Chapter Text
The dreams Kafe expected stopped after his first night with Haurchefant.
He was surprised, but quite relieved that he didn’t have to wake up in the middle of the night needing to upend the contents of his stomach. Despite feeling quite shy about the whole thing, Kafe had wanted to get in touch with Haurchefant again, but realized too late they hadn’t exchanged any contact information at all. The morning Kafe had left the estate was quite hectic, with Haurchefant’s sister almost breaking the door down. Wanting to know if this was just an odd, one-time feeling, Kafe decided to try visiting him before realizing he definitely did not even know the way to the man’s estate.
So here he was, sitting on a bench outside his apartment building, sipping at some tea while it began to snow all around him. They hadn’t even exchanged numbers, too caught up in themselves and sneaking Kafe out of the window to bother with simple pleasantries. Haurchefant had said he hadn’t wanted Kafe to meet his sister just yet, seeing a disaster too early in the morning. Grateful for that at least, Kafe nevertheless regretted not getting any scrap of information out of him.
He liked Haurchefant’s smile, and the warmth of his hands. It felt too familiar.
The Starlight Celebration was getting close, and Kafe recalled how Haurchefant had wanted him to spend the holiday together. Kafe was never one for holidays, as he kept to himself, but he was truly looking forward to this year. His family did rave about the Fortemps parties after all.
Sipping at his drink, Kafe languidly leaned further down, his tail flicking back and forth in thought. Ears relaxed, he stared up into the sky, seeing the pale gray sky drifting with spots of white. He didn’t like snow very much, but he was used to the cold, seeing as he had been born on the Azim Steppe. Gridania’s summers and springs made him stay here, as the flowers and trees erupted in a color that he couldn’t describe. Also, the trees protected the streets from buffeting winds, and Kafe liked looking through the leaves and seeing dappled blue.
People walked by, not paying him any mind, not knowing who he was nor caring. That’s how Kafe liked it. Back home everyone knew who he was, and while it wasn’t suffocating, he much preferred being invisible. Work a job, live in a tiny apartment, spend his days peacefully. It was much better than hiding away from the world in that wide expanse of green and blue. Kafe wrinkled his nose as someone stood nearby with a cigarette, before they dropped it to the ground and snuffed it with their boot.
Footsteps stopped behind his bench suddenly, and Kafe leaned back to see his coworker Gyo. The Raen grinned down at him as Kafe titled his head back, raising a hand in greeting.
“Hullo. Fancy seeing you here.” The au ra said pleasantly, going to sit next to Kafe. Moving over slightly to give him room, Kafe bundled his coat around himself a little tighter. “Well, I live here.”
Shrugging his shoulders, Gyo leaned further down in the seat, both to get closer to Kafe’s level and to poke fun at him. The au ra’s tail swished languidly as he blurted out, “So where’s the boyfriend?”
Kafe choked on his tea, trying his best not to spill the rest off it. “Boy… boyfriend?”
“Y’know, that pretty elezen guy you were with last week.”
“Uh…”
“Come on, I know what you two were goin’ to do.” And with that, Gyo made a rude hand gesture, sending Kafe’s face up in flames. The miqo’te gave the other man a smack on the side of his head, making sure to get one of his horns, watching Gyo wince as his head began to ring. He sat straighter, glaring down at Kafe with a scowl. “Hey! Watch it.”
“He’s not my boyfriend. I haven’t even talked to him since then.” Grumbled Kafe, tail lashing.
“Oooh. Another one-night, huh? You seemed interested in him.” Gyo pointed out, putting a cigarette in his mouth but not lighting it. He knew Kafe would leave if he actually started smoking, and honestly, he didn’t blame him.
“It’s not on purpose. I didn’t… get his contact information.”
“Shite, Kafe, sometimes I think you’re just dumb.”
“Forget it.” The miqo’te swatted at the raen’s head again, but the larger man dodged just in time. It was embarrassing enough that he knew not getting Haurchefant’s contact info was silly, he didn’t need someone else to point it out.
“Everyone made a bet at work, if you were actually together or not. Now I owe K’Hes a thousand gil.” Gyo grumbled, nibbling on the cigarette. Kafe’s ears perked towards his bench companion.
“You actually bet in support of me? That’s uncharacteristic of you.” He slurped noisily, tipping the cup to get the last remnants of his drink. Gyo shrugged with a grin. “Hey, I think you deserve somethin’ nice sometimes, no matter how much I break yer back at work.”
Kafe simply gave him a scowl, though it was playful. Gyo was kind, and flexible when it came to work hours. They replaced each others’ shifts often and amicably enough.
“If…” Kafe started, shoulders slouching quite visibly. “If he shows up at the bar when I’m not there, you can… give him my address.” He flushes, seeing the shocked look on Gyo’s face. “Oh Astrals, you’re really into him aren’t you!”
Tail lashing, Kafe shoves yet again at Gyo, seeing the au ra topple over on the bench laughing. His face is hot, and he scratches at the wood of the bench until there’s visible claw marks. Yeah, so what if he’s more taken with Haurchefant than expected, who honestly wouldn’t be. He was far too charming to still be single. The thoughts he was having made him embarrassed enough, so he gave his head a shake, dispelling them.
“Sure, I’ll be sure to pass the info along if I see him.” Gyo then said with a chuckle, standing up and fixing his coat. He zipped it up a bit tighter against the sudden chill through the street, taking a lighter from his pocket. He then gave Kafe a little wave, making his way down the sidewalk and out of sight. After a moment of consideration, Kafe stood as well, tossing his empty coffee cup into a trash bin and making his way the opposite direction.
====
Kafe didn’t know what had possessed him to do so, but he was suddenly determined to remember where Haurchefant had lived. He remembered much darker and broader trees, big enough to hold the penthouses and mansions the highborns liked to hide in. So he headed to the New Gridanian mansion-palooza corner, scowling as he neared the well clipped hedges and expensively manicured gardens. A lot of it was fenced off, damn nobles, but Kafe saw a familiar banner a ways past some of the other buildings; the Fortemps unicorn. It was blocked off quite securely unfortunately, and Kafe pressed his face against the cold iron bars and frowned. These damn rich people.
He stared longingly at the banner so far away, completely unaware of the person who had stopped to stare at him. Only after a small tug on his scarf did Kafe spin around, alarmed with a clawed hand outstretched. He stopped, seeing a young au ri woman, feeling like he recognized her somehow. She were green and gray, her bright blue eyes staring at him knowingly.
“Oooohhh. You’re him.” Was all she said.
“Do I know you?” Kafe mumbled, gathering his coat closer about his shoulders. He tried to hide his face behind his scarf, hoping it wasn’t some weird Garlean supporter or historian ready to asail him with unneeded questions.
“Haurchey is oh so distressed ‘bout you. You left without even a note!” She sighed, fixing the bag on her shoulder. Kafe tilted his head. Haurchey? He didn’t know anyone by that name. Seeing his confused look, the woman let out an audible groan.
“Haurcehfant? Tall, silver-haired, charming? Dumb as rocks when he’s in love?”
“He’s not dumb.” Kafe instantly defended, making the au ra grin mischievously. She folded arm through his, pulling him a little closer. “Ooo, defensive. How cute.”
“Who are you? What do you want?” Kafe challenged, trying to tug away but finding it impossible; the woman had a terrifyingly strong grip on his arm. He was unnerved by her familiarity, but she somehow knew of Haurchefant so he was trying to be patient with her.
Sighing dramatically, the Xaela leaned back, almost dragging Kafe down with her. “I forgot, Haurchefant tossed you out the window before we could say hi. I’m his future sister-in-law! I’m sure he told you about his sister and her beautiful, stunning bride?”
Kafe’s ears twitched forwards. “Uh, yes. Fenyang, I think it was.”
“Bravo! That’s me! Don’t worry, even with my looks to die for I wouldn’t dream of stealing Haurchey from you!” Fenyang all but cackled, beginning to drag him towards the locked iron gate. Panicking, Kafe dug his heels into the ground, feeling like he was about to be kidnapped or something.
“Oh come on, I’m not gonna kill ya.”
Kafe’s ears flattened against his head, and his eyes widened. He struggled a bit more, but Fenyang gave him an irritable shake. “Hey, listen! I’m taking you to the estate! You can’t get in by yourself so I’m doing you a favor!”
Relaxing only slightly, Kafe shrunk down. “I’m… nervous around new people. Mostly ones that have a grip on me, so sorry if I seem flighty.” He growled a little bit, seeing the Xaela’s eyes flash knowingly. She loosened her hold slightly, but took her phone out, holding it to another screen on the gate. It chimed, and the gates opened with Fenyang dragging Kafe further into the property. The houses were far too big, and Kafe, who lived in the tiniest apartment he had found, was quite confused how anyone needed that much space to live. Some of them didn’t even look inhabited from what he could tell, curtains drawn and hedges seeming much too wild.
Fenyang walked with a skip in her step and Kafe struggled to follow her pace, too busy looking around. Many of the residents here were Elezen, pointing to a more Ishgardian populace. Though the houses were probably quite mixed at this point, seeing at Ishgard had joined the Alliance many years ago under Lord Aymeric’s guiding hand.
Finally they neared the supposed Fortemps estate, which was smaller than Kafe expected it to be. It had vines purposefully encroaching on the stone, and it was built quite naturally into the wood surrounding it. He could faintly see the roof of what looked like a greenhouse in the back, the lush green visible through the fristed glass. Warm light could be seen through the green curtains, with smoke billowing from the chimney. It looked… cozy.
Rummaging in her bag, Fenyang produced an old-looking key which she slotted into the door. It opened with a small creak, and she ushered Kafe into the foyer. It was warm and comfortable, and Kafe recognized some bits here and there. He felt himself relaxing into the room, aided by the warmth from the fireplace nearby. Fenyang took off her bag and coat, dropping them on a well-used looking chair and leaving Kafe alone near the door. She stomped down a hallway, and Kafe could hear her booming voice echo throughout the house.
“Hey, Haurchey! Haurchefant, wake up, your boy is here!”
Face heating up, Kafe stared down at the rug, tip of his tail twitching back and forth as he waited. There was a loud thump, more yelling, and finally rushed footsteps sounding like someone wearing flimsy slippers and tripping over themselves. Then, through the same hallway, Haurchefant appeared, looking breathless and flushed. His whole face lit up at seeing Kafe, who likewise felt a breath leave his lungs that seemed to have been kept in for far too long. The elezen rushed over to him, going to grasp Kafe’s hands in his own with a delighted smile.
“You’re here! How in Eorzea are you here?” He smiled brightly, eyes sparkling.
Fenyang popped her head from behind the corner, chewing on what looked like a stick of cinnamon. “I found him moping around outside the gates, seemed like a lost kitten waiting to be picked up, so I… picked him up.”
Kafe looked behind Haurchefant, giving the Xaela a scowl. “You dragged me is more like it.”
“Full glad am I that she did! Anytime I looked for you in your usual spots you weren’t there! And… I didn’t want to ask for your work schedule, that would seem very... forward.” Haurchefant stammered, grinning sheepishly. Kafe’s tail lifted, curling behind his back as he turned his attention back to the man in front of him.
“You could have asked, I’m sure everyone at work would have been glad to tell you every bit of information they could.” Chuckled the miqo’te, shrugging his shoulders. Haurchefant gave a gentle smile, rubbing a thumb along Kafe's knuckles. “I didn't want to make you uncomfortable, Kafe, if you came to dislike me for overstepping my bounds I fear I would be quite troubled.”
Kafe's tail swayed, and he gazed up at Haurchefant. This man was far too open with himself, but that must be why Kafe liked him. Sometimes you liked others because you admired something about them that daunted yourself. Shaking his head, Kafe looked away.
“I appreciate that. I... admit that you're all I've been thinking about.” He blushed, glancing up at Haurchefant, who’s own face had gone quite pink. Fenyang would suddenly be heard snickering from where she still had herself tucked away. Kafe hid his body behind Haurchefant’s, and the elezen turned to the Xaela.
“F-Fen, if you would be so kind as to set the table for lunch, I would be most obliged!” His voice was stern bu embarrassed, and Fenyang ducked away down the hall, cackling loudly. Kafe stared up at Haurchefant’s exasperated expression, then sputtered out a laugh, feeling his chest get light and happy. Raising an eyebrow, Haurchefant leaned down a little, confused. “What is it? What ever could be so funny?” He sounded a little dejected, but that made Kafe laugh all the more. The laughter dripped down to his toes, and he felt warm, his hands still clasped in Haurchefant’s. The elezen flushed, but couldn’t help but grin as he heard Kafe chuckle. “Ah, I didn’t even ask if you wanted to stay for lunch, my apologies. Would you?”
“Oh, I was planning on it.”
====
Kafe was rarely privy to extravagant meals, and while the Fortemp’s estate seemed much too hoity toity, the meal served was significantly more down to earth. The plates were fancy, but the food was comfort food; stews and breads, jams, sausages, more herbs than Kafe could pinpoint. It was delicious, served with tea of course. It reminded him somewhat of home, the hearty table spreads of the Steppe being the one thing he truly did miss. He cared not for being polite, grabbing this and that, seeming like he had never had a proper meal in his life. He was quite looking forward to the holiday, already impressed with a simple lunch.
Kafe finally met Haurchefant’s sister, seeing the resemblance quite clearly. They both had a dramatic flair, and Fenyang seemed to roll her eyes at her fiance's antics more than once. She was a pleasant woman, seeming overjoyed that the Oubastet line hadn’t all vanished or purposefully ignored the Fortemps. Kafe was almost ready for her to start crying on the spot, but she blew her nose, fixed her hair, and gave him a bright smile. Just like her brother.
Haurchefant sat right next to Kafe, watching him eat so happily. He seemed pleased that Kafe was enjoying himself, though kept telling him to slow down on shoveling food into his mouth. The miqo’te grinned at him wordlessly through mouthfuls, finally eating his fill after his third serving and final apple with cheese sandwich.
“So, will you join us for the holiday? I did ask, didn't I?” Haurchefant mused, stirring some sugar into his tea. Kafe sipped idly at his own, wishing there was coffee available, but he tilted his head with a glance at the table. “Will there be a lot of food?” He asked.
“You’re really quite pliable when it comes to food, aren’t you?” Anntelle pointed out, seeming vexed upon her realization. Kafe’s ears twitched back and he turned his gaze away. Haurchefant sighed audibly, turning to his sister. “At least he appreciates fine dining.”
“Fine dining? We don’t do fine dining, brother.” Laughed Anntelle motioning to the destroyed table thanks to Kafe’s greedy little hands. Haurchefant was about to open his mouth before Kafe intervened, quite calm despite being accused of his gluttony. “I don’t celebrate Ishgardian holidays, so yes, I will come for the food. I love food.”
Haurchefant chuckled into his tea, giving his sister a triumphant look, to which she pursed her lips over. Fenyang rolled her eyes and practically her whole head, groaning loudly. “Oh my god, Ann, he likes food a lot, what’s so bad about that.”
“It’s a special holiday! We have to give the gifts out and decorate and--” The elezen started, but Fenyang stuck a pastry into her mouth to quiet her. “Yeah, if he wants to he can help out, simple as that. Do you want to help, Kafe?” Fenyang asked, turning to the smaller man. Tail swaying against the floor, Kafe turned his gaze around. The festivities were known to him, most of the people he knew celebrated even if they weren't Ishgardian; that’s just how it was. Maybe it would be nice to do those things for once. So he turned to Haurchefant and nodded.
“I have time off from work the week of. So yes… I’ll help.”
Fenyang snapped her fingers, a toothy smile spreading across her face. “I think you should stay here. For the week, y’know? It’d be easier than walking back and forth!” She was staring at Kafe expectantly, amused at seeing him squirm. Haurchefant coughed, surprised by the forwardness Fenyang was pushing on them. Put on the spot, seeing all eyes on him, Kafe felt sweat form on the back of his neck. He turned his gaze up a bit sheepishly, mumbling, “I… have a coeurl to take care of.”
“Oh, please bring them. Oh, please!” Anntelle suddenly started, eyes sparkling. She composed herself a moment later, covering her mouth with a napkin. Fenyang stared at her, amused by the outburst. Kafe relaxed, having that worry instantly rectified. He smiled then, giving Haurchefant a sideways look. “Sure. It’ll be a vacation.”
Haurchefant simple glowed, and Kafe went silent, basking in it. Fenyang whooped, knocking her fiance on the shoulder and grinning up at her. They finished up the meal, and Kafe decided he wanted to walk around the grounds more comfortably. They weren’t very large, but he liked gardens, and was curious about the maybe-greenhouse he saw behind the estate. Haurchefant joined him of course, dressed in a gray turtleneck and black slacks. He always looked dignified, whatever he wore, seeming oh so gentlemanly. Kafe was beginning to crave it, not often did he get someone doting on him like this in such a way.
The greenhouse was alive with color, with various plants from every region. Even some of the flowers native to the Steppe, which made Kafe feel only a little homesick. He poked at the purple petals, reminiscing a bit. Haurchefant watched him, gaze gentle as he asked, “How long have you lived here, Kafe?”
Standing up straighter, Kafe proceeded to count on his fingers. He wasn’t good with numbers and was quite embarrassed about it on a regular basis, but found his answer. “I am… 29 and I’ve been here since I was eight… So about 21 years. I’ve only visited home once, since mother wanted to be somewhere easier to blend in.” He swiveled his ear at the sound of a sprinkler, misting some of the more tropical looking plants.
“And I’ve been visiting here every winter, though I do prefer to stay here year-round. I am in shock we never bumped into each other!” Haurchefant mumbled, face drooping.
“You probably stayed to more high-end places.” Kafe teased, watching Haurchefant’s expression sour.
“Hmm, I cannot deny that. Your area is referred to as cheap, but the people are far more nice than the uppity nobles I deal with regularly. That cafe we met in is arguably one of my favorite places! And your place of work is full of interesting characters.”
“Just don’t stay there past two in the morning.”
“Oh? Why is that?”
“Part of the wall opens up and half of it becomes a strip club.”
He watched Haurchefant’s face change yet again, reddening quite fiercely. He was silent, until he folded his arms, giving Kafe an odd look. “Did you…?” He asked quietly, looking far too heavy in thought. Kafe flushed himself, the fur of his tail puffing up. “No! No, no, no. Not… not regularly…” He looked away abruptly, seeing Haurcehfant’s eyes glint. Damn, him and his big mouth.
“You shouldn’t have told me, I’m far too curious!” Laughed the elezen, a blush still darkening his features. Kafe glared at him, thrashing his tail irritably. He pointed a finger in his partner’s direction, hissing, “Don’t you go asking my coworkers for pictures. Gyo will ask for money and I know you have the coin for it, so don’t even try.” Haurchefant continued to laugh, tears appearing in the corner of his eyes.
====
It was the week before the night of the Starlight Celebration, and Kafe was on his last work shift before his impromptu vacation. He cleaned the counter idly, flicking large crumbs and napkins into the garbage. Thoughts jumbled as they were before, he almost mindlessly went about his, both to the fact he got barely any sleep the previous night and that he was nervous about staying in Haurchefant’s home. The man’s family was friendly and inviting, and he felt comfortable. Haurchefant didn’t overstep any bounds unless Kafe made the initial move, and it was appreciated. He smiled to himself, kind of looking forward to the week. He was even allowed to bring his coeurl… Cardinal would be fat by the time they left.
Gyo watched him, a grin teasing at him mouth, arms folded as he walked from the door to the counter. “You seem in a chipper mood. What’s the occasion?”
“I’m spending the holiday with Haurchefant.” Kafe replied unabashed, tail curling upwards. Gyo whistled a little and laughed. “Wow, ya move fast when you actually like someone, huh?”
“Maybe it’s fate, if you believe in that crap.” Kafe mused, shrugging his shoulders. Gyo was about to respond, only for his attention to be distracted towards the door. A tall elezen entered, accompanied by two others. They all wore dark gray suits, looking for too formal for the establishment. One checked his watch, shrugged his shoulders, and motioned for them all to take seats at the bar. Gyo gave Kafe a little wink, then went back to his spot by the door, his burly physique absolutely overshadowing the elezen he walked by. The three newcomers took some of the stools closer to the corner, grabbing one of the special drink menus and mulling over it to themselves. Kafe finished wiping a particularly stubborn spot on the counter, folding his rag into a back pocket and walking over. He had to trouble meeting their height, as part of the floor behind the bar was raised for shorter employees. He leaned on the counter, putting his bartender face on. While he couldn’t mix drinks very well, since he was the muscle for the barkeeps normally, he could take orders.
Smiling, he folding his arms in front of the three, tail curving over his back in a friendly gesture. “Hello, what’ll it be? We have some Ishgardian liqueurs in the back, unless you don't have a taste for it.”
The one in the middle seemed to command the group by presence alone, looking up at Kafe with a raised eyebrow. He grinned back pleasantly, putting the little drink menu back in place. “We’re meeting up with the rest of our group, but yes, a bottle of the Thordan peppermint liqueur would be most lovely.”
Kafe was instantly turned off by the sound of the man’s voice, feeling a chill go up his spine. He turned away, finding Sasha back from her break, letting her know what to get for them. She rummaged for the bottle, grimacing at it.
“I dunno how someone can drink this straight up. Gross.” She mumbled, going about gathering the glasses and setting them down on a little plate. She handed it to Kafe, already busy with something else, letting him do the easy work. Shrugging, Kafe turned back the group in waiting, setting down the liqueur with its tiny matching glasses. The center elezen smiled again, and his hand brushed against Kafe's fingers, sending a jolt up his spine and a pain through his temple.
The miqo'te from his memories, standing in front of a desk where a distinguished looking elezen sat. Rage was emanating from the miqo'te in waves, stifling the room. It was an unbridled fury, making the hair on the back of Kafe's neck stand up. He felt the anger, felt the nausea rise in his stomach and course through him. It was so powerful, equal to the sadness of seeing Haurchefant’s look-alike fall, but much different. The miqo'te’s eyes were blazing, their teeth clenched in a brutal snarl unbecoming of their previous appearances.
“Life for death. I will have Ser Zephirin’s heart for what he did to Haurchefant.”
The memory faded, leaving Kafe standing there yet again with people staring at him. But this elezen's eyes were wide in a sense of knowing. He had seen something of Kafe, a memory resurfaced of his own past self. They stared at each other for a moment, before the elezen's face relaxed, his expression turning into a sneer.
“Call me Zephiren. Pleased to make your acquaintance, warrior of light spawn.” He drawled out the words, taking the bottle and a glass. Kafe stood stock-still, the anger he was feeling threatening to consume him.
This man had been the one to take Haurchefant from the warrior an age ago. His past self, mind you, but he seemed proud of the feat, a haughty air growing about him. Kafe dug his nails into the counter, hearing the light scrape. He turned abruptly, covering his mouth to reign in the vomit coming up his throat. Stumbling into the staff bathroom, Kafe’s body quaked as he heaved out the contents of his stomach, trying not to fall to his knees. The anger and pain was back in full force, overwhelming him, making his shoulders shake and his legs shake. It was taking all of his self-control not to punch the man square in his jaw. He knew the Warrior of Light had disbanded the Heaven's Ward in their own time, but he wanted to feel that satisfaction for himself.
A knock on the door startled him, and he heard Gyo’s worried voice. “Kafe? Ya alright in there? Sasha said you ran off, white as a sheet.” Cleaning up his face and giving his mouth a rinse, Kafe went to the door. He still felt awful, but he gave the raen a forced smile. “M’fine, don’t worry.”
Gyo gave him an unconvinced look, tilting his head. “Ya don’t look fine. You wanna go home?”
“I leave in an hour, it’s fine.”
“Okay, if ya say so. Oh, while you were in there, yer boy came to pick you up.” With a knowing grin, Gyo gave Kafe’s shoulder a little nudge. The movement sent Kafe teetering but he managed to cover it up as surprise. He hadn’t arranged for anything of the sort, but he wasn’t too surprised in all honesty; Haurchefant was just like that.
A moment of horror coursed through him after the initial pleased feeling, and his whole body felt like it was falling. Haurchefant in the same room as Zephiren. Alone. Without him there to protect him. He didn’t know how on earth he could protect Haurchefant, despite having the brute strength of a man able to throw someone three time his size.
Pushing past Gyo, Kafe stomped back to the main bar area, seeing a few more people mingling about. It was getting late after all, the busiest time of their work hours being after dark. Glancing around, Kafe tried to look through a crowd of tall people, dreadingly looking over to the bar. His ears went flat against his head, seeing his Haurchefant talking with Zephiren. They were smiling at each other pleasantly in idle conversation, the other two elezen that Zephiren had been with gone, seemingly mingling somewhere else. Seized by a sudden protectiveness and a vicious anger, Kafe went behind the bar again, his body taut. As much as he would love to instigate a brawl at this current moment, he wouldn’t do anything unless the other party came at him first. But oh he wanted to punch the smile clean off this man.
Haurchefant looked up, smiling even wider, but even that was not enough to make Kafe’s anger melt away. “Kafe! I came to pick you up, so once your shift is done I can help you carry your things!” Giving him a genuine grin, Kafe nodded. “You’ll be carrying Cardinal. I may not look it but I could probably bench press you.”
Face turning pink, Haurchefant seemed to quietly enjoy the idea, coughing a little.
“Oh, you two know each other?” Zephiren asked, though his tone was flat. He knew.
“Though we only met recently, this is Kafe, my partner I spoke of. It was love at first sight!” haurchefant beamed, puffing out his chest a little, looking far too proud. Kafe gave him a soft smile, though his eyes were narrowed at Zephiren, who stared at him right back with a gaze dripping with contempt.
Turning to Haurchefant, Zephiren practically hissed out the words, drumming his fingers on the table. “Is he, perhaps… a descendant of the Warrior of Light? The name is uncanny.”
The other elezen instantly stiffened, realizing what game the other was beginning to play at. The mood of the conversation changed, and Haurchefant, while continuing to look prim and proper, reigned himself in. “It’s a common name in some parts. Though, it’s more of a means of idolization and respect than lineage. Your family, much like mine, has named their kin after their lofty forefathers after all.”
Zephiren’s eyebrow twitched and he frowned. “Yours has lived quite peacefully, has it not? Mine has had to build ourselves from the ground up, all thanks to him.” He motioned to Kafe, words venomous. Kafe leaned his elbows on the counter, expression cold. “I suggest you don’t start shit in here. I like my job.”
“Or what? You’ll strike me down like he did to Thordan? And the rest of the Heaven’s Ward? You don’t have his power.”
“Sure I don’t.” Kafe started, digging his nails into the counter again. He’d fix it later. “But it would be so easy to kick your scrawny ass out of here.”
Haurchefant suddenly let out a small gasp, feeling something stick into his side. He glanced down, seeing a letter opener, looking far too like a knife, pressing into his ribs. They sat close together, so one could hardly see the action happen, and anyone not standing right in front of them wouldn’t guess what was happening.
Zephiren smiled cruelly, tilting his head closer to Haurchefant’s shoulder. “Wouldn’t want to lose him again, would we? Too bad the Warrior had lived.”
Vision going red, Kafe saw images flash through his mind; a lonesome, crying miqo’te. Years of sorrow making them crumble in on themselves and push affection down deep. It was a fate Kafe wish he could have changed, but he couldn’t go back in time. No, he was here in the present, fully able to prevent anything that was going on in his normal existence.
With an animalistic snarl, Kafe vaulted over the counter, hearing Sasha cry out in alarm. He grabbed the collar of Zephiren’s shirt, who looked absolutely appalled at the current situation, and they fell backwards. The people standing around cushioned their fall, as Zephiren wobbled into the crowd, falling on his backside with a yelp. Kafe slammed him into the ground, drawing his arm back with a clenched fist, and belted Zephiren square in the nose. The room erupted, people trying to get out of the way or getting closer to watch, cheering or gasping in shock. Kafe had only punched once, but it was enough for the elezen’s nose to look quite broken and gush blood all over his white shirt. Haurchefant stood up, hovering over them, panicking.
Kafe Grabbed the man’s shirt collar, tugging him up so they saw eye to eye. “You so as go near him again, I really will kill you.” He hissed, low and furious, absolutely ready to punch him again. Zepherin growled, able to get his arm up and give Kafe a mean punch back. Head rattling, Kafe moved little, turning slowly to the elezen, licking the blood that had begun to drip from a cut on his lip. He readied his arm again, but felt someone tug at his shoulders, lifting him off of the bleeding and gasping man underneath him. Body vibrating with adrenaline, Kafe almost turned on the person who had lifted him. But he heard Haurchefant’s calm voice whisper in his ear, “Hush, he’s not worth it.”
Finally calming, Kafe’s body shook and he breathed hard. That had felt good. Not often did he give someone a full-on punch, and this was oh so deserved. He wiped at his mouth, suddenly being rushed by his coworkers. Sasha went to Zephiren, helping him up and putting a napkin to his face and wiping the blood. Gyo handed Haurchefant a warm towel, then pointed accusingly at Kafe. He didn’t seem too mad, though, but expected to hear why Kafe had suddenly jumped a paying customer.
Leading Kafe to the corner by an arm, Haurchefant sat him down in a chair. “Stay.” He ordered, and Kafe grumpily did as he was told. He felt the man’s large hands smear the towel all over his face, and looked down to see far more blood than expected. Ouchie.
“You could have called for the others you know. That was quite unnecessary.” Haurchefant said softly, a grin tugging at his features despite his words. Kafe turned his gaze away, ears drooping. He didn’t usually start fights, but he was brutal in one.
“He had a knife to you.” He growled, looking up at Haurchefant incredulously. Why was the man so calm? Zephiren could have gutted him right then and there! Giving Kafe’s nose a rough wipe, Haurchefant laughed. “Yes, but he wasn’t going to do anything. He’s known for being a coward.”
“He was the one who--” Kafe started, but stopped, tail thrashing when he realized Haurchefant wouldn’t know who he was. The man raised an eyebrow at him curiously, then glanced down at the towel and grimaced. “Oh, my dear, you bled so much…”
“I saw his past memories.” Explained Kafe, hands clenched into fists. “He was the one… who killed the man who looked like you… I didn’t want it to happen to you, too.” His eyes abruptly bagan to sting, and he wiped at them, bidding himself not to cry in public. Kneeling down, Haurchefant put his hands over one of Kafe’s own, biting his lip and not knowing what to say.
“The Warrior of Light lost him… so terribly and suddenly… And I don’t know how they lived with it. Painfull, slow healing… So painful… I.... I didn't want…” It sounded so selfish, Kafe realized, but he didn’t care. He just met the man, but he felt as if he had known Haurchefant for a lifetime and more, unconsciously wishing for him. How egocentric of him, to be able to live with Haurchefant when the Warrior of Light had not. It filled him with too many emotions, stirring them until it all boiled over. So Kafe cried, letting Haurchefant hold him close, hiding him from other eyes. He felt Haurchefant put a hand on his head, stroking his hair, rubbing at his ears pleasantly. It calmed him down significantly, until he was all but sniffling. All he wanted was to go home and sleep.
Gyo came over tentatively now that the room had settled down, hovering over them. He fidgeted, until Kafe finally noticed him. Blowing his nose into the towel and seeing no new blood, Kafe rubbed at his cheek. When he spoke, it sounded like he had a cold, his nose all congested with dried blood. “You wanna know what ‘appened, m’assuming?”
“Oh, Astrals, of course I’m wondering! What made ya belt that guy? You seemed to be having a chill conversation!” Gyo flailed his arms, then bit at a nail with his arms folded.
“He had a knife to my side, I can vouch for this.” Haurchefant explained, giving Gyo one of his smiles. Jaw dropping, the raen ran a hand through his hair. “Shite… What th’ hell? He seemed like a nice guy, I guess.”
“Don’t let him in here again and we won’t have another problem.” Kafe muttered, stretching his shoulder. His face felt sore and he wished someone had given him ice. He’d get all the ice he wanted at Haurchefant’s, so he’d wait for now.
“Ugh, go home. Have a nice holiday and all that nonsense, don’t get too frisky.” He gave Haurchefant a look, who laughed. “Oh, I make no promises.” The elezen said with a grin, clapping Kafe on the shoulder, who had dissolved into a red-faced mess.
====
The walk to Kafe’s apartment was quiet, seeing as he had finally gotten an icepack and was holding it to his sore cheek. Even Haurchefant didn’t say a word, looking around as they walked, as if putting to memory where Kafe lived. The ascended the apartment building in a few minutes, and once in the actual apartment, they both seemed to heave a sigh of relief. A meow sounded from the kitchen and a little gray coeurl padded over, rubbing its head on Kafe’s leg. He reached down, scooping it up in his arms and sighing.
“This is Cardinal?” Haurchefant asked, hands reaching up to pet the small bundle of fur. Kafe nodded. “She’s behaving ‘cause she knows there’s company. I’m surprised she instantly warmed up to you.” He chuckled quietly, letting her drop down to the floor with a small thump. The miqo’te retreated into the back room, while Haurchefant meandered around the small living space. The kitchen seemed like it didn’t get too much use, but the couch had a plethora of blankets all bundled up into a nest. A small, old looking television set sat nearby, with a desk and equally as old-looking terminal on the opposite side of the room. It was sparsely decorated, but there was a potted plant on any available surface, providing a homey feel to it all.
On a table next to the couch was one picture frame, showing a much younger Kafe, grinning ear to ear, atop a stocky black pony. A young woman stood next to the pony, a xaela with black hair, dark blue eyes, and dark skin like Kafe’s. The way her hair tufted to the side was very much like his own.
“That’s my mother.” Came Kafe’s voice from behind. Haurchefant turned, seeing the man with few bags. A large cat carrier was on the floor by his feet, stuffed full with supplies. Cardinal skittered over, wearing a jingling pastel blue harness. Haurchefant turned back to the picture, picking it up. “She’s lovely.” He said, rubbing a thumb along the frame.
Kafe stepped beside him, eyes sad. “She wanted a better life for me. She loved the Steppe, but too many bad people knew where we were, so she brought me here. She passed away only a few years ago in her sleep, quietly and peacefully, I’m happy to say.”
“Her hair is as unruly as yours.” Pointed out Haurchefant, giving Kafe a playful nudge.
“Ugh, I got that so often.”
“Is that bad?”
“Not at all.”
Kafe smiled at him, handing Haurchefant one end of a leash. And the cat carrier. Confused, haurchefant blinked at him, gaze going from the coeurl to the miqo’te, who grinned. “She pulls pretty hard, despite her size. I’m sure you can handle it.”
“Ah, like pet like owner. Small but deadly.” Laughed Haurchefant, going over and hefting up the carrier. It was surprisingly heavy, but he didn’t show it. They both went to the door, and Kafe looked behind him. He dropped a bag, going over to the picture fram and shoving it into his backpack. He went back to the door, turning to haurchefant with a steady gaze. “So she can meet the family.”
After a moment, Haurchefant gave the gentlest of smile, leaning down and putting his forehead to Kafe’s. “Yes. I think it’s a wonderful idea.”