day! Just let me help”

Kai’sa shakes her head. “No, Kali, it’s not that—I…” She swallows hard, trying to steady herself. “These are Malzahar’s creatures. They carry a toxic plasma, and if it touches you, it spreads —just…” her voice trembles.

Akali studies her, brows furrowing. “What’s wrong?” She takes a cautious step closer. “Wait… is he the one from your story?, the one who destroyed your village?”

Kai’sa wants to answer but memories take her by surprise—flashes of her friends, her village, her parents and the Void.

“Kai’sa?” Akali tries again “Should I get Ahri?”

Before Kai’sa has even a chance to try to reply, Malzahar appears in front of Kai’sa.

“ Kai’sa , it’s been a while. Look at you, all grown up” Malzahar grins "Although not what I expected for you”

She looks at him, but she doesn’t say anything.

“This is your second chance, girl. Bow to the Void, or be consumed by it!” 

“Get away from her!” Akali charges at him but Malzahar sends a wave of power towards her knocking her down before Kai’sa can’t stop him.

In fact, she can't react at all. Her muscles are locked—she can’t move as she’s paralyzed by memories and fear.

Malzahar starts to repeat the same words to her “Bow to the Void, or be consumed b—”

A thunderous barrage of bullets cuts the air cutting. Malzahar is forced back as Miss Fortune steps forward, smoking guns in hand, a smirk curling her lips.

“How do you like my guns? Shock and Awe! ” she grins proudly while shooting bullets non stop at him, ripping through the Voidlings and taking Malzahar down.

Sarah doesn’t stop until he’s laid down on the ground lifeless. K ai’sa gasps, snapping back to reality, and Sarah strides up to her, offering a hand.

“Careful, captain,” she says with a wink. “Can’t lose our leader now, can we?”

“I said no killing!” 

Sarah rolls her eyes “Oh, yeah, you’re welcome for saving your life”

“Thank you”

They both get Akali on her feet again and check how the others are doing.  Nidalee, in her cougar form, is entertaining Rek'sai while Jinx is shooting bullets at her.

Taliyah is taking advantage of the rocks of the desert to attack Kha’zix with Lux support.

Meanwhile, Ahri and Seraphine are locked in battle against a figure Kai’Sa didn’t notice at first. The man who had warned her back in Zaun. For a moment, she just stares. There’s something… off about the way he fights. His attacks are powerful, but—hesitant. As if he doesn’t actually want to hurt Ahri. Kai’sa shakes her head and signals the other girls to rush to regroup with the others. The tide of battle is shifting. They’re winning .

Until the ground shakes again—more violent than before, a flood of Voidlings begins to pour out of the hole towards the girls.

Hundreds of them.

Spider-like Voidlings like the ones Malzahar summoned before—but now, an endless swarm. The girls barely have time to react before they’re completely surrounded.

There’s no way out. 

Kai’sa throws a sharp look at Miss Fortune. “This is why I said no killing ,” she hisses. “Now they are pissed off”

Miss Fortune scoffs “Oh, my bad, Captain. Next time, I’ll just ask the Void to kindly leave us alone.”

Kai’sa rolls her eyes, but before she can say anything, Ahri’s hand slips into hers.

A gentle squeeze. A silent reassurance.

“It will be okay,” Ahri murmurs.

Kai’sa forces a smile, but the truth is—nothing about this looks okay .

She scans their surroundings, Voidlings everywhere. 

“We’re outnumbered,” Kai’Sa admits, looking at the girls with an almost apologetic expression.

Evelynn just smirks. “Wouldn’t be my first time.”

“Focus, Evelynn!” Kai’Sa snaps.

Nidalee crosses her arms. “Kai’sa is right. We’re screwed. We need a damn miracle.”

And as if the universe itself listened, a sudden gust of wind sweeps through the battlefield. A storm that explodes throwing the Voidlings away and at the same time, a wave of pure, revitalizing energy washes over the girls, bringing or her energy back. 

Ahri gasps as she looks at Kai’sa, excitement lighting up her face. Kai’sa is so confused she cannot smile back at Ahri. Instead she looks at the sky, right above them to see the storm.

And she sees her: Janna .

She looks exactly like the paintings on her memorial. Only that she's not a painting nor a myth, she's there, she's real, and she just saved their asses. 

“The blue bird…” Seraphine gasps in awe.

Akali, on the other hand, throws her arms in the air, smiling wildly, full of energy “Take that, Voidlings! Wish you luck but you're not bringing us down!”

With Janna’s help, the girls charge back again with renewed strength and hope. Kai’sa summons her sharp weapons and starts slashing as many Voidlings as she can.

“Nine Voidlings taken” Kai’sa counts to herself, just like when she was fighting for her life down in the Void.

And another one dead “Ten down.”

“Yo, are you counting them?” Akali suddenly joins her side. “I wasn’t aware this is a competition!”

Akali stops for a moment and two more voidlings jump to her, but Kai’sa takes them down before they reach her friend “That's a dozen for me.”

“Hey, you stole my kills!” Akali complains and Kai’sa lets out a chuckle. Fighting with friends by her side is way better than alone. 

“Keep up, Kali” Kai’sa winks at her. 

Akali immediately starts throwing kunais and takes down a bunch of them. 

“Thirteen! How’s that, bro?” She looks back at Kai’sa with a proud smile.

“Not bad”

“Not bad?” Akali sighs before keeping her good job at killing Voidlings.

Every single one of the girls is giving everything they’ve got into the fight, but after a few minutes, Kai’sa slows.

Her gaze darts toward the endless stream of Voidlings. This isn’t ending. This is a distraction.  Bel’veth is playing the same game as them: not killing, just entertaining them to exhaust them.

“This is pointless,” she mutters under her breath.

Ahri hears her. “What?”

“If we don’t find Bel’Veth…” Kai’sa clenches her fists. “ I have to find her”

As if summoned by Kai’Sa’s words, the air goes still . The Voidlings stop attacking as in command and they start running towards the Void pit where they originally came from. Even Cho’gath, Rek’sai and the others stop fighting.

“Have we…um winned?” Taliyah asks, looking at her friends.

“That's it? I haven’t even blown up anything yet!” Jinx complains a bit confused and offended. 

“She’s here” Kai’sa shakes her head, her heart starting to race. 

And then—

A massive presence begins to rise from the center of the pit. Bel’Veth emerges, her wings unfurling, and her face purple stone glowing as bright as ever with power.

“I’m right here,” she purrs, her voice deep. “ Kai’sa .”

Kai’sa’s breath catches. Instinctively she stands in front of Ahri, using herself as a protection between her and Bel’veth.

“Oh” Neeko gasps.

“It’s been quite a long time, I see you have reunited a…group” Bel’veth walks towards her in her woman form looking at the other girls as well “I have to admit—your persistence is to admire, but I still can taste your weakness”

Bel’veth lets out a horrifying laugh before transforming into her true form “and your fear ”.

Ahri takes Kai’sa’s hand and she can sense her tensing. She can see her pods twirling non stop, and her second skin moving uncomfortably.  Ahri senses the pain Kai’sa is in right now and her heart clenches at the thought of not being able to stop it.

Kai’sa welcomes Ahri’s hand into hers, but still keeps her behind her. 

“You’re wrong,” Kai’sa growls back at Bel’veth. “I do not fear you, nor I am weak”

Bel’Veth tilts her head. “Is that so?”

It happens too fast for them to stop it.

Bel’veth extends her wings to grab Ahri, hanging her up in the air by her waist. 

“NO!” Kai’sa screams, taking a step forward—only to freeze .

Her muscles are not responding to her, again. 

Ahri fights Bel’veth strong grip, trying to summon her magic, to charm her way free—but it’s useless . She 's too strong. Besides, from moving so much her armor is beginning to slip a bit, if she keeps doing this, she will accidentally touch her wing. 

“Kai’sa!” she screams trying not to panic, but failing.

Kai’sa’s heart pounds in her ears. Move. Please, move. 

“So strong” Bel’veth mocks her “Love has made you even weaker, Kai’sa. At least down there you actually fought me. And now” she shakes her head “You are so afraid of hurting her, you’ve made yourself useless.”

Bel’veth stretches the other wing at the one she’s holding Ahri and she takes out her helmet.

“Bel’veth, stop!” Kai’sa cries.

“You should know by now, that you cannot stop the Void”

A long, curved claw emerges from the tip of her wing, oozing some purple poison.

“Nothing can” she adds.

One prick and Ahri dies.

This time, Kai’sa won’t let fear win. She can’t, not when Ahri is in danger. 

Kai’sa launches herself forward—faster than she’s ever moved—straight toward Ahri. But Bel’Veth is quicker. Her claw lashes out with brutal precision toward Ahri’s neck.

“No!”

A golden light emerges from Ahri’s neck, so bright it blinds both her and Bel’veth. Kai’sa stumbles, clutching Ahri tightly in her arms around her, getting her free from Bel’Veth’s grasp.

Ahri can’t move.

She can see a bright golden light emanate from her neck. She can feel herself being held in Kai’sa’s strong arms. And she can hear Kai’sa’s scared voice calling for her, begging her to say something.

Out of nothing, as if by magic, the light stops and something small falls to the ground and shatters. 

Their eyes flick down.

The Zhonya’s necklace. Cracked and broken. It’s light—it’s magic , is what has saved Ahri.

Ahri gasps. Her chest rises and falls erratically as life floods back into her and Kai’sa pulls her closer, her arms tightening.

“You’re okay” she whispers, again and again “You’re okay” to Ahri and to herself.

Ahri clings into her and buries her face in Kai’sa’s neck not wanting to break apart. Behind them, chaos still reigns—Bel’Veth rages, and their friends are buying them time fighting her. Kai’sa pushes Ahri back to examine her and make sure she’s Void-touch free.

Her blood boils at the thought of Bel’veth almost taking Ahri away from her. The Void has already taken so much from her, and from everyone. Bel’veth can’t win. Kai’sa can’t let it happen. 

She looks down at Ahri.

This is it. 

She doesn’t know how to say goodbye. She doesn’t want to, but it’s the only way out of this mess. 

Kai’sa takes Ahri’s face into her hands and looks at her in a way no one's ever looked at her before. 

Ahri can see in her girlfriend's eyes every single emotion Kai’sa is feeling without having to take her essence: sadness, fear, anger, grief and love. However, she doesn’t fully understand why she is feeling all of that.

Kai’sa rubs her thumb trough Ahri’s whiskers “I love you, Ahri, so much” she kisses her forehead “I always will”

To Ahri this feels like a break up, a goodbye. But why would Kai’sa say this now? “Kai’sa, what—I don’t understand”

Kai’sa looks back at Bel’veth and clenches her fists. Ahri follows Kai’sa’s gaze to Be’lveth and something clicks inside her. 

“This is why you wanted to be alone to kill her, isn’t it?” Ahri’s voice breaks “You…you’re—your’e going to sacrifice yourself”

Kai’sa can’t even look Ahri in the eyes. But she forces herself to, she owes her that, at least. 

“I love you” Kai’sa closes the distance with Ahri with a deep kiss that only makes Ahri want to cry more.

“Stop saying that!” Ahri cries “You don’t get to do this! You can’t just sacrifice, Kai”

This is even more difficult than Kai’sa could ever imagine, she can feel both her heart and Ahri’s break into little pieces. 

“I am sorry, this is the only way, Ahri” 

Ahri shakes her head “No” she grabs Kai’sa’s wrist to stop her from going anywhere but she is still weak from Zhonya’s magic, so Kai’sa can free herself easily.

“Kai’sa, wait!” Ahri stands up trying to follow her, but she feels a pair of strong arms around her waist. 

“I’m sorry too, Ahri” Akali says from behind her, grabbing her as strong as she can, just as she had promised Kai’sa she would. 

“Let me go, Akali! Please!” Ahri yells trying to break free as she watches Kai’sa walk decisively towards Bel’veth. “Please.” but Akali just hugs her tighter.

Kai’Sa doesn’t turn back.

Each step forward pulls memories from her.

Her old city swallowed. Her parents' death. The endless silence of the Void. The loneliness. 

All of it.

The anger and the grief burns inside of her chest as strong as ever.  Her second skin pulses, reacting. Her cannons shift—grow larger, sharper, more alive and her limbs feel lighter. Her mask covers her face.

She doesn’t just feel strong. She feels like a full better version of herself.

She feels evolved . She is ready to end this.

Kai’sa crashes into Bel’Veth. There’s no hesitation and no fear, only pure rage.

Bel’Veth is taken off guard by the sudden speed and strength. She lashes out with her wings and her claws, trying to defend herself, but Kai’sa is faster and stronger.

She is unstoppable. 

Kai’sa doesn’t even give her a second to think, to process what’s happening, until Bel’veth is on the floor on her knees.

“You took everything from me” she points at Bel’veth with her canons. “I won’t let you take anything from anyone anymore”

“This doesn’t stop here, kid” Bel’veth says with the only energy left she has “You can’t kill the Watchers power”

“Kai’sa” Please, stop!” Ahri begging makes her want to turn around and go back with her, but she has to stay strong, for her and for Runeterra. 

“I know”

Kai’sa is ready to strike, to end Bel’V eth once and for all. She’s prepared to sacrifice herself.

She raises her arm, charging her shot, aiming with precision.

But just as she fires, a force teleports beside her and yanks her arm aside. Bel’Veth takes the opportunity to charge back at Kai’sa—but before she can hit her, Neeko and Lux react instantly, stunning her and freezing her in place. Kai’sa spins around and instinctively raises her guard.

The man from the Void. The one from Zaun, the one she’d seen again fighting Ahri. Right beside her, gripping her arm. Now up close, she can sense it again, the same feeling she got back in Zaun when she first saw him. The familiarity .  He is gripping her arm firmly but without pain, just enough to stop her final blow.

“What are you doing?” Kai’sa demands, chest heaving from the effort and rage. “She’s weak—I can end this!”

“I can’t let you do that, Binsikhi ” he says calmly, his eyes locked onto hers. 

Kai’sa freezes. Binsikhi. Only his parents called her that.

Could it be…?

Her heart isn’t beating fast because of the battle anymore, but for an entirely different reason. Slowly, almost afraid, she removes her own mask.

The man’s eyes soften behind his own mask. “You’ve grown,” he says, voice thick with emotion.

He slowly raises her hand and caresses Kai’sa’s cheek. 

“Dad?” Her voice cracks as tears begin to well in her eyes.

Kassadin nods, and takes his mask off as well. Kai’sa barely recognizes him, he is much older and his features are so lifeless he doesn’t even look like a real person. And yet, she doesn’t have a doubt this is her dad, Kassadin.

“I’ve searched for you. I thought you were gone. But look at you—” his voice breaks “—you survived.”

Kai’sa can’t hold it anymore. The weight of everything crashes down on her, and she sobs. “I’m sorry,” she whispers. “I’m so sorry. I couldn’t save them. I couldn’t—”

Kassadin pulls her daughter into his arms. “You have nothing to apologize for. You fought, you survived. I’m so proud of you, and your mother would be to”

Kai’sa, being held in the arms of her father after so long, feels like a little kid again. If she closes her eyes she can almost imagine she is hugging her dad after him coming back from one of his trips.

He leans back slightly, just enough to meet her eyes again, with a faint smile. “And this Ahri of yours… she’s brave, she fights well. I like her. I can see why you love her.”

Kai’sa lets out a soft, watery laugh, still overwhelmed.

“My beautiful and fearless daughter…” Kassadin continues, gently brushing a strand of hair from her face. “This fight… it isn’t yours to end. You’ve done more than enough.” he shakes her head “I joined Bel’veth because she promised me she would keep us safe if I helped her,but seeing you fight, and lead …I have a lot to learn from you, Kai’sa. And I’m starting right now”.

He kisses her forehead “You deserve a future.”

Kai’sa swallows hard, her grip tightening around his father, not wanting to let go of him, not when they’ve just reunited. “I need to protect Runeterra, dad I—I have to make things up for what I did” she says quietly.

“What happened wasn’t your fault, Kai’sa. You have already given so much to this fight” he assures her. “But now… let me be the one to protect you.”

And just like that, Kassadin steps forward, facing Bel’veth.

“I did say I was going to kill you” Kassadin whispers.

A pulse of energy bursts from him. Purple lightning cracks across the battlefield and Bel’Veth screams, defeated. Her final cry, before her form shatters into nothingness. The voidlings around the girls retreat. Pulled by an unseen force, they disappear back into the gaping hole in the ground, which slowly begins to close behind them.

The earth stops trembling.

Silence.

The Void has sealed shut and now only the girls remain on the battlefield, along Kassadin. 

Ahri is so exhausted from crying and fighting against Akali’s grip that it takes her a few seconds to realize Akali has already let go of her because the battle is over.

She looks up and sees Kai’sa still standing.

“Kai’sa” her name escapes from Ahri’s lips in a soft gasp of relief.

Her legs are shaking, her body still bitter and weak from Zhonya’s magic, but she doesn’t care. She pushes herself up and walks as fast as she can towards Kai’sa, who at hearing her name turns around to face Ahri. 

And without warning, Ahri throws herself into her arms.

Kai’sa catches her, holding her tightly. Ahri clings to her, burying her face into the crook of Kai’sa’s neck, letting all the tears fall. 

“I thought I lost you,” Ahri whispers, trembling in her arms.

“So did I,” Kai’sa replies, her voice shaking as she hugs her even tighter. “But I’m here. We’re okay.”

Ahri looks up at Kai’sa and with her blurry vision she punches her hard in the arm.

“Ouch!” Kai’sa rubs the spot on her Ahri where Ahri just hit her.

“That’s for hiding your plan from me and wanting to sacrifice yourself without telling me!” her tail moves irritated back and forth and her ears are pinned back. 

“I am so sorry, Ahri I—” 

Ahri interrupts her by pulling her by the neck to kiss her properly on the lips “That’s for everything else”

Kai’sa’s cheeks grow a bit warmer as she giggles between the sobs.

“I’m sorry” she kisses Ahri’s forehead and immediately her tails stop swinging and her ears relax into the touch. 

“Hmn” Kassadin clears his throat.

Kai’sa and Ahri turn their heads to look at her Kassadin, still standing beside them. He looks mostly the same, except for the fact that his body radiates with a soft, shifting purple aura. The same aura Bel’veth had, but… calmer.

“The power of the Watchers,” Kai’sa breathes, eyes wide.

Kassadin nods. “I can sense the hunger of the Void. It's inside me now. But I can hold it back.”

Kai’sa’s throat tightens. 

“For how long?” Ahri shyly asks. 

“As long as I must.”

“You don’t have to do this alone.” Kai’sa offers “We can try transferring half of the power and—”

“No” Kassadin offers the smallest smile. “You deserve a life not haunted by the Void. I chose this path so you wouldn’t have to.”

The other girls stay quiet, watching them. Too tired to understand what this moment means—but they all feel it.

Kassadin takes a step forwards towards Ahri and gently takes her hands into his “Thank you for making my girl so happy, Ahri”

Ahri blushes, her heart swells and she smiles, despite the tears still forming in the corners of her eyes.

“Thank you, for all of this” she nods “Kai’sa has talked about you a lot” Ahri says softly. “It’s truly a pleasure to meet you.”

Kassadin chuckles and looks at Kai’sa “Oh is that so? Have you told her about my awesome cooking skills?” 

Kai’sa rolls her eyes “You’re like the worse chef ever”

Ahri laughs “No, she told about how you give the best hugs”

Kassadin smile softens.

Kai’sa still standing close, lets out a soft breath, as if she’s been holding it this whole time. She steps forward and wraps her arms around her father and Ahri. 

Her family.

And for a moment, for the first time ever, Ahri feels like she has a family too. 

“I love you,” she whispers to both of them.

Ahri kisses her cheek before stepping back and letting them say their goodbyes.

“I’ll miss you, dad”

Kassadin places a hand on her shoulder “I’ll always be with you, Binsikhi . Even when you can’t see me,” Kassadin kisses her head “I love you, kid. I’m so proud of you”

They hold each other in a tight embrace. Then, without ano ther word, Kassadin steps back. He raises a hand, and a swirl of violet energy gathers in the air. A portal to the Void opens and he gives one last look at his daughter before crossing it.

Kai’sa turns back to Ahri and, even though she fe els sad she just lost her father right when she got him back, she can help but to feel a sudden wave of pure happiness and relief. 

She takes Ahri’s face in her palms and examines her features. She has some wounds, her hair is all sweaty, her braid is messy and her eyes are red from all the crying.

But to Kai’sa, Ahri is the most beautiful being to ever exist and she can’t stop smiling at the thought of actually being able to have a future with her. “You are so beautiful”

Ahri tilts her head, smile as wide as ever “What’s that for” 

Kai’sa shrugs, still smiling “Nothing, I just wanted to tell you, princess”

“You’re so silly, come here” Ahri grabs Kai’sa by the neck again and pulls her closer to meet her lips in a long kiss full of love. 

The sun has barely come out yet when Ahri gets out of the tent. She usually is the last to wake up, but today she is the only one awake. 

She decides to take a little walk to one of Bel'Zhun’s beaches to clear her head. The slightly cold morning breeze of Shurima and the seasalt scent remind her of Ionia. Ahri sits on the sand with her feet on the water, letting the small waves wet them. 

It’s so peaceful, so quiet…a week ago it was impossible to think about feeling this again. They tried to stay positive and hopeful to face Bel’veth, but deep down they all were insecure and afraid. And despite all that, here she is, enjoying a quiet morning without any worries other than Jinx messing with Seraphine or Neeko transforming into someone she’s not supposed to. 

Ahri gets from her pocket her gemstones and holds them in front of her eyes. 

This journey started because of them. Because she wanted to find out more about her tribe, about her family: the Vesani. 

Maybe what she’s found out about them isn’t what she expected, or what she would have liked. 

Ahri thinks about the girls, her old friends and her new ones. She thinks about Kai’sa, this mysterious Void girl who appeared into her life to become the most important person for Ahri. This girl who has healed Ahri in ways she didn’t even know she needed.

Ahri smiles. 

She left Ionia to find her family and, against alL odds, she has found a family . 

“Is everything okay?” Ahri turns back and sees Kai’sa standing beside her. 

“Mhm” she pats the sand next to her for Kai’sa to sit.

Ahri rests her head against Kai’sa’s shoulder and they both stay silent watching the sun rise. 

“What now?” Ahri says softly. 

“Well, Jinx and Lux are taking Seraphine back to Zaun, and Neeko has decided to stay with Nidalee this time,” Kai’sa smiles.

“Finally” Ahri giggles. “And the others?”

“Taliyah is staying here with the kids and Sarah has offered to take us back to Ionia”

Ahri’s ears perk up and she looks up at her girlfriend “We are going back?” her eyes shining with excitement.

“I did promise I would teach you proper cooking skills, didn’t I?” Kai’sa smiles and kisses Ahri’s head. 

“You did” Ahri rests her head back on her shoulder and hugs Kai’sa’s strong arm.

“And I think we’re taking Akali and Evelynn with us,” Kai’sa chuckles. “Can get rid of them, huh”

Ahri smiles even wider. She has spent so much time on her own…she can’t wait to start her new life with her new family.