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Chapter Text

Sera… We have watched the sight for over three hours now and no one has shown up. I think it is safe to go and investigate…

“I know Orion, but something is off, some odd movements that I cannot account for with the wind or assign to the local wildlife” I sighed looking up from my scope, Orion floating down to my scope and looking through it… Could he not do that without using my scope?

Hmmm, well the best way to find out what it is, is to get your ass up off the dusty floor and head over there! Now come on! We have checked out five different sights this week, this is the last one and I want to go home.

“You know, I don’t think I know a more demanding Ghost. Though, you are right. Come on, let’s go see what is going on” I sighed, standing up and hooking my rifle over my back, the magnetic clip kicking in and securely attaching the rifle to my back.

By far the best present ever.

_____

“So, about this surprise?” I asked walking into the living room, taking another sip of my coffee before placing it down on the coffee table, Orion gathering up my armour whilst I grabbed my cloak and looked over it once more. It had been a hell of a three months on Titan. Especially knowing Zavala had a surprise waiting for me upon my return.

“It is in the bedroom” Zavala chuckled, gesturing for me to follow him causing me to sigh. I had just sat down…

You are going to love it!

I smiled at Neptune as she darted into the bedroom, closely followed by Orion. I just took a moment before standing, grabbing my coffee and heading into the bedroom, a long black box lay on the bed and Zavala stood by the window smiling at me. I placed my coffee back where it had been waiting for me when I exited the shower and walked over to the bed, kneeling in front of the box.

“If this is what I think it is I am going to be a very happy Hunter” I said, looking to Zavala who just looked to the box and back to me with a smile on his face.

Come on! Open it! I want to see what it is!

I looked to Orion before looking back to the box, carefully lifting the lid off to reveal the most beautifully crafted sniper rifle I had ever seen. I opened my mouth to say something, but words failed me. I ran my fingers over the barrel, it was easily thirty inches, possibly more. The scope was larger than most, though it had a few different sections that it seemed I could twist, probably to change the focus or distance.

It has a thirty-three-inch barrel, one of the most enhanced scopes ever created. You can see further, clearer, have night vision and the ability to take a picture using it. Very technical. It also has no strap; it has a magnetic strip running down it that will attach to your armour without having to make any modifications to your armour. Banshee spent months working on it.

“Do you like it?” Zavala asked as I looked from the sniper rifle to Neptune, then him.

“I don’t know how to express how much I love it… It is beautiful Zavala. I’ve never seen a gun like it, nor that has such a versatile scope. I… I don’t know what to say” I said, moving towards him I pulled him into a hug, holding onto him as tightly as I could. Trying my best not to cry.

Is it engraved?

I pulled back from Zavala to see Orion looking at the stock of the rifle. I ran my fingers across it, it was certainly engraved, but in the light, I could not properly read it.

“It says ‘Make your own luck’ a saying I know both you and Cayde are fond of” Zavala said, I smiled to myself as I repeatedly ran my hands over the engraving. I could not wait to take her into the field and test her out… Though first…

I put the lid back on the box and moved it on to my chest of draws before turning back to Zavala and pulling him onto the bed with me. “How about I show just how much I love the rifle… And you” I chuckled.

_____

As we approached the beacon, I made sure to have my hand on the hilt of my knife. Whatever was causing the odd movements in the bushes, I was going to be ready for it.

This one matches the signal Cayde picked up… Though something has scrambled the message which is why Cayde could not make heads nor tails of it.

“So, someone set it up to send a message out, and someone else came along and scrambled it? Or could a technical fault have caused the message to be scrambled?” I asked, not liking the implications that someone or something set this beacon up only for someone else to come along and undo their hard work.

I cannot tell if someone scrambled it on purpose or if it was caused by one of several technical faults. This equipment is not exactly in good shape.

I sighed and glanced around the area, the beacon was not exactly my concern right now, “Currently there is a light breeze. It is going east to west. And due to the shelter from the trees, not many of the bushes at ground level are being affected” I said to Orion, moving my hand from my knife to draw my sidearm as I took a few steps towards one of the bushes in the area. “However, it seems something is causing sporadic movement in some of the bushes” I muttered, drawing closer to the bush, there was something in it, that was for sure. But what?

“Please, please don’t make me go back!” a young female voice yelled, lurching out from the bush and moving to flee from me. Though her robes got tangled, causing her to fall to the ground.

“I am not here to hurt you. I am here to help. How old are you child? Do you have any family in the area?” I asked, getting slightly closer, letting my hand drop from my sidearm. She was not a threat to me, so why should I appear more threatening to her than I already was…

“Do not come any closer! I will fight you if I have to!” She yelled at me, scrambling to her feet and backing up, a determined look in her eyes and her stance telling me she was serious, she would fight me.

We are only here to help, we don’t want to fight you or hurt you

“And why should I believe you! You are just another pawn in his game! What do you even really know about him? Nothing! Yet you blindly follow his orders, abducting and murdering people!” She snapped back, clearly very agitated, but also terrified, I could hear it in her voice and practically sense the fear coming from her.

NO! Wait! She isn’t one of his… She is from the last city. You are a Guardian! Oh, thank the Traveller, you can trust her Eva.

I’m sorry, but who are you? And, is she your Guardian? Is that child YOUR Guardian?

I am Storm. And, yes, she is.

“I didn’t know children could be resurrected… How long have you two been out here? And who did you think I worked for, who else is out here?” I asked, keeping my distance, letting the girl dictate the terms of how she approached me.

You can tell her Eva, she is trustworthy.

The girl looked from her Ghost to me and then sighed, moving over to a very prominent tree stump and sitting down. I followed her over, deciding to lean against the tree. The entire situation had me on edge and I did not want to be in a possibly vulnerable position right now.

“We have been here for about a day, though five days ago I escaped a settlement run by a light-bearer as Storm originally called him. I had been there for almost two years… Originally it was fine, they offered me a place to stay whilst I got my bearings and planned what I wanted to do. Though after a few weeks it became clear that they had no intentions of letting me leave, and I had no hope of getting out on my own. Not when faced with numerous other light-bearers who were armed to the teeth and had armour much more advanced than my own” She said, I simply nodded in response and looked to Orion.

I did notice a settlement when scanning for the signal, however, it appeared to be abandoned. I did not detect any signs of life.

You wouldn’t. They’ve adapted Golden Age technology as well as Fallen technology to disrupt scans. And whilst they cannot block a Ghosts scans at close range, scanning from a distance you won’t get anything.

Well, that is worrying. Who knows what they could be getting up to…

“How long were you awake before you came across the settlement?” I asked, looking back to the girl who took a moment before looking up to me.

“About three weeks. I had only died twice in that time as well. I was good at staying out the way of large numbers of those Fallen, the ones I did come across I could handle as long as they did not take me by surprise… I just never thought my own kind would hurt me… How can humans be so cruel in such desperate times?” She asked her expression one of distress. It certainly sounded like she had been through a lot.

“When things get desperate is when you have to watch those around you more than your enemies. If you couldn’t fight your way out of the settlement, how did you get out?” I asked, glancing around, no signs of anyone else… Yet.

“The night I escaped there was a pretty vicious storm raging outside. It had been building up for a few days and that morning it started to rain, then the thunder and lightning started in the afternoon… By late night you could hear the wind howling and it sounded like there was a war going on outside. I had been kept in my room all day as people were preparing for the storm, securing windows, ensuring there were plenty of supplies. At some point in the night the power went out, I could hear people running around outside my door trying to figure out what was going on. Once the movement outside my room died down, I checked to see if the lock on my door had turned off along with the rest of the power… And thank the heavens it had. I quickly grabbed a few supplies, a few of the snacks I had been given earlier in the day and a cloak that someone had given me at some point. It was way too big for me” She said, pausing and looking to her Ghost who floated down to her level and pressed her shell against her Guardians forehead.

“It was smart, to use the cloak being too big for you to your advantage. And taking supplies. Even if you are a child, your Ghost chose well” I said, both looking to me, the girl smiling slightly.

“Thank you… Once I had all the bits I needed I managed to sneak out of the building using a kitchen entrance. I knew no one would be down there at that time as all the generators were on the other side of the building. Once outside I did panic a little, but earlier that day, some people came to make sure my window was secure, they were talking about how no one had fixed the hole in the outer wall yet and that it wasn’t going to get done during the storm. So, I made my way towards the wall of the settlement and just followed it around, eventually, I found the hole and I managed to slip through it easily enough. Storm then pointed me in the direction of the coast, so I just started running. She picked up the beacon after a few days and we made our way here, hoping someone may either already be here, or come back to it. Though from what I heard you and your Ghost talking about, you did not set it up” She said, I shook my head, pushing off from the tree and looking around.

“I am guessing if no one showed you were going to carry on heading for the coast?” I asked and she nodded. She was a smart kid. Heading for the coast gave her several ways out, either boosting a signal from a coastal outpost, South Africa used to have a very large one. Or she could possibly take a boat or if she was extremely lucky find a ship.

“I got here early this morning; it wasn’t even light yet. Once the sunset, I was going to start moving again” she said and I found myself chuckling to myself, earning an odd look from her.

“You are a smart kid. Travelling under the cover of darkness is the best way when you are on foot in enemy territory… Well, at least if you don’t think you can take on your enemies” I said, looking to the west. The sun was already starting to get low in the sky. It wouldn’t be long before darkness fell, and it was a few hours walk back to camp. “OK. You have two choices, either you can stick to your original plan and head to the coast, or you can come back to my camp with me. You’ll be safe there, I promise” I said, the girl looking to her Ghost and then back to me.

“We will come with you” she said, I just nodded and gestured for her to follow me. Her footsteps quickly falling in line with mine as she walked next to me.

“How far away is your camp?” Eva asked after about half an hour of walking, I sighed and looked to Orion who in turn sighed.

It is another two hours walk.

“That is a long way, is there not a quicker way?” the girl asked, I chuckled and shook my head at her question. Obviously not a Hunter.

“No, no there is not. And it is not that far, not compared to the other day when I walked for most the day to the border with Namibia, camped out in a tree for the night and walked back the next morning after sunrise” I said, both the girl and her Ghost looking to me a little shocked.

I guess I should not be surprised. After all, you are a Hunter. You don’t exactly need sleep… Or do things the easy way

She most certainly does not do things the easy way

“It is no fun doing things the easy way. Take the other month for example, how much fun was jumping off that waterfall?” I asked, Orion, coming to hover in front of me causing me to come to a stop.

Do you mean Angel Falls? YOU AND LUCA LEPT OFF IT DESPITE BEING ABLE TO TRANSMAT DOWN!

“We lived, it was fine” I chuckled, placing my hand on the side of Orion’s shell and moving him to one side before carrying on moving. The girl looking up at me and then to Orion just behind me who was no doubt glaring at me.

“What is your name?” she suddenly asked, and I looked down to her and then back up, how the hell had I forgot to introduce myself?

“My name is Serafina, but most people call me Sera… And my Ghost is called Orion. What is your name?” I asked I think her Ghost had said it, but I was not really paying attention.

“Eva… And my Ghost is called Storm, how long have you been a Guardian?” she asked, and I took a deep breath and looked towards the horizon. We had a fair bit of time to kill. A few questions and the telling of some stories would not hurt.

Chapter Text

“Oh, and then there was the time we went behind the Vanguards back and flew another Guardians ship onto Oryx’s dreadnaught… Well tried to. We got most there way there before we were shot down. Luckily we transmatted down just in time” I chuckled as we came upon the camp.

“It sounds like you’ve done a lot in your time as a Guardian, even if you have not been around as long as some others have” Eva said, moving to sit on one of the crates.

“Yeah, though obviously it isn’t like the other Guardians do nothing. We work together, help each other eliminate threats throughout the system. To be honest it is more fun working with others, not that I would tell my fireteam that…” I chuckled, heading over to the fire pit, though before I started on building up another one, I paused and looked out into the night.

What is it?

“I don’t think it would be wise to light a fire, not if there are other light-bearers out there. I wouldn’t have trouble taking on two or three, but if they showed up in a larger group, we would be in trouble…” I said, pulling my rifle off my back and resting it on a stack of crates, using the scope to scan the horizon, the night vision on the scope engaging.

True. Though there is also the fact of if they find you in the night, how easy will it be for you to get out your shelter and away from them whilst looking out for Eva as well?

I sighed and looked to Orion and then back at Eva and Storm who was looking over at us, Eva clearly worried. “Call the ship down. We will sleep in the cargo bay tonight and head back tomorrow” I said, and Orion nodded, bobbing off to do as asked.

Why aren’t we going back tonight if you are worried about them finding the camp? Surely that would be the safest option right now.

“Yes, it would. However, I want to get a look at that settlement tomorrow so if you would be so kind as to send Orion every bit of information you have on it that would be lovely” I said, going back to looking down the scope and scanning the horizon. No signs of anyone moving around in the dark. The only movement was from what looked to be a pack of wild dogs, and they were heading the opposite way to us.

Very well…

I glanced to the Ghost as she moved back towards her Guardian, she was obviously not happy with my plan, but she would have to deal with it.

Sera, where do you want the ship?

“As close as you can get it Orion” I replied before walking back towards Eva and kneeling in front of her, she looked to me and smiled a little, I think noticed her tilt her head slightly and stare a bit more intently at my eyes…

“Are your eyes… blue?” she asked, I paused for a moment before shaking my head and going to remove my helmet.

“They’re purple. I am Awoken… Have you met one before?” I asked and she nodded her head and then looked to Storm a little confused and then back to me.

“I have, however only the one. And he was grey, very, very grey” Eva said, and I smiled as I stood up.

“Not all Awoken are the same colour, some of us are purple, some of us are blue, some are grey, some are other colours. It is just how we are” I said, walking over to where my rifle was resting and placing my helmet next to it.

“Oh… No one has ever told me exactly what the Awoken are, you look human, but… You aren’t” Eva said, and I smiled at her and perched myself on one of the crates as I thought about how best to explain how the Awoken came into being to her.

“So, before Guardians, there was a golden age, humanity prospered under the Traveller. Though not everyone felt it was a golden age. A ship named the Yang Liwei left Earth before the collapse, their goal was to find a way to live without the Traveller and all that he bought to our galaxy. However, when the Darkness arrived in our galaxy and attacked the Traveller and the rest of humanity those who lived aboard the Yang Liwei refused to take aside… And at the exact moment, it was enveloped by the Darkness, the Traveller released its Light. This caused an anomaly in space-time, creating a new universe, the Distributary. The crew and passengers somehow became the Awoken and in their safe little universe, they built a society that flourished. Though once they realised that they were in a little pocket of space-time, they came back… Or at least some did. Some built the reef under the rule of Mara Sov until her death whilst some travelled further to Earth… And since then those that returned to Earth have helped defend her and the rest of the solar system from the Darkness… Though not all Awoken believe that is something we should have done. They believe we should have left Earth to her fate… I guess I didn’t believe that… I guess I felt we should help battle the Darkness” I explained, Eva staring at me intently the entire time, hanging on my every word.

“Wow… Do you think it was the right thing for most the Awoken to do? To ignore Earth’s plight?” Eva asked and I took a deep breath and looked out over the night sky.

“Honestly, I don’t know. Right or wrong it doesn’t matter though. I am here now and protecting the Earth and the last city is my role in this galaxy, and it is one I will do till the day I die” I said, Eva simply nodding and looking to Storm who looked to me, seemingly looking concerned.

Mara Sov is dead?

“Yes… She was killed by Oryx when her fleet went up against his. Prince Uldren was killed in the battle as well” I said, and Storm simply nodded and looked back to Eva.

Mara Sov was the Queen of the Reef, and she also helped save the city by influencing one of the Fallen Houses, making herself their Kell.

“Yeah… Though she was also happy to sentence us to death if we could not provide her with something in return” I said, standing and looking up as I noticed my ship coming down and Orion floating back over.

I cleared a space in the cargo bay first to make room for you both to sleep as well

“Thanks, Orion… We will pack up in the morning and then head out to observe the settlement for a few hours before heading home” I said, and Orion nodded whilst Eva followed me towards the ship and into the cargo bay.

DON’T WORRY! I WILL GET YOUR HELMET AND MOST TREASURED WEAPON!

Orion called and I chuckled to myself, he did not have to pick up after me, I was going to be up most the night watching the horizon. “He even set some bedding up, what a good little light” I chuckled. “Take your pick as to where you want to sleep, I will be keeping watch” I said to Eva who approached one of the sleeping bags, carefully sitting on it and looking to me.

“Thank you… Even if I had made it to the coast and found a boat, I would not have known where to go from there. You have saved my life” Eva said, tears welling up in her eyes.

“It is my job to help and protect those who need it… Now, I am not doing a fire tonight in case it alerts someone to the location of the camp so I cannot do you a hot meal or drink, though I do have some ice-cream and strawberry milk” I said, Eva, looking at me a little confused and then to Storm.

Since her revival, all Eva has eaten is basic meals and the only drink she has had is water… She has never had a say in her food, where or when she sleeps or what she does in the daytime. This situation is very overwhelming for her, for me as well…

“That is fine… I understand, honestly, I do. So how about I get you the ice-cream and strawberry milk, you have that so you’ve got some food in you and then you can get some rest without having to worry about anyone finding you” I said, both Storm and Eva nodding.

I then headed back out, Orion staring off into the distance, clearly focusing on one spot in particular. “What is it?” I asked walking over to him, my rifle materialising on the crates in front of me.

I am not sure. But someone is out there, watching us… A light bearer, I can sense them.

I grabbed my rifle and got into a position where I could rest it on the crates, so it was steady and then I scanned the horizon through the scope. Nothing. Not even the wild dogs I had spotted earlier.

Try looking to the east a bit more…

I simply turned to scan the eastern horizon. Once again there was nothing. “Orion, I cannot see anything out there… Not even any wildlife” I said, focusing on a group of trees, if someone was going to hide out and watch us, there would be the best place to do it from.

I can sense them Sera, they are out there, and they are watching us. I don’t know how to explain it to you…

I sighed and sat for another few moments carefully watching the trees when a flash of light caught my eye… And then again. I focused on the light, it was moving, it was a Ghost… It had to be. “I see their Ghost. They are either really stupid or really mad. They are doing the same bobbing thing you do when you yell at me. Just moving up and down a bit and twisting their shells loads” I said, Orion, coming to float closer to me.

Can you see the light bearer?

“No, all I can see if the light from the Ghost when their shell twists a certain way… They’re either hidden very well or a Hunter, I know when I use my smoke bombs, I don’t show up on night vision scopes and only just show up on thermal imaging” I said.

Do you think they know you are watching them?

“I haven’t a clue, possibly, possibly not. I don’t want to risk shooting at them in case they are not alone, or I miss… Or they are not from the settlement” I sighed, watching the light appear then vanish before reappearing and vanishing again.

What do you want to do?

“Keep an eye on that area, if you see any movement alert me immediately. I am going to take Eva some food, just be ready to take the ship to orbit at a moments notice” I said moving to stand up, Orion looking to me and nodding before looking back out to the group of trees.

“Eva does not have any armour or weapons, so if we are taken by surprise in the night, make sure she stays on the ship and take her to orbit. Then send a message requesting back up and our co-ordinates. OK?” I asked as I rummaged through one of my refrigerated crates for the strawberry milk.

Are you sure? Why not take us all to orbit and head for the last city?

“Because I want to make-sure whoever kept her captive for two years pays for it” I said standing up as I found the ice-cream and milk, closing the crate before heading back to the ship.

Very well… Though let it be known that I do not support that idea

“Consider it known” I chuckled as I headed into the cargo bay, Eva sat on her sleeping bag just looking around whilst Storm was darting all over the place. Probably being nosey, not that there was anything of great interest in the cargo bay.

Sera… Do you have any images of the last city? I want to show Eva what it looks like. I haven’t been in so long. I haven’t even heard any news since Osiris was banished…

“Oh… You don’t know anything that happened since then?” I asked and Storm looked at me a little confused as I handed the food and drink to Eva who happily accepted it.

No, I know something happened not too long ago, all the light bearers lost their connection to the light for some time, but no one seemed to know what caused it. All I know is when it was restored, I knew the Traveller was awake again.

“The city was attacked by Cabal… The Red Legion. They put some sort of device around the Traveller, cutting off our connection to it… So many Guardians were slaughtered. I managed to get my light back after travelling to the forbidden zone… We retook the city from the Red Legion, and I killed their leader… Ghaul…” I sighed, perching on one of the crates and leaning back against the cargo bay wall.

Oh… I imagine everyone lost friends and family

“Ghaul murdered my fireteam right before my eyes before attempting to murder me… I don’t know how I survived, but I did. So many fireteams were wiped out or left broken… We also lost the Speaker, he was captured by Ghaul and then murdered” I said, Storm looking shocked.

“Who was the Speaker?” Eva asked I looked to her, greedily shovelling ice cream into her mouth, pulling a face as brain freeze hit.

“He spoke for the Traveller whilst it slept… He was an important part of the city, very important to Guardians. It was a big blow to lose him. I am just glad the Vanguard survived, even if Cayde did get himself stuck in some kind of Vex portal thing” I sighed.

Cayde… I thought Zavala took the place of Osiris…

“Commander Zavala did. And he still serves as the Vanguard Commander. However, Andal Brask was killed by a Fallen mercenary… Cayde-6 took his place. And Ikora Ray, she is the Warlock Vanguard” I said, Storm staring at me for a moment before floating down a little.

I cannot believe so much has changed and so many have been lost… Though I imagine the city has grown so much

“It has, it is beautiful… Especially the markets at night, they come alive with lights and people, it is breathtaking” I sighed, I did miss it, and I had only been away for a week. “I left a week ago and miss it already… Then again, I did leave abruptly to chase the signal Cayde had picked up” I sighed… That was a stupid decision.

I have not met many Hunters who miss the city after only a week in the wilds…

“I am not like most Hunters… Anyway, most Hunters don’t have a Titan waiting for them to come back” I sighed, Storm chuckling as she floated over to Eva who was relaxed back against one of the crates next to her sleeping bag.

“That was good… Thank you Sera” Eva muttered, letting out a yawn. I smiled to myself and looked back outside.

“I am going to go keep watch, you settle down and get some sleep. If anything happens the ship will go to orbit and you will be safe there, the co-ordinates for the last city are in the ship’s computer Storm. You should be able to access them easily and start an auto-piloted routine that will take you there” I said, Storm nodding at me as I walked down the ramp and back over to Orion.

I can’t sense them anymore; I think they have moved off

“Let us see shall we” I said as I looked down the scope once more, no light… No movement, nothing. And it stayed that way for a good five minutes…

How is Eva?

“She is settling down for the night… Storm didn’t know about Andal Brask being dead, or the attack on the city and death of the speaker. The last time she was in the city Osiris had just been banished and Zavala made commander.

A long-time then… I heard about that from another Ghost and their Guardian. I did not return to the city until I had found you… Many years later…

“That is a long time to be alone…” I said looking to Orion, he just shrugged and looked back out into the night.

It was worth it. Spending all that time searching for the right person to resurrect, who had a connection to the light that I felt was strong enough.

“And then you gave up and settled one me?” I joked, Orion, looking to me and coming to place his shell against my forehead.

And then I settled on you… Yes… The best Guardian a Ghost could have.

“You are such a softie” I chuckled bringing a hand up to hold him for a moment, closing my eyes and feeling the warmth that radiated from him.

Chapter Text

I blinked a few times, the cargo bay coming into focus as I woke up, the form of Eva in her sleeping bag on the other side of the cargo bay from me, both Ghosts resting on a crate by Eva. I glanced over towards the ramp of the cargo bay, it was just starting to get light, that meant I had managed two hours sleep, not too bad.

Sera… How did you sleep?

I looked over to Orion who was floating towards me, Storm now hovering above Eva, just observing her Guardian sleeping. “I slept well. I am guessing there was no movement whilst I slept” I muttered, Orion shaking his shell.

Quiet as a Ghost

I just chuckled a little as I stretched and unwrapped myself, standing as quietly as I could and exiting the cargo bay without making a sound, Storm looking over to me, I just smiled at her.

“Give her a little longer” I whispered, Storm nodding and following me out of the cargo bay.

She has not slept so much in a long time; she barely slept the last few nights

“I am glad she feels safe enough to sleep… I am going to grab a few supplies to take with us whilst we scout out the settlement, once I have done that, I will probably start a fire and make a hot breakfast. If you don’t mind helping Orion load the cargo bay back up once Eva is awake that would be great Storm” I said, Storm nodding eagerly.

You have enough for a rather large sausage, bacon, egg and bean breakfast each since you have three packets left

I looked to Orion and nodded, he shot off to one of the crates and did his thing, pulling out the packets in question whilst I raided a smaller crate for snacks and two water bottles… Maybe three was better. I didn’t know how long Eva would want to go without water after all.

I thought Hunters usually hunted for their meals, you seem rather well set-up

“The area is not really of interest to the Fallen, Cabal or Hive and it was a mission that did not require me to follow a target, just to scout out a possible SOS beacon or possibly an enemy communication beacon, we had no idea what it was,” I said placing the supplies next to the campfire whilst I bent down to get that going.

Oh, so what do you usually take when you know you are going to do a long stint in the wilds?

“Other than my weapons? A bow, a knife and Orion, anything else just weighs me down” I replied as I got the fire going, piling some fresh twigs atop the existing pile. Orion flying over, the three packets I needed appearing on the floor next to me as he scanned each crate in the camp.

How are you going to cook those without any pots or pans?

She is going to stab the packet and then hold it over the fire, turning it now and then and hope for the best… It is a miracle I still have a Guardian really.

Oh…

“Pots and pans are just another thing to weigh me down. And I am not carrying a crate of kitchen supplies around with me in place of my spare ammo crate much to Orion’s annoyance” I sighed, picking up on of the packets, taking out my knife and stabbing three tiny holes into each side of the packet.

As I went about heating up what could be loosely described as food in the packets, I started to hear movement in the cargo bay and after a few minutes, Eva peeked her head out and glanced over at us. Once she seemed to realise we were all around the fire and it was safe she came over to join us, sitting next to me.

“I thought you were not going to do a fire in case it alerts others to our location?” she asked, glancing around, I smiled at her and then back to the packets in my hand.

“That was at night, now the sun is up it will not be as obvious that someone has a fire going, also given that my ship is right there it is easy enough for us to get away and for me to destroy any evidence of where I am from in the process” I said, Eva looking to me confused for a moment. “We don’t want anyone knowing you are in the last city, it could invite another attack or prompt them to try and infiltrate the city to try and find you and kidnap you” I said, Eva simply nodding.

Did you sleep well? I hope it was not too cold in the cargo bay for you

“Oh, no, it was fine. It was nice to be able to sleep somewhere I knew I was safe… Did you get any sleep Sera?” Eva asked and I nodded as I pulled the packets back from over the fire, tearing one open a little and smiling as a puff of steam escaped.

“I got some sleep, now here you go. Careful, it is hot” I said passing Eva one of the packets which she carefully took before looking around for something to eat it with. Orion thankfully producing a fork for her, and one for me, though he knew I was happy to just use the packet like a cup and slurp it down.

Now you have woken myself and Storm will pack the crates I have tagged into the cargo bay and then you can burn the rest Sera.

I just looked up to Orion and nodded as I opened my breakfast packet and dug in. As usual it was bland, the taste of slightly meaty warm water that made me miss Zavala’s cooking even more… Going back was going to be interesting. Especially after what happened the day I left.

_____

“I am not going to stay here and be treated like the villain! When you’ve calmed down and can talk to me like an adult come find me!” I snapped heading towards the door, grabbing my cloak as I went, clasping it into my armour.

“For crying out loud Serafina! You are the one who needs to calm down. You lied to me! You lied to me and went behind my back!” Zavala snapped, I stopped, taking a deep breath before turning around to face him.

“No. I did not lie to you. I told you Ikora asked me to look into something, which is the truth. She asked me as a Vanguard to a Guardian, she also requested I keep it between us, as a Vanguard to a Guardian. If you feel just because you are the Vanguard Commander and my partner that you are entitled to know what work I do for the other Vanguard or for Lakshmi you are in for a rude awakening Zavala. Just because we are a couple and we work together it does not afford either of us any favouritism! And if you cannot see that, well that is on you. Not me” I said, managing to lower my voice towards the end of my rant.

“How much do you keep a secret from me Serafina?” Zavala asked, folding his arms over his chest. I just rolled my eyes and turned to the door, opening it, turning to look at Zavala.

“When you can be an adult about this, and not go using my full name because you know I hate that, then we can talk… And you can also come clean about all your secrets. And do not even dare insult me by denying you don’t have any” I rather harshly said before walking out and slamming the door behind me. An oddly satisfying feeling.

I sighed and made my way up to the plaza, thankfully the hallway and elevator were empty, giving me time to calm down a little, Orion remaining suspiciously quiet, Neptune had been rather quiet as well. Usually, they took a side… Oh well. Maybe Cayde could help cheer me up a little.

“Let Cayde know to break out the playing cards Orion” I sighed as I stepped off the elevator, immediately making my way towards the hangar, avoiding making eye contact with anyone I knew as I really did not want to get caught up in a conversation right now.

Done… Should I have said something? In the apartment I mean… During the argument…

I looked to Orion who was looking at me, clearly concerned about what had taken place. “Orion don’t worry about it. You and Neptune shouldn’t be worrying about whether or not you should be getting involved in mine and Zavala’s arguments” I said, Orion simply nodding as we entered the hangar, Cayde staring intently at a datapad. Only glancing up when I stopped in front of him.

“Ah! Sera! Sorry… Oh! Actually! Good timing! I need you to head out to South Africa for me!” Cayde said, the tone of his voice going up and down as he spoke.

“What do you need me to go to South Africa for?” I asked crossing my arms and smirking at him. He may not have intended to, but he had just cheered me up a fair bit.

“Mystery signal, could be an SOS, could be an enemy transmission, can’t tell. Traced it back to South Africa, but there are several signals coming out of there, some may just be boosters for the signal whilst one is the main beacon, or it could be various different signals and they are all interfering with one another causing a scramble of letters that I cannot make heads or tails of!” Cayde sighed passing me the datapad, Orion looking at it with great interest.

“Sure thing, should not take too long… A few days at most” I said, Orion suddenly looking from the datapad to me a little shocked.

But you told Zavala to come to find you later…

“I said he could come to find me when he calmed down, may as well give him a few thousand miles to calm down. Anyway, he should have learnt by now that if he pisses me off he isn’t going to see me for a few days” I sighed, Cayde looking at us both, his optics widening.

“You and our wonderful commander have a fight? Been a while since he annoyed you enough that you took off for a few days… I believe last time was over soap was it not? Oh no! Did he use the last of that lovely shampoo I gave you last month?” Cayde asked, sounding genuinely upset at the prospect of Zavala having finished off my shampoo.

“No. He feels I should have told him that Ikora asked me to investigate what was going on with Osiris on Mercury and not to tell him or yourself” I said, Cayde pausing a moment and looking to me.

“Is that all? Just throw the old ‘I was doing my duty as a Guardian and following the orders of a member of the Vanguard!’ and he should back right off” Cayde said, shrugging as he leant back against the framework of his little station.

“Tried that when he first bought it up when I came back from Mercury with Ikora. You saw how pissed off he was at us both. And he was even more pissed off at the fact neither of us seemed to care” I said, Cayde chuckling as he nodded. “He feels that as my partner he had the right to know… Just because we share a bed it does not mean he is entitled to know what work I am doing for you, Ikora, Lakshmi or whoever else. Hopefully, a few days of thinking things over will help, that or I will come back and he will be even more pissed off” I said, Cayde shrugging.

“Either way it will be fine. If you want a quiet night when you get back, point him in the direction of my sofa. You’ll soon get an apology” Cayde chuckled.

You don’t have a sofa though Cayde… Oh! I see…

Both I and Cayde chuckling at Orion’s moment of realisation. “Anyway… South Africa, is it a minimal gear job or do I need to actually prep for this?”

_____

Sera, what do you think will happen when we get back to the city? How do you feel the Vanguard will react?

I looked up to Storm who was floating just in front of me. “Ummm, I don’t know. I am not aware of anything like this ever happening before” I stated, Storm simply nodding before looking to Eva and then going back to helping Orion. I sighed and looked to Eva who was demolishing her breakfast. “Don’t forget your second packet” I said, gesturing to the third packet resting against my boots. Eva smiled happily, picking the packet up, as soon as it was open she tucked in.

“Orion, when we head to the settlement I want us dropping a few miles out after a flyover,” I said, Orion looking over and nodding to me as I continued to eat my breakfast, my appetite not what it usually is though.

_

One Hour Later

_

“OK, that is it. Everything we are taking with us is back on the ship… And you are both sure those crates are empty?” I asked, Orion and Storm nodding at me. I just shrugged and chucked my grenade over my shoulder at the pile of crates and heading onto the ship. Eva watching wide-eyed from the cargo bay as the crates went up in flames as the incendiary grenade went off.

As the cargo bay shut the door to the cockpit slid open and I slipped in and took my seat, Eva standing in the doorway and looking over the control.

“That looks really confusing,” she said, and I smiled as I flicked a few different switches causing the engine to hum to life, Orion darting around the cockpit checking various things and flicking a few switches as well.

“It can be, to begin with, but most the time I don’t really do much flying, Orion takes care of that,” I said, Eva just nodding, clinging to my chair as the ship started to shift and move, taking off with relative ease to say I had not done a ground take-off in many, many years.

I have charted a course; we will go around the settlement to avoid being seen. Transmat down and transmat out as well.

“Perfect. Once we are on the ground stay close, do as I say when I say and keep an eye out, I will be busy looking down a scope if another Hunter is in the area, I may not know until too little too late” I said, looking back at Eva who nodded.

“OK. I can do that” Eva said, her tone letting me know she was trying to reassure herself more than me.

“Good. Because if you are going to be a Guardian you need to be able to watch your teams back” I said, Eva nodding and looking to Storm. It seems like they had a good relationship which was nice, it was important to have a strong bond with your Ghost.

“City-Hawk Seven-Nine-Four… Come in. You are due a check-in” a voice crackled over the ships radio, I looked to Orion who nodded, confirming it was the tower.

“City-Hawk Seven-Nine-Four checking in. Returning to the nest before sundown or sun-up dependant on time zone difference. Radio silence requested” I replied, a moment of silence followed and then a short sharp beep. Good. I hated having to explain why I wanted radio silence to a nosey idiot on the other end of the radio.

I did not think Hunters had to check in after just a week in the wilds… Isn’t it something like a month?

“They don’t, it is three weeks… Zavala probably wanted to check I was OK. He obviously just didn’t feel like messaging me himself” I commented. Orion simply nodding and silence fell as we entered orbit before coming back down to transmat out of the ship.

Have you ever experienced transmat before Eva?

I looked to Orion and then to Eva who shook her head. “You may feel a little sick afterwards, after a few times it shouldn’t bother you though” I said, Eva making a small concerned sound but just nodded. I smiled to myself as I bought us round to where we would transmat down. Eva gripping the chair even tighter than before judging by the colour of her knuckles.

It will be fine… Ready Sera?

Orion asked and I nodded as I flipped a few switches to stick autopilot on. Once I had done that I found myself stood on the ground below us as the ship made it's way back into orbit. Eva grabbing onto my arm, she looked a little pale but did not throw up. “How are you feeling?” I asked, Eva looking up to make and taking a few deep breaths.

“OK. I don’t think I am going to throw up…” she muttered, I nodded, passed her a bottle of water and started walking towards the settlement, I wanted some decent cover to observe it from and it looked like there was a decent patch of foliage not too far out that we could observe them from without being seen.

Storm: How long do you think we will observe the settlement for before heading back to the city?

“I am not sure, a few hours maybe. It will be before sundown here though for sure” I said, Storm nodding as we fell into what seemed like a comfortable silence as we made our way towards the area I would observe the settlement from.

Radar is looking clear as we approach. No reports of other Guardians in the area either so we should not be disturbed.

“Good… Keep an eye out though, we don’t know who may be around” I said, Orion nodding as we reached our desired location, and I quickly found a spot to set up and got comfy whilst Eva sat up against a tree so she would be out of sight of anyone who may be looking back.

I looked at the base of the settlement’s walls, no holes on this section. Though the wall was clearly in need of some repairs in places as cracks were forming and the metal was rusting. As I surveyed the top of the wall I noticed several rather large guns. Similar to those the city had mounted on its walls. “Eva… The guns, are they functional?” I asked, glancing to her as she nodded.

“They are tested about once a week, maybe a little less” she said, and I nodded and went back to looking down the scope. There seemed to be people patrolling the top of the wall, though I saw no signs of Ghosts, so they obviously were not light-bearers.

“The people patrolling the top of the wall. I assume they are not light-bearers” I said, Eva nodding, confirming what I had already guessed at. I went back to watching the wall, making note of how long it was between a guard patrolling the area. After about two hours of Eva and the Ghosts talking amongst themselves, I sighed and looked to Orion.

“They have no set patrol pattern by the looks of it. They are either really disorganised or they do it to make it harder for people to get in or out” I sighed, Orion twisting his shell and peeking out from behind the tree in the direction of the wall.

Given how big the settlement is and the fact it has flown under our radar for so long suggests it is tactical, or they are having an off day

“Possible, but it has been two hours of very random patrolling… And I have not seen anyone come in or out of the gate in this area” I sighed, Eva looking to me.

“Most patrols are out for two to three days, though one usually leaves a day and a few return with supplies they steal from the Fallen or from other areas. Now and then a patrol takes a ship out to the surrounding countries and takes supplies from there…” she said, and I nodded, so they had ships. Though there were none sat in orbit, and none appeared to be on the ground in the area.

“Where are the ships?” I asked, Eva shrugged and looked to Storm who seemed just as clueless as to the location of the ships. “OK. We will stick around a little longer and then head back. Remember, keep your eyes peeled and watch my back” I said, going back to looking down my scope, making use of the photo function on the scope.

Sera, I am picking up movement on the radar. Closing in on our location at walking speed…

“Direction?” I asked.

East.

I shifted slightly and looked down my scope, trying to get a line of sight on the individual moving towards us. After surveying the horizon for a moment a silhouette came into view, though I could not make out any fine details… Just the clear silhouette of a Hunter. “OK. Time to take our leave I think” I said, looking back to Orion who nodded and before I could blink myself and Eva were back on the ship and in the cargo bay.

“Are you sure the nausea stops after a few times?” Eva asked, taking a few deep breaths as I made my way to the cockpit, flipping a few switches, putting in the tower coordinates and then hitting autopilot.

“I promise, it just takes time to get used to… Took me about, what, ten trips before I got used to it” I said, Orion nodding as Eva and Storm came to stand behind me. Eva looking out the cockpit viewing window in awe.

“It is beautiful… Is that, the Moon?” she asked as the ship turned, the Moon coming into view as the ship shifted and began its journey back into Earth’s lower atmosphere.

“Yeah, it is beautiful. Just a shame it is overrun by Hive, otherwise, I may have been able to be convinced to stop by the Moon on our way back” I sighed, Eva looking at me wide-eyed before looking back to the Moon, watching it vanish from our view.

“The only times I was allowed outside of the main building was at night, on clear nights I used to love looking at the Moon and stars. Though once Dredgen realised I enjoyed it he stopped me going out at all. He wanted to break my morale. Break me… But I had a window in my room so I would stare out of that every night” Eva said.

“Dredgen… As in Dredgen Yor?” I asked, glancing back to Eva who nodded, Orion looking to me clearly as shocked as I was.

Dredgen Yor is dead though. Shin Malphur killed him…

“And prior to being killed by Shin Malphur he had abandoned his Ghost on Mars… He was not resurrected after Dwindler’s Ridge…” I said, flicking a few switches, initiating auto-pilot and shifting in my seat to look at Eva properly.

Are you sure he was called Dredgen Yor and not simply a Follower of Yor?

We are certain. He went by the name Dredgen Yor and the other light-bearers were called Followers of Yor. Though they were clearly afraid of him, they did not exactly look up to him. However, as Sera said, Dredgen Yor was killed at Dwindler’s Ridge. And I do not believe this was the original Dredgen Yor.

What makes you think that?

Firstly, though I never saw them, he has a Ghost. I could sense them. Also, he isn’t a Titan, he is a Warlock. Though, I do believe he is someone who has followed his teaching’s closely and has items once belonging to Dredgen Yor, such as journals and marks… He can also do Hive magic.

Sera, this is not good news. There is a reason the use of even a cleansed replica of Thorn is restricted in crucible. There is a reason Ikora investigated the Followers of Yor, and there is a reason Shin Malphur hunted down and killed Dredgen Yor.

“I know. When we get back we will have to chat with the Vanguard. A Guardian using Hive magic and holding others hostage is not ideal” I said, Orion nodding as we came upon the coast meaning we were only about ten minutes out from the Tower. Orion glancing to me and nodding as we flew over the coast.

Opening a channel to the Tower.

“City-Hawk Seven-Four-Nine on approach. Ten minutes out. No damages to report. Ground take off undertaken. Full hydraulics check required.” I said, the comms buzzing for a second before a voice replied.

“Received. Hanger bay seven is ready to receive you” Amanda’s voice replied, and I let the comms fall silent before turning to Eva and Storm. “OK. I don’t know what the reaction is going to be to a child Guardian, so I am going to allow the Vanguard to decide what to do before anyone else finds out. So, Storm if you could hide whilst we head through the Tower. I will get the Vanguard to met us at my apartment though, so you don’t have to stay hidden long” I said, and Storm nodded, obviously understanding my concerns, however, Eva looked confused.

“I would feel more comfortable with Storm by my side” Eva protested, though before I could explain why it would be best she was not visible Storm stepped in.

Eva, it won’t be for long. And it will be for the best. Also, we don’t know if Dredgen has people in the Tower, if they spot a child with a Ghost they will alert him, then neither us nor those protecting us will be safe.

Eva sighed, obviously not keen on the idea but relented and nodded as the city began to come into view.

“Home sweet home” I sighed, Eva and Storm both looking out the window. Eva had a look of awe on her face whilst Storm seemed to be processing it all, her shell was spinning rather fast as she looked out over the city.

It has been so long. It has grown so much… Oh, and the Traveller! I have not been this close to them in years. Being this close, I can feel his Light!

It was overwhelming being right next to him as he awoke. The blast of light that hit us… I had never felt so much Light.

I can only imagine…

“I didn’t think the last city would be so big…” Eva muttered as we flew over the walls, a few other ships making their way out, spinning as they passed me in a greeting.

“I wish you could have seen it before the Cabal attacked… Though how much we have rebuilt, it is awe-inspiring. It makes me proud to defend it and our way of life” I said, swinging round the back go the old Tower to enter the hangar bay. Storm sighing as she hid, obviously upset she would not get to marvel at the Tower as we walked through it.

“OK, if anyone asks Eva I found you whilst in South Africa and you are the lone survivor of a Fallen attack on a settlement” I said, Eva looking to me and nodding as we came to a halt and Orion transmatted us down. Eva still obviously not used to the stomach-churning sensation as she grabbed me and held onto my arm for a moment before letting out a shaky breath.

“You are good… Come on, we can get you some proper food once we get to my apartment, actual hot food” I said, Eva smiled at me and we started to make our way across the hangar bay, only stopping by Cayde who glanced to Eva and then back to me.

“Could you, Ikora and Zavala meet me at my apartment, please. I have something important and worrying to tell the Vanguard” I said, Cayde’s eyes lighting up as he made an intrigued noise.

“Of course, I love a good mystery and a surprise! I shall see you soon my lovely lady hunter!” Cayde chuckled, I just smiled and guided Eva out of the Hangar bay and towards the lift to the apartments. Most Guardians just passing by us, only glancing at Eva. Some making comments to their fellow Guardians or Ghosts about how it must be hard for a child to be found in the wilds and bought back here. At least none thought she was a Guardian.

However just as we were approaching the lift a Titan I vaguely recognised stopped in front of me, smiling at me and down at Eva. “Morning Serafina… Didn’t think I would ever see you wandering the tower with a child, showing them around?” he asked, a small chuckle as he smiled down at Eva.

“Taking her to my apartment for some food and so I can speak with the commander about contacting the city orphanage… Eva here is the sole survivor of a Fallen raid on the settlement she was born and raised in. I found her in a tree, it is how she survived…” I said, Eva, staying rather close to me, looking around at everything, either actually overwhelmed or playing the part very well.

“That is awful. Well hopefully the day will come when we push the Fallen out of this galaxy and can rebuild our civilisation, and they won’t be able to harm you or anyone else again” he said to Eva, she simply nodded in response.

“We all look forward to that day… Anyway, I will see you around” I said, nodding to him as I scooted around him and to the elevators. A sigh of relief escaping my lips as an empty elevator arrived.

Chapter Text

Once we got to my apartment I made Eva some juice and heated up some soup and cut some bread for her. Storm busying herself looking around my apartment with Orion.

“Here you go. Some hot food” I said, smiling as Eva tucked straight in whilst I headed into the bedroom and rid myself of my armour and undersuit, putting on a tank top and a pair of shorts in its place. Though it was fairly obvious I needed a proper shower judging from the streaks of dirt and dried blood on my skin.

“He better had bought wet wipes” I muttered to myself, making my way into the bathroom, rather disappointed to see none. Though my flannel was on the side of the bath so I just grabbed that, ran the hot tap on the sink and did the best I could with the limited time I had.

Sera, Neptune just informed me they are on their way down.

Orion stated as I headed back into the main area of the apartment, Eva still tucking into her soup. “OK. Let them in when they get here, I am just going to try and find some clothes that may fit Eva” I said before heading back into the bedroom and raiding my draws.

I had some smaller t-shirts that would fit her, though I doubted any of my shorts would. They were made for the form of an adult woman. Though I may have some that had drawstrings so they could be tightened to fit Eva. After a few more minutes I had a few t-shirts and two pairs of shorts that may be suitable for Eva. Though the sound of the door opening halted my search and I went through into the living room, the three Vanguard entering.

“As requested, the vanguard in your apartment… Where there is a child. Sera, you have a child in your apartment” Cayde said as he walked in, Eva looking to me a little unsure of what to do. Storm close by her side.

“What is so important that we had to abandon our duties?” Ikora asked as I gestured for them to take a seat, closing the door behind Zavala, his hand brushing against my leg as he entered causing me to smile a little.

“This is Eva, she was held captive by a Hive magic-wielding individual going by Dredgen Yor who has a well-fortified settlement in South Africa. For the past two years, all Eva has known is what was within the walls of his settlement with his followers… Now the reason he was keeping a child captive is because Eva is a Guardian, this is her Ghost, Storm” I said, gesturing to Eva and Storm, the three members of the vanguard looking confused or a moment before looking to one another and then back to myself.

“The Followers of Yor were in Madagascar a few years ago, though my Hidden did not believe them to be a threat so I refocused my attention on Osiris’ followers… I should not have been so foolish. We could have avoided what must have been a distressing situation for both you and your Ghost” Ikora said, looking over at Eva who was still sitting at the table.

“You could not have known such a thing would happen Ikora… Though my question is, who else is out there? We all know the original Dredgen Yor was killed by Shin Malphur, I mean, assuming this is an imposter and the real one has not come back from the dead, so it would make sense that anyone calling themselves Dredgen Yor would attract a certain Hunter’s attention” Cayde said. I nodded, it would make sense, though I had seen no sign of the Hunter. As far as I was aware he had not been seen in years. “As for Eva being, well a child, I am still unsure about how I feel… I mean, whilst you are physically a child, the real question is how old mentally you are, would you be mature enough to handle the world outside these walls” Cayde sighed, Eva looking to me and then back to Cayde.

“Eva is rather mature, she spent two years as a prisoner, managed to stay alive through that and she orchestrated an escape at a moment’s notice, made wise choices and can think on her feet…” I said, Cayde nodding. Though before either of us could say anything else Eva spoke.

“Shin Malphur, they’re in South Africa. A scout once reported to Dredgen he had been spotted not far from the settlement. Dredgen did not come out of his private chambers for a week, increased security around the settlement and had all the snipers on guard pretty much all night and day. Though he didn’t trust them, they were watched by others every moment of every day” Eva said, Cayde looking to me and then back to Eva.

“Were all the sniper's Hunters? In cloaks?” he asked, Eva thinking for a moment before nodding.

Dredgen did not trust Hunters, he always said it was because they had not loyalty, would leave a fireteam at a moments notice to save their own hide. That none would be allowed to personally guard him. Only Titans. He feared Shin Malphur may use a false name to enter the settlement or he may send in Hunter’s who he works with.

“So, he is an imposter, not the original Dredgen Yor” Cayde said, Ikora nodding.

“No, the real Dredgen would know what Shin Malphur looks like” Ikora added and Storm nodded.

Yes. He has a Ghost as well. And is a Warlock, not a Titan. However, I believe he knew the original Dredgen as you refer to him. He has journals, notes, all sorts that I believe were his.

The room fell silent for a moment, Eva glancing nervously to Zavala now and then, Zavala himself looking deep in thought. I took a few slow breaths, closing my eyes and focusing on Zavala, nudging the edge of his mind before retreating again. Opening my eyes to see him looking at me. A raise of the brows giving him the hint he needed.

“Eva, I am Commander Zavala… Could you tell me about the settlement and how you came to escape it and meet Serafina” he asked, Eva nodding slowly before regaling them with the same series of events she had me. Of course, adding on how we came to meet, Cayde chuckling at the part where she said she was fully prepared to fight me to the death to keep her freedom.

“Very well… Storm, may I ask how it came to be that you resurrected a child?” Zavala then asked, Storm nodding and floating a little closer to the four of us.

I felt the pull of the Light in a burnt-out village near the border of Lesotho, the village was in ruins, it had been ransacked and burnt to the ground many years prior… I came across a pile of skeletons. I could not tell an adult from a child, a man from a woman nor human from Fallen. Whoever had won the battle for the village had piled all the bodies together. I was as surprised as any when I resurrected a child.

“Thank you… Whilst none of us have ever heard of, nor met another child Guardian, I doubt you are the only one. And if that is the case, I feel we need to find them before this Dredgen Yor imposter, or another like him. I am also concerned about how a child Guardian will be received by others… It is not like it is something that can be undone, that can be righted if seen as wrong… And will a fireteam wish to work with a child Guardian?” Zavala said and I sighed, walking over to Eva and placing a hand on her shoulder.

“I know this must be a lot for you… How do you feel about it?” I asked, Eva looking up to me and taking a deep breath in.

“I understand why the commander is concerned, I don’t think all the Guardians in the settlement approved of a child Guardian, I imagine that will be the same here. Though I am willing to help, in whatever way I can… Though I have fought Fallen and Hive, I have died and been resurrected. I know how to use my size to my advantage and though I lack physical strength I make up for that with my agility and speed” she said, and I chuckled.

“You sure you are not a Hunter” I said, picking her empty glass up and taking it to the kitchen to get her another drink. “Though given all Eva has been through, I feel some of your questions can be answered at a later date… For now, she needs somewhere to stay as my apartment is not suitable” I said, the others nodding in agreement. Especially Zavala.

“What about with Suraya? She has a large apartment with two bedrooms, it would be far more suitable” Ikora stated and I nodded.

“Why can’t I stay here? I trust Sera, I want to stay with her” Eva said suddenly, and I looked to her and sighed as I walked back over to her, placing her drink down on the table.

“My apartment is not suitable, it is small enough as it is, and I already live with another Guardian, and he will be here leaving very little room” I said, Eva looking at me a little unsure for a moment before glancing to my bedroom door.

“You only have one bed…” she muttered, and I nodded, a moment of realisation hitting her as her brows rose before she sighed and nodded. “OK. I will stay with Suraya…” she said, and I nodded, Cayde already halfway through sending a message to Suraya.

“OK… Whilst we wait, do you have any questions for Commander Zavala, Ikora or Cayde?” I asked moving to lean against the wall whilst Eva looked to me and then back to the vanguard.

“Are you sure I will be safe here?” Eva asked, Ikora opting to answer the question before Cayde’s sarcasm or Zavala’s a little too brutal honesty got in there.

“We will do everything we can to ensure you are kept safe, I will have those who work with me dig into every Guardian in the city to ensure none are Followers of Yor, and if there are any within the city, they will be dealt with” Ikora stated, Eva nodding.

“Will I have to stay with Suraya in their apartment? Or can I see the city, see the tower?” Eva then asked and I looked to Zavala who took a deep breath in before releasing it.

“You will not be confined to an apartment. You may see certain areas of the tower, some areas are unsafe, private or still being renovated… and you can explore the city, both with a guide, be it Suraya or one of us” he said, and Eva nodded, looking to me.

“Would you take me to see the city?” Eva asked and I looked to her and opened my mouth before closing it again.

“If I have the time, yes. I will” I said, Cayde letting out a small chuckle at my obvious uncertainty. When I had found Eva, I had not expected to be interacting with her much past getting her back to the city and to somewhere safe where she could figure out where she wanted to go from here.

Before any more questions could be asked a sharp knock on the door caught our attention and Cayde stood and opened the door, allowing Suraya in. She surveyed the room, her eyes resting on Eva a moment before looking to me and then to Zavala.

“No Suraya that is not what is going on here” I said before she could even ask any questions, a smirk playing on her face for a moment. “I found Eva in South Africa; she had been held captive by a warlord light bearer following the teachings of a dead corrupted Guardian. I bought her back here as she is a Guardian as well, and she needs somewhere to stay until we can figure out the best course of action” I said, Suraya looking at me a little wide-eyed before looking to the Vanguard.

“You want me to look after a child Guardian? Why me?” she asked.

“We need someone we can trust. And our apartments are not suitable, Cayde’s because, it is Cayde, Zavala’s is too small and I have various artefacts, books and very little furniture” Ikora stated, Suraya nodded for a moment.

“Though, why can’t you trust another Guardian?” she asked, I sighed and pushed myself off of the wall.

“Ever heard the tale Dredgen Yor and Shin Malphur?” I asked, Suraya looking to me and nodding. “Well, the guy who held her captive goes by Dredgen Yor, we believe he is one of the original Dredgen’s followers. And the Followers of Yor are still around today. There is no knowing if a Guardian has any affiliations with them. You, however, certainly do not given what Dredgen Yor did when alive” I said, Suraya looking to me and nodding.

“You mean, abused the power of the Light to murder innocent men, women and children who were powerless to fight back because they were not chosen by the traveller, who seems to allow the resurrection of children is seems… Which I hope you have issues with” Suraya said, looking to the three Vanguard as the last statement left her lips.

“We do… Though right now we can do nothing about that” I said, Suraya looked to me and sighed, her expression changing to a soft, all be it slightly tired, smile.

“She can stay with me… Though I am going to need financial compensation to get her clothing and food, I don’t have much in the way of savings to draw from” she said, and Zavala nodded.

“Of course, I will sort that for you as soon as possible” he said after that everyone went about sorting out times to meet and talk about the situation whilst I put the clothes I had picked out earlier in a bag for Eva and gave them her.

“They probably won’t fit that well, but it is better than nothing in the meantime. And if you need anything, get Strom to contact me. OK?” I asked, Eva, nodded and gave me a hug which I returned.

“Thank you for helping me” she whispered, and I smiled and hugged her a little tighter before her and Suraya headed off, Ikora and Cayde taking their leave too, leaving myself and Zavala alone together for the first time since our argument. 

Chapter Text

I sighed as I shut the door behind Cayde and Ikora, taking a moment before turning to look at Zavala. Though before I could think of anything to say to him he stood and silently made his way over to me, enveloping me in a tight hug. I took a deep breath in before wrapping my arms around him and closing my eyes, letting my breath out as I did so. It was good to be back in his arms, my tension and anxiety melting away.

As I relaxed into the hug I felt a presence at the edge of my mind. I took a deep breath, calmed my mind as best as I could before I granted Zavala access.

_____

A wave of regret hit me as I let Zavala link with me, regret at not taking the time to see my side of things. Regret at making assumptions about our professional life in relation to our personal life together.

Before I could respond with my own emotions Zavala opened up a memory to me. Of after I left our apartment a week ago.

_

Well. That went well. You know. Calling her a child and a liar.

“Not now Neptune” Zavala sighed as he walked towards the kitchen. Neptune following him, coming to float in front of him.

No. NOW! Sera was in the right. The issue was a work one. You should not have dragged it into your personal life. She did as she was asked by a member of the Vanguard. Like most Guardians do. You ask Guardians to do things and not inform the other Vanguard of it all the time! And just because you two live together and are in a relationship, it does not afford you any exceptions!

“Are you done?” Zavala asked, moving around Neptune to start making himself a drink.

No! Not even close! You were so rude to her! Calling her childish and basically calling her a liar. I am not sure how she restrained herself from throwing something at you. I wanted to throw something at you! And I am YOUR GHOST! I don’t want to be the Ghost who needs to whack sense into their Guardian when he is being… quite frankly, and ASSHOLE to those he loves! How do you think you made her feel! Having the man she loves calling her childish, calling her a liar.

Once Neptune had finished, Zavala turned to look at him, clearly tired and looking rather stressed. More so than usual.

“I know I was wrong. I know I should not have said what I did. And once we have both cooled off I will go and find her; apologise and hope she can forgive me… I was an asshole to her. I know that. And I am sorry to you as well” Zavala sighed, Neptune letting out a sigh before moving a little closer to Zavala and resting his shell against his forehead.

Good… And I forgive you. And I am sure Sera will as well.

“Thank you Neptune” Zavala sighed, Neptune finally moving to allow him to make his drink.

_____

I looked up to Zavala, bringing my hands up to cup his cheeks, pulling him down and into a kiss. It felt right, being back in his arms, having his lips on mine and being home with him.

“I forgive you Zavala… I just hope you can forgive me for leaving as I did. I should have told you myself. Not let you find out through Cayde” I sighed as I pulled back, moving towards the sofa. Zavala following suit and sitting next to me on the sofa, brushing a stray hair from my face causing me to smile.

“I forgive you; you were mad at me and presented with an opportunity to make a point and get back in the wilds,” he said and I chuckled, shifting to sit a little closer to him, his arm snaking around my shoulders and pulling me into him. “Also, it is a good job you went… Who knows what could have happened to Eva had you stayed in the Tower” Zavala then commented, and I nodded.

“Yeah… I am just glad I found her before anyone else. I cannot imagine what those two years must have been like for her. I mean, I don’t know if I would have rather gone through the Red War all over again or be someone’s captive for two years” I sighed.

“It cannot have been easy. Though hopefully, she feels safe within the city… I just have to figure out how we bring this to the attention of others. I imagine some will not have many positive things to say about a child guardian whilst some will want to use her abilities and size to their advantage. Especially the factions, having a child who no one would suspect to spy on others with, a child who could fit into spaces your average Guardian could not to gather intel and components…” Zavala sighed, letting his head rest against mine as I snuggled into him.

“I am glad I don’t have to worry about figuring that out… Though I think a more pressing matter is there is a light-bearer going around calling himself Dredgen Yor… And the fact that the settlement was extremely well defended and in possession of some advanced technology. It appeared to be lifeless on scans and those guns could easily shoot a ship out the sky” I sighed, Zavala making a sound of acknowledgement.

“Whilst you don’t have to figure it out, I may run ideas past you… Though you are right. Compared to the issue of someone calling themselves Dredgen Yor, it is not that much of a pressing matter” Zavala sighed, pausing for a moment before carrying on. “I suppose you want to be the one to deal with this new threat?” he asked, and I chuckled.

“You know me so well. I, Luca and Arjic can at least scout the area, gather more information and see if Cayde is right about Shin Malphur being close by. If what Eva told me is true about this Dredgen Yor, he won’t just let her walk away, and he probably won’t have any qualms about targeting the city… And whilst he cannot cause damage on the scale Ghaul did, we can’t risk another attack right now” I said, shifting so Zavala was forced to move his head and look down at me. “Let us be the ones to look into this… You know how we are one of the most experienced fireteams out there” I said, Zavala letting out a defeated sigh.

“Very well. Though once this is all dealt with, I want you home for at least a month… Just a week without you left me missing you like crazy… This could keep you away for much longer than a week” Zavala sighed, and I found myself smiling up at him.

“OK… Though you are going to have to spend that month making sure I don’t get bored” I chuckled, Zavala smirking at me as he moved one of his hands to my waist.

“I am sure I can manage that… Now, how about I show you just how much I have missed you” he said, his tone of voice getting lower as he leaned in to kiss me. I just melted into his touch, moaning into his lips.

Zavala… You have a meeting with Dead Orbit in ten minutes…
They are going to be a lot longer than ten minutes
You waited a week! You can wait a few more hours!
Neptune… They are not listening…

“Cancel the meeting Neptune!” I gasped as Zavala started to work his way down my neck, nibbling at certain spots as he went.

“Bedroom… Now” Zavala practically growled into my ear as my hands started to undo his armour. Though as he pulled back and looked at me I couldn’t help but let a whimper escape my lips, they look in his eyes letting me know I was in for a good time.

Chapter Text

I woke the next morning to Zavala running a shower and Orion and Neptune discussing the very passive-aggressive message sent to him by Arach Jalaal.

He obviously knows he blew him off to spend time with Sera
Yes. Though it is not something he has the courage to come out and say outright
True. And he won’t. He does not want to risk saying something that could result in Dead Orbit losing out on technology or information because he pissed off the Commander.
Well, we shall see when he swings by to see him later today
You will have to let me know how that goes.

“You two are such gossips” I chuckled as I worked up the energy to get out of bed and make myself a coffee.

Oh, I am sure you have an opinion on the matter

“I do. But I think your optics would explode if you heard the language I would use to convey it” I laughed, making my way into the living room and starting to make both myself and Zavala a coffee.

By the way Sera, both Arjic and Luca have said they can meet you for breakfast. They will be in the Bazaar in an hour.

“Thanks, Orion…” I smiled, heading back into the bedroom and getting dressed whilst the kettle boiled.

What are your plans for today after breakfast Sera?

Neptune asked as I re-entered the bedroom, shrugging as I rummaged through my draws looking for something to wear. “I don’t have any solid plans. Will see what needs doing after breakfast. Though I do need to see Lord Shaxx… I think he still has some of my gauntlets after that particularly messy crucible match” I said, throwing some clothes on.

The one where you got into a fight with a Titan who was cheating by using smoke bombs he had stolen off of a Hunter… Yeah. That was messy. Shaxx sent Zavala the footage. Though I must admit. I was impressed at your ability to hold your own against a Titan in a fistfight.

“It isn’t like it is that difficult to outmanoeuvre a Titan. They are slow as hell” I chuckled as I heard the shower stop running and Zavala entered the bedroom.

“That was not what you were saying last night” Zavala chuckled as he came up behind me, wrapping his arms around my waist and kissing my neck.

“Hmmm. Don’t start something you cannot finish Zavala” I breathed as I pushed my body back into his. Zavala chuckling as I did so.

“I could start something and then just leave for the day” he chuckled as I let my head roll back to rest on his shoulder.

NOPE! You have meetings in half an hour! Dressed! Now! Sera! Go finish making the coffees. I am not dealing with message after message asking where you are today mister!

Both I and Zavala burst out into laughter at Neptune’s outburst. Yesterday Zavala had not made it back up to the plaza. Anytime he attempted to try and go back to work I had dragged him back into bed.

“Very well” Zavala stated as he gave me one last squeeze and a kiss on the neck before moving over to his draws whilst I made my way back into the kitchen and finished making our coffees. 

“Do you think you will check up on Eva today?” Zavala asked as he exited the bedroom, accepting the coffee mug I held out in his direction.

“Maybe. I will have to see if I have a bit of time. Got a few things to do and a few people to check in with” I said, taking a sip of my coffee before starting to rummage through the cupboards, a few boxes of breakfast bars still at least. Though my chocolate bars had vanished. “Did you eat my chocolate bars Zavala?” I asked turning to look at him. He was sat on the sofa with his datapad trying not to look guilty.

He ate them the day of the argument… It started as just having one to all of a sudden all of them were gone.

“I was going to buy you some more, but I never got the chance” Zavala said, I just sighed and shook my head.

“Don’t worry about it, I will get some more next time I head down into the city… Though they were not cheap, so you will be paying me back” I said, Zavala simply nodding as he took a sip of his coffee. “Anyway, I best be going… I want to get food before it gets busy. I shall see you later” I said as I downed my coffee.

“OK. Have a good day and try and stay out of trouble” Zavala said as I walked past him, grabbing my boots and wrestling them on.

“When do I ever get into trouble!” I laughed, Zavala looking to me and raising a questioning brow. “Fine. I promise I won’t get into too much trouble. But you know me, trouble seems to follow me around” I chuckled, leaning over the sofa and placing a kiss on his lips.

“That is does. I shall see you later… And Sera. I love you” he said as I headed towards the door. I looked back at him and smiled.

“I love you too Zavala” I replied before heading out and making my way up to the Bazaar. Hopefully, it would not be too busy this early in the morning.

_

When I finally managed to step out the elevator I headed straight to the Bazaar, and despite the early hour, it was already getting busy. Though thankfully there were still tables free in the seating area.

As I climbed the stairs several Guardians heading down nodded their head to me in greeting, a few I Knew, a few probably just recognised me as the Guardian who took down Ghaul.

Looks like Luca has already acquired a table!

I looked to Orion as I reached the top of the steps, his gaze settling on one of the corner tables, a familiar Hunter sat staring over at me, raising his glass to me as I walked over, a few plates of food already laid out on the table.

“I hope you don’t mind, I ordered for everyone. I was getting hungry” he chuckled as I sat down, picking up a glass of water and taking a sip.

“I don’t mind… You picked some of my favourite thing” I chuckled, reaching for one of the pastries stacked on a plate, it was still warm and smelt distinctly of cinnamon. “I have spent a week eating ration packs, so to be fair, anything is an improvement” I chuckled, tearing the pastry in half before taking a bite.

“Even Cayde’s cooking is an improvement on rations” Luca chuckled, his eyes scanning the pastries momentarily before picking one and taking a rather generous bite.

“Why am I not surprised to find you two already eating?” a familiar voice asked as footsteps approached us. I looked up to see Arjic, he smiled at both of us and took a seat, quickly picking out two pastries he liked the look of.

“Where have you been? Your armour looks like it has taken a beating this morning” Luca commented causing me to glance to Arjic’s rather dusty and slightly torn robes.

“Oh, I spent the last few days on Mercury. I was giving Osiris a hand with a Vex issue in the forest” he said, and I nodded, swallowing the food that was in my mouth.

“He didn’t bore you to death then with his long-winded monologues” I chuckled, Luca smirking at my comment. He had never been fond of Osiris; he had made his dislike for the Warlock clear upon my return from Mercury.

“We get on… Maybe I am the grumpy Warlock whisperer” Arjic chuckled, both myself and Luca bursting out in laughter earning us a few stares from others sat nearby.

“Maybe so… Though whilst you two have been off having fun I have been cooped up for the past two weeks. I am itching to get outside the walls!” Luca sighed, taking another sip of his drink as Arjic dug into his food.

“I’ve not even been back twelve hours yet and I already want to get back out into the wilds” I sighed, pouring myself and Arjic a glass of water each as I spoke.

“Domestic life no longer sunshine and rainbows” Luca joked; I just rolled my eyes playfully at his comment.

“I am a Hunter, and whilst I love and adore Zavala I still need to spend time outside the walls, stretch my muscles and get some target practice in… And do you know what? The three of us are going to go and do just that” I said, Luca and Arjic looking to me, both smirking, the anticipation and excitement clear from their expressions.

“Whose ass are we going to kick this time?” Luca asked as Arjic looked at me expectantly whilst shoving another pastry into his mouth.

“What I am about to tell you, you cannot tell anyone else. OK?” I asked, both looking to one another and then back to me, nodding eagerly. “You promise me?” I asked, Arjic almost choking as he swallowed the food in his mouth.

“We promise, now spill” Arjic said, Luca chuckling and nodding in agreement.

“Whilst in South Africa I met another Guardian who had just escaped from a settlement. She informed me that the settlement was run by a Warlock calling themselves Dredgen Yor, this Dredgen has followers, light-bearers who do his dirty work for him by the sounds of it. So, we need to gather what information on this Dredgen as possible before he makes a move against the city, or to try and take the Guardian who escaped him back” I said, both my companions were hanging on to every word I said.

“That is not good. How long had he kept her his prisoner for?” Arjic asked.

“About two years she said. She had been a Guardian about a month or so I think before she came across his settlement. He invited her in, treated her as a guest, but before she knew it she was his prisoner” I sighed.

“Where is she now?” Luca asked.

“She came back with me. She is staying with Hawthorne at the minute. Though there is one very important details about her you need to know and that you cannot tell anyone else, so keep your traps shut about it OK?” I said, both Luca and Arjic nodded, leaning in a little closer. “Eva, the Guardian I rescued… Is a child” I said, both just staring at me blankly for a moment.

“As in… an actual… Child?” Luca asked and I nodded, Arjic looking even more confused.

“Like, born that way or the same the three of us are?” he asked, and I sighed.

“Same way as us three. The Vanguard is going to be announcing it at some point in the next few days so try not to let anything slip before then” I said, both of them nodding.

“Before they make the announcement though they need to hash out what they are going to be saying. Acknowledging that this is probably not a one-off, what her role will be within our community and so on and so forth… Though she wants to help. She is eager to be a Guardian” I said, Luca nodding whilst Arjic looked rather thoughtful.

“What do you think her role should be?” Luca then asked and I took a moment to think about it before sitting back and sighing.

“I am not one-hundred per cent sure, though I feel if she can show her maturity and that she can handle herself then let her do what she wants to do” I said, shrugging before taking another sip of my drink.

“I agree. As long as she doesn’t act like a kid and can conduct herself maturely, why not let her help?” Luca said, taking a bite of his pastry once he had finished.

“The whole idea of a Guardian is to keep people safe and children out of warzones, not put them into one. And she is a child after all” Arjic said, Luca shaking his head and placing his pastry back down on his plate before he could take another bite.

“But what about in five years, or fifty years, will she still be a child then? We do not age… And the most immature individual I know if the Hunter Vanguard, so even maturity is something that is iffy when considering things. Immature individuals can make amazing Guardians” he said and I nodded. He had a point.

“I get your point, in a few years, it will not be fair to say she is a child, but those few years in the city, becoming more mature, being taught what she needs to know about our enemies, our history, about combat, it won’t hurt” Arjic said.

“She has been a prisoner for two years, I would say to have come through that she has to have a certain level of maturity already” Luca retorted.

“Look, it does not matter what we think in the end, it is not our choice. And we need to focus on putting a plan together to find out more information on this Dredgen Yor, his settlement and finding Shin Malphur. Cayde thinks he won’t be far away and could provide some useful information” I said, both Arjic and Luca nodding.

“When do you want to head out there?” Arjic asked.

“Well, I need to resupply, and it won’t hurt us to get some information together first before we head out” I said, and Luca nodded.

“I have a few people I can talk to, get some information together before we head out” Luca said, and I nodded before looking to Arjic.

“I have a few books on the history of the Followers of Yor, I will see if there is anything in them about others going by the name Dredgen Yor or anything about settlements they had or were believed to have” Arjic said and I nodded.

“OK then, let’s get on that… After breakfast” I said, Arjic and Luca chuckling as we returned our attention to the food and idle chatter.

After a while we made our way back down to the main area of the Bazaar, Luca getting Dom to send a few messages out whilst Arjic listened to Ansel beep at him.

“Ah, balls. I forgot about that… I told Osiris I would head back to Mercury tomorrow. I will take my books with me and if I get a chance shall read some… Also, Osiris may have some information, so I could always ask him” Arjic said as we passed by Ikora who smiled to us.

“Worth a shot, and we have two days from tomorrow so as long as you are back for when we leave that is fine” I said and Arjic nodded.

“I will be, I won’t even be there a full day so I will be back in time. And hopefully with some information, though in the meantime I am going to go dig out my books, I am sure they are on one of the shelves, though I have this horrible feeling they are in one of the piles in the bedroom…” Arjic sighed causing me to laugh.

“Well, good luck finding them” I said as he headed off and myself and Luca made our way to the courtyard before the Plaza, it was a nice place to sit and chat in the quiet.

_____

IKORA’S P.O.V

I briskly made my way to the Plaza, Sera and Luca unaware of me passing by them as they took a seat in the small courtyard below the speakers’ quarters.

I made my way to Zavala, timing it just right, he had just finished a meeting with Lakshmi by the looks of it. The Exo bowing her head to me as I passed, returning the bow before turning my attention back to Zavala who had already noticed my approach.

“Ikora, what can I do for you?” Zavala asked as I joined him at the railings, both of us looking out over the city, every day more and more was being rebuilt. A true testament to our will to survive and drive to thrive.

“I have a concern about a member of Fireteam Survivor” I said, Zavala raising a brow as he looked to me. “And it is not Sera before you start worrying. If it was I would be talking to Cayde and not you” I said, Zavala smirking at my comment.

“Luca or Arjic?” he asked.

“Arjic. I have noticed he has been spending more and more time on Mercury, specifically with Osiris. I know the sort of man he is, what sort of influence he can be, and Arjic is young, impressionable, I do not want him to get into trouble as a result of spending so much time with Osiris” I said, Zavala looking to me and nodding. Considering what I had said.

“I understand your concerns… I can raise them with Sera if you wish, though she looks out for Arjic, she always has. If she had any concerns I am sure she would have raised them with you and Arjic himself” Zavala said, and I looked back out over the city.

“No, I trust Arjic is mature enough to take care of himself, and you are right, Sera keeps an eye on her fireteam, if she had concerns she would raise them, not hide them” I sighed.

“I will still keep an eye out and an ear to the ground, if Sera says anything I shall point her in your direction” Zavala said and I nodded, a small amount of relief washing over me.

“Thank you… So, any more thoughts on Eva?” I asked, Zavala letting out an exasperated sigh. I imagine he had been thinking about it all day.

Chapter Text

After coming up with a plan with Luca we headed our separate ways, I decided to take advantage of how quiet certain areas of the hangar could be to attempt to make a private conversation.

“Morning Sera! You look like a woman on a mission this morning!” Cayde called as I entered the hangar. I smiled at him and then looked up to the ceiling of the hangar and the various crisscrossing beams.

“I need to make a private call, so thought I best make use of the quietest area in the Tower” I said, Cayde’s eyes following mine and chuckling as he realised what I meant.

“Good call. I would say be careful getting up there… But we both know that is not possible. So… Have fun getting up there. And I will make sure a certain Titan does not see anything if he heads this way. Pretty sure you would give him a heart attack” Cayde chuckled.

“Cheers” I chuckled as I made my way towards the stairs, making my way to the tallest point possible without having to get on the other side of the railings. It got me pretty close, but not close enough annoyingly. Leaving me no option but to make a few questionable jumps. I could practically feel Cayde’s eyes on me as I moved to a quiet spot large enough to accommodate me and that would keep me out of sight.

Once I made it to such a spot I looked down, Cayde looking up and giving me a double thumbs up which I returned before he went back to whatever it was that he did during the day.

“OK Orion. See if you can contact Shiro, I know he spends pretty much all his time in the field these days, I want to know if he has seen or heard anything about the Followers of Yor” I stated, Orion looking to me and then down below us.

Very well. Though I will be doing it from the comfort of your lap. Whilst I may not be able to fall, you can. And I personally do not want to see that.

“You and me both” I chuckled.

Connecting to Shiro…

“Well, if it is not my favourite lady Hunter calling. What can I do for you?” Shiro’s voice asked and I found myself smiling at his nickname for me.

“I want any information you have on the Followers of Yor, no detail is too small” I said, a pause followed by a quiet hum the only response I got for a moment.

“Well, a few years ago, and we are talking a fair few years ago, I came across a group in Madagascar. I made a point not to get to close or to interact with anyone coming or going from the settlement. The Followers of Yor had a reputation amongst the Hunters in the area as being ruthless and violent so they were generally given a wide berth, though you know me” he chuckled, and I nodded to myself.

“I do indeed… You are the embodiment of curiosity” I said, Shiro chuckling in response to my comment.

“Anyway, one night whilst at my own camp I noticed smoke billowing into the air and it was coming from the direction of the settlement, so I went to investigate, the settlement was ablaze and Fallen were swarming it… From what I could tell the fire had started before the arrival of the Fallen, those scavengers simply took advantage of situation…” Shiro sighed.

“What did you do?” I asked, wondering if he helped them out or left them to deal with the Fallen on their own… Either way I would understand his decision.

“I found a hidden spot and spent the night sniping the Fallen… The Guardians that resided at the settlement were holding them off as best they could whilst evacuating the civilians who were living there… I am sure most noticed they had help from within the Jungle but were not concerned with who it was helping them… Once they had evacuated they just pulled back, let the flames and Fallen engulf the settlement… The flames were extinguished the next morning by the rain, and the Fallen left after a few days of picking through the remains of the settlement… By the time I got my boots on the ground all that was left were scraps. I could not piece together much, just that it seems the source of the fire was a building in the middle of the settlement and that due to most the building being wooden or having thatched roofs, it caught and spread quickly… There were a few burnt books left behind and some weird Hive relics that I alerted the Vanguard to… From what Ikora told me a few months later they were to do with summoning rituals and death magic” Shiro said and I nodded to myself. That did not surprise me… the original Dredgen Yor was into some pretty messed up Hive magic by the sounds of it.

“Do you know when they popped up in South Africa then?” I asked, given the size of the settlement they must have been there a while.

“A few months later, it did not take long, though it was a small settlement, probably half the size of the one they had in Madagascar from what I heard… Why? What’s occurring?” Shiro asked, curiosity practically dripping from his voice.

“I was in South Africa and came across a Guardian who had been held captive by a man calling himself Dredgen Yor at a rather large settlement. I, Luca and Arjic are getting all the intel we can before heading out there to have a look at it in more detail, we don’t know what is on the other side of those settlement walls” I sighed, Shiro making a sound that let me know he was rather intrigued.

“Rumour was Dredgen Yor himself set up the settlement in Madagascar before returning to face off against Shin Malphur… It would not surprise me if whoever he left in charge took his name” Shiro said.

“Given the Dredgen Yor in South Africa is a Warlock that sounds likely. I doubt the original Dredgen has come back from the dead… No one can come back from a Golden Gun” I said.

“No one should be able to come back from a Golden Gun… Though both of us have seen weirder and crazier out in the wilds. Anyway, I have to get going, only so long a man can sit watching Lady Efrideet train without getting involved” Shiro chuckled and I found myself shaking my head.

“She will beat your ass Shiro… Enjoy yourself” I chuckled.

“I shall Lady Guardian… You be careful out there. Speak soon” Shiro said before the connection cut and I sighed and let my head rest back against the beam whilst Orion remained in my lap.

Whilst Shiro has provided us with some interesting information, I am not sure how it will help us…

“The past is just as important as the present and future Orion… You never know how it may come in handy” I said as I shifted and looked down at the Hangar, Cayde was talking with a group of Guardians whilst everyone around him was going about their work.

Very true… Though I hope Luca and Arjic are able to find some useful information out as well. I just had a bad feeling about this entire situation.

I nodded at Orion’s comment, taking a deep breath as we sat for a while watching time go by.

_____

LUCA’S P.O.V

After Sera headed off to try and get hold of Shiro I had Dom send a message to an acquaintance of mine. Hopefully they would respond sooner rather than later, I did not want to be heading out to look for someone who was potentially nowhere near where we would be looking.

Once Dom had sent the message I made my way into the Plaza, spending some time talking with Banshee about some specific modifications for my hand canon.

“If you can get that sorted for late evening tomorrow or the morning after that would be great. Heading into the field with Sera and Arjic, so it should be fun” I chuckled, Banshee nodding as he took my hand canon and my glimmer.

“Come by any time tomorrow afternoon and it will be waiting for you… Ah, Stella, long time no see! What can I do for you?” Banshee said suddenly and I glanced over my shoulder, pausing as it took me a moment to recognise the lady stood behind me.

“Hey Banshee. It had been a while, though I do need some work doing on my machine gun I have some business with Luca to sort out first” she said, Banshee simply nodding as she moved to head up the stairs to our left.

“Cheers Banshee” I smiled, following her up the steps, it was nice and quiet up here, especially when Lord Saladin was not in the tower. “So… Stella. That is new” I said as we came to lean against the railings looking out over the city.

“Stella sounds better than Nora, and… Well, it honours her” she said, and I nodded, looking back out over the city.

“I was not expecting an in-person visit you know. I did not even realise you were back in the city… Chronic-20 told me you had not been back since the end of the Red War” I said, Stella chuckled a little before looking to me.

“I was back for a month after the Red War ended… But not since then. I came late last night for a few days, I needed to restoke and Ikora asked me to report back in person as she had something important to discuss with me” Stella said, and I just nodded.

“Well, I am glad I got to see you in person… I have some questions I am hoping you can find me to answers to” I said, Stella looked at me curiously, nodding and remaining silent. “I need information on Shin Malphur’s current location, or at least the most recent sighting of him” I said, Stella taking a deep breath and nodding.

“I can find you that out… When do you need it for?” she asked and I took a moment, if we had two full days before we left, I ideally needed it tomorrow… Though the morning of the day before we left would work.

“Ideally tomorrow, but the day after if that is not possible” I said and Stella nodded, standing up straight and looking to me.

“How about I meet you back here tomorrow at sundown? As long as who I need to talk to has not got themselves helmet deep in trouble I should be able to have the information for then” Stella said, and I nodded.

“Thank you Stella, you’re a star” I said earning myself a smile from Stella and a kiss on the cheek.

“You take care of yourself, there are rumours amongst Warlocks that have been to South Africa of something unnerving and unsettling there, just, keep your eyes open” she said as she stepped back and started to head off. How did she even know I was heading to South Africa?

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

As the day went by I managed to get a list together of items we would need and started to procure those items. However, some of them were going to take a few days to be prepared, seems a fair few Fireteams were preparing to head out for long stints of time so the poor guy at the supply’s office was swamped.

I just received a message from Neptune. Zavala has finished for the day and was wondering if you wanted to make the most of your free time and got for a meal and a few drinks in the city? He is at the apartment now changing…

I looked to Orion and smiled, that sounded nice, and I was starting to get hungry. “That sounds like fun… Let Neptune know we are on our way to the apartment as I need to change as well and then we can head into the city” I said.

Consider it done

I chuckled as we made our way down to our apartment, Zavala was sat on the sofa with his datapad when I got there. Dressed in a nice pair of jeans and shirt, a look he knew I loved on him, as well as off him. “You are looking very handsome” I chuckled, giving him a quick kiss on the cheek as I passed by and made my way to the bedroom.

“Thank you… You smell like you have spent the entire day in the hangar” Zavala said causing me to burst out laughing as I stripped and looked for my hairbrush.

“Not far off it! Where were you thinking of going for food?” I called from the bedroom as I pulled a dress Amanda had given me over my head. She had said it did not fit her and she thought it would fit me, and it did. Though the fact she gave it me on my re-birthday makes me wonder if Cayde told her when it was.

Oh! That really suits you!

I looked up to see Neptune in the doorway and I smiled as Orion rounded the corner from the living room, almost crashing into Neptune.

Wow… Not your usual style, but it does suit you

“Thanks” I chuckled as I grabbed a pair of sandals I had that would go with it and headed into the living room, grabbing a body spray as I did and giving myself and good spray with it. Hopefully, I now smelt less like the hangar.

“You look stunning” Zavala said as he looked up from his datapad, smiling at me. I smiled back at him and twirled around on the spot before moving to sit on the arm of the sofa to put my shoes on. The dress was a rather nice one, a light blue colour that stopped just before my knees and had criss-cross straps over the back. Something Zavala was already tracing, running his hands over each section of my skin the straps created.

“I was thinking we could go to the restaurant Shaxx mentioned” Zavala said as he continued to run his hands over my back.

“Sounds like a plan… Though it means you will have to take your hand off of my back and be a gentleman and grab me my coat” I said glancing over my shoulder at him. I received a kiss on the lips in place of an answer before he stood and grabbed our coats.

“Ready?” he asked, and I nodded as we exited, Arjic exiting the elevator as we closed the door. He looked like he had been busy on Mercury.

“And I thought I came back filthy after a week” I chuckled.

“Yeah, well it seems the Vex were particularly displeased with Osiris today so there was a lot more shooting and dodging and ducking than usual” Arjic laughed as he walked towards his apartment door.

“Rest up then” I said as we stepped into the elevator, waving to him as the doors closed. Zavala looking thoughtful for a moment before the movement of the elevator bought him back to Earth from his thoughts.

“Hawthorne dropped by at lunchtime, Eva slept well last night it seems, she is very curious and was asking when she could next see you” Zavala said and I looked to him and then back to the floor numbers going by as we made our way down to the city.

“I guess I could pop by to see her tomorrow or the day after, I will chat to Hawthorn tomorrow about it” I said, Zavala nodding and reaching to hold my hand as we passed by the last floor where the lift could stop before we reach the ground floor of the tower.

I just smiled and the rest of the journey went by in silence, the silence continuing as we exited the elevator and the building into the streets. My voice breaking it as we paused for a second.

“Do you know where you are going?” I asked, Zavala looking to me and nodding.

“Of course I do, it is not that far away,” he said before we started to make our way through the streets, people smiling at us as we passed by. It was rather busy, though I found that comforting, knowing that so many people were going about their lives, just doing ordinary everyday things, not worrying about what was beyond the walls at that moment, not worrying about every possible threat out there… Not like Guardians were.

“Are you OK Sera?” Zavala suddenly asked and looked to him and he was looking at me slightly concerned.

“Yeah, I am fine. I was just deep in thought” I smiled, Zavala studying my face for a few more seconds before leaning down and placing a kiss on my lips, his hand coming to rest on my hip.

“If you say so… A few more minutes and we will be at the restaurant” he said, and I nodded and we carried on making our way through the streets, every now and then someone yelling a greeting at us, more specifically Zavala. He seemed well known by the street vendors and Guardians passing through the city.

As Zavala had stated it was only a few more minutes before we reached the doors of a restaurant, entering into a warm and quiet environment, a drastic difference to the bustling loud streets outside.

“Welcome to Safe Ground, a table for two?” a waitress asked as they noticed we had walked in, I nodded and they smiled, leading us through the restaurant to a table against a wall. It was a lovely restaurant, very rustic looking. “I am Carrie, I will be your waitress this evening. I will give you some time to look over the menu and bring you some water for the table” she said smiling as we took our seats.

“Thank you” Zavala said before she turned and walked away, checking on another table as she went by them. There were not that many people in. It was so quiet; it was a welcome change. “The menu looks very nice… Shaxx was right, they have a large variety of dishes” Zavala said and I smiled as he looked over the menu. His expression one of concentration, and it just made him all the more handsome.

“It does look good… Though some things look better than others” I said, a smirk forming as Zavala nodded in agreement, not even looking up from his menu. “I am on about you” I said after a few more moments causing Zavala to look up at me confused. “I was trying to be sweet” I laughed, Zavala smiling at me.

“You are always sweet” he said, reaching a hand over the table and taking mine in his, intertwining our fingers as he smiled at me.

_

I smiled as I put my glass down, picking at the last few chips on my plate as Zavala talked about how he had a few meetings the day I would leave for South Africa but he should be able to see us off. I smiled and nodded.

“Don’t worry if you cannot… This food was good… Want to order another bowl of chips to share?” I asked, Zavala looking at my almost empty plate and chuckling.

“Yes… We can get some more chips… to share” he said and I smiled, though as he went back to talking about how he wanted to see me off a familiar face entered and they spotted us within seconds.

“Well, look who it is!” Shaxx laughed, making his way over to our table, grabbing an empty chair and coming to sit at our table, Zavala smiling at his friend.

“Shaxx, what brings you here?” he asked, Shaxx trying to nab one of my fries but getting his hand blocked.

“Wanted a bite to eat and drink or two after today, I just did not feel like cooking” he said, I chuckled, I knew that feeling all too well. “What about you guys? Have I gate-crashed a date? Want me to leave you to it?” Shaxx said, Zavala looked to me and I smiled at him. I did not mind Shaxx’s presence, it was up to Zavala if he stayed.

“You can stay if you want, we were going to get some more chips and a few more drinks so you are welcome to join us” Zavala said and Shaxx smiled and nodded. The conversation turning to the topic of crucible and shotguns.

_

After about an hour and a half of good conversation both Shaxx, myself and Zavala had consumed more alcohol than we had planned on, this had made Shaxx a little louder though much more loose-lipped it seemed.

“You are a lucky woman Sera, you know when we both studied under Lord Saladin and the Iron Lords Zavala had a habit of walking around in, well… not much. Had the ladies, and most the men practically drooling” Shaxx laughed as we started talking about workouts.

“That was a long time ago Shaxx” Zavala said, taking a sip of his drink, his posture becoming a little tenser as he smiled at me, looking a little embarrassed. He was never good at taking compliments or people talking about him in such a way outside of our apartment or our time together.

“And I bet you would still cause Lady Efrideet to break her nose by walking into a tree whilst stripping off after training to bath in the lake” Shaxx practically howled, Zavala flushing a slightly different shade of blue.

“Do not get me started on being naked in a stream. I was once bathing after a hot sticky few days tracking some Fallen. I had caught up to them and thought I had taken them all out so treated myself to a wash in a stream. Well after I had stripped off and got in the water a Vandal ambushed me” I said, Zavala looking at me a little surprised whilst Shaxx looked intrigued. “So, there was a lot of screaming on both mine and the Vandals parts as well as Orion’s, eventually I wrestle the blade off the Vandal and slit his throat… Though as I looked up I saw a Fireteam stood there, the Hunter started laughing his ass off as soon as we made eye contact whilst the Titan just stared at me trying not to stare below my neck and failing. He got shot in the foot by his Warlock friend to help him divert his eyes” I laughed. Shaxx burst out laughing whilst Zavala chuckled and smiled at me.

“What a story they must have! Watching a naked Hunter wrestle Vandal. Though what is it with Warlock’s always ruining Titan’s fun!” Shaxx exclaimed the topic changing to a rant about Warlock’s from Shaxx whilst Zavala and I snacked on chips.

It was nice to have some downtime and just enjoy myself and good company.

Chapter Text

I woke up to the sound of the shower running and Orion and Neptune chatting as they looked out the window.

Did Sera really kill a Vandal naked in a stream?
Oh yes, it was one hell of a mess. Guess it was a good job she was in a stream… Did Zavala really use to walk around in next to nothing?
Yes… Even in cold weather. Though he was a lot younger than he is now, and he was less mature. Coming to the city, becoming a Vanguard, that changed him a lot.
I wonder what kind of Guardian Sera would have been had we not come straight back to the city, if we had just stayed in the wilds, dealing with the Fallen…

“I would probably be better at watching my back when bathing” I muttered as I got out of bed and started to pull some clothes on. Hopefully I could get some time with Eva today, see how she was doing.

True…

“Could you message Hawthorn, see if we can organise a time for me to come see Eva, I don’t mind if it is later in the day, I only have to sort supplies out today so I don’t really have restrictions on time” I said, Orion nodding and doing as requested whilst Neptune returned to looking out the window. “ZAVALA… Coffee?” I called as I made my way into the living room.

“YES PLEASE!” Zavala replied and I smiled to myself as I started making both our coffees, leaning against the wall as the kettle boiled, though a distinct sound from the other side caused me to move rather quickly.

“God damn it Arjic, you need to learn to be a bit quieter” I sighed as I perched on one of the kitchen worktops.

_____

ARJIC’S P.O.V

I rolled over gasping for breath, Phoenix was kneeling at the bottom on the bed panting as well, he just smiled at me and crawled up the bed, licking my stomach as he moved up my body.

“You are just so delicious… Are you ready to see if this has helped?” he asked and I nodded, Ansel looking over at me, clearly disappointed but deciding not to voice his disapproval. “OK handsome… I love you” Phoenix said, I just smiled up at him as he reached for something on the nightstand, a moment later a sharp pain shot through my body only to be replaced with the sensation of falling…

“THIS WAY! COME ON! HURRY WE DON’T HAVE MUCH TIME!” a familiar voice called out causing me to turn over as I fell, the ground suddenly rushing up on me and causing me to flinch, though before I hit it I stopped and found myself righting myself.

I was stood in the middle of a village, flames engulfing everything around me, people screaming and running in every direction.

“HEAD FOR THE GATES! HURRY! HURRY!” the familiar voice called again. I looked around to see two Hunters directing people, their armour instantly recognisable… Sera and Luca… What was going on?

“Do you think we killed Dredgen? Do you think the plan worked?” Luca asked Sera as they helped people escape the raging inferno.

“I have no idea! Though I don’t see how anyone can survive a fire like that!” Sera replied, though before I could see any more of my surroundings or get any more information the world around me began spinning before everything went black.

I sat up gasping, Phoenix wrapping an arm around me, steadying me before passing me a glass of water. “Steady… That was a long one. Take a few sips” he said. His arm around me giving me a bit of a squeeze, reassuring me he was here.

“Thanks” I muttered, taking a few sips of the drink and looking to Ansel who had taken up residence on the cabinet across the room, watching us carefully. Phoenix’s Ghost, Ember, sat beside him also watching us. However, Ember seemed more intrigued than anything.

“How was it? Did having sex before help make things clearer?” Phoenix asked and I nodded. It was so much clearer than any other visions I had using Thanatonaut practices.

“It helped… Though I am not really all that sure of what I saw. It was, perplexing, I think it may be something that takes time to get used to, time to make sense of” I sighed, taking a few more sips of my water and thinking over what I saw. The settlement burning, Sera and Luca talking about killing Dredgen Yor… What was her plan? What was Sera really planning with this ‘scouting mission’ and how long was she going to hide whatever her motives are…

 I was bought out of my train of thought by Phoenix holding me close and starting to play with my hair, tracing patterns over my thigh with his other hand, causing me to let out a content sigh. Though the feeling of being content soon left me as I realised that this was the only time he would be affectionate in this way, outside of sex and after the visions, we never cuddled or went out together like other couples… Like Sera and Zavala… Having them next door, hearing them laugh together, stay up late talking together, having sex at all hours… Then again, at the minute they had to put up with that as well from our side of the wall.

“How about when you have recovered, we have a round two and this time I can see what visions await me… Though we will let you rest up first, get your energy back. I got some cookies if you want one, some sugar may help” Phoenix said and I looked to him and just smiled.

“That sounds good, I would love a cookie” I said and he smiled, giving me a peck on the cheek before getting up and going to the kitchen…

I adored him, and when he was affectionate it was brilliant… But, deep down, or maybe not so deep down, I just felt used. Like I was just good for his pursuit of Thanatonaut expertise.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

I left the apartment with Zavala, I had decided last minute to stick my armour on and see if Shaxx had any crucible spaces for today, waiting on requests to be approved for supplies was rather boring. And Hawthorn had not got back to me yet. So that was also a waiting game.

I have a question…

“What is it?” Zavala asked as we entered the elevator, looking to Neptune who looked from him to me and then back to Zavala.

Are you two still being discreet? Because going out in public for a meal and holding hands was not discreet, several Guardians saw you together.

“We are being less discreet but are not broadcasting the fact we are in a relationship, if someone were to ask one of us, we would not deny it. But we are just not as openly affectionate to one another publicly whilst I am conducting my duties as Vanguard Commander” Zavala said, Neptune nodding and looking to me.

Is that how you see it?

I chuckled and nodded, “Yes it is Neptune… We spoke about it a few months ago whilst you and Orion were doing whatever it is you two do whilst we, well, do what we do” I said, Neptune nodding, being very serious about it all whilst Orion sighed at my wording. Rolling his optic at me.

 “I am going to go annoy the guy in requisitions and then if Hawthorn has not got back to me I am going to go piss off some Titans in Crucible… Got much planned for your day?” I asked as we waited for the elevator to reach the top.

“I have a meeting with the Vanguard and the faction representatives around lunchtime, but that is the only thing I have planned for the day. The rest will probably be spent talking with Guardians and dealing with any issues they bring me” Zavala said and I nodded.

“Well, you have fun with all of that…” I laughed, Zavala just smiled at me, giving me a kiss on the cheek before we reached our destination and the elevator doors opened.

“I shall” he said as he exited the elevator, I just smiled and followed him out, though I headed for the requisitions officer’s little hole in the wall and was glad to see due to the early hour he was not too busy yet.

“OK! Before I serve anyone else, Serafina! Tomorrow. Midday. Pick ALL your stuff up then. Now go make a million requests of someone else and stop going through so many supplies!” he called as he looked up from dealing with the Titan at the front of the little line, spotting me. The others in the line turning to look at me.

“All I wanted to know! Got the Vanguard on my back about when I can head out for a scouting mission, just wanted to give them an idea of times!” I said holding my hands up.

“Sure. Vanguard. You. On your back… And the Warlock behind you! Two days, early afternoon! Now both of you, scram!” he called and I just laughed and turned to head off whilst the Warlock looked a little annoyed.

“Don’t take it personally. The guy has to deal with Guardians all day, who wouldn’t be cranky” I said patting them on their shoulder as I made my way over to where Shaxx was. Though just as I was about to open my mouth to ask if there were any games that needed an extra player Orion darted in front of my face.

Hawthorn says you can visit her now as Eva is with her…

Shaxx looked at me confused for a moment before I sighed and looked to him. “New Warlock friend I have been trying to get a hold of… I will be back. Find me a game to gate-crash” I said before turning around and heading over, Shaxx’s laughter and promise of getting me in the crucible following me as I went.

When I entered the Bazaar I spotted Eva stood near Hawthorn but not obviously with her. She was looking out over the city, glancing up at the traveller now and then. I paused for a moment, just observing her, whilst she was clearly physically a child, she did not carry herself like one.

What are you going to talk to her about?

“I have not got a clue, just see how she is settling in, see what she can tell me about the settlement…” I shrugged, moving to head up to where she was. Smiling at Hawthorn as I approached. Receiving a nod in greeting as I passed her and moved round to stand near Eva, however she did not seem to acknowledge me. I just stood there with her, letting her finish her train of thought.

Eva… How are you and Storm settling in?

Orion asked, breaking the silence after a moment. Obviously not as patient as I was, which was a change. Eva looked up to us, giving me a small smile and then looking back out over the city. “I am just a little overwhelmed with how vast the city is. I wish I could explore all of it on my own, discover the wonders of it for myself” she said and I just smiled.

“You will have the time to do that… I know Guardians who have been around since before the walls went up that have not managed to explore every nook and cranny yet” I said, Eva nodding and smiling.

“The settlement was always so dark, there was never anything colourful, never anything celebratory going on that was not related to Dredgen… The people who live there who are not Guardians, they are essentially his slaves, they make him and the Guardians weapons and armour in return for food and safety. But the city, it is so colourful, there is so much movement, so much light” Eva said and I nodded in agreement.

“Some people create items for us, some grow food and create warm clothing and other such essential things, then some create art, grow flowers, make spaces where people can go and drink with friends and enjoy some downtime… It is a holistic city” I said, Eva looking up to me and then back at the city.

“I like that way of looking at it” she said and I chuckled, it was a nice way to look at it.

Eva, we are going back out to South Africa soon. To gather more information. Is there anything you can tell us about the settlement that we should know?

Orion asked and Eva looked up to him and then to me, her expression one of concern and uncertainty.

“Other than the two gates, the only way in or out is the hole in the wall if it is still there… The guns each have their own power supply so they can never all be taken offline at once by one individual. And it is dangerous. Dredgen has Guardians mixed in with the non-light bearers, those who speak against him usually end up being punished or killed if he feels what they said was bad enough… I’ve seen him cut peoples tongues out or have their teeth pulled out as punishment. They’re then not allowed any food or water for three days, maybe longer if he is in a bad mood…  If he caught a Guardian looking around, I do not know he would do to you if you were caught there. Please be careful” Eva said and I nodded.

“We will be careful, it is just a case of assessing numbers, getting a rough idea of the population, that sort of stuff” I said and Eva nodded, looking back out over the city.

You said before that Shin Malphur was seen near the settlement, did anyone ever mentioned where his camp may be located?

“No, I just know that he is was in the area. I do not know how long for or where his camp was, there are so many places he could have been camped” Eva said and I nodded. That was fair enough, I doubt if they knew where he was they would have told her.

“I doubt they know where he was camped. And if they did, as soon as he knew they were closing in on him he would have abandoned that camp. And I doubt he had just the one camp if he is as good a Hunter as people say he would have several camps and several areas for possible future camps” I said, Eva looking to me a little wide-eyed and then back out over the city.

“Hunters seem to be very well prepared for things” Eva said, Orion chuckled at her comments.

They are just good at making stuff up on the spot. I doubt there is a Hunter dead or alive who has ever planned much more past possible campsites.

“Whilst that may be true, we are very good at making stuff up as we go along, and it gets us rather far usually” I said, Orion chuckling as Eva smiled at our exchange.

“Hopefully once everything is settled and I can go out into the wilds and do something productive I can be half as good as you are” Eva said and I smiled at her and nodded.

“I am sure you will be. Though it is just a case of waiting and seeing how things go… Though if you feel any decisions that have been made are not fair, you let me know OK. I will have words with people for you” I said and Eva just smiled at me, though after a moment it was as if an extra light switched on in her eyes and she looked out over the city for a second before looking back.

“What if I came with you? I know the settlement well, I know the surrounding area, I know those he has working for him, I can help. And I can fight. If I can show that it may help people realise that I am not just a child. I am and can be a Guardian like you” Eva said and I took a moment, looking to Orion and then back to Eva.

“Whilst your knowledge would be helpful, it is not just me going. I have my Fireteam to look out for and I cannot watch them and you at the same time. And I do not doubt your ability to fight. But this time, I cannot allow anyone else to go with me. I would not even allow the Vanguard to come with me as I am responsible for my Fireteam first and foremost and I need to ensure I can be without distraction” I said, kicking myself for waffling a little, trying to let her down without her feeling like I am excluding her.

“OK… I understand” Eva said, obviously disappointed and I looked to Orion who shrugged his shell at me.

Though hopefully in the future you can come out with us, see the wilds properly, explore more of the world.

“Hopefully” Eva said, forcing a smile as she looked to us and then back out over the city. I just inwardly sighed.

“OK. Well, as soon as we get back I will come find you and make sure you are kept in the loop about what is happening” I said and she nodded and I smiled and waved as I headed back towards the Plaza.

Crucible then?

“Crucible” I smiled, nodding at Orion who got this glint to his optic. He liked the crucible.

_____

Luca’s P.O.V

I smiled as I watched the sunset on the city, waiting for Stella to arrive, hopefully, she would have got the information I needed.

“On time for once I see” an all to familiar voice said and I smiled and turned to look at Stella, she was stood with her arms crossed smiling at me.

“Well, given the importance of the meeting I felt I should put some effort in” I chuckled as she came to stand next to me. Pulling a datapad out of her robes and passing it to me.

“Shin Malphur was seen one year ago in Cape Town by a Titan, his Ghost got a few snaps of him before he realised he had been spotted and fled. The Titan had no hope of keeping pace with him, not sure why he bothered really but he did bless him” Stella said and I smiled and nodded, opening the data pad up, a few pictures and a report were the only items on it.

“This is helpful, thank you, Stella. I owe you one” I said and she smiled at me.

“Say you owe me a drink when you get back from South Africa. Just be careful out here OK. I don’t want to hear something bad has happened to you. Your Fireteam has a bit of a reputation after all” she said and I looked to her and raised a brow.

“A bit of a reputation? What do you mean?” I asked and she looked at me as if I was an idiot.

“Arjic was the only survivor from the Cave on Nessus, Sera’s entire Fireteam was wiped out, as was yours. Jackal died. Sera almost died… It seems that death follows you three. Just, promise me you will be careful” Stella said and I nodded, unsure as to what I was supposed to say in response to that.

“Good. I’ll catch you for that drink at some point. But for now, I have to get going. Sorry I could not stay and talk longer. You take care OK. Look after yourself and your Fireteam” she said and I smiled at her and nodded.

“I will. You look after yourself” I said pulling her into a hug which she returned before pulling back, giving me a quick peck on the cheek and walking off. I just smiled as I watched her make her way towards the hangar.

“Dom, share the information with Sera and Arjic and make sure everything is ready to go for when we leave. I don’t want to be caught unprepared in South Africa” I said, Dom appearing before me and nodding.

Consider it done… And Luca. Maybe you should keep in contact with Stella, it would be good for you I think.

“I think so to… But for now, we need to focus on the task at hand” I said, Dom simply nodding as we made our way through the Plaza towards the hangar, hopefully Amanda would have a few spare nuts and bolts lying around I could use for a trap…

Chapter Text

Sera’s P.O.V

I watched as the last of our supplies were loaded, Amanda stood next to me checking each item off as it was loaded. “All accounted for… Though that is a lot of supplies to say you are not even going off-world” Amanda said, looking at me with her usual smile, though there was a look of concern in her eyes.

“Well, I feel the need to stretch my wings in the wilds, and taking the two greedy ones with me means I need extra supplies” I replied, Amanda just shaking her head as she chuckled to herself, making her way over to her workbench.

 “You have about half an hour before your departure time. I suggest you make any last-minute preparations in the next fifteen minutes to avoid having to delay your departure and screwing up my schedule for the day” Amanda said, I laughed and nodded.

“Arjic, Luca… You guys got everything? No one has forgotten anything important?” I asked, turning to the two stood behind me talking about making sure they do not accidentally use a patch of a poisonous plant as a bathroom again.

“No, I triple checked this morning then had Arjic double-check my triple checking so I am good” Luca said and I just shook my head, though before spoke I heard my name called.

“SERA!” I looked up to see Eva walking towards us, Hawthorne was with her, Zavala and Ikora following a little way behind, Cayde looking to them confused.

“Eva, what are you doing here?” I asked, slipping past Arjic and Luca, Eva coming to stand in front of me, her arms crossed across her chest rather defiantly.

“I am going with you. You need me, I know the settlement like the back of my hand and I know Dredgen. Without me it will take you twice as long to get what information you need” Eva said. I looked to Hawthorne who was stood slightly back. The Vanguard now stood next to her, none of them looking particularly happy.

“You know where myself and the Vanguard stand on this matter Hunter” Hawthorne stated rather sternly, it was not something I was used to from her.

“I agree with them Sera, we don’t have the supplies for a four-man team, and she is a child, she would be a liability. And what if something were to happen to us, or her. It is not worth the risk, she belongs here in the Tower, in the Last City” Arjic said, his voice quiet, trying not to let Eva hear him but judging by the look she shot him, she heard.

“That is hardly fair Arjic. She survived in the wilds before and I am sure is capable of doing so again. And her knowledge could make all the difference!” Luca rather sharply replied. I just sighed and rubbed my temples trying to think about what would be best. Though all I could hear was the two of them bickering.

“She is a child”
“Physically, but what about mentally?”
“That is not something we can judge on the few days she has been in the Last City!”
“Because you are obviously an expert so would know that!”

“SHUT IT! Both of you!” I snapped suddenly, turning to look at the two. Both falling quiet rather quickly whilst Eva took a bit of a step back from me. “I have had enough of you two fighting like children!” I sighed before looking back to Eva. “Eva, I am sorry but you cannot come with us. Arjic is right it is dangerous and I do not want to risk anything happening to you… Though, that does not mean you cannot help us. Your knowledge is going to be valuable. So, I want you to help run tactical with the Vanguard. That way you can share the knowledge we need with us but without being there and in physical danger. I promise you, in the future if you still want to, you can join us on a mission. I am afraid it just is not going to be this one” I said. Eva staring at me for a moment before looking back at the Vanguard.

“What if they do not agree?” she asked looking back to me and I looked to Zavala, my expression must have said it all because he just sighed and nodded.

“Very well. Hawthorne, why don’t you show Eva where the tactical room is and get her acquainted with it” Zavala said, Eva smiled and eagerly followed Hawthorne. After they had moved away Zavala stepped forward as Cayde and Ikora stood talking.

“We will keep the Vanguard updated on anything we find” I said, smiling at him, reassuring him that I would be fine however I could without being overly affectionate in a public place. Though the urge to kiss him and hold him close was overwhelming.

“I am sure you will. Good luck out there you three. Stay safe” he said, looking to Arjic and Luca and then back to me. At that point I just did not care anymore, I moved towards him and wrapped my arms around his neck, kissing him.

_____

Arjic’s P.O.V

At first, I did not know if I should look away or not, though when Commander Zavala wrapped his arms around Sera’s waist I looked away, most others in the hanger were doing the same, pretending to be busy with something else.

“WHOOP!” a voice suddenly called and I looked over to where Cayde was stood just in time to see Ikora drive her elbow into his side causing him to grunt and stumble a little to the side.

_____

Zavala’s P.O.V

After a moment Sera pulled back, moving her hands back to her sides and smiling at me. I smiled at her, letting one hand fall from her hips back to my side whilst I moved the other to her cheek.

“Be careful out there, and come home to me” I said, placing a gentle kiss on her lips before moving back. Sera just smiled at me for a moment.

“I will always come home to you” she replied before turning, Arjic and Luca pretending to be interested in the same spot on the floor. “Come on you two, get moving. We have places to be, things to shoot!” Sera called, the three of them going about their last checks before they departed.

I stood watching them get ready to leave, Ikora coming to stand next to me.

“Not a single word” I sighed, she simply chuckled as we watched the three complete any last-minute checks before leaving. Sera looking over and smiling at me for a moment before boarding her ship.

_____

Sera’s P.O.V

After we set off and had left the cities air space I had Orion switch to autopilot and I got the comms set up.

“OK. Can you two hear me?” I asked as I flipped a few switches, a green flashing light coming on, the flashing ceasing after a few seconds and becoming a solid continuous colour.

“Loud and clear… Arjic, your comms working?” Luca’s voice asked, after a moment there was a crackle.

“Yeah, they are working,” Arjic’s voice said and I smiled and sat back and just let the autopilot do its job.

“Good. Now there is anti-aircraft artillery so just keep an eye out on your radars as we approach” I said, Orion nodding to me and doing a quick scan and calibration of the radar causing me to smile.

“Duly noted. We should be coming in from over the coast though so we should not fly over” Arjic said and I nodded, that was true, but I had no idea of the range or capability of those guns.

“If we stay low on approach it should be safer, harder to hit a target lower to the ground… Also, Sera. Were you serious when you promised Eva you would take her on a mission in the future?” Luca suddenly asked and I sighed, how did I know the conversation would turn to this.

“Yes. Obviously an easy one, on Earth, somewhere close to the city. Nothing too crazy” I said, a moment of silence following as they digested what I had said.

“Whilst I don’t agree with the idea of taking a child onto the battlefield I would accompany you on that mission. An extra set of eyes to watch your back would be helpful especially as you are having to watch a child’s back” Arjic said and I could practically feel Luca rolling his eyes from my cockpit.

“That is fair. Though we cannot consider her a child forever, in five or ten years, she would physically be an adult, so we need to consider that. Anyway. We need to figure out what we want for in a campsite. We have no idea of what dangers we may face if we camp too close to the settlement from scouts or other hidden artillery” I said.

Arjic and Luca both putting their views forward and the topic change was successful. However, it also backfired, and I had to spend ten minutes listening to the two discuss the time they both used a poisonous ivy bush as a toilet and developed an unfortunate rash in a rather intimate area.

____

Arjic’s P.O.V

I sighed in relief as Luca and I finally caught up with Sera who had been scouting ahead to find a campsite. The area she was stood in had shade, was not far from a small river and was hidden by a rock formation that also provided a decent amount of shade.

“Any spiders nests insight?” Luca asked, shaking his body as if he had a shiver up his spine. I chuckled as Sera walked up to him and patted him on the shoulder.

“No, you are safe from the spiders. Now, lets set up camp and then we can decide what our next move should be” Sera said, our Ghosts starting the process of transmitting our supplies down.

“I would say we can put your tent on stilts, but spiders are not challenged by vertical surfaces” I chuckled as I walked over to one of the supply crates whilst Luca muttered something under his breath whilst Sera laughed as she started sorting things out.

_____

Luca’s P.O.V

I smirked as I watched Arjic struggle slightly with erecting his tent, even with Sera’s help he was getting tangled and frustrated with the tent.

“Arjic. Just, let me” Sera sighed, moving back over to the tent and shooing Arjic away and within a few minutes he had a tent that most certainly would not fall down at the thought of a light breeze. “Remind me when we get back to the city to get you a better tent” Sera sighed as she walked over to one of the crates and grabbed a map.

“So, what is our first move?” I asked walking over as she unfolded the map and started to look over it.

“Here. Cape Town, it is where the last confirmed sighting was, so it is our best lead. Though it won’t be easy, in the Golden Age it was a huge settlement, it will take a while to search” Sera said, pointing to a point on the map, a coastal city. It must have been a sought-after place to live on the Golden Age, on the coast, mere minutes away from the calm collected waters of the sea.

“How long do you think it will take us to search?” Arjic asked walking over, both myself and Sera looked a little closer at the map though we could not unfold it fully on the crate.

“Here, let’s lay it out” I said taking it from Sera and moving it to the ground. The three of us knelt around it, debating which areas would be best to search first and what areas are most likely to be of interest to a Hunter.

_____

Sera’s P.O.V

As we looked over the map, figured out roughly how large the former colony was, and we decided on the best plan of attack something caught my eye. As Arjic shifted a little I noticed he had something shiny tucked into his boot, a concealed blade. “What do you think Sera?” Luca suddenly asked and I looked to him and back to the map. He was pointing at an area close to the shore that seemed to be made up of several main streets.

“A good shout… I imagine there is our best bet” I said, Luca nodding, he then started to judge roughly how far away we were and the best route. As he was figuring that out, I glanced back at Arjic’s boots, since when did Arjic carry a concealed blade?

“Our best bet would be to fly out, possibly transmat down to street level. If he has a camp in the area, it will be at ground level to avoid being caught atop a building with no quick escape route” Luca said and I nodded as he pulled a pencil out and circled an area of the map.

“It is a large area, what are the chances of us finding him on our first visit?” Arjic asked and I looked to Luca who shrugged.

“Depends how lucky we are, it could be five minutes, five hours or five days” I sighed, beginning to fold the map back up and stashing it in my belt. “So, I say we get our assess down there, we cannot afford to waste daylight,” I said, Arjic and Luca nodding and dispersing to grab their equipment.

“Orion… What are the latest reports of Fallen activity in the area?” I asked as I checked the magazines on my weapons.

Minimal activity. However, it seems to go through phases. They will suddenly increase their numbers, the activity will peak, and then there will be a swift drop in numbers.

“Like someone is thinning their ranks” Luca’s voice said from behind me. I glanced over my shoulder; he was right. And given the reputation Shin Malphur had, it would be a walk in the park to deal with a few patrols over the span of a week to thin numbers.

“Ready when you are” Arjic said and I nodded to Orion who bought the ship down.

Chapter Text

Arjic’s P.O.V

We walked the streets, finding some evidence of Fallen in the area, equipment, banners, supplies. But no Fallen.

“Scorch marks… These aren’t from a Scorch Cannon, maybe an incendiary grenade or something along those lines” Sera stated, kneeling down to examine a scorch mark that ran across the road. “Maybe a wall of fire style grenade” she then added, her eyes following the scorch marks.

“This area saw combat, and within the last few days. However, no Guardians are reported to be in the area. So, either Shin Malphur is in the area, or someone else is… Arjic, are those crates empty?” Luca asked gesturing to a bunch of crates on the pavement. As I approached them, I could see they were open for sure, and it looked like they had been forced open.

“They’ve been forced open… Bare minimum in them. A few scrap bits and a few weapons but that is about it” I said, looking back to the two hunters. “Someone seems to have helped themselves to most the supplies, and I doubt it was the original owners” I added.

“Taking that many supplies you would not want to go far, a camp or stash must be somewhere nearby” Luca said, Sera nodding in agreement.

“Let’s keep going, see if we find anymore ambush sights or even get lucky and find a camp” Sera said standing and the three of us carried on, the streets silent except for when an animal crossed our paths or we spooked a bird.

“I wonder what this place was like during the Golden Age” I muttered as we turned the corner, an overgrown park coming into view. “It must have been marvellous, living on the coast, able to enjoy such a beautiful landscape, the sights and sounds, I wish I could imagine what it was like” I sighed.

“I hope one day we no longer need to wish if we could imagine what it was like and we can experience it… And not just experience the devastating effects of the Darkness’ arrival” Sera said, smiling back at me whilst Luca scouted up ahead.

“Speaking of the devastating effects of the Darkness’ arrival… I have never seen anything like this outside of a Cosmodrome or military installation” Luca said. Sera and I walked up to join him at the gate to the park, within the dirty, ivy-covered walls, was a large pit filled with debris, and scattered amongst the debris were burnt bones and the remains of personal belongings.

“Traveler above… Orion, do you have any idea how many bodies are there?” Sera asked, the three Ghosts moving to scan the pit. “Storm mentioned when she revived Eva, she had no idea which body she was reviving, they were all piled atop of one another…” Sera then added.

“Tower, Fireteam Survivor requesting acknowledgement of mass grave site in Cape Town” Luca said as Dom returned to him.

It is hard to tell for sure but there could be anywhere from two hundred up to six-hundred bodies in the pit. Who knows what is hidden beneath the rubble and how many skeletons have been crushed but it or taken by scavenging animals or whatever else lurks these streets.

“Fireteam Survivor. Tower acknowledging the discovery of a mass gravesite. Co-ordinates recorded”

“At least they can be put to rest now. Come on, lets keep moving” Luca said, the three of us leaving without another word.

_____

Sera’s P.O.V

After a few hours of searching without any more promising leads, we decided to stop for lunch.

“The ground is too exposed, and now we are getting into the area of the city with more high rises we may as well take the opportunity to get a lay of the land” I said, looking up, we were surrounded on all sides by the skeletons of buildings that once made up a magnificent skyline.

“Sounds like a plan, got any particular building in mind, or shall we pick at random?” Luca asked and I looked around, figuring out which one was the tallest. “This one…” I smiled, heading towards the tallest building on the street.

It has no working elevator
BEEP BEEP, BEEEEEEP
Well, they do, we don’t have to walk

“That is fine, it won’t take us too long to get to the roof, now come on boys” I said as we entered the building and finding the stairs and starting our journey up the sixty floors the board in the reception area of the building said there was.

_

I smiled as I put my water down and looked around the city from my perch of the air conditioning unit on the roof. It was a beautiful view.

“Luca, can you keep an eye out for any Fallen snipers whilst I try and get the lay of the land. Arjic keep an ear out for drop ships and ground troops” I said pulling my rifle off my back and beginning to scope out the other buildings.

“Most of the buildings still look structurally sound, someone could set up camp in any one of them” I muttered as I shifted slightly to look more towards the cost. Something catching my eye as I focused on a building a few streets over.

“Two streets over, the tallest building in that row of five. Someone is in a sniper’s nest facing out to sea… Could be our man, we are going to have to move quickly though. No telling if he will be there for much longer” I said, the sound of Arjic and Luca moving to grab their belongings starting as soon as I began to speak.

“Shall we take a short cut down?” Luca asked walked to the edge of the building and looking down. It was a long drop, a drop that would kill most. But as a Guardian, well. It was child’s play.

“See you at the bottom Arjic” I smirked as Luca jumped off the roof, swiftly followed by myself, the air racing past me, whistling in my ears as it whipped my cloak around. Though just as quickly as the sensation began, it ended when I neared the ground, jumping in the air to slow myself down and allow myself to enter a roll and land safely mere seconds after Luca had.

“Warlocks are so slow” Luca chuckled as he stood and looked back up, Arjic was floating down towards us though as he got a little lower, he sped up and landed, coming to one knee as he did. That could not be good for his knees.

“Come on then, don’t just stand there wishing you could be this graceful” Arjic chuckled, myself and Luca smiling as we began to run up the street, looking for an alley to cut through. Though with every second that past I was well aware that the mystery sniper could be packing up and leaving the nest.

“Left!” Luca suddenly called, myself and Arjic veering left automatically, following Luca down an alley, it was a straight shot over the next few streets. Saving us searching for another alley or a crossroads on the next street.

As we crossed the street, we all glanced up and down for any signs of movement, friendly or hostile. Though as pretty much all the streets had been, it was void of life. Despite being a prominent settlement, the fact neither the Fallen nor City had properly attempted to lay claim to it was a surprise.

“Sera, take lead, you know which building it is,” Arjic said as we exited the alley, I glanced up, veering up the street slightly and towards the target building. The glass front was shattered making for easy entry.

“TRIP MINE ON THE STAIRS!” I called leaping over the wire as I began my ascent. It would be a tiring run to the top, but hopefully, it would be worth it.

“CLEAR OF THE TRIP MINE!” Arjic called, I glanced back to see Luca behind me, Arjic taking up the rear. I smiled and carried on, increasing my speed slightly, I did not want to miss this chance, who knew if we would get this lucky again.

As the floors went by, I could feel my muscles protesting, they had no warmup, no warning, just straight into a full sprint after leaping off a building. Though as we neared the roof access the adrenaline kicked in more and the last burst of speed got me to the top, throwing open the door and running out into the middle of the roof just in time to see a hunter running towards the edge.

“DREDGEN YOR! I AM HERE TO KILL HIM!” I called after him, he quickly came to a stop and faced me, I recognised him immediately, watching me carefully, glancing at Luca and Arjic as they reached the roof, his hand on his gun, finger on the trigger. Though the three of us were clearly out of breath. If he decided to run for it, I highly doubted any of us could keep up with him.

“I know about the settlement. That they moved from Madagascar to South Africa. I also know they held Eva, a child Guardian captive for two years before she escaped as she is now safe in the city and I am going to ensure that this Dredgen and his followers can never hurt another soul!” I very hastily explained, hoping that he would talk with us.

After a moment his stance relaxed a little, though his finger was still on the trigger, he was clearly being cautious, especially as he was outnumbered. Even his Ghost was silent and eerily still.

_____

Luca’s P.O.V

“How do you know about Eva?” the Hunter asked, he was most certainly Shin Malphur.

“I found her whilst tracking a signal, took her to the last City where she is now, safe in the care of the Vanguard. She escaped the settlement during a storm. She was heading for the coast, she was probably two days travel out, one if she did not stop. We have come to gather intel on what is going inside the settlement and put a stop to it” Sera said, Shin, staring at her, he looked as if he wanted to believe her, but he was being overly cautious.

“How do I know Dredgen didn’t send you, that this is all some elaborate plan?” he asked, his eyes never leaving Sera.

“Orion…” Sera muttered, Orion appearing beside her, his shell swirling around him, Shin’s Ghost then twisting and turning their own shell before looking to the Hunter.

She is telling the truth, Shin. I have just received footage of Eva’s rescue and her in the Last City.

As his Ghost spoke Shin let out a sigh of relief and relaxed fully, pulling his hood down and smiling at us. “It is a relief to know Eva is safe… Why don’t we discuss things further back at my camp?” he asked, and Sera nodded.

“Sounds like a good plan. How far out are we?” she asked as Shin walked towards us, obviously now willing to take the stairs down.

“About an hour walk. Hopefully, the three of you are not too out of breath for that” he chuckled as he passed Sera and the four of us made our way down the stairs and back into the streets, Shin collecting his trip mine on the way.

As we made our way through the streets Sera and Shin exchanged small talk, chatting about the Last City, how it was doing, what was happening in the universe.

“Fallen ahead. Looks like two scouts” Arjic suddenly said, the four of us darting behind abandoned cars, peeking around them, two Fallen were walking across a crossroads. Clearly scouting the area, though they had not seen us which was lucky.

“I’ll take care of them” Shin muttered, though Sera stopped him as he went to break cover.

“No. They are heading away from us, no point alerting any other Fallen in the area that we are here” Sera whispered, Shin, pausing for a second before nodding in agreement. “OK. Give it a few minutes then we carry on, stay low and move silently” Sera said, all of us nodding. Though I noticed Shin looking Arjic up and down as if he were sizing him up.

_____

Arjic’s P.O.V

After just over an hour we arrived at an abandoned house, Shin letting us in, it was a well set up camp, very few items unpacked but those that were took up little space. “You certainly have an interesting array of traps around the premise” Sera stated as she looked around, Luca nodding in agreement at her statement.

“You can never be too careful, especially with the Fallen around, they are relentless. Anyway, tell me of the city, how it is holding up following the attack, how are the Vanguard doing?” Shin asked, smiling at Sera as he did, it somewhat put me off him.

“The city is doing well, rebuilding projects are taking place all around, expansions in some areas of the city, there is even talk of expanding the walls” Luca said moving to sit down, Shin smiling at his comment. “And the Vanguard, well they are well. Cayde is bored out his mind, as usual, Ikora is enthralled with learning all she can about the Traveler now it has awoken, and Zavala, well, most the time he is overseeing what seems like everything, think he is getting a few breaks now and then though” Luca then added, Sera and myself chuckling a little at his comments.

“I am glad to hear it is positive news from the city… Anyway, I have plenty of food and space for three guests if you require a safe area to camp for the night” Shin said moving to sit as well.

“We have our own camp set up, it is best we stay there as that is where our equipment is” I said, Luca nodding in agreement.

“Yes, you don’t want to leave that unguarded too long. Though it would be beneficial for one of you to stay behind, that way I can answer questions and share intel that they can then relay back. Ideally Sera or Luca, Warlocks need more sleep compared to us Hunters” Shin said, Sera smirking a little at his comment.

“I will stay, you two can head back to the camp, hold down the fort there,” Sera said, Luca, looking to me and then back to Sera who shot him a look.

“Very well. We will rest up then head out” Luca replied, Shin, nodded and went into another room for a minute, coming back in with some unlabelled cans.

“We’ve not long had lunch, so I am going to pass on playing the game of ‘is this meant to be this colour’ with the contents of the cans” Sera laughed, Luca and myself chuckling as well.

_____

Sera’s P.O.V

After an hour or so of just chatting about Cape Town in general and the Fallen that called the city home along with Shin, Luca and Arjic started to get ready to head off.

“When you exit you want to go left for three blocks, then turn inland, you’ll see a downed bridge, cross over that and keep following that road, it is a straight shot out the city and I rarely encounter Fallen when travelling that road” Shin said, Luca looked to Dom who nodded to him.

“Cheers. We’ll see you in the morning Sera. Will let you know if anything happens” Luca said as he picked up his rifle, Arjic smiling at me and nodding as the two left. I watched them head down the street from the window, jogging a little, wanting to beat the sunset.

After a few moments, I returned to sit down, Shin passing me an energy bar which I accepted. “Your Warlock friend… Arjic. I don’t trust him. Something about him seems off, seems unnatural” Shin suddenly said as I was beginning to unwrap the energy bar. Though as he said that I paused and looked back to him. What the hell was he talking about!

“Well, I trust Arjic with my life. Maybe you have become naturally distrustful of anyone who is not a Hunter” I replied, looking back to my energy bar and unwrapping it and taking a bite. How the hell could he judge the only non-hunter in the Fireteam so quickly, having barely had a conversation with him.

“Maybe, maybe not, no way to say for sure. Though I stand by my comment, you should keep an eye on him” Shin said, I just ignored the comment, focusing on my energy bar and trying not to think how many years out of date it was. “Anyway, shall we go over what information I have on the settlement and Dredgen and compare it to what you have?” Shin asked and I looked to him and nodded. “OK. Follow me” Shin said standing and heading towards the stairs.

“I swear to god if you take me to a bedroom I will punch you” I sighed, standing and following him as he chuckled, grabbing a bottle of something as he walked past a pretty beat up looking crate.

“No. I have a whole room that I use as a reconnaissance base of sorts” he said, and I simply nodded. Following him into a room, two of the four walls covered in images, notes and strips of fabric. It was certainly a lot of information, clearly several years’ worth of work.

“Impressive… So where do we begin?” I asked, Shin, looking around for a moment before gesturing to a wall where there were some photos of the settlement.

Chapter Text

Luca’s P.O.V

I sighed as we reached the camp, it was exactly as we had left it, and not a single spider in sight. “I will get started on some food, you OK to take the first watch?” I asked, Arjic looking to me and nodding before silently going to sit on one of the crates, looking out over the landscape. We had barely spoken on the way back and it had been tense. I hoped being back at the camp some of that tension would melt away, though that was clearly not the case… Then again, I and Arjic had not been seeing eye to eye recently, we always ended up talking about very decisive topics.

“How are things with Phoenix, I have not seen him in a while, hope he is keeping well,” I asked, hoping talking about more personal things would help rid the tension and awkward silences.

“He is well, he has been doing a lot of research recently, so he is either in the flat reading or out looking for more information. We have been spending some quality time together though in between missions… Though…” Arjic said, pausing and sighing, looking a little unsure for a moment.

“If you don’t feel comfortable talking to me about it that is fine, but I am always willing to listen and give advice where I can, especially for a friend,” I said, smiling at the Warlock as he looked to me a little surprised before smiling back at me.

“I just get the feeling that he is using me at times… Well, more my connection with Sera to get an in with Osiris. Some evenings Osiris is all he wants to talk about, and whilst I think he is a rather interesting man, there are times I just want to talk about boring crap like the weather on Io that day or something funny Devrim said” Arjic sighed.

“Whilst I don’t exactly share your thoughts on Osiris, spending an entire evening talking about him seems a bit much, I imagine even Osiris could not spend an entire evening talking about himself. Have you spoken to him about it?” I asked and Arjic shook his head.

“We have just recently come through a rough patch, I don’t want to risk ending up in another rough patch, or even worse, driving him away,” he said, I nodded, I understood what he meant. Relationships could be exceedingly difficult at times when you are a Guardian. “It doesn’t help that he lives next door to Sera and Zavala, some nights I can hear them sitting up late, laughing and talking… Other nights I wish the wall were a lot thicker than it is” Arjic said and I chuckled.

“I do not envy you having to listen to that, that is for sure. Though it probably is not ideal listening to Sera and Zavala spend time together, obviously incredibly happy in their relationship whilst you are wondering if you are genuinely loved or just being used” I said Arjic nodding. He looked a little defeated. “I am sure things will work out for the best though, you are a great guy and you deserve someone who loves you for who you are, and not who you know” I added, Arjic smiling a little.

“Thank you, Luca… Got to say, I do envy your status as single, it must make things so much simpler” he said, and I chuckled.

“It does and it does not. I met up with an old friend recently, she knew my wife, they adored each other, they were thick as thieves. Seeing her again, it reminded me that I miss having that in my life. I also realised how beautiful she is, and how smart and independent she is… Just like my wife” I said, Arjic smiling softly at me.

“You should go for it then, you deserve to be happy, and I doubt your wife would want you to stay single and lonely forever, from what you have told me of her, she would want you to be happy, to go out there and make the most of life,” Arjic said and I nodded and chuckled a little.

“That she would… And I bet she would tell you that you deserve to be happy as well and to make sure your man knows your worth and how you deserve to be treated” I said pointing to him and he chuckled. It was good to laugh with him again.

_____

Sera’s P.O.V

I chuckled as I took another sip of my sake, Orion and Shin’s Ghost going over the information Shin had shared with us to ensure he had everything in order.

“Oh, and then this Captain did the stupidest thing he could have done and lunged at me! I’ve not a clue how he thought that could possibly end well for him” Shin exclaimed, and I shook my head chuckling.

“Let me guess, he launched himself off the edge,” I said, and Shin nodded, downing his drink.

“Well and truly, straight off the pier and into the sea, which would not have been an issue for him, had he not been carrying a scorch cannon, a stolen grenade launcher, several ammunition belts and what looked like some very heavy furs… I mean, how stupid could you be! Though I did tell him I would make him sink or swim, he should have listened” Shin shrugged and I found myself laughing at his comment.

However, all of a sudden Shin’s lips were on mine and I found myself dropping my cup. After a moment I felt a hand running up my side and I very quickly pushed Shin back and shuffled back a little bit as well. “At what point did I give you any indication such advances would be welcome! At what point did I invite your hands to wander my body!” I snapped, moving to stand, Orion, darting back over to me, protectively hovering in front of my chest.

“Sera, I am sorry, I did not mean to make you uncomfortable. I just thought since we were alone, we may as well take the opportunity to have a little fun, burn off some steam” Shin said, although he was clearly, genuinely sorry his reasoning still made me mad! Why assume something like that!

“That does not make it any better. Especially as if you had just bought the idea up in conversation you could have saved us the awkwardness because I have a partner back in the city!” I snapped. Whilst I was glad Zavala was not around to witness what had happened, part of me wished he was. I doubt Shin would be on his feet if he were.

“And? It is not like Hunters are the loyal kind, and if your Ghost keeps quiet what does it matter?” Shin asked shrugging as he picked up both the cups, placing them on a cabinet in the room.

“You have some fucking nerve! I love my partner and I am committed to them! You may have spent too long alone and have forgotten what it means to be a Hunter, but I have not! Loyalty is a Hunter’s main strength!” I snapped, Shin clearly angered by my comment, but he kept his mouth shut. Probably for the best. “Now, unless there is any other information you feel you should share, I will be heading back to my camp” I practically snarled, moving to grab my rifle and a handful of energy bars.

“There are a few more bits of information. Pertaining to the non-Guardian guards at the camp” Shin sighed, I just looked to him, waiting for him to carry on. “They are not just armed civilians, they are clearly well trained, likely but a Titan judging from the methods they use. Also, none are particularly good with a sniper’s rifle. And whilst their weapons are not as good as those the Guardians in the settlement carry, their armour is on par” Shin said and I nodded, looking to Orion who flashed his optic at me.

“Thank you” I very flatly stated before heading out the room and down the stairs, letting myself out, Shin making the smart decision not to see me out. He obviously valued not having a broken nose.

You seem truly angry Sera. Is it because he kissed you without gaining consent, or for his comment about loyalty?

I glanced to Orion and then back to the street ahead, it was dark, prime time for Fallen to be out scavenging. “Both, now in my pack, I don’t fancy getting into it with the Fallen on the way back so let’s minimise the ways they can spot us” I sighed, Orion simply nodding and vanishing. Whilst he could still communicate with me via my comms, I had some privacy and silence when he was in my pack. And right now, I wanted some silence.

_

After an hour of walking, I came across an empty cave, it looked like it had been untouched for years, not even a small Fallen chest insight. “Let’s take a break here Orion. Can you get me a connection to Zavala?” I asked as I entered the cave, making my way to the back wall and sitting down, taking the weight off my feet for a minute.

Connecting to Commander Zavala.

After a moment my comms crackled to life and I heard Zavala excusing himself and some movement.

“Sera, is everything alright? I was not expecting you to check in so soon” Zavala’s voice said, and I found myself smiling at the sound of his voice, though also missing him greatly all of a sudden.

“Are you somewhere private?” I asked, silence following for a moment followed by a familiar beeping sound.

“I am now, is everything OK? You sound exhausted” Zavala said, I could hear the concern in his voice.

“I am OK, I just needed to vent… To make a long story short we found Shin Malphur, we went back to where he is camping out, though as we could not leave our camp unguarded for too long, Arjic and Luca made their way back whilst I stayed with Malphur and we exchanged information” I said, sighing at the end.

“That all sounds positive… Why do I have a feeling that is about to change?” Zavala asked, the concern in his voice changing to worry.

“Well, like any self-respecting Hunter, Shin had some alcohol, so we had a few drinks and talked. He told me a story about an encounter with a Fallen Captain, it was funny, I laughed and all of a sudden Shin was kissing me and running his hand up my side! Needless to say, I was not expecting Shin Malphur to make a move. And when I told him I had a partner he had the nerve to say Hunters are not loyal and that as long as Orion keeps quiet, my partner will never know I was unfaithful. He is such an asshole! You know I hate it when people assume that because Hunters are lone wolves that we are not loyal to our Fireteams and loved ones” I sighed, wishing I could just hug Zavala right now and get lost in his scent.

“Sera, I know you are loyal, I know you would never be unfaithful. Shin Malphur has obviously been out of contact with civilisation a little too long, even for a Hunter” Zavala said, and I smiled to myself.

“I miss you so much right now, I wish I could be there with you… When I get back I want to show you my favourite place in the entire galaxy, it is the perfect place to go and relax and let off a little steam” I said, wishing I had bumped into some Fallen on the way back to the camp so I could let off a little steam.

“I would greatly enjoy that Sera. And I miss you too, I wish I could speak longer, but I had a line of Guardians all wanting my attention when you called, and I doubt it has gotten shorter” Zavala sighed, he was obviously having a busy day.

“OK, you take care… I love you” I said, wishing I could speak to him a little longer, but we both had work to do.

“I love you too, stay safe my dear Sera” Zavala very softly replied, and I smiled, nodding to Orion, a small crackling sound and then silence informing me the line had been disconnected.

“Well, I guess we better get a move on” I said, pushing myself off the wall and to stand, heading out the cave and in the direction of the camp. It would not be far now, maybe another half hour walking, maybe a little more.

Neptune sent a private communication. Stating that Zavala apparently had a few choice words about Shin Malphur before returning to his post.

“I am surprised he managed to keep them to himself until after the call” I chuckled.

I am as well.

_

After another fifty minutes of walking, we arrived back at the camp, Luca looking at me a little surprised. “What the hell are you doing back here?” he asked, and I sighed and sat down beside him.

“I would rather you only make comments about my eyes for the rest of my life than spend another hour alone with Shin Malphur, his quick lips and wandering hands. The asshole decided it was appropriate to kiss me out the blue and suggest being unfaithful to my partner! I am not sure how I reframed from punching him!” I snapped, feeling angry about it all over again.

“What an asshole, and how disrespectful, bet you wish I stayed now, doubt he would have tried it on” Luca chuckled, and I smiled and shook my head at his comment.

“He has been alone for a long time, and you never know, he may swing both ways,” I said, Luca, laughed and reached behind him, grabbing a packet and emptying the contents into the pot over the fire he had going.

“Well, all I can say is I would not want to be him when Zavala finds out” Luca chuckled and I smirked, Luca, raising a brow. “You’ve already told him, haven’t you… Bet Shin was a bit shocked when you told him he had suggested the girlfriend of the Vanguard Commander cheat” he said.

“He may have been had I told him who my partner was, but I left that out” I said, Luca, raising a brow and smirking.

“Dude is in for a shock when he finds out because he will. Either one of us will tell him, or Zavala will talk to Cayde and Cayde will contact Shin and ask him what he is playing at” Luca said.

“Well, either way, when he finds out, I hope I get to see his reaction” I said, watching as Luca stirred the contents of the pan.

_____

Luca’s P.O.V

Sera and I sat chatting for a while after she had a bite to eat and emptied her boots of sand. Though after about an hour I heard a sound from Arjic’s tent, it sounded like Ansel beeping away.

That does not sound good.
No, it does not.

After a moment Arjic exited his tent looking extremely pale, Ansel floating around him, scanning him and beeping furiously, causing both Orion and Dom to head over and start helping their friend out.

“Arjic, are you OK?” Sera asked, heading over to him and helping steady him whilst I grabbed a bottle of water and pushed one of the stools over to him, Sera guiding him to sit whilst I unscrewed the water cap and passed it to her.

“Have some water mate, you look paler than Asher Mir, which is impressive for a human” I said, Arjic looked to me and then to the water Sera was holding and nodded, taking the bottle from her and having a few sips. I then grabbed one of the energy bars that Sera had bought back with her and chucked it over to her. She made quick work of the wrapping, taking the water off Arjic after he had a few more decent sized sips and passing him an energy bar.

“Small bites don’t eat it too fast” she said, staying crouched before him, the three Ghosts floating beside him, all carefully watching him.

Beep. Beep, Beep, Beep. Beep.
Ansel said he just took an odd turn all of a sudden, he went really pale and extremely out of it.

“I was trying to utilise a Warlock ability, I was trying to look through the void, see if I could glimpse anything that may help us… It is exhausting, though I have never had such a reaction afterwards” Arjic muttered, Sera frowning at him as he explained what he had been doing. I was just very confused; it was not an ability I had heard of before at all.

“You just take it easy OK, drink your water and finish that energy bar for me OK?” Sera said and Arjic nodded whilst she got up and came over to me. “I am going to go to the little girls’ room, keep an eye on him” she said, and I nodded, heading over to him and pulling up a stool.

“You should have told me you were doing something like that if I knew I would have had a snack and drink ready for you” I said, Arjic smiled at me as he finished the energy bar, chasing the last bite with a rather large sip of water.

“It usually just leaves me needing a nap, not feeling like I have had an out of body experience” he replied, I just smiled, and we sat in silence till Sera got back.

“You already look less pale which is promising, and poor Ansel seems to have relaxed a bit, really had him and us worried. It is probably best you rest since I am back, I will take your watch, that way you can properly recover” Sera said, grabbing the other stool and moving closer to the two of us. Arjic smiling up at her and then looking rather confused for a moment.

“Wait… Your back. When did you get back?” Arjic asked causing myself and Sera to burst out laughing.

“About an hour ago. Shin got a little quick with his lips and over-friendly with his hands” Sera said and Arjic looked at her shocked before shaking his head.

“Maybe someone needs to physically remind him that consent is a thing” he said, and Sera chuckled, ruffling up the Warlocks hair.

“Hopefully he has learnt his lesson, now why don’t you go rest. Ansel, let us know if he takes another turn and we will call in a medical evac” Sera said, the Ghost nodding at her and moving over to her and pushing up against her cheek for a moment before nuzzling Arjic’s neck and beeping at him.

“I am sorry buddy, I did not mean to make you worry” he said, smiling at his Ghost. At that moment I swear his Ghost gave him a very concerned look, but there was something else to it. Then again, I could have been imagining it.

“OK, off to bed with the pair of you… You OK for a few more hours Luca? Then I will take over?” Sera asked and I nodded, watching as Ansel and Arjic made their way back into their tent whilst Sera went into hers.

Hopefully, it would be an uneventful night from now on.

Chapter Text

Sera’s P.O.V

I sat and watched Arjic go to town on his breakfast, he clearly had an appetite this morning, and he looked like he had got some much-needed rest. “Are you going to eat the rest of your breakfast Sera?” Arjic suddenly asked and I looked down at my dish, I had eaten all my favourite bits already, so it was just the mushrooms, some beans and an overcooked piece of bacon left.

“No, you have it if you want it” I said holding out the dish, Arjic reaching over and taking it from me, smiling. “Glad to see you are feeling better this morning, that or there is something really wrong with you, enjoying Luca’s cooking like that” I chuckled, Luca shooting me a playfully annoyed look.

“Uh-oh” Arjic suddenly muttered, myself and Luca looking to him and then following his gaze to around one of the clumps of trees. The form of a Hunter becoming clearer and clearer as they got closer and closer.

“Please let me tell him you are shacked up with Commander Zavala… Please” Luca said, looking to me and laughing.

“What and deny him the pleasure of finding out he pissed off the Vanguard Commander from the man himself” I chuckled, moving to grab my stuff, getting ready to head out. We had a boring day of watching the settlement planned, hopefully we could get a better idea of the numbers they had.

_____

Luca’s P.O.V

After a few minutes Shin arrived at the camp, greeting myself and Arjic with a nod before turning to Sera who just stood waiting for him to say something. “I am heading in land to a Fallen camp. I thought I would check-in, see what your plans are for the day and offer my support if it is needed” he asked.

“We are going to observe the settlement for the day, try and get a better idea of their numbers and any routines. Nothing we require support with. Though if anything does happen, we know how to contact you” Sera said extremely dryly before going back to sorting out the supplies she was taking with her.

“Very well. I hope it goes well” he said, nodding to Sera and myself before looking to Arjic and frowning before starting to walk off. As he did, I looked to Sera who looked to me and then back to Shin Malphur whilst Arjic just looked to Ansel a little confused.

“HEY! What the hell is your problem with Arjic? What has he ever done to you?” I snapped, standing and facing to direction in which Shin had gone, he simply paused and looked over his shoulder, not saying anything initially. “Because he sure as hell knows what consent is, is that your issue?” I snapped again, Sera looking to me a little shocked whilst Shin turned fully to face me.

“I will pretend you did not say that last sentence… But if you must know, my problem with Arjic is that there is just something off about him. What I am not sure, I am no Warlock, they know their own kind better than others do. Even Hunters cannot see everything a person is hiding” Shin said before turning and leaving.

I looked to Arjic who gave me a reassuring smile before passing me a bottle of water. “Maybe he just has a thing against anyone who is not a Hunter, or maybe the fact Ansel cannot speak unnerves him” Arjic shrugged, I just sighed and nodded, it may very well be that he has trust issues.

_____

Sera’s P.O.V

On the way to the settlement we took a little detour to go via the beacon where I found Eva. It was clear the area had been moved through by a number of individuals since I was last here. The bush Eva had been hiding in had been trampled through, and though it was growing back, looked pretty sorry for itself.

It looks like the beacon is still broadcasting an SOS signal, not a very strong one… How did Cayde even pick this up in the first place?
Who knows with Cayde. It has been tampered with since we were last here, looks like a failed attempt to boost the signal.
Very true, also, it looks like the inner workings were put together by a blind and armless Dregg…
Beep. Beep. Beep.
Yeah, it does look like something Arjic would attempt

“Very funny, can you get us any more information like its original use?” Arjic asked as me and Luca were looking around. Dom simply nodding before getting to work on scanning the beacon some more.

It was obvious a group had moved through the area not long after I had found Eva, maybe a few hours later, though for whatever reason they did not follow any tracks I had left behind, they just seemed to congregate around the beacon. “It is odd, why chase her down, find her last location and not carry on the chase? There are what, six, maybe seven sets of footprints, they could have easily taken on me and Eva” I said, Luca slowly walking through the shrubbery.

“It may be that they thought the footprints belonged to two Hunters, Eva would have appeared to be lighter on her feet than your average Warlock due to her size, that or the group who came through here were not looking for Eva but for someone or something else” Luca said and I nodded, both of his suggestions were possible.

“Lets see if we can find anything that may give us some more information, once Dom is done we will carry on towards the settlement” Luca said and I nodded, the two of us slowly spiralling out from the beacon whilst Arjic stayed by Dom, Ansel following Luca around, watching his back.

After twenty minutes or so neither myself nor Luca had found anything, and it seemed Dom had not found anything ground-breaking judging by his mood.

From what I can gather the beacon was used at the end of the Golden Age to signal for help, maybe for evacuations or something along those lines… It was offline for hundreds of years, maybe more before someone reactivated it, though they certainly had to do some work on it, hence the limited range… For Cayde to have picked this up on one of his sensors, it would have to be a fair bit stronger, unless he has highjacked one of the old Dead Orbit sensors, they have some in the beacons range…

“Possibly, Cayde has a habit of using other people’s stuff without their permission” I chuckled, I hoped it was Dead Orbits sensors that had picked it up and that Cayde had highjacked the sensors. “Anyway, lets carry on, there is not much more we can find here, and we need to get a look at the settlement, see what we are up against and try and figure out how many people live there” I said, the others nodding in agreement.

_____

Zavala’s P.O.V

I stood looking over the screens of the various strikes and recon missions going on when a new connection popped up… Sera…

“Neptune, send word to Eva” I said, my Ghost nodding as I continued to watch the screens, Sera’s, Luca’s and Arjic’s all thankfully rather uneventful. Then again, most were, it was turning out to be a rather quiet day so far. Though I doubted it would stay that way.

Eva is on her way

“Thank you, Neptune, Fireteam Survivor, your feeds have just come online. Any news?” I asked, smiling when it was Sera that responded.

“We are spending the day surveying the settlement, any information Eva can provide us about the settlement structure and guards would be greatly appreciated.” Sera’s voice said. I glanced at her comm link, she was staring at a small opening in the walls of the settlement whilst Arjic and Luca appeared to be watching the entrance gates.

“Eva is on route” I said, the comms from the three falling quiet as they focused on the task at hand. Though after five minutes Eva arrived, Neptune quickly patching her into the comms with Sera, Luca and Arjic.

“Eva is present” I said, Luca’s comms crackling to life.

“Eva, do you know if there are any reinforcing structures on or behind the gates?” he asked, Eva looking thoughtful for a moment before looking to her Ghost who shook her shell.

“No, not as far as we are aware, though both have guards on the inside, about five or six at any one time” she said.

“OK. Good to know. Does anyone guard the hole in the wall or check it at all?” Sera asked, Orion zooming in on the hole, it was not that large, though an adult would be able to fit through it if they crouched.

“Not as far as I am aware, I am surprised it has not been fixed as they must know that is how I escaped” Eva said, her comment making me concerned about the fact it was still open.

“They may be aware of your presence and intend on using it as a trap” I said, a thoughtful hum the only response from Sera. “Any other updates I should be aware of?” I asked after a moment of silence.

“We managed to get a scan of the beacon, it is an old beacon, used to broadcast in the golden age. It was offline for hundred of years, someone really had to know what they were doing to get it working again” Luca said, hopefully we could find out who activated it and why.

“OK. Eva, any information you can provide that may be helpful?” I asked, Eva looking at the screens carefully for a moment.

“Luca is watching the main gate, most people who enter do so there” she said.

“How often do people enter and leave?” Sera asked, Orion checking no one was approaching from behind.

“Light Bearers left daily, and they would usually come back the same day. Some groups maybe stayed out longer gathering resources. As for normal people, they only entered, less and less new people had been coming in, most hide from the Light Bearers. One man told me he hid for months in a burnt-out house as the settlement had a reputation, but they found him one night and forcibly took him there… He said it was worse than the reputation” Eva said, the hairs on my arms standing on and as she spoke. We needed to put Dredgen out of action for good.

Zavala. Ikora wishes to speak with you, she states it is urgent.

“Very well, Eva, stay here. I should be back shortly” I sighed, glancing back to the screens before leaving.

_____

EVA’S P.O.V

After Zavala had left the room I turned back to the screens and sighed. “I am bored, I wish I was with you guys, helping out and not just stuck in the Tower” I sighed.

“I know, but this is not exactly exciting work, we are just doing recon. Anyway, it is too dangerous for you right now, who knows what Dredgen would do if he re-captured you. I would not be able to… Wait… What are the guns doing?” Sera asked, the three feeds moving to show the guns repositioning and aiming up into the sky.

“How often do the guns move Eva?” Arjic asked and I thought back to my time in the settlement.

“About once a week for testing, but I have no idea if it is scheduled or random” I said, Sera’s video feed following where the guns are pointed.

“They are pointing at something as they are all aimed at exactly the same spot…Though, there is not specific out there… OH SHIT!” Sera snapped as the guns fired, the green blasts vanishing into the distance. Though before I could say anything the guns moved and fired in the other direction. This time the shots vanished through a glowing green portal of some kind.

“Hive portals. That is not a good sign” Luca stated. All three seemed focused on the portals in the sky until they vanished a moment later.

“Ummm, I have never seen that happen before” I muttered.

“That is not aa good sign… Do you think Dredgen summoned that portal or the Hive did? I have not seen any reports of Hive in the area” Arjic said. The three of them breaking out into a conversation that was not that easy to follow.

“Not a clue, Luca any ideas?”
“No, Arjic, would it even be possible for him to summon a Hive portal?”
“Possibly, I mean, it was no where near the size of the ones the ships travel through”
“True, but where did the shots go? Did that portal lead to the Ascendant Realm or did it go elsewhere?”
“I think if they were shooting at the Hive in their Ascendant Realms the Hive would be retaliating. Maybe it went to another location on Earth? Luca, can your friend find out if there are any reports of random Hive portals appearing and shots shooting out of them?”
“I can ask. Dom, send a message”

“How is everything going?” Commander Zavala’s voice asked as he walked back in and I turned to look at him and then back to the screens.

“I don’t know, something to do with Hive portals…” I muttered.

“The guns on the walls fired into a Hive Portal. Not a clue if Dredgen summoned it or the Hive did, but either way, it is not good news” Arjic’s voice said, Zavala looking very concerned.

 “Neptune, message Ikora, we need her expertise” he said, his Ghost nodding.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

After a few minutes of ideal chatter and people throwing out theories on what the portals were the comms buzzed and Ikora’s voice came over them. “I understand there was a Hive portal?” she asked. Arjic launching into an explanation of the event.

“It may be Dredgen is launching an attack on the Hive for whatever insane reason, or he is using Hive magic to summon portals and allow himself to attack other locations from the settlement. However, without more information we cannot confirm what is going on. Though I shall alert Cayde should a scout come to him with a story of a Hive portal with weapons fire coming from it reach him” Ikora said. That made sense though, but we would either have to wait and see or spend ages guessing.

“We have not been here long, only a few hours, so we will continue to watch the settlement and alert you should that happen again. Orion, can you send the footage to Aristotle of the portal?” I asked, Orion nodding.

Though your feed to the Vanguard will be lost momentarily.

“That is fine, reconnect it as soon as you have sent the footage” I said, Orion nodding and doing as requested.

“Thank you, Sera. I will look over the footage and see if anything stands out. Now, I must get back to my duties. Good luck and stay safe Fireteam Survivor” Ikora’s voice said before the comms went quiet again.

“OK. Fireteam Survivor, I have another tactical operation to run. Though the emergency comms are open should support be required” Zavala’s voice said and I smiled to myself for a moment.

“OK Commander. And Eva, thank you for the support” Luca’s voice said.

“Yes, you’ve been a great help. Commander, we will let you know if anything changes” I said before nodding to Orion who cut off the comms feed to the tower. Though our video feed was still up and running.

_____

Zavala’s P.O.V

When the comms cut Eva looked to me and then back to the screens as the three of them monitored the settlement.

“If you wish to stay you may, though there will not be much for you to do. I will be supporting another Fireteam during a strike against a Fallen base” I said, Eva sighed and nodded.

“I will go and find Hawthorne. Thank you for allowing me to be involved” she said, and I smiled at her and nodded.

“You are welcome. Hopefully in the coming months, we can allow you to see the world outside the walls of the city and possibly off world if Fireteam Survivor is happy to accompany you” I said, Eva smiled at me and nodded eagerly. She was desperate to help, though until this Dredgen Yor had been taken care of, that was not possible, at least not from outside of the Tower.

Chapter Text

Luca’s P.O.V

Several hours passed, me, Arjic and Sera all carefully surveying the settlement, watching the guards on the walls, the snipers on the tower within that were visible from the outside of the settlement… It was so boring!

“OK. I am calling it there. I doubt there is much more we can learn here today, and we have a better idea of the number of light-bearers in the settlement… Any objections to heading back to camp?” Sera’s voice asked and I smiled, I imagined she was just as bored as I was by this time.

“None. Let’s go!” Arjic piped up and I chuckled.

“No objections from me either” I replied, Sera chuckling at our responses.

“Very well, if you two link up and then start heading back, we should meet up about halfway back” Sera said and I nodded.

“On it! I will come to you Luca, will be easier” Arjic said and I just grunted in confirmation back as I shoved the rest of my snack bar into my mouth. Arjic had eaten his pretty soon after getting here and had complained he was hungry; I was not going to be sharing mine.

_____

Ikora’s P.O.V

As I finished in the comms room, I made my way back through the hangar, surprisingly Cayde was nowhere to be seen, though as I was exiting his voice caught my attention.

“Yo! Shin, long time no speak. Though now I know where you are it makes sending messages easier. So, just a quick one, best keep your hands to yourself. You don’t want to go feeling up my Hunters, they won’t take kindly to it… Especially Sera. Though, I doubt the Vanguard Commander is happy with you, feeling up his partner, who he happens to be rather protective over, fiercely protective even. So yeah, stop getting handsy with my Hunters, probably safer to cop a feel of some Fallen”

I followed the sound of his voice to a small crevice in the wall and looked up, a small support beam had been taken up by Cayde who was reciting a message to his Ghost.

“OK. Send that encrypted to Shin Malphur, I do not fancy Sera telling me he tried it on with her again and she shot him” he chuckled, his Ghost sighing but letting out a little chuckle of their own.

“Having fun up there?” I asked, Cayde looking down and smiling at me.

“Oh, you know me, just helping a friend out” he chuckled, hopping down and adjusting his cloak. “Don’t want them getting on the wrong end of a rifle” he said, and I just smiled.

“Or a Titan’s fist” I added and Cayde just smirked.

“Or that, now, if you don’t mind, I have some other business to attend to, as I am sure you do as well. See you around Ikora!” Cayde called as he headed back towards the Hanger bay, his Ghost trailing behind him.

“Trouble, you have trouble to attend to” I muttered to myself as I made my way back towards the Bazaar.

_____

Sera’s P.O.V

The three of us made it back to the camp as the sun began to get low in the sky, though our camp was not void of life, Shin Malphur was sat on one of the crates seemingly waiting for us.

“The beacon, know who activated it?” I asked as I placed my rifle down and rummaged through another crate for some water.

“No, and I doubt it was Dredgen, he would not risk drawing prying eyes to the settlement. Though, I do have a few theories as to who may have activated it” Shin said and Luca nodded to him, asking him to carry on. “It was either the Fallen pissing about with technology they know nothing about and accidentally activating it. They have been in and out of the area for the last few years, so it is not that much of a far-fetched theory. Or it is a rouge light bearer who then moved on or ended up getting involved with Dredgen, or, and this one I feel is the most likely, a light-bearer or group of light-bearers from the settlement who want out and need help getting out” Shin said.

“Why don’t they just leave, surely they could just leave to patrol one day and never go back” I said, Shin, shaking his head.

“You’ve seen the guns on the walls. Any ship that tries to leave without permission is shot down, I have seen it happen more than once. He does not want anyone leaving, at least not alive” Shin said, and I sighed.

“Well, that answers that… Though one thing that has not been answered is what you are doing here” Arjic suddenly said and I was a little surprised at his comment, then again, Shin had not exactly been hospitable to him.

“I received an encrypted message from Cayde… He informed me I am to keep my hands to myself and not going feeling up his Hunters, especially ones in a relationship with the Vanguard Commander since he is rather protective of his partner” Shin said, looking to me. I just rolled my eyes.

“It isn’t him you need to worry about, it is the Hunter you felt up. Afterall… it is not that hard to dodge a hit from a Titan, but another Hunter” I chuckled, pulling one of my knives out and chucking it towards Shin, embedding it in the crate behind him.

“Either way, I do apologise for my behaviour, it was out of line and you are right, I have spent far too long alone, and I think it is time for a change if that is OK with yourselves” Shin said and I looked to Luca and Arjic who nodded.

“Very well, feel free to stay here or swing by whenever,” I said. Shin smiling and nodding at me. “Though since you are here right now, perhaps you can help us formulate a plan to get me inside that settlement. We need to know roughly what the internal layout is and where important buildings are positioned” I said, Arjic and Luca looking to me like I had lost my mind whilst Shin looked rather thoughtful.

“That hole in the wall, it leads into an alleyway, I have had my little friend here take a peek before. No real foot traffic to speak of, quiet, out he way. Especially when it is dark as there are not light sources” Shin said and I smiled, that was perfect.

“Tomorrow night through the hole in the wall it is then” I chuckled. Shin just smirking at me whilst Arjic walked off towards his tent, probably muttering about how nuts I was whilst Luca headed towards the fire pit.

“If it is OK with you, I would like to stay at your camp tonight. I can either find my own shelter, or if Luca does not mind sharing I don’t either” Shin said, and I looked to Luca who gestured towards his tent.

“Make yourself at home, just keep your hands to yourself” he said, and Shin nodded, heading over to the tent and placing his belongings down. Though he gave Arjic’s tent a wide berth, it was ridiculous how paranoid he was about one Warlock.

_____

ARJIC’S P.O.V

As the night went on everyone settled into their roles for the evening, Luca, as usual, was in charge of cooking, he always managed to make the ration packs taste better than they were without even trying. Sera and Shin had gone off to ensure the perimeter was clear as well as see if there was any wild game in the area, considering we now had an extra mouth to feed.

“Anything interesting out there Arjic?” Luca asked from his spot by the fire, I just looked back to him and shook my head.

“Nothing, though I imagine anyone out there would have been spooked by Sera and Shin” I said, Luca simply nodding before going back to cooking whilst I continued to watch the horizon. Whilst it was quiet, there was something unnerving about the area, if it were just the unsettled vibes from Shin or the settlement I could not tell.

“Damn thing won’t open” Luca suddenly muttered and I looked over to see him trying to open a jar with an orange powder in it… Was that… Paprika?

“Luca… Did you bring extra spices with you?” I asked, the Hunter looking over to me slightly startled but after a moment he sighed and nodded. “No wonder you always make the best food” I laughed, walking over and taking the jar from him, twisting it open with a bit of effort.

“I don’t exactly advertise the fact I am rather fond of cooking, I find it relaxing and when I am out in the wilds I often look for new ingredients to try out, unless it is a mushroom, I learnt long ago to stay away from them” Luca chuckled, I just smiled and nodded before returning to where I was previously perched.

“I promise I shall not tell a single soul, maybe save your neighbour some grief” I chuckled. Luca looking to me and raising a brow. “Anytime Zavala cooks Sera a meal, even if it is a simple meal on a bog-standard weekday, she thanks him… Usually against our shared wall… The wall my bed is next to” I clarified.

“Ah, that makes sense. I can’t imagine, nor wish to, what Commander Zavala sounds like when doing… well, Sera” Luca commented.

“Sadly, I can. I also know their pet names and that Sera likes it rough” I replied, Luca looking shocked for a moment before turning his attention back to the food.

“Nope. We are not having this conversation. In fact, this conversation never happened. Understood?” Luca stated causing me to chuckle before going back to scanning the horizon.

“Understood” I chuckled, noticing two figures in the distance, two hunters, both walking towards the camp. Whilst it was mostly likely Sera and Shin, I raised my weapon and peered down my scope. Sera’s deep purple cloak hood coming into view, Orion floating beside her. “Speak of the devil” I muttered, lowering my weapon, Luca looking up and sighing.

“I don’t think I will be able to look at her the same now. Thanks, Arjic…” he muttered, moving to grab some bowls and cutlery. I just smirked and continued to look out over the horizon, keeping my eyes peeled for any signs of anything out of the ordinary.

_____

Luca’s P.O.V

As the night wore on, we all settled around a small fire, sharing stories, comparing weapons and having a relaxed time. That was until Arjic bought up a new topic of conversation, “By the way, I and Luca had an interesting conversation whilst you were out securing the area” the Warlock stated, glancing to me and then back to Sera.

“Oh, anything interesting?” Shin asked, looking from Arjic to me and then back to the rather smug looking Warlock.

“Just about how thin the walls are between the walls of apartments in the tower” I said rather quickly, Arjic nodding in agreement.

“And they did not lay out the apartments very well, for example, I and Sera share a wall, mine and my partner's bedroom shares a wall with Sera’s kitchen… Pretty sure I now know more about their sex life than their Ghosts” Arjic stated, Sera bursting out into a fit of laughter whilst Shin just looked a little unsure of what to say.

“Yeah, no one needs to have to be sat at their dining room table listening to a member of their fireteam get railed against the wall in the next flat” Sera managed to get out once she had contained her laughter, Arjic’s expression suddenly becoming the shocked one.

“I did not need to know anything about either of your sex lives! Now… Shin. Regretting not staying at your own camp?” I asked causing everyone to laugh.

_____

Arjic’s P.O.V

As the late hours of the night rolled around, I decided to retire to my tent slightly earlier than the others. After all, Hunter’s did not need as much sleep as others, and the three were much more accustomed to home-made spirits than I.

“I shall see you all in the morning, goodnight” I stated, smiling as I stood, the three Hunters all looking to me, smiling and bidding me a good night, even Shin.

“Goodnight Arjic, sleep well” Sera replied before turning back to the others as I made my way to my tent, slipping inside and beginning to disrobe, dimming the lantern as I did so as to not cast a shadow.

Beep. Beep… Beep.

“I know Ansel, but I need to make this makes sense. None of my other visions really make sense… And last night. Seeing those shadows dancing in the flames. It was haunting” I sighed. Ansel giving me a sad look as I slipped into my sleeping bag, reaching for the locked box beside me, twisting the symbol until I heard the telltale click.

Beep. Beep, Beeeep.

“Nine, so after this there will be six left” I replied, Ansel simply nodding, watching as I uncorked the vial, the sickly-sweet smell of its content filling my nostrils. “Show me what I want to see…” I whispered before downing the purple liquid, the taste of burnt sugar overwhelming my senses. Between the smell and taste, you almost did not notice the smell of almonds.

I lay back, placing the vial to one side and looking to Ansel who quickly swivelled around as I lowered a hand down my body, biting my lip to suppress a moan as I wrapped my hand around my cock, closing my eyes, slowly stroking myself. It was hard to tell if my breathing was becoming more rapid and shallow because of the pleasure, or the cyanide.

As my hand sped up, I closed my eyes, allowing my head to roll back, the mix of the pain and pleasure leaving me unable to think clearly, incapable of moaning from the sensations either bought me. Though just as I felt I could take no more of either the familiar sensation of falling became all I was aware of.

I opened my eyes to see a settlement coming into view, mostly simple buildings, thatched roofs, though one building caught my eye, a tall building that seemed to radiate evil stood in the centre of the settlement. It was grand compared to the rest of the buildings. Despite the dark energy the building was cloaked in, I was still drawn to it, slowly moving towards it. Though just before I reached the door someone passed behind me.

I swirled around, an individual clad in a dark cloak slipped between two of the buildings, a strand of purple hair visible from under the hood, bright eyes staring back at the open area, scanning it carefully.

“Sera…” I muttered, moving towards her, briefly losing sight of her before I rounded the same corner she had. Though as I did someone else brushed past me at great speed, the gleam of a blade catching my eye. Before I even had a chance to blink a sharp gasp filled the air and a body fell before me. Purple hair slowly becoming red, bright eyes beginning to dull.

“Orion… Do something… Orion… Ansel. Anyone!” I called, moving over to Sera’s body, though as soon as my fingertips brushed her icy skin, she vanished into a black puddle that seemed to consume her body and I once more began to fall. Everything around me being consumed by that same black puddle… Myself included.

I gasped as I sat up, Ansel observing me carefully, watching my every move, rising and falling as my chest did.

“I am fine… I am fine…” I muttered.

Beep. Beep, beep, beep… Beep

“Yes… It was worth it. Now, let me write it down before the details escape me” I muttered, turning to pull my diary out from under my pillow.

Beep.

“Yes, I know it is a cliché place to keep it, but it is not like I have room for a safe in here is it” I chuckled, scribbling down every little detail of the vision, from the silence that engulfed me as I fell to the gasp that escaped Sera’s lips as she was murdered all way to the bubbling of that strange black liquid.  

Beep, beep, beep… BEEP!

“I don’t like this Ansel. Something feels very wrong about it all” I sighed, looking to my Ghost who raised his shell, he did not have to say a single thing for me to understand what his response was. “Look, I get that you do not approve of this method, but you could at least take me seriously when I have these feelings” I sighed, Ansel simply floated a little lower and a little closer.

Beep.

“I know you worry Ansel, and I appreciate your care and concern, but I am being careful, trust me my friend” I said, smiling at the Ghost before me, his optics shining a little brighter.

Chapter Text

Arjic’s P.O.V

I woke the next morning to the sound of swearing and laughing, emerging from my tent to find Shin covered in what looked to be the contents of a packet of rations. Both Sera and Luca were laughing, though Luca seemed to be somewhat helpful, passing his fellow Hunter a cloth whilst Sera just laughed.

“Arjic! Morning, you just missed an out of date rations pack exploding all over Mr It’ll-be-fine-it-is-only-three-years-out-of-date, here” Sera stated, and I chuckled as I reached back in my tent, grabbing my robes, and pulling them on.

“I am sure it was hilarious… By the way Sera, last night I had a thought, due to none of us having any idea what is on the other side of the settlement walls, it would probably be best for someone to go with you, to watch your back. We need to be prepared for any and all possibilities” I said, moving to sit beside Luca as I spoke. Sera’s expression changing from one of laughter and joy to one of contemplation and seriousness.

“I had a similar thought… Though I do not feel comfortable putting anyone else in danger” Sera sighed, Luca also letting out a sigh, though his was one of frustration.

“We have already had this conversation Sera. I will tell you what I did on Io all those moons ago. You do not get to decide if you put us in a dangerous situation or not. We are not children; we are not without Light and we are not weak. And I do not care if you are comfortable with it or not, it is not up to you” Luca very sternly stated, Sera just staring at him a little shocked for a moment before relenting.

“Very well, Arjic, you can watch my back when we go in, taking Shin is too much of a risk if we are spotted and having snipers on the outside looking out for other snipers is probably the best idea” Sera stated and I just nodded, thinking back to that conversation on Io.

_____

I lay in my sleeping bag listening to the sounds of the night, to say there was pretty much nonstop fighting between the Cabal and Vex on Io it was oddly silent. Though after a little while the rustling of a sleeping bag shifting and soft footsteps filled that silence. Sera would have to get the artefact off of Asher before leaving Io, giving myself and Luca time to ambush her.

As her footsteps faded, I slowly peeled myself out of my sleeping bag, Luca doing the same. “Quickly, before she has Orion call her ship down” Luca whispered and I nodded, grabbing my weapons, and following the Hunter to Asher’s camp, the old Warlock and Sera talking.

Though before Sera could notice us, Luca stopped me, and we stood and waited till their conversation had finished, it took a minute but as Sera took the device off of Asher and turned around she came to a quick halt, a shocked expression crossing her face.

“I have no idea what you are playing at running off to Nessus on your own! Do you have any idea how stupid and dangerous that is!” Luca snapped before Sera could even think of anything to say. She simply looked back to Asher who also looked a little shocked before just looking fed up.

“How could you leave us behind! After everything, we ALL went through to get the pieces for that device! How do you think we feel about that? If I didn’t know any better, I would say you were just plain stupid!” I then snapped, getting my views on the situation heard as well before Sera could gather herself.

“I… I don’t want to put either of you in danger, I don’t want to risk you getting killed… I was trying to protect you” Sera said, trying to stand her ground, though even I could tell she felt cornered and trapped and like any animal that was cornered, panic and confusion was setting in.

“You DO NOT get to decide what situations are too dangerous for us, YOU DO NOT GET TO DECIDE IF WE RISK OUR LIVES OR NOT! FOR CRYING OUT LOUD SERA! WE ARE NOT WEAKLINGS! WE ARE NOT INCOMPETENT!” Luca yelled, Sera clearly surprised by his outburst, as was I to be fair.

“I… I know… I am sorry” Sera sighed, relenting, and handing the device over to Luca as he thrust his hand out to take it.

“Good. Now that is settled, shall we head to Nessus?” he asked, Sera looking at him and nodding, giving him a small smile.
_____

As we settled into eating and generally chatting it became clear from Shin’s demeanour he was not happy about Sera taking me into the settlement as back up, though, he would just have to suck it up. He was not going to get his way by sitting and pouting like a child.

______

Luca’s P.O.V

“So, what is the plan for the day?” I asked as I put the fire out, Sera looking over her rifle before looking to me and then to Shin.

“Got any suggestions? Anything you think we should check out?” she asked, Shin, looking thoughtful for a moment before nodding and moving over to the map we had laid out on one of the crates.

“There are a few old settlements, mostly abandoned, or so it appears. Over the years I have met a few people who go between them or have very well-hidden camps in them. They are either dodging the Fallen or Dredgen’s men, some may be willing to provide you with any information they have, though most probably won’t want anything to do with you” Shin said, gesturing to a few settlements on the maps.

“How have the light bearers that are from the settlement not found them yet? Surely their Ghosts would have picked their presence up…” Arjic asked walking over, Shin giving him an unnecessary glare.

“Beat me to the question as usual” I chuckled, Arjic looking to me and chuckling too. Shin really needed to get the stick up his ass out and stop being such a dick.

“A few I have given a bit of help, some technology that can, for a short time, hide them from a Ghosts radar, though some are just extremely good at hiding or keep live animals in the area, the light-bearers are lazy from the sound of it, if they think it is an animal they won’t investigate” Shin clarified and Sera just nodded.

“OK then. Get ready, we head out in half an hour” she said, placing a hand on Arjic’s shoulder as she walked past him to get her pack ready, likely having noticed Shin’s glare aimed at him and making her thoughts known in the most passive-aggressive way she could. “Make sure you all have enough ammo if we run into any of Dredgen’s men I doubt they will be expecting a well-equipped group of light-bearers… But no stupid risks” she then added.

______

Sera’s P.O.V

We made our way to the closest former settlement, Shin leading us, checking a few specific buildings, though any occupants either did not want to speak to us or were not there. That was until the last house, a young man and woman invited us to come in out of the open and talk.

“We understand that talking to us is a risk as a group of four Guardians is not exactly unnoticeable… Though any information you can give us would be greatly appreciated” I said as we all sat on crates or leant against walls in the small, dilapidated building, most likely a store in a previous era.

“You could be exactly the solution we have been hoping for, it is worth the risk” the man said, placing a cracked plate of what looked like very stale biscuits on a crate in the middle of the room. Arjic taking one out of politeness whilst Luca took one because he would eat any food offered to him.

“We are trapped here, we have no way of leaving, reaching a safer area or a settlement where we would not be under the thumb of a tyrant. They ransack the old settlements every few months, looking for those of us who have managed to evade them the last few years, or who may have made their way into the area, and any supplies we may have gathered. We have had to stop hunting because it leaves a trail and whilst we have never been found ourselves, our rations have” the woman said, taking one of the biscuits for herself and taking a few bites. “Shin has given us a few supplies when he can, he even offered to escort some of us to his camp, but the city is crawling with the Fallen, if we were discovered whilst Shin was not there, we would be slaughtered, and whilst living under that tyrant's rule is my idea of hell, at least we would be alive and our baby would have a chance” she said and I looked to Shin and then back to the woman.

“You have a child?” I asked and she nodded, going over to a crate behind a pile of dusty boxes and rags, picking up a beige bundle, a little hand reaching up towards her face, a small gurgling sound being emitted from it.

“He is only four months, we have been lucky, whenever anyone has passed through, he has been asleep, but that luck will run out eventually…” he sighed, taking the child from his wife, the baby becoming visible, he was small, smaller than a baby his size should be. Then again, I doubt anyone out here was getting the nutrition they required.

“In three nights be ready to leave. We’ll take you to the Last City, you’ll be safe there, you will be able to raise your child without fear of Fallen coming in the night or light-bearers taking your food… How much is it new settlers get to help them settle and get on their feet?” I said, turning to Arjic who took a bit of a deep breath in.

“I cannot remember off the top of my head, but it is enough to last about half a year, the Pilgrim Guard also check in on new settlers about once a month for about a year to help them get to grips with city life” Arjic said and I nodded, the couple looking at one another and their child with bright eyes and hopeful smiles.

The amount is based on how many people are in a family, their capabilities and number of children. Two young adults and a baby would be well taken care of.
Yes, you would be well looked after, I believe the orphanage also help new families with children connect with other families with similar aged children and get them set up with the basics you need for a child of whatever age the child is.
Miss Glass is lovely, she will ensure you have everything you need for your child.

“No family deserves to live in such fear and worry. Any other people you come in contact with, any of the others who did not wish to speak to us, let them know we can take them too. Three of us have ships with the capability to transport numerous people, and there is no way the settlement defences can track our ships either” Luca said, and I nodded.

“Thank you, thank you so much! We will begin preparing right away, and I will let the others in this area know” he said, tears welling up in his eyes as he held his son close to his chest.

“You are welcome, we will leave you prepare” I said standing, though just before heading out the door I paused and pulled the protein bars I had packed out my pack and turned and placed them on the crate with the biscuits and a bottle of water. “This should help see you through till we can get you to safety” I said, the lady just hugging me tightly, catching me off guard.

I smiled and hugged her back after a moment before joining the others outside. Shin nodding to me before setting off, the three of us following suit, heading for another smaller settlement a few miles away.

“I have the largest ship, depending on how many people decide to leave, I can either take all of them, or we can split them between my ship and someone else’s” Luca said as we walked, Shin looking to him.

“My ship is a single-seater with no cargo bay anymore, it would be useless to you” Shin said, Luca nodding back and looking to Arjic.

“Pretty sure your cargo bay is a decent size isn’t it?” he asked, Arjic nodding, half-way through taking a bite of his second energy bar as Luca looked to him, earning a chuckle off of Luca and I. “OK, depending on the numbers we can split them between our ships” Luca added.

_____

Luca’s P.O.V

As the sun reached its peak in the sky, we reached the last settlement, only three people remained here from what Shin had said, hopefully, they would be up to speak to us. Though as Shin approached one of the buildings, peering through the window, movement in another building caught my eye.

“On our two. Upper floor” I said, Shin looking back to me then up to the building.

“The men are likely hunting then. That building is far from structurally sound. Leah only enters when she is alone” Shin sighed, heading over to the building, and carefully opening the door before entering. The three of us taking a few steps closer to the building whilst keeping an eye on the horizon.

“I have that sinking feeling in my gut. Something is not right here…” Arjic said prompting Sera and me to survey the area.

“Drag marks, heading out the settlement. Though I can’t tell if it was a person, animal or object that was dragged” Sera said, I then made my way over to the building Shin approached originally. Having a longer look through the window myself.

“There is a layer of dust over everything. Though it is not even. If two are hunting they have not been back in a while. At least not to this building” I observed. “It may be the two men abandoned this Leah, were killed whilst hunting or got caught” I said. Shin and a woman emerging from the other building a moment later.

“Sera, Luca, Arjic, this is Leah. Her brothers used to live here but were found by light bearers from Dredgen’s settlement just over a week ago… They were subdued and dragged away whilst she stayed hidden” Shin said. Leah clearly nervous about our presence and being out in the open, sticking close to Shin, her eyes darting all over the place.

“We are sorry Leah… Can you tell us what happened?” Sera asked, her voice softer than normal. The girl, Leah, looking to her and then Shin who nodded to her.

“They had just been to fetch fresh water and see if they could catch any fish… I could see them coming, though none of us could see the group of light-bearers coming from the other side of the settlement ruins… They darted into the other building, but it was too late. They fought and were knocked unconscious and taken away” Leah said, Sera simply nodding, not pushing for any further details, though I had a question.

“Were any of the light-bearers wearing robes in a similar style to Arjic?” I asked, gesturing to the Warlock stood beside me. Leah looking at him for a moment before shaking his head.

“No, they all wore capes, like you two and Shin” she said, and I nodded, looking to Sera who let out a heavy sigh.

“It is not safe for you to stay alone in that building… There is another settlement not too far away, you will be welcome there. Then in three days, we will take you to the Last City where you will be safe” Sera said, the young woman looking at her, but shaking her head.

“I can’t leave my brother behind” she stated, taking a step back from Shin and back towards the building he found her in.

“We will find them; we plan on removing Dredgen from power and forcing those loyal to him to see the error of their ways… I promise you; we will ensure your brothers are found” Sera stated, Leah looking to Shin and then Sera, seemingly deciding to trust Sera.

“OK…” She said rather tentatively.

_____

Arjic’s P.O.V

After a few more minutes of conversation, Leah went to collect a few personal items whilst Sera and Shin made their way back to the other settlement to make a safe space for Leah to stay. “Has it always been just you and your brothers?” I asked as Leah came back with a small bag of things. The young woman shaking her head.

“No, to begin with, our mother, father and aunt were also with us… But our mother died fighting one of those Fallen and my father and aunt were taken by Dredgen’s men a few years ago. Now my brothers have been taken too…” Leah said as we made our way to the other settlement, Luca looking to Leah and then myself.

“It sounds like you have had a rough life, though I promise, that will change, people in the city will make sure you are taken care of and supported. And we will do our best to save your brothers” I said, Luca nodding in agreement.

“Thank you… Just, be careful. I often heard Dredgen’s men talking as they passed by, about how he would kill his own kind because they’re a threat, if he is a Warlock like you, then he will show you no mercy… Not that he would anyway” Leah said, and I nodded, looking to Luca who raised a brow. Why would Dredgen kill how own? Surely the more Light bearers he had working for him the better, no matter if they are a Hunter, Titan, or Warlock.

Chapter Text

Cayde’s P.O.V

I stepped to a quiet corner of the hanger to take the call off of Sera, there were many prying eyes and keen ears around at the minute.

“Sera, what can I do for my favourite Vanguard Commanders favourite Hunter” I chuckled, I could almost hear Sera rolling her eyes.

“Just a heads up that in three days we will be bringing two ships of civilians back to the city. Though we won’t be staying long, I doubt any of us will leave our ships, I am not even sure I will be heading back with the others” Sera stated, “But these civilians can’t stay here much longer, they are being kidnapped by Dredgen’s men and are not see again. Some have children Cayde… Babies. It is no way to live” Sera sighed.

“I shall have preparations made. Though are you sure you want to stay in your cockpit if you do come back. A certain Titan has been a bit moody lately, apparently, this Hunter he is seeing had a run-in with another Hunter who got all handsy with her” I stated, Sera laughing a little.

“Well… If that is the case, I may be able to spare a few minutes” Sera said, though the pause after told me there was something else she wanted to talk about.

“What is it? I can hear it in the quiet, something you want to tell me” I said, Sera sighing.

“Tomorrow night I and Arjic are sneaking into the settlement via the hole Eva escaped through. It is a big risk, but we need more information on the size of the settlement and the number of people who reside there” Sera said, another pause following. “I am not telling Zavala. He will worry too much, and I don’t want nor need someone on the comms the entire time” Sera said, and I nodded to myself.

“I understand… You let me know when you enter and when you leave the settlement and once you are out, I will tell him. Though if you are not out within say two hours, have Luca contact me. Because at that point, I would be getting ready to go in after you if I were there” I said.

“Very well. We are settling down for the night so I will get back to camp now, take care Cayde” Sera said before the comms were cut off. She was always to the point.

_____

Sera’s P.O.V

I sighed and walked back to the fire, everyone was chatting and generally relaxing.

Sera, we have more wild animal activity in the area than usual, I am worried it may attract hunters from the settlement.

I looked to Orion and then out into the wilds, I caught glimpses of bright eyes now and then, if there were prey animals out there, they would not only attract human hunters but predatory animals as well.

“Shin, can you use a bow?” I asked my fellow Hunter, turning to look at me and nodding. “Good. Any animals that get too close, put them down, as cleanly as possible. I don’t want too much blood spilt, don’t want to attract larger predators” I said, Shin nodding as he took a bite of his rations.

“At least if you have to put one down, someone won’t have to worry about out-of-date rations” Luca chuckled, the three men sat around the fire laughing.

_____

Luca’s P.O.V

I glanced over my shoulder as I heard a rustling sound, Sera emerging from her tent, glancing to the deceased gazelle lying next to the fireplace and then to me and raising a brow. “Shin. Said he would cook for us tonight if you could help him move some of his shit from his camp to this one” I said, Sera chuckling and walking over to where I was perched.

“I am sure we can sort something. After breakfast I want you and Arjic to check out the beacon. I will sort Shin out, I am sure he can keep his hands to himself under the threat of death” Sera stated, I smirked. I am sure Sera could be… persuasive enough when threatening to murder Shin if he groped her again. “Why don’t you go get an hour, I can take watch till the others wake” Sera then added, and I looked to her and then back out at the wilds.

“I am fine, it is peaceful, just sat here watching the scenery and wildlife” I said, Sera nodding, perching on one of the crates, a comfortable silence falling between the two of us. The silence continued even as Arjic emerged and came to join us without saying a word. It had been a few days since it was the three of us truly alone, and it was nice to have some quiet time together. We had come a long way since we all first met… A long way indeed.

After a few minutes Sera adjusted where she was sat so Arjic was sat in front of her, she then started to run her fingers through his hair, separating it out to put into braids. He had complained about it getting his face last night, and, of-course Shin made a snarky comment, however, Sera said she would teach him to braid his own hair when we got back to the Tower.

As she continued to braid his hair, I kept a lookout, glancing over every now and then, Sera had a focused, but content look on her face, whilst Arjic simply sat there, eyes closed and relaxed. Though once she had finished Sera continued to adjust the braids, neaten them up, Arjic chuckling each time as she would leave them for a few minutes before returning to fiddling with his hair.

“Am I last to rise?” a voice suddenly said, Arjic looking to me and smirked.

“I know Hunters are bad at math but surely he knows if there are four people and three are already awake, the fourth is the last one” he muttered, I just laughed whilst Sera tried to suppress one, though as soon as Arjic glanced at her and raised a brow she lost it.

“I will take that as a yes” Shin sighed, heading over to the embers from last nights fire, starting to stoke them once more, adding fresh twigs to the pile to feed the flames.

“Hear in return for a cooked meal, I need to help you move some supplies from your camp to this one” Sera commented, Shin looking over and smirking. “Just make sure you keep your hands to yourself; I doubt it is easy to cook after having your hands cut off” Sera than added. Everyone having a little laugh at her comment.  

“I shall be the perfect gentleman” Shin stated, Sera nodding and looking to Arjic then me.

“If you boys want to stake out the beacon, see who, if anyone, pops by. Just don’t engage, I don’t want them to be too aware of our presence before tonight” Sera said, Arjic looking up at her and nodding.

“Got is boss” Arjic smiled, Sera giving him a quick squeeze, Arjic looking a little shocked but lifting his arms to awkwardly squeeze Sera back. She seemed to be more motherly to him recently, I don’t know if it was down to Shin being a dick, or if he had talked to her about Phoenix’s and his relationships as well.

_____

Arjic’s P.O.V

Luca and I set up at the edge of the trees where the beacon was, huddled in a hedge with a stack of energy bars and some chocolate.

“It is coming up to three hours… Think there will be any movement?” Luca whispered, looking over his shoulder to see if anyone was approaching from behind us.

“Maybe… Though it will be just our luck that they show up as we plan on making a move” Luca muttered, I chuckled and scanned the horizon, pausing as something caught my eye, I shifted, grabbing the spare scope Sera had given me.

“A group of light-bearers approaching” I said, Luca looking over and down his scope. “Probably… five minutes out?” I muttered, Luca nodding in agreement.

“If you want any food or a drink, best have it now, don’t want to be making any sound once they reach the beacon if that is where they are headed” Luca said, reaching for a snack, I did the same and had a few sips of water. Who knew how long they would be at the beacon if they were coming this way.

Once we had eaten and any wrappers shoved into pockets to avoid unwanted rustling sounds and we waited for the group to get closer. Within a few minutes they were in the clearing and surrounded the beacon. A Hunter and Titan taking panels off it, their Ghosts scanning it and directing their light-bearers what to adjust or change. The other three just walked around, scanning the horizon, and chatting amongst themselves.

“Do you think anyone has picked the signal up yet?” one of the Titans asked, walking close to the shrubs we were laid in, Luca and I remaining extremely still, neither of us breathing. “It has been months since you two first set it up, surely if anyone was going to help us, they would have come already” he sighed.

“Not necessarily, they would have to unscramble it first, and it is not exactly a strong signal, so they would have to really want to come to figure out what the fuck it is to pinpoint it… And since we can’t leave a written note to let them know how frequently we visit it, who knows if someone has found it and we missed them being in the area?” the Hunter working on the beacon said. The Titan sighing heavily and walking over to where the beacon was, Luca and I very quietly sighing in relief.

“The thought that we may have missed someone willing to help… I don’t know, it messes with my head a bit. At least the kid got away… She must have come across someone able to take her away from this forsaken land. I just hope that son of a bitch doesn’t find her again. Or find out what we are doing” the Titan said, leaning against a tree, grabbing his mark and looking down at it. It was the symbol associated with Hive magic. No Guardian would ever have such a symbol as their identifying mark.

“I heard Dredgen talking to that bitch, the kid got picked up, apparently they are back in the Last City. He plans on sending people to infiltrate it as civilians and new Guardians. If we can get this signal to someone… We can stop him finding her, ruining her life even more so that he already has” the Titan working on the beacon said. “Though until then, we need to stay alive and keep the civilians safe” they then added.

“Any more reports of Malphur being in the area?” a Hunter asked from the other side of the clearing, looking down at the ground, Luca tensing.

“No… Last reports are of him in Cape Town, it is why we don’t patrol down there anymore, he is worried Shin will kill of a Hunter and use their armour to get into the settlement and killing him. Why? What you found?” one of the Titans asked.

“Well, there is a partial footprint here, Hunter for sure. Looks like they cleared their prints, at least for the most part… And it is recent. Someone else has been here” the Hunter stated, the others with him all standing and looking around, Luca looking to me and taking a deep, but silent, breath in, raising a finger to his lips. I just slightly nodded my head, swallowing the lump in my throat and just watched as they stood, scouring the horizon.

“New plan. Instead of coming out here every two weeks, we come out daily. I know it increases the risk of us getting caught, but if there is someone in the area, even if it is just Malphur, we need to find them, and if we can leave some sort of sign for them to meet us here… This is our best bet” one of the Hunters stated, the others looked sceptical.

“What if it is Malphur, how can he get us out of here, and would he even want to help?” one of the Titans asked.

“He can contact the Last City, get us out of here, and he would help. All the information we have, he would be crazy to turn that down” the Hunter stated, the other Hunter chuckling.

“He probably is crazy, but hopefully not that crazy… Anyway, we best carry on, we have done all we can for today, best get to hunting. I also want to visit that snake nest again, see if I can get some more venom” the second hunter, the one working on the beacon said, the rest of them nodding. The Titan replacing the panels before sighing and holding the Hunter close.

“Before we go… We all agree, patrol here daily, check the beacon and leave symbols to Malphur or whoever left that footprint. We are getting out of here, all of us” he said, and for the briefest of moments I could just picture them as Zavala and Sera, and I had to fight every fibre of me being not to make myself known. They deserved to be free of that tyrant, and they wanted it so badly.

“Yes… We have survived this long, we are not about to give up and kick it now” one of the Titans stated, standing a little taller and prouder, it made me smile. They then began to leave.

Once the group was far enough away, they would not be able to hear us, Luca let out a heavy sigh and rolled onto his back. “That was fucking heart wrenching to listen to… How did you not get up? I was certain you would” Luca asked, and I sighed and shrugged.

“Because they would probably want to leave right away, and several Light-bearers suddenly missing would raise suspicions and that would make it more dangerous to sneak in tonight… Though did you notice the Titan’s mark? The symbol?”  asked, Luca nodded and then looked to me.

“None were Warlocks. Why are there never any Warlocks?” he asked, and I shrugged.

_____

Sera’s P.O.V

As the sun started to set Arjic and Luca got back to camp, Luca admiring the skinned gazelle laid atop some crates.

“So, whose ass is dragging that out the camp later?” Luca asked Arjic laughed and shook his head.

“Not me, I had to drag a Honey Badger off you already today, I am not dragging any other animals around” Arjic said, Shin and I looking over to Luca who sighed whilst Arjic just smirked. “He thought it looked cute and safe enough to approach… I told him it was a bad idea” Arjic chuckled.

“You idiot” I muttered before taking a sip of my drink, Shin just shaking his head and going back to his cooking.

“By the way, Shin, you ever see many Warlocks amongst the Light-bearers from Dredgen’s settlement?” Arjic asked, joining us by the fire, Shin looking to him and raising a brow. He looked like he was about to say something when he stopped and sat back a bit.

“Actually… No. Not for a long time. I have seen a few enter, just never leave” he said, Luca eventually joining us as well.

“Maybe he does not trust them, or they have a more specific use inside the settlement walls” I said, everyone nodding.

“We saw a group at the beacon, two hunters and three Titans. They set the beacon up, they want out. They are desperate from the sounds of it” Luca said, Shin, looking to me and then back to Luca.

“Did you make yourself known?” he asked, both Luca and Arjic shook their heads.

“Almost did. Dredgen is planning to try and infiltrate the Last City, get Eva back. He knows she is there. They want to either contact the Last City, or Shin, plan to escape and warn the Last City… They will also be at the beacon every day at some point for a while… I didn’t cover my tracks as well as I thought I did. One of the Hunters saw part of a boot print, they think it is Shin. Want to try and leave a message for him, give you information in exchange for being put in contact with the Last City” Luca stated.

“OK. We can deal with them in the next few days, we need to focus on tonight first, and then getting the civilians out of here…” I said, everyone nodding.

Chapter Text

Cayde’s P.O.V

“I fold… Why do we even agree to play with you Cayde” Shaxx sighed, throwing his cards down on the table causing me to chuckle. “I mean, who here other than Amanda or Ikora has ever beaten you? And before you say anything Zavala, Sera helped you win that round” Shaxx said causing everyone to laugh.

“Speaking off, how are things with you and Sera? I hear she had a run-in with Shin Malphur in Cape Town” Saladin asked as I gathered the cards, beginning to shuffle the deck again.

“She did, he still has both hands I believe… Though overall, we are good, we worked past the main issue of finding that line where work begins and ends following her trip to Mercury. I can’t foresee there being any other major issues, unless Malphur cops another feel again, then I shall have to deal with her murdering him” Zavala said, taking a sip of his whiskey, Saladin and a few others chuckling.

“It is a hard line to find, but once you do, it helps, a lot” Saladin said taking his cards as I dealt once more, a few people giving away the strength of the hand before the round had even properly begun.

“I can’t see you two having any issues, had a chat with her the other week, she pulled this move, flipped a Titan that grabbed her from behind onto his back and put a bullet between his eyes, great move! She said you had been teaching her how to use her weight and momentum to her advantage since she cannot always rely on her guns or knife… She then said something about it is one thing having strength, but another thing being able to use it effectively, but that wasn’t my point…” Shaxx said, Amanda chuckling.

“Then what was?” the shipwright asked, raising a brow as Shaxx shot her a pointed look.

“When she talks about you, her eyes light up, even for an Awoken, it is obvious what you mean to her, how much she loves you and adores you. You can see it when she looks at you as well” Shaxx finished. Zavala smiling as he looked down at his cards… Damn him, if he was not focusing on his hand, I could never tell if it was good or bad. And thinking about Sera was the biggest distraction the man had.

“She like the sniper rifle you had me make?” Banshee asked as he jiggled his cards about… So, he had a decent hand. Fuck.

“She never leaves without it, her kills outweigh the number of bullets fired” Zavala chuckled, I smiled to myself. My Hunters were a talented bunch.

“Good, I am glad she is putting it to good use” Banshee stated, throwing a few peanuts into the middle of the table, a few others following suit, though Amanda simply placed her cards down face up and looked at Zavala.

“You plan on putting a ring her hand anytime soon?” Amanda suddenly asked, everyone going still for a moment, Shaxx opening his mouth and then closing it again whilst Saladin raised a brow.

“Amanda, that is a bit of a personal question to ask…” Ikora stated, Amanda, looking to her and shrugging. “But since you have asked… Zavala… Care to enlighten us?” Ikora asked, only I was unable to hold back a chuckle. Though we all looked to Zavala who sighed and placed his cards down, face down annoyingly.

“It is something I have put some thought into, but that is as far as it goes currently. I trust you can all keep this information to yourselves” Zavala stated, myself and Amanda letting out squeals of excitement!

“Oh! How wonderful! If you need any advice on how to pop the question, let me know, after all, you can’t just get down on one knee with a Hunter, especially a Hunter of Sera’s calibre” I said, Zavala just sighed.

“Anyway, shall we get back to the game?” Ikora asked, Zavala, smiling as everyone agreed and the round resumed, Amanda oblivious to the fact everyone had seen her cards.

_____

Arjic’s P.O.V

I stood and dusted myself off, Sera already partway down the alley, glancing back at me and gesturing for me to follow. I did so silently, we had agreed that having the comms active could give our presence away, something we did not want to happen.

As I caught up to Sera, we made sure our cloaks covered our armour and weapons before starting to move through the back streets.

“I have to say, I am impressed at the size of the settlement” I muttered as we went, our Ghosts mapping the layout as we went, Sera glancing back to me, pausing for a moment.

“Though why are there not more people around, half these buildings are empty, why does he need to have such a large settlement?” Sera asked and I shrugged, who knew, that man was most likely off his rocker. “We have almost completed the outer circle, I think it will be best to zigzag across the settlement after that, get a good idea of just how many buildings there are, what they are for and the number of people around” she whispered and I nodded, following her lead.

As Sera rounded a corner I glanced back, ensuring no one was following us, but before I could round the corner Sera came back and pushed me up against the building, putting a finger to her lip. I nodded, Sera peeking back around the corner after a moment.

“Two Titans patrolling. Would have been screwed if it had been two Hunters” Sera sighed as we continued on our journey, being a little more vigilant when it came to corners. We managed to avoid a few more Light bearers patrolling, all of whom were Titans and Warlocks.

“I don’t like how there are no Warlocks. It puts me on edge” I said as we circled around the large building in the middle of the settlement. Steering clear of the front entrance that was guarded by two Titans. Their marks the same as the one I saw in the clearing earlier.

“We may have already been spotted, I count three different Hunters in nests on that tower” Sera whispered as we entered another side street, a shadow on the wall opposite us catching my attention, a knife in the hand of whoever was casting the shadow.

“Quick” I whispered, grabbing Sera’s arm, and pulling her around the next corner and then through a few more side streets, stopping once the pit in the bottom of my stomach was no longer vomiting out a sense of dread.

“Arjic, what did you see?” Sera asked, glancing back around a corner.

“We have been spotted, someone was investigating the path we had just taken, their shadow gave them away” I sighed, Sera looking to me and smiling.

“Good spot… I think we best circle back around the edge, make a note of where the power units for those guns are and get the hell out of here” she said and I nodded, following her lead once more around the perimeter of the settlement. Orion and Ansel making notes of all the power nodes and how best to disrupt them.

“I think that is all of them” I sighed, Sera nodding, looking just past me, her eyes narrowed. “What is it?” I asked, not daring to look over my shoulder.

“I could have sworn I saw movement and a shimmer in the air. Though it could just be my mind playing tricks on me” she sighed, shaking her head and turning to continue to our exit. “Let’s get out of here, it makes me, unsettled” she added.

“I could not agree more” I sighed, the two of us making it to the exit, Sera producing a smoke bomb from her belt as we emerged on the other side.

“Ah! Arjic!” Sera called, I turned to see her fall backwards, a knife sinking into her armour whilst an arm had a hold of her cloak. I quickly grabbed my knife from my boot, slashing and stabbing at the arm holding her cloak until it released its hold and Sera was able to pull away. As we took a few steps away from the wall, Sera used the smoke bomb. It allowed us to move at a decent speed towards the nearest cover in the form of a clump of trees.

_____

Sera’s P.O.V

As we reached the group of trees we stopped and Arjic moved my cloak, wincing. “What is it?” I asked, placing a hand on my back, wincing as I applied pressure to what I assumed was a stab wound.

“As they pulled your cloak back, they stabbed you…” Arjic said, I just nodded, both Orion and Ansel getting to work to heal the wound, though they were taking their sweet time about it. “Come on, we can’t afford to hang around” Arjic sighed.

It isn’t closing. I don’t know why!
Beep! Beep. Beep, Beep. Beep!
We need to get back to camp, see is Shin knows anything about this. If not, we need to get you back to the Last City.

“Zavala is going to kill me” I sighed, though Arjic chuckled as he put an arm around my upper back and we began the journey back to camp, moving at a decent pace.

_____

Luca’s P.O.V

I sighed as took another sip of the rum I had stashed in one of the crates before leaving. Shin looking out over the horizon. It had been a tense night, neither of us had really spoken, the fact Sera and Arjic were in the settlement with no comms active had us both on edge.

“Someone is approaching” Shin suddenly said, and I shot up, watching as he looked down his scope, lowering it suddenly and heading out into the night without a word, I picked up my own rifle and looked out. Managing to locate Sera and Arjic and Shin reached them, Shin helping Arjic support Sera… She was wounded. Fuck!

As they arrived Sera rested against some crates whilst Arjic unclasped her armour, discarding it on the floor. “What happened? Are you OK?” I asked, going over, Sera grabbing one of my hands and squeezing it.

“I can feel it throbbing, and not like a normal throb, it is in a pattern… Fucking hurts” Sera said, gritting her teeth and Shin started to examine the wound, poking at it. I glanced around as a black liquid began to seep from the wound, the wound itself looking angry and infected.

“Don’t move… I have just the thing” Shin stated, Sera casting a glare at him as he told her not to move. He then went over to one of his crates, opening it up and hastily digging through. “Got it… I shall apologise now, this is going to hurt” he said as he opened the little tub, scooping some of the glowing balm out into his fingers.

“Just do whatever it is you are going to do you great…. FUCK!” Sera cried out Shin proceeded to stick his fingers inside the wound as far as he could get them. As he did so Sera bit down on her cloak and squeezed my hand to the point, I was sure she was going to break a bone. Though as Shin withdrew his fingers from the wound, smearing some balm around the wound the black liquid began to splutter out, being forced out as the wound closed, healing completely. The only trace it was ever-present was a small scar. I looked to Sera and the relief on her face was clear as she let my hand go.

“There” Shin stated, seemingly breathing a little slower and smiling, at least for a moment. He probably did not anticipate Sera whirling round and punching him as hard as she could in the face, his nose cracking and breaking as she did so. I burst out laughing followed by Sera, Shin smirking and shaking his head as his Ghost went to work healing the broken nose.

“What the fuck!” Arjic exclaimed, looking very confused and concerned.

“It is a Hunter thing, he hurt her, granted to save her life, but that means she gets a free hit, and it was a pretty good one as well!” I stated, Arjic just shaking his head and going over to where my rum was sat and taking a swig.

“You Hunters have some pretty strange customs and quirks. Always makes me wonder how you all know them despite mostly working alone, you are not exactly… Pack animals” Arjic stated, walking back over with the rum, and handing it to Sera who smiled and took a swig.

“There is more than one way to work as a pack. We leave messages in the forms of symbols, we talk when we see each other in the wilds, passing on messages and information. Oh, and you can’t forget Cayde, he gives every new Hunter a rundown of the little things when they reach the city” Sera stated, passing the bottle to Shin who also took a swig.

“And before Cayde, Andal Brask did the same…” he said, passing me the bottle.

“Anyway, what was that balm?” Arjic then asked, nodding to the balm on the crate Sera had been leaning against.

“It is just your bog-standard medical balm imbued with void energy. I met a Warlock a few years back who gave it to me, saved my life on a couple of occasions… Especially when it came to the blade that stabbed you tonight Sera. It is a Hive blade from what I can gather, stings like a bitch, the wound will fester and kill a Guardian within a day if they can’t get the correct treatment for it. The little shit who wields the blade seems to be referred to as Dredgen’s little assassin from what I have heard others say whilst patrolling… Never seen themselves, however, only known they were there when it was too late. Luckily the Warlock taught me how to make the balm, she was something else, intelligent beyond belief” Shin said, taking a seat on one of the crates as Sera gathered her armour up, assessing the damage done to it.  

“So, you can get along with Warlocks… Or is it just the ladies you like?” Sera asked, Shin just taking the rum back off me.

“Don’t you need to alert Cayde to the fact you are safe?” Shin then asked, Sera’s expression changing from a smirk to that of a deer caught in a bright light.

Chapter Text

Cayde’s P.O.V

Cayde, Fireteam Survivor is reporting that everything is green.

I looked to Ace and nodded, when I looked back most of the others were looking at me, brows raised or casting curious glances my way. “Just news of a successful reconnaissance mission, nothing exciting” I stated, a few buying it.

“If it was nothing interesting you would have not had Ace alert you” Amanda muttered as she raised.

“If you must know, Sera and Arjic entered a settlement supposedly run by a dead Guardian to gather intelligence,” I said, Zavala taking a deep breath in before letting it out, focusing on his cards rather intently.

“I always knew Sera had balls, but Arjic, a bit surprised he went behind enemy lines as it were with her” Banshee stated, Ikora casting a rather sharp look in his direction. Clearly not happy at the comment made about one of her Warlocks.

“Arjic does not get enough credit for just how brave he is. It is not just Hunters and Titans who are willing to charge into dangerous situations without a second thought” Ikora stated, everyone, nodding in agreement, not wanting to be on her bad side.

“At least she had someone watching her back, and whilst it was a risky move, they obviously felt it was worth it. I doubt Sera would have entered the settlement without having thought it over carefully beforehand” Zavala said, folding as it came to his turn.

“It may be that you need to re-evaluate where that line is” Saladin said, Zavala looking unsure of himself for a second before Shaxx scoffed and I could practically hear Ikora’s eye roll.

“Zavala, you need to remember that Sera is a Hunter, they don’t tell Cayde what they are up to half the time. You cannot expect her to be any different just because you get to share her bed” Shaxx said.

“The big man is right, she is not doing it to annoy you or undermine you, she is doing it because she is a Hunter… and she probably knew you would worry like crazy, and whilst that would have made it easier to beat you at poker, she did not want to do that” Amanda said.

“I am not annoyed she did not tell me beforehand; I am more annoyed I found out from Cayde. But you are right, I need to accept that, that is just how Hunters work. Now… Cayde, hurry up and win this round so I can lose another one” Zavala chuckled.

_____

Sera’s P.O.V

“So, we know there is a group of Light bearers who want out and they are the ones who activated the beacon, that Dredgen’s assassin knows we are here, so it is likely Dredgen himself now knows… And there is a suspicious lack of Warlocks” Arjic said as the four of us sat drinking rum and snacking on some other goodies Luca had bought with him and kept stashed away.

“I think we need to try and catch this group that want out at the beacon… They may know more about this assassin too” I said, Shin nodding in agreement.

“We can maybe try and approach them when they are next at the beacon. Though we would need to camp out there to do that” Shin said, and I nodded, though that was not a job for tonight, we had all been drinking, keeping watch was going to be interesting enough, never mind a stakeout.

“We can come up with a plan tomorrow… For now, I think we should just be glad no one is dead” I said, everyone nodding in agreement.

Sera, you have an incoming call from Zavala.
Beep. Beep, Beep… Beep! BEEP!
Well. This should be interesting.

“Connect the call” I said to Orion who nodded. After a moment there was a crackle and a sigh of relief. “Before you say anything Zavala, I am sorry you found out about tonight’s mission from Cayde. I just did not want you to worry, I know you have had a lot on” I said, waiting for Zavala’s reply.

“I am just glad you are OK. You wouldn’t have gone in if you did not think it was worth it” Zavala said and Arjic looked at me and then to Luca, whispering something to Luca who chuckled.

“We got some good intelligence… Though, we did encounter a small problem. Whilst exiting the settlement someone grabbed my cloak and stabbed me. Seems this Dredgen has an assassin who wields a Hive blade, it uses some sort of Hive magic that stops the wound from healing even with the support of a Ghost… If it were not for Shin and his medical balm imbued with void light, the wound would have killed me had we not had the option of coming back to the city” I said. A heavy sigh coming from Zavala.

“As long as you are not in danger now and are fine, that is all that matters. And it is probably a good idea to have that balm be distributed amongst other Guardians, it will be handy when fighting Hive… At least Shin is good for something other than feeling up women without their consent” Zavala said, and I burst out laughing, Arjic and Luca trying to contain their laughter and failing whilst Shin just sat there looking insulted. “Arjic and Luca are there, aren’t they? Because I know that is not just you laughing” Zavala added.

“Yeah… We are treating ourselves to a rum or a few tonight. Shin is also here” I said, and I could practically hear the smirk when Zavala spoke next.

“Well, I shan’t express to you just how much I miss you right now then. What are your plans for tomorrow, Cayde said you may be transporting civilians back?” Zavala asked and I just shook my head at his initial comment.

“Arjic and Luca will be, we know who activated the beacon’s signal that Cayde picked up. I want a chat with them about Dredgen’s little assassin and why they want out” I said, Zavala making a disappointed humming sound.

“Very well, just try not to get stabbed with another weapon that has the ability to end your life. I feel two is enough… I love you” Zavala said, and I chuckled.

“I love you too, and I shall do my best. Good night darling” I said, nodding to Orion, the line going dead.

“How often do you get stabbed?” Shin then asked causing Arjic and Luca to burst out laughing once more.

_____

Luca’s P.O.V

“… Simple as that really. Even a fresh Guardian would be able to do it” Shin said, Sera and Arjic sat with a pile of pots. Our medical balm supply.

“Looks like the fun has started… I will go back to bed for another hour I think” I chuckled, Sera looking over to me and smirking. I just smiled and grabbed my knife from next to my tent entrance and sheathed it, joining the others around the fire pit.

“I am surprised we had no visitors last night. Dredgen must have decided against sending a group to wipe us off the face of the Earth” Shin said, Sera looking round, something clearly on her mind.

“What’s got you pulling that face? You have something brewing up there” Arjic asked, glancing to Sera as void light danced across his fingers, dripping into the medical balm. I guess I was not the only one to have picked up on Sera’s thinking face.

“He may believe we will have been expecting it so may strike in broad daylight. Or wait till dusk, which puts the civilians we plan on moving tonight in danger” Sera said, the four of us looking to the horizon. It was still, empty… unnerving.

“Either way, we are moving those civilians, who knows how much longer they will last and how long it will take us to take Dredgen down. How many can you fit aboard your ship Luca?” Arjic asked I looked to him, lolling my head side-to-side as I thought about it.

“Twelve, maybe thirteen. Any more than that and your or Sera will have to lend their cargo bay” I said Arjic nodding and looking to Sera.

“You. It may actually be a good idea for you both to go back, Arjic as an escort if his cargo bay is not needed. But if it is, watch each other’s backs. Who knows if Dredgen is just waiting for us to take off to shoot us out the sky… I want to camp out at the beacon, try and catch that group of Light bearers. Get some information off them” Sera said, I and Arjic nodded.

“So, I have to come clean about something. Last time I was off-world was to pick up some tech of Osiris. I installed an EMP generator on my ship. So, if we are attacked and I tell you to go dark. Switch everything off as soon as I say it. Takes about three seconds to charge and within two seconds of it being fired, anything electrical that starts up won’t be affected. But any ships chasing us, won’t have the warning you do” Arjic stated, Sera and I staring wide-eyed at him.

“The Vanguard would rip that out your ship so quick if they ever found out” I said, Arjic nodding.

“So, they don’t find out… Sera?” Arjic asked, Sera looking a little shocked for a second.

“Hey! I can keep a secret from Zavala! Take the Ikora and Osiris situation for example!” Sera said, mockingly huffing and turning away from us once she had made her point causing us to laugh.

“So, the old bat is still about?” Shin then asked, Sera looking to him and chuckling.

“If by old bat you mean Osiris… Then yes, he is. The Infinite Forest on Mercury. He never leaves it, constantly battling the Vex, trying to find a way to defeat them, drive them back, rid of them… Got to admit, he does keep them busy” Sera said, and I nodded. Arjic focusing on the medical balm.

“Well. At least he is not accidentally starting a cult in the city again” Shin sighed, Arjic chuckling.

“No, just on Mercury” Arjic stated, Shin sighed and shook his head.

_____

Sera’s P.O.V

As the sun began to descend, we made our way to the meeting place we had agreed with the civilians hiding from Dredgen. There was a decent-sized group awaiting our arrival, including the couple and their baby, they had taken Leah in, it seemed she was a natural with the baby, holding the sleeping child.

“Just need to do a quick headcount… If you could stand in family groups or people you want to travel with” I said, people doing so. “Orion?” I asked as I did, he appeared and cast a glance over the small crowd.

Seventeen.

“OK. You three, you four… You two, you and you three. You are going with Luca, the handsome Hunter to my left, you four are going with the wonderful Warlock Arjic to my right. You will be greeted by the Vanguard and other civilians whose job it is to help you get situated, set up and settled” I said, everyone, looking rather excited, several people crying. Even Shin was looking emotional. “Luca, bring your ship in and start boarding. Arjic, once Luca has boarded everyone, you do the same” I said, Arjic nodding.

“We cannot thank you enough… Once we are settled, we wish to show you are gratitude, cook you all a meal… It is the least we can do” the young man who took in Leah the other day said coming up to me. I smiled and placed a hand on his shoulder.

“That would be lovely… Tell the Commander, an Awoken like me, that Sera said to tell her where you are placed when she returns…” I said, he nodded and smiled.

“Thank you… I’m Jack, by the way, my wife is Penelope, and our son is Magnus… Thank you Sera” he said, and I felt my chest tighten briefly, half expecting him to say his name was Jackal.

“Arjic will take good care of you” I said, smiling as he went back to his wife and child.

Within ten minutes Luca had got everyone loaded into the cargo bay and was taking off, Arjic’s ship coming into land. “I’ll have Ansel alert Orion as soon as we are back at the Tower and once again when we set off” Arjic said.

“Good idea. You fly safe” I said, and he smiled and nodded, looking to Shin who nodded his head at him, Arjic returning the gesture before boarding his ship and taking off. Shin coming to stand beside me.

“I promise I will keep my hands to myself” he stated, and I chuckled, grabbing the pack of supplies we had put together before starting in the direction of the beacon.

_____

Zavala’s P.O.V

I watched as Arjic and Luca helped the civilians disembark, the Pilgrim Guard helping everyone with any belongings they had with them and providing water and snacks. “I think we need to start putting more resources into finding isolated communities, supporting them if they do not wish to relocate, and helping them settle here if they wish to” Ikora said from beside me.

“Indeed. That is something we can think about once this threat has been dealt with. I also imagine it is something your Hidden and Cayde’s Hunters would be adept at. Searching for and finding isolated communities and civilians hiding from the enemies of humanity” I said, Ikora chuckling, nodding her head in agreement.

“Commander… This gentleman wished to speak with you” a voice said, and I looked up, the Titan in his full armour dwarfing the man stood beside him holding a small bundle of cloth that after a moment wriggled, a small hand emerging from within it.

“What is it I can help with?” I asked, smiling at the man as the Titan went back to helping others. The man adjusting the bundle of cloth, allowing for Ikora to see and pull faces at the baby.

“Sera said to find you and tell you, to tell her, upon her return, where I and my family are placed. We owe her our lives” he said, and I took a deep breath in and nodded.

“Of course, I am glad she was able to help everyone reach the city safely” I said, and he nodded, looking back at everyone else. “Not that she will ever accept praise for it” I chuckled, the man looking back at me and nodding.

“She seemed like the humble type” he said, the baby making a gurgling sound and reaching up towards their father. “Sorry, he is getting fed up with his father” the man chuckled, nodding to us both and going to join two young women, one taking the baby and rocking it gently.

“She won’t accept a Titan’s version of praise. The reason Hunters don’t turn up to ceremonies when you conduct them is that they don’t like their good deeds to be paraded around. Ruins their reputation for being cold and lone wolves if you do that. Just tell her she did good, that is all a Hunter needs in the way of praise… Have you learnt nothing from me?” Cayde’s voice stated from above us, I glanced up to see him sat on the nose of a ship being worked on.

“I’ve learnt to never leave you alone with Shaxx when he is drunk” I replied, Cayde chuckling.

“That was a good night…” he chuckled. I just shook my head. Shaxx was still oddly proud of the tattoo Cayde gave him. Even if it was such a ridiculous one.

Chapter Text

Sera’s P.O.V

I yawned and stretched as much as I could given that we were hiding in the shrubbery, Shin shifting a little as well as I did. “Whose idea was this again, because they need shooting” I sighed, blowing yet another spider off my gauntlet.

“Some Hunters idea… How has it been six hours already? I imagine they are back at the city by now if they are taking a more gentle pace as they are transporting… people” Shin sighed. Probably wishing he had let me camp out here on my own and stayed at the campsite.

“Hopefully. Arjic probably forgot to get Ansel to let us know they arrived” I said, Shin just nodding, glancing up at the horizon then rest his head on his forearm before glancing back up again and properly focusing.

“We have incoming. Could be the group we are waiting for” Shin said, and I glanced out, brining my scope up to my eye.

“Seven in total… Three Hunters, four Titans, no Warlocks. That is starting to really put me on edge” I said, Shin looking at me.

“I never thought about it because I have come across Warlocks who have passed through Cape Town, but outside of that, I have not seen any in the area… And thinking about it more now, it does not sit right with me” Shin said, and I just nodded. I could not imagine only running into people now and then for so long. It would drive me bonkers not having contact with others… Or would it? If I did not have a Fireteam nor a partner, would I spend most of my time in the wilds? “So, what is our plan?” Shin then asked and I glanced around, shuffling backwards out of the shrubbery, Shin following suit.

“Slip behind that tree. Stepping out from behind a tree allows us to dodge a bullet more easily than battling our way out of shrubbery” I said and Shin nodding, both of us backing out of the shrubbery.

Within a few minutes, we could hear the group approaching and one particular Titan swearing profusely. “I am just saying, whoever the fuck got stabbed is a pile of goo by now, they were our last fucking hope of getting out of this fucking hellhole!” the Titan ranted, most of his companions remaining silent.

“Look, we just have to remain hopeful, I saw two people sneaking around, I am certain of it, and traditional Fireteams work in at least groups of three. We just need to be smart about this” someone responded. Eventually, the footsteps stopped and the sound of the beacon being tinkered with then begun. I looked over at Shin, motioning for him to stay put as I stepped out from behind the tree, staying as quiet as I could, the three Hunters present unaware of me initially.

“Don’t shoot” I very gently said, one of the Titan’s glancing around and then back to the group, the Hunters already having raised their Guns as he looked back to them. It took him a little longer to become as startled as his fellow Light-Bearers. “Don’t shoot. I am from The Last City. The Vanguard picked up the beacon’s signal” I said, the group becoming close, the Titan’s unwavering in their aim. The Hunters, however, were studying me more than aiming at me. “I assume you are the ones who set the beacon to broadcast?” I asked.

“We will not be answering any questions until you can prove you are from The Last City” one of the Hunters said, I nodded, holding up my left hand, Orion appearing and sending information of some description to the Ghosts of the Guardians before me. A few glancing to one another, nodding to each other. However, none lowered their guns, probably still wary, which was understandable.

“Yes, we are the ones who set the beacon to broadcast. We want to return to The Last City. We are being held captive by a man calling himself Dredgen Yor” An Exo Titan said, her aim still unwavering, however.

“Why not just overpower him and leave?” I asked, studying the group carefully. I doubted any would open fire on me. But it was still a possibility.

“He is not the original Dredge Yor, he is a Warlock, and he is capable of using some pretty messed up Hive magic. We could not take him and those loyal to him on, not with how few of us there are compared to them” one of the Hunters stated. I just looked at them for a few moments.

“Lower your guns… We are not a danger to you. She has proven that already” Shin’s voice stated as he stepped out from behind the tree. The Hunters suddenly looking a little more relaxed, acutely aware of who was approaching them. “We can help you escape him; you just need to help us kill him” Shin stated in a very matter of fact tone of voice. It took a moment, but the Hunters lowered their guns, following by the Titans, even if they did seem slightly more reluctant.

“We will help where we can. But first, we need assurance that you can help us return to The Last City” one of the Titans stated, Shin looked at me as he came to stand next to me.

“Shin told me that this Dredgen tracks your ships, that you wouldn’t even get over the ocean before being shot down or have a hope of exiting the atmosphere. However, he does not have the ability to track or effectively target our ships. I can have Vanguard send ships to retrieve you from the coast and return you all to The Last City” I said. The group looking to one another, most nodding.

“Very well. What do you need to know?” one of the Titans asked.

“Why are there no Warlocks amongst you? I saw none when I entered the settlement either” I said. One of the Hunters shifting their stance and clearing their throat.

“Whenever one enters the settlement, willingly or not, Dredgen will have them bought to his, throne room I guess you could call it, and there he will conduct a Hive ritual of some kind. It allows him to absorb their light, killing them and their Ghost in the process. Apparently, he does not absorb the light from any other class as be does not want to taint his light. One of the many giveaways that he is not the original Dredgen Yor” the Hunter said, his companions all nodding along as he spoke.

“What did he want with Eva then? Why keep her around for so long?” Shin asked.

“Child Light Bearers intrigue him, he wants to know if they will age, if her power is stronger or weaker due to her being a child, or if it is the same. He also used to use Eva specifically as a lure, to trap those who did not willingly join the settlement when he First established it” the Titan who had originally been slow to respond to my presence stated.

“When she escaped, he was furious. He flew into a rage and discharged his super ability in the market. Twenty-seven settlers were killed” one of the other Titans added.

“I have heard mention of an assassin from Shin, can you tell me more about who they are and why they are loyal to Dredgen Yor” I said, one of the female Hunters holstered her weapon, taking a deep breath before speaking.

“He is a Hunter, another child who possesses the light. He is probably in his early teenage years and a sadistic bastard who takes great pleasure in torturing others. From what others have said he was found by Dredgen around seventy years ago, not long after the child’s resurrection. Once he realised just how sadistic the child was, he began to feed into that, providing him with a Hive knife. He will happily use it on anyone but takes great joy in using it on Light Bearers that Dredgen sentenced to death for whatever twisted reason he has that day. He used it to murder a friend of ours… within a day and a half he had been reduced to a pile of Black slime. He was in agonising pain the entire time. The child sat and watched. Enjoying the show as he put it” she said, there was venom in her voice as she described him, he was clearly despised, at least by her.

“How easy would it be to get close to Dredgen if his little assassin was not around to interfere?” I asked, one of the Hunters chuckled.

“Impossible. He has Hive wards set up around his throne room and in his personal chambers. And he moves them daily. Sneaking up on him is not an option, he forces face to face combat, and in close quarters too” one of the Titans stated, the Hunter that had chuckled nodding in agreement.

“I’ve seen people try and take him on, but unless you are a Warlock, you have no chance. The only time I have seen him close to being defeated was by a Warlock wielding solar light. He seems particularly susceptible to it” the Hunter added.

“We need to regroup and come up with a far less risky plan. Recruit a few Warlocks to help” Shin said.

“Your right. We should make for The Last City, talk to Ikora, she will know which Warlocks wield solar light and can help us… Maybe even approach Osiris, see if we can coax him out the forest” I said Shin nodding.

“Yes, the old fool is strong and capable. With a few other Warlocks, it would make things substantially easier” Shin said, I nodded, we would have to hurry. If Dredgen thought we posed a threat, he could move his location and we would have to start hunting him down all over again.

“You have to take us with you, I beg you, do not leave us to return to that settlement. Should Dredgen suspect us of planning to leave and plotting against him, he will not hesitate to kill us all” one of the Titan’s stated. “We have already lost our friend, and I could not bear to see my love die” he then added, the Hunter who had described her friend’s death taking his hand, squeezing it tightly. I felt my gut tighten and I took a deep breath in, memories of comforting Zavala in a time of need filling my mind.

_____

I laced my fingers in between Zavala’s, squeezing gently at first, but as he returned the gesture, I tightened my grip. Not wanting to let go or loosen my hold on him. It always hit him hard when a Guardian was lost, despite how much he tried to pretend he was alright, that he was coping.

“I am here for you. I always will be” I whispered as we stood looking out over the city.

_____

I quickly composed myself, pushing the thought of Zavala from my mind and looking to the couple. Though the Hunter had already noticed my reaction. “Have you ever lost a loved one Huntress?” she asked.

“In the Cabal attack my… my former lover was murdered, as was a member of my Fireteam. Though currently, I am in a relationship with a Titan who I love and adore. I know if anything were to happen to me, he would be horrified” I said, my fellow Hunter giving me an understanding nod.

“Touching moments aside, if we are going to leave, we need to do it as soon as possible. And my ship is not capable of carrying any extra bodies. And you are limited as we cannot simply leave our remaining supplies” Shin said, and I looked to him, he was right, we needed more ships.

“Orion, connect me to Luca” I said, Orion appearing and nodding, his shell whizzing around as he connected me to my fellow Hunter.

“Hey Sera, we are just getting ready to head back, had a small mechanical issue due to a bumpy landing” Luca’s voice chuckled.

“I did think you were taking your sweet time… Look, we need you back now. We are packing up and heading home with more bodies, Light Bearers who want out from under Dredgen’s rule” I said, the group’s energy changing from one of feeling defeated to that of hopefulness.

“Arjic, we got to move now! Cayde, I’ll fill you in from he sky… We will be with you as soon as we can” Luca’s stated, I smiled to myself, when he needed to be he could be serious.

“OK. We will get the pack up started and hopefully, by the time you are back, we will just need to load up and head out. We shall see you soon” I said, nodding to Orion to cut the call. “So, let’s get moving. We have camped not too far away, if we are quick we can leave as soon as Luca and Arjic return” I said, everyone, nodding and following Shin and myself back towards our camp.

Chapter Text

SERA'S P.O.V

At a run we reached the camp in just under half the time it would usually take us, even if the Titans did complain about the sustained fast pace.

“I will pack up mine and Luca’s belongings, if you pack yours and Arjics’ up we can ensure we don’t leave anything important behind. The rest of you can go through the crates and get as much as possible into as few crates as possible!” Shin called as we approached the camp.

“Shin… The cooking crate” I stated, looking at Luca’s crate, the lid was half off and there were a few oils placed atop of it. Luca never left any of his supplies out and he certainly did not leave the lid off of the crate. Arjic did that once and we had a half-hour lecture on how sunlight can impact the oils he has in there.

“Eyes open… We may not be alone!” Shin called as we reached the camp, everyone closing ranks.

“Footprints, pretty fresh. They lead into the camp from the west” one of the Hunters called. As Shin moved to go look there was a feral scream let out from right behind him. Everyone whirled around as a child appeared, brandishing a blade, glowing Hive runes carved into it. Though before anyone else could react, the blade sunk into the arm of one of the Hunters, their reflexes kicking in as they bought a foot up to the child’s chest, kicking them back into a crate.

“Clara, Tsunami, your bows!” one of the Titans called suddenly, two of the Hunters jumped to the front of the group, one firing off a single arrow whilst another fired off several smaller arrows around the crate the child was trying to climb over to flee.

I quickly raised my rifle and fired two shots, one hit his neck whilst the other hit the back of the head. The all too familiar sound of flesh tearing and bone shattering could just be heard over the sound of the Void light pulsing. The knife he was holding fell from his hands as his body went limp, laying in the dust. Though before it even had a chance to have settled on the floor, a Ghost appeared to revive the dead light bearer. Though thankfully the bows continued to hold for a moment longer, pulling the Ghost away from the body.

“Someone grab the knife!” Shin called as the bows started to dissipate. I quickly darted forward, grabbing the blade. Though in the time it took to do that, the Ghost had resurrected the child, giving him time to unsheathe another blade and launch himself at me. Though before he could bring his blade down on me a black blur appeared and he was thrown across the camp and into Arjic’s tent, rolling a few times before stopping. The Titan who had shoulder-barged him was already gearing up to charge him again.

“Sera, are you OK?” Shin asked running over and pulling me up as the Titan charged the child again, sending him through a crate, causing it to explode in a shower of splinters. Though the Titan's third attempt was dodged by the child. He quickly vanished into an all too familiar purple cloud.

“I am fine… Help the Hunter who was stabbed, here” I said, passing him a pot of balm from my pocket. Shin simply smiled and made his way back over to the group; the Hunter already having shed their armor to examine the wound.

“Someone make sure the permitter is clear, maybe set up some trip mines, if you are not getting medical attention, pack stuff up!” I called, everyone listening and beginning to work through the crates, throwing out questions now and then about if an item were important or if it could be put in a pile to be destroyed when we left. After a moment a scream came from the direction of Shin and the Hunter he was treating, everyone looked over.

“All healed… Somewhere in the camp is a box with pots of this balm in it, grab yourself some. It counters the effect of the blade… Keep that thing safe Sera” Shin said. Everyone nodding and continuing with their work.

Once I had packed away my belongings and had checked on everyone else, I started to try and make sense of what was left of Arjic’s tent. Cutting through the material of the tent I eventually found the contents of the tent and started to sort them out.

“Orion… What is this?” I asked, picking up a shard of glass, a purple, sweet-smelling liquid, dripping from it.

It appears to be some form of sugary drink… be careful Sera, there is cyanide mixed in with it.

I frowned, gently placing the glass shard to one side, and moving the tent material around carefully to avoid accidentally cutting myself and poisoning myself.

Sera. What is that?

I looked to where Orion was looking, under a blanket was the corner of a book. “You know Arjic, he likes to read” I said, picking the book up and looking at the spine and front for a name. None. Maybe it was a journal.

What is it?

I looked to Orion; he was so impatient at times. Something he often accused me of being. I looked back to the book, flipping through the pages, it seemed to be a journal, maybe a dream journal from the looks of it.

WAIT! Go back… Does that say Thanatonauts?

Orion asked and I flicked back a few pages and read it properly… It was not a dream journal. It was a journal of death visions. “Warlocks are forbidden from practicing in the city walls, aren’t they?” I asked, Orion nodding. “OK. We will pack his stuff up; you keep this safe. I think we need to have a chat with Ikora” I said, holding the journal up for Orion to safely stash it away which he did.

Arjic and Luca are not far out now. We need to finish up. Do you want me to alert Ikora before we leave?

“No. I do not want to risk her confronting Arjic when we get back and kicking him out of the city” I said Orion nodding. What had he got himself mixed up in?

_____

ARJIC'S P.O.V

Luca and I sat in orbit waiting for Sera to let us know that they were ready for us to pick them up and head out.

“Arjic, Luca… Are your sensors picking up incoming missile of some description?” Sera’s voice asked over the comms. I looked at my sensors, flipped a few switches to recalibrate them, and then checked again.

“Nothing… Luca?” I asked, looking out over the Earth.

“Not a damn thing… Why? What is going on down there?” Luca asked, as Sera’s comms fizzled a little, the faint sound of explosions could be heard in the background.

“Dredgen is firing at something… One of our new friends thinks he probably knows we are here and that we are leaving with some of his men. I doubt he is not too happy about it” Sera said, and I looked to Ansel who rolled his optic.

“They are obviously not in prime condition. I doubt they are leaving Earth’s atmosphere. Though to bored everyone, we will have to land and that means coming into range of the guns” I said, sera chuckling a little. “I am glad the possible destruction of my ship and me amuse you” I laughed.

“Follow a Hunters weaving pattern when coming into land and you will be fine, and once you're on the ground there is no way they can angle the guns to hit the ships” Sera said and I nodded… Though what was a Hunters weaving pattern?

“Good plan” Luca responded, “Though, for the benefit of our Warlock friend, a Hunters weaving pattern is essentially random jerky movements… I mean, who can account for what goes on in a Hunter's mind, right?” Luca chuckled.

“Fair enough, if you are ready for us, we can make our way down” I said.

“Ready and waiting boys” Sera replied, Luca taking point, his ship lunging down into the atmosphere, I followed suit. Once we got into low orbit Luca started jerking around, and as my radar brought three incoming projectiles up, I did the same. I imagine those guns were not easy nor quick to aim. They would have to get very lucky to land a hit on a ship without a tracker.

_____

SHIN’S P.O.V

As Luca and Arjic made their descent, Sera dragged the remains of Arjic’s tent over to the pile of things to burn. “So, you coming with, or are you staying put?” Sera asked as she rather unceremoniously dumped the torn-up material onto the pile.

“It has been a long time since I have been anywhere near the city, never mind in the city… I guess my return is long overdue” I said, Sera looking at me a little shocked. “Don’t look too surprised, these lot will have a lot of valuable information that could help us take down Dredgen, this on at least” I said, Sera smiling and nodding.

“Don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone you, if even for the briefest of moments, sounded like you actually missed the city” she chuckled, looking up as the sound of the incoming ships became apparent.

“I won’t stick around long enough to find out if I do have to worry about you blabbing. Once we have taken care of this Dredgen, I will be on the trail of the next one no doubt” I said, Sera simply nodding in response as the two ships came into sight.

“OKAY! ONCE THEY’RE LANDED THE GHOSTS WILL LOAD THEM UP AND THEN YOU GUYS BOARD AND WE GET THE FUCK OUT OF HERE!” Sera yelled. The group hugging one another, the Hunter who had been stabbed by the blade early looked as if she was on the verge of tears. “Oh, Malphur, I’ll let you do the honours” Sera said as she walked past me, gesturing to the pile of things we couldn’t take back to us. I just smirked and turned to it, I did enjoy setting fire to things, then again, most Hunters did.

Chapter Text

SERA’S P.O.V

I let out a sigh of relief once the city came into view and Amanda’s voice came over the comms, giving us the green light to land. Though as I did, I noticed the Vanguard stood in the hangar, Cayde looking a little on Edge whilst Zavala and Ikora looked stern… Not a good thing.

“Fireteam Survivor… Shin… Welcome home” Zavala said as we exited our ships, the group of Light Bearers we had brought with us stood behind us, I could almost feel how nervous their thoughts were.

“We are glad to be back, though I was not expecting a welcoming party from the Vanguard, especially given the late hour” I said, stepping forward a little, something Cayde had told me put Zavala on edge. Apparently when we had our occasional arguments, me stepping forward was usually followed by Zavala having to admit defeat.

“Given that four of the Guardians stood behind you once served under the Vanguard and chose to leave the city, we have concerns about their return and are skeptical about letting them back into the city” Zavala stated.

“You have to be kidding me? They risked their lives coming back here, we were attacked getting them back here… They are our people; we can’t just turn them away!” I snapped, trying not to let my anger at the situation we had returned get the better of me.

“Sera, you have to understand our concerns” Ikora stated, speaking rather quickly, probably not wanting myself or Zavala to turn this into a domestic argument.

“With all due respect, you can shove your concerns up Cayde. So, what if they chose to leave the city… Find me one Guardian who has been here more than a year that has not contemplated it. You think we enjoy being sent out into the wilds time and time again to face threat after threat, the threats never vanish! No matter how many Hive, Vex or Cabal, Fallen we kill, no matter how many times we are killed and resurrected. No wonder some Guardians become disillusioned with the city and the Vanguard and decide to leave! No wonder Guardians like Dredgen and Osiris have so many followers” I rather passionately explained.

“I will be honest with you, I see Sera’s point, and I agree with her, though please no shoving anything up Cayde” Cayde replied, Ikora looking to him and then sighing.

“I will admit I see your logic, though that does not invalidate our concerns about the fact that they abandoned the city and its people. Can we trust a Guardian who was willing to abandon their people, or even seriously contemplate and plan to do so!” Ikora responded.

“Whilst the others may see your logic, I am standing my ground on the Vanguards right to make this call” Zavala stated.

“Seriously? What if it was me? After everything I have done for the city, say I left and then came back, would you have the same hesitations, or would I get a free pass like Shin, who fucked off to chase a personal vendetta, is because I am viewed as the hero who got everyone their light back… Hmmm? What if I told you, I have contemplated leaving the city, seriously contemplated it, and had plans in place? Plans to roam the wild and take out our enemies on my own terms? Because I have. Do you know why? Because it would be a hell of a lot less stressful than being a Guardian in the city. And if a Guardian like me has had those thoughts surely most have and those who have got to their breaking point should not be judged for being braver than the rest of us and doing what they thought was best for them at the time!” I snapped. Zavala staying silent for a moment, though before he could respond a voice rang out from across the hangar.

“I have contemplated and planned how I would leave and what I would do out in the wilds” a Titan stated, Zavala looking to him, and then the Warlock who stated he had done the same, then the group of Hunters and then the Titan and Warlock duo stood by Amanda.

“See, we are just tired and stressed and want to protect everyone but in doing so neglect ourselves and at some point, we either slow down or break. And some of us don’t hit the brakes, they just go till it is too much, till the walls have to give and something else calls you” I said.  Zavala looked at me, his expression still rather stern, though with a hand on the shoulder from Ikora and a confident nod from Cayde his expression softened a little.

“Very well. They can return to the city, but they will have to prove their loyalty to the city and the Vanguard once again before they are allowed to form their own fireteams and go scouting” Zavala stated, both Cayde and Ikora nodded in agreement.

“I shall leave that up to you both, none of the individuals in question are Warlocks, though I shall pass comment should they complete any tasks for me. Now I suggest we move this to the debriefing room” Ikora stated.

_____

ZAVALA’S P.O.V

Once everyone had settled and we had established who was who we went over the scans Sera and Arjic had obtained of the settlement, the Lights Bearers they had brought back filling in any information we were missing.

“There are tunnels under the main building, I heard one of his Guards mention them once, Dredgen often went down their alone apparently, though I am not sure what is in them. I do know one goes to his personal chamber that is located around here” one of the Tians, Paladin-8, stated.

“It could be anything from prisoners to the generators to food stores” Luca commented, Sera nodding in agreement.

“If we want to take him out, we need all the information we can get on if Dredgen or any others have access to Hive magic, or even Hive weapons and what is in those tunnels… If we go in blind, we won’t make it out” Sera said Arjic nodding in agreement.

“Especially if they have more Hive weapons like the one you were stabbed with, the balm helps, but more than a few wounds, or one big one and it won’t be enough” Arjic added and I felt myself tense, earning myself a glance from Cayde and Shin who were across from me.

“Speaking of which… I have the blade, the little fuck attacked us at the campsite, but he couldn’t take on a group, especially once we knew he was there” Sera said, pulling the knife out of her belt and placing it on the table, Ikora reaching out and carefully taking it.

“I shall do my best to figure out what exactly these runes mean and what the Hive use the blade for… Though it would be a lot easier of Eris Morn was still with us” Ikora sighed, pulling a piece of cloth out of her robes and carefully wrapping the blade in it.

“I have some knowledge of Hive Magic, but it is very limited, and that blade is not something I can even pretend to understand” Shin stated, Ikora looking to Shin a little surprised.

“Given you spend your time chasing people abusing Hive magic, I’d be surprised if you didn’t know at least a few bits about Hive Magic” Cayde commented, Shin just shaking his head at the Exo’s comment. “What did surprise me though is the fact you came back to the city… You haven’t been back in… A very, very, very long time, why now?” Cayde then asked his fellow Hunter, Shin pausing a moment before answering.

“Because this individual calling themselves Dredgen Yor needs to be stopped. And it has become clear I cannot do that on my own, all I have done is somewhat thin their numbers, more than that needs doing” he said, though he only paused briefly before adding more. “Also, I have come to realise, with the help of Serafina, that I have been working alone too long and that has somewhat skewed how I view the world” Shin stated, Ikora chuckling a little.

“If only it would be as easy as Serafina talking to Osiris to get him to see that he too has been working alone for far too long” Ikora added, I nodded in agreement. He had been in the Infinite Forest for far too long for his own good.

“Maybe the only way to get the rather intense ‘you’ve been out here too long’ talk is to make unwanted advances and insult her identity… Then again, it may have just been the insulting her identity that did it” Shin stated, glancing to me and Sera, though we both chose the ignore his comment.

“We need to speak with Eva, see what information she can add and then we can go from there” I said, Sera nodding in agreement whilst the Light Bearers looked to us.

“Eva will be able to provide you with more information on the layout of his personal chambers as well as the areas he does not let anyone outside of his most trusted guards in, or the children. He was always banging on about teaching them the value of Light purity and how Warlocks are the true masters of the Light. Eva even once said to Clara that he was crazy and seemed to think other classes were inferior” Luna, an Awoken Hunter, said, Sera standing and looking at them.

“Children… How many in total?” she asked.

“Currently, three, Eva and the boy who are both Warlocks and then the child assassin, who is a Hunter. Eva and the boy were always kept separate and were to not know about one another so none one ever dared mention it, just in case one of them said something and they or we were killed for it” Leroy, a human Titan stated. “The boy is the youngest child Light Bearer Dredgen has come in contact with according to him, from what I know he has been with Dredgen since before some of us were even resurrected” he added.

“One of the Titans that used to be in Dredgen’s inner circle said the boy doesn’t speak though. He just sits and lets Dredgen talk at him, and he does not interact with anyone else in the settlement either. I think the fact this intrigues Dredgen more than it frustrates him has kept the boy alive this long” Cora, one of the Titans stated.

“Sounds like the complete opposite to Eva” Sera chuckled, the Titan nodding.

“You could hear her screaming at him at times. She fought back, she would openly defy him, she has a fighting spirit and he wanted to utilise that, weaponize it” Cora replied.

“I think speaking to Eva can wait until tomorrow, her and Hawthorn are down in the city getting Eva clothing and other essential items” Ikora stated, Cayde nodding and standing.

“Okay, best get started on finding you guys somewhere to stay then, if you want to follow me, we can get you guys a flat set up” Cayde said, gesturing for them to follow him as he exited to room. Most following him, though two stayed, approaching Sera as everyone else also left the room. I hung back a bit observing.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

As everyone exited the room Clara and Leroy approached me, Clara giving me a grateful smile. “I cannot thank you enough for getting up back to the Last City and standing up for us. I can’t imagine what would have happened had to us had we been unable to leave” Clara said, and I smiled at her and Leroy.

“I can’t imagine being in that position, but I know seeing my partner in danger would tear me apart inside. Though now you are not under the roof of an unstable Warlock with a whole list of issues he seems to take out on everyone else. No one here is going to try and kill your partner in front of you” I said, Clara looking to Leroy and smiling at him so lovingly. 

After a moment footsteps sounded as Zavala approached, standing next to me. “How long have you two been a couple?” he asked, Leroy, nodding to Zavala, standing a little straighter in his presence.

“Coming up to five years Commander Zavala. It has been challenging, we are very different and view things very differently, but every second has been worth it and I wouldn’t change it” Leroy said, Clara smiling at him before looking back to myself and Zavala.

“Do you find he is stubborn in his protectiveness and struggles to understand that you need to roam the wilds?” I asked Clara who laughed and nodded.

“So stubborn, though it is one of the things I love the most” she replied, and I smiled and nodded.

“Yeah, it is certainly up there on the list of things I love about my partner, his protectiveness makes me feel more secure when I am back in the city, it helps take the edge off the itch to be back in the wilds” I replied, Clara nodding.

“I have never understood the need to roam, to me, it is strange to want to leave the place you call your home for up to months at a time with the bare minimum” Leroy stated, Zavala nodding in agreement.

“I never struggled to leave a place, leaving people however, that is a different story. Though I have never struggled to be away from anyone like I have my Titan, being away from him is like not being whole at times. I feel like I am exposed like there is no one watching my back as closely as he does when we are at home” I said, Clara, giving me the softest smile I had ever seen whilst Zavala had an almost proud smile on his face.

“That seems to be what others don’t understand, that to us home is not a place, it is a people, and those people provide us with security and manage to take some of the pressure from us that demands we constantly are on alert when we are in a safe place. The fact that your partner gives you that feeling is amazing, he is one very lucky Titan to have a Hunter put so much faith and trust in him when we rarely rely on others” Clara said, I smiled to myself, wanting to look to Zavala but unsure if he wanted for the new additions to the Tower to know if we were a couple just yet. Though after a moment I felt a hand come to rest on my shoulder and I looked at Zavala who was smiling down at me, I smiled back, wrapping my arm around his waist.

“I am indeed a very lucky Titan” he said softly, and I smiled, closing my eyes for a moment as I rested my head on his arm for a moment.

“Well, I am surprised Shin has not been sent through a wall, had he made advances on Clara I would have made a point to make sure he got the message to not even contemplate it again” Leroy laughed causing Zavala to chuckle.

“As the Vanguard Commander, it would not be appropriate… Though the thought may have crossed my mind briefly. However, I have learned that ignoring a Hunter annoys them more than anything” Zavala said and both myself and Clara laughed.

“It is true it annoys us, but it also just makes us more determined, it is one reason that Warlocks and Hunters don’t make great drinking buddies. The Hunter gets drunk, bets they can climb or shoot something is ignored by the Warlock… The Warlock is then tidying up after the Hunter who is already causing trouble elsewhere” I said, Clara, nodding in agreement.

“Let me know once you’ve settled in an apartment and I will swing by and check on you guys, we best get going” I said, Clara and Leroy nodding and heading out. Zavala turning to me, cupping my face in his hands, and placing a gentle kiss on my forehead.

“I love you, and I have missed you and worried about you” he whispered.

You said she was never allowed to leave the Tower again as long as Shin was out there
To give him some credit he apologised

“I love you too, and I have missed you so much… And Shin apologised after Cayde told him who my partner was, so it isn’t exactly like he did it because he felt back about it” I said, leaning up and giving Zavala a kiss on the lips. “How about we go back to the apartment, and I show you my new scar?” I smirked, Zavala giving me a soft smile.

“I can’t leave Cayde in charge of sorting them all out… And there are still issues to sort with finding the civilians more permanent homes” Zavala said, brushing a stray hair from my face.

“Cayde is perfectly capable Zavala, and I doubt they are expecting a permanent home as soon as they get here, it hasn’t been a full day yet. All that matters is that they are safe and fed… Anyway, it is late, most people will be in bed” I said, Zavala sighing and relenting, nodding at me.

_____

ZAVALA’S P.O.V

As we exited the room to head back to the apartment Arjic approached us, smiling at Sera. “By chance do you know where my stuff went Sera?” he asked, Sera tensing for a moment before smiling at him.

“I believe most of it is on my ship, some may be on Luca’s… Orion will transmat what is on my ship to yours” Sera said, Orion nodding and heading over to the ships, Arjic smiling at Sera.

“Thank you, I will get it sorted and see you in a bit” he said before heading back to his ship, Sera letting out a heavy sigh.

“I need to chat to Ikora about something” she said, heading over to my fellow Vanguard, the two stepping away from Cayde and Shin who had just sent off the last of the Light Bearer with some other Guardians.

I made my way over to the two hunters, all of us studying Sera and Ikora for a moment.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

“When I was packing up our camp, I was sorting Arjic’s stuff out and I found this… I am worried about him, I know Warlock’s are not supposed to do this shit for a reason and it carries punishments, and the last thing I want is for Arjic to be in trouble… But I can’t tell you” I said, gesturing for Orion to return, once he did, I held my hands out and the book materialised.

Ikora took the book carefully, flipping through the first few pages, her expression becoming one of concern. “This is not good Sera” she sighed.

“I know… I have read it, all of it… It looks like his partner pushed him into it and Osiris had no qualms about teaching him it and pushing him to do more of it… He looks up to him, and he just wants to be loved and accepted by his partner… And by me… Have I failed him? I thought he knew he could talk to me about anything after everything we went through…” I sighed, trying not to become to visibly upset and draw attention.

“Sera… You did not fail him, you’ve saved him, I failed him, as his Vanguard I should have trusted my instincts. I knew Osiris was a bad influence, I should have warned him to be careful. I think it is best if we sit both Arjic and Phoenix down and talk to them about it, I shall have them meet us in the small library now” Ikora said and I nodded, swallowing the lump in my throat.

_____

ZAVALA’S P.O.V

Ikora and Sera made their way back over after a few minutes, Ikora holding a book and looking rather serious. “Most armor does the wearer no favours, but Sera’s really accentuates her hips, the way they sway” Shin chuckled, Sera glaring at him, obviously having heard the comment.

“I would say you should see her out of her armor, but that pleasure is all mine tonight” I replied, Cayde bursting out laughing, Ikora the professional that she was not reacting at all.

“I shall meet you in the library shortly” she said to Sera who nodded, Ikora bidding us farewell with a nod before leaving. Sera then looking at me and raising a brow.

“You are better than that mister” she said.

“I live with a sarcastic Hunter with a sadistic streak. She’s starting to rub off on me” I said, Sera shaking her head.

“Look, you’ve made your point, I was a dick to make that comment earlier and I am sorry, to both of you… Now, Cayde, where can I get some good food?” Shin said, Cayde chuckling and gesturing for his fellow Hunter to follow him.

“Well, an apology off of Shin Malphur, not something I would have expected” Sera chuckled, smiling at me. “I have to go take care of something with Ikora, I will meet you at home shortly” she said, and I nodded.

“Okay, I will see you there” I said, giving her a kiss before she headed off and I started to make my way back to the apartment.

_____

ARJIC’S P.O.V

Phoenix, Ikora, and I sat in silence for a few minutes before Sera walked in and sat down next to Ikora, Ikora pulling a very familiar book out from behind a pillow on her seat. I sighed whilst Phoenix looked to me and then Ikora.

“What is going on? What book is that?” he asked, and I looked to him and sighed.

“It is my journal; I make notes of my visions and methods in it…” I said, Phoenix’s expression going from one of confusion to one of anger.

“How could you be so stupid Arjic? I thought I told you the journal was an idiotic idea and would not end well. You should have listened to me for once!” Phoenix snapped at me, and I went to defend myself, though before I could, Ikora spoke up.

“How could you be so stupid as to get involved with this in the first place? There is a reason it is forbidden, in the long term, it can have catastrophic effects on you” she said very sternly, looking to Phoenix and then me.

“I don’t see the issue, it is our risk to take, personally I have been experimenting with Thanatoanutics numerous times a day and have not experienced any negative side effects from it” Phoenix said, Sera looking extremely concerned and directly at me, whilst Ikora was staring at Phoenix, her expression very stern.

“There is a reason Sagira started to refuse to resurrect him when he practiced Thanatoanutics daily. She made him agree to only do it when he felt it was absolutely necessary if it was a life-or-death situation” Ikora stated, her tone becoming more and more authoritative.

Beep, beep. Beep. Beep. Beep. Beep, beep, beep. Beep. Beep, beep. Beep. Beep. Beep.
Ansel says he also does not agree, he limits the number of times Arjic practices it in a week as well as how long he is dead for. The one time he allowed Arjic to push the limit was in South Africa and he ended up pale, shaky, and disorientated for a while after.

“Arjic, you can’t be doing that when we are in the field… Or even at all! If you want to continue to be a part of Fireteam Survivor, then this stops now. No more Thanatoanutics, it is reckless, and it puts me and Luca in danger! What if we had been attacked whilst you were down?” Sera said, the pain in her voice clear, and I could see it in her eyes, it was the same look she had when it became apparent that there was no saving Jackal.

“Oh, that is rich! If anyone here is reckless it’s you! Every time you go out into the wilds you do something reckless. Though I don’t see anyone addressing the obvious death wish most Hunters have!” Phoenix replied, Sera glaring at him.

“Yes, Hunters are reckless at times, they generally don’t endanger others with their actions, and their actions do not have long-lasting implications on their mental state” Ikora stated, Phoenix scoffing at her statement.

“I bet to differ; Sera continually puts herself in dangerous situations that impact her emotionally. I have lived next to her since we moved into the Tower. I have heard her scream in terror when she wakes from nightmares, I have heard her break down crying, pacing her apartment in tears whilst Zavala tries to comfort her, to talk her into resting… You Sera, are emotionally broken!” Phoenix snapped, Sera making a move to stand up causing Phoenix to shift back in his chair, though Sera stopped herself.

“What happens in my apartment and between me and my partner is none of your business!” she snapped back, Phoenix rolling his eyes at her.

“Look, I’ll stop. I won’t practice Thanatoanutics anymore… You have my word, both of you do” I said, Sera looking at me, her expression one of relief, Ikora just gave me a soft smile and a small nod. “I have not felt like myself since I started practicing it a few months ago… It has impacted my relationships with my loved ones, and not in a positive way” I sighed.

“If that is how you feel you can move your stuff out of my apartment” Phoenix hissed, crossing his arms, and just glaring at me for a moment before looking the other way. The hatred in his voice stung and made my heartache.

“No. You may as well pack your stuff Phoenix; I will not stand by and have Thanatoanutics being practiced within the Tower nor the Last City. Too many good Warlocks get seduced by it only to suffer as a result.

“YOU HAVE TO BE KIDDING ME! YOU ARE KICKING ME OUT OF THE CITY! YOU CAN’T BE SERIOUS!” Phoenix screamed, standing up and starting and Ikora and Sera, clearly shocked.

“Phoenix… calm down, maybe we can sort something else out, so you don’t have to leave the city” I said, standing up to try and calm him down, grabbing his arm. As I wrapped my hand around his arm, he turned to me and shoved me back, the arm of the chair the only thing stopping me from falling back. Sera standing up and moving between us, her hand on the hilt of a blade sheathed at her hip.

“You can keep my stuff, I don’t need it, I certainly don’t need you or this stupid city. I can continue my work, continue practicing Thanatoanutics outside of the city. And one day, when my visions have given me the answer of how to end all the threats we face, you will see how wrong you all are!” he snapped before turning to leave.

“Phoenix, you are being overdramatic!” Sera stated, taking a step to follow him, Though Ikora stopped her, placing a hand on her shoulder.

“There is no reasoning with him, let him go. If he is that far gone, there is no point. This is not the first time I have had this discussion, and it is not the first time it has gone this way” she said, Sera sighing and nodding.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

After Phoenix had stormed out, Arjic just looked at me and Ikora and then back to the door before sitting back down, just staring at his hands in his lap, I crouched in front of him. “Arjic… Promise me, not as your Fireteam leader, but as your friend, that you will not do this again, and that you won’t chase after him. He isn’t worth your home, your Fireteam, your reputation, and your friends… Please promise me” I said, grabbing his hands causing him to look up at me.

“I promise… I am so sorry, I should have known better, I just… I don’t know” he sighed, looking to me and then to Ikora as she took her seat. “I am so sorry Ikora. I know I have let you down” he then added.

“You are young, curious, and you were in love. You recognise what you did wrong though and are taking the necessary steps to show you have learned from this. Which is what I want to see and is what has earned you a second chance” Ikora said, Arjic simply nodding. “Why don’t you both head back to your apartments, get cleaned up, and get some rest” Ikora then said, and I nodded, placing an arm around Arjic’s shoulder as we headed out, letting him know I was here for him.

We made the way down to our floor in silence, Arjic just staring straight ahead most of the time. Even as we stepped out of the elevator and he approached his door, opening it and stepping in. I sighed and followed him in, watching him walk around a moment before sitting down and breaking down.

“I can’t believe it, I can’t believe this is how it all went down” he sobbed, wiping the tears from his eyes before looking to me, the expression on his face a heartbreakingly sad one. “I was going to speak with Phoenix about everything privately, talk him out of taking this path, I hoped we could work on our relationship and the issues we had been having recently… I wanted to save our relationship” Arjic sobbed. A piece of me felt awful for taking the possibility of him saving his relationship away from him, but with Phoenix’s reaction, was it even worth saving?

“I am sorry that things have happened how they have, but maybe it is the way they needed to happen” I said, taking a seat opposite him, giving him as much of a reassuring smile as I could muster.

“I wish I could have a partner like you, when we first met, your touch enthralled me, I just wanted to be around you” Arjic stated, looking at me and I sat back a little, slightly shocked at his comment.

“I am flattered Arjic, but I have enough men chasing after me with Luca and Shin, you will find someone, it just takes time. Also, Luca managed to find a wife, which means you can find a partner, you are much more approachable and less creepy than he is with people you are interested in. You just need to be a bit pickier” I said, Arjic chuckling.

“Picky got you. I take it you and Luca didn’t have the highest opinions of Phoenix then” he said, and I just shrugged.

“Look, we can talk about your choice in men with Luca tomorrow, I suggest you have a drink, have a shower, and get some rest, we all need it” I said, standing up and giving his shoulder a squeeze before heading out.

As I entered my apartment I looked around and couldn’t see Zavala, I sighed and slipped into the bedroom and peeked in the bathroom… “I imagine he got caught on his way down by someone wanting something or the other” I sighed. “Fancy starting me a shower,” I said, Orion, nodding and heading into the bathroom.

You certainly need one

“Aren’t you a delight… Do you think Arjic will be okay?” I asked as I stripped, Orion, starting the shower before deciding to answer.

He has you and Luca to support him, you will get him through it

“Do you think so? I just worry about him so much” I sighed, heading into the bathroom, and closing the door, flicking the lock. I wanted some alone time, something I am sure Zavala would understand if he got back whilst I was showering. It was not the sort of evening to join me in the shower for.

I know so, now clean yourself, woman! I can smell you, and I don’t have a nose or sense of smell of any kind

Chapter Text

SERA’S P.O.V

I stepped out of the shower, drying myself off before unlocking the door and making my way to my dresser, picking out a nice set of underwear and putting it on before going to Zavala’s.

Not your clothes Sera

“None of your business Orion… Anyway, Zavala never complains” I chuckled as I put one of his shirts on and nicked a pair of his socks before heading back into the living room. A faint smell lingering in the air that smelt familiar.

“Orion… Stay close” I said, sidestepping around the room, Orion immediately doing as asked and staying close to me, and slightly behind me. “Something is off” I said, grabbing a knife attached to the underside of a shelf as I passed it. I came to stop at the door to the apartment.

Sera. I scanned the air… Various elements are present that are not normally. Together they are the components of a Hunter's smoke bomb…

“Message Shin, Cayde, Zavala, and Ikora, we have been followed back” I said, Orion nodding, I could hear his shell whirring behind me as he sent the message before things fell silent for a few moments.

Everyone but Zavala has responded to state they are on the way. Neptune didn’t even acknowledge receipt of the message…

“That is not like them… Even if he were meeting with every possible leader in the Tower, he would come running…” I muttered. “Try and get hold of them again” I said, Orion’s shell whirring again and again as he tried to contact Neptune.

No luck

“Stay close… Something is very wrong” I said, locking the apartment door as I move throughout the apartment, carefully scanning my surroundings for anything out of place. As I passed the counter separating the kitchen from the rest of the apartment I froze as something caught my eye.

Oh my! Commander Zavala!

“No!” I snapped as I turned to see Zavala lying lifeless next to the counter, thought before I could move towards him a pain shot through my body, radiating from my left leg.

SERA! THE ASSASSIN!

“YOU LITTLE BASTARD!” I snapped as I whirled around, driving my blade into his shoulder, failing to hit any critical vessels. I reached for his neck or part of clothing to grab him and drive my blade into him again, but he darted past me, slashing the back of my right leg as he went. Though I managed to slash his wrist before he could pull the knife away.

It is not a Hive blade Sera…

“Stay out the way!” I snapped at Orion, pushing him back as I dodged the child as he dove at me, trying to drive the knife into my chest. “I don’t want to take any chances! When are the others going to get here!” I snapped, kicking the kid back into a shelving unit, a few things wobbling and falling off.

Be careful! They’re caught in the elevator! They are coming as fast as they can!

“Remember the box that Phobos and I made when we moved in together?” I asked, slashing at the child to keep him as close to the shelves as possible.

Yes… You can’t be serious though!

“Fuck!” I snapped as he drove his blade into my forearm, causing me to almost drop my blade, though I managed to lunge it at his neck, but he used his arm to block my attack. “You are going to die here!” I snapped twisting my blade as much as possible, causing him to let out a feral scream, not even the Fallen or Hive made such vile sounds. I kicked him back into the cabinet and jumped back.

“DETONATE IT! NOW!” I screamed, Orion hesitating for a second. “NOW!” I screamed again before there was an all too familiar click from the box, the child assassin looking to it before it exploded.

SERA!

I ducked behind the counter as shrapnel was sent flying, some getting through the counter and embedding itself in my flesh, stinging like crazy. Though after a moment I quickly got up and moved towards where the child’s bloodied body lay, his Ghost materializing right before me. Before it could even move towards its Light Bearer though I grabbed it and slammed it against the wall to make escaping my grasp even harder.

“WHERE IS NEPTUNE! TELL ME! TELL ME NOW!” I screamed at it, the tears finally breaking free and racing down my face.

_____

CAYDE’S P.O.V

As we arrived at the apartment Shin kicked the door down with ease, providing us with a view of Sera screaming at a Ghost.

“WHERE IS NEPTUNE! TELL ME! TELL ME NOW!” she screamed, crying. We all moved into the apartment, Ikora quickly discovering Zavala’s body, Shin examining the body of a child that lay on the floor… the assassin they had mentioned. “TELL ME DAMN IT! TELL ME OR WE JUST WAIT TILL THAT LITTLE SHIT BLEEDS OUT AND IS BEYOND RESSURECTION!” Sera screamed at the Ghost again, the Ghost just shifting their optic over each person in the room in a panicked manner.

“I suggest you start talking” Shin stated, pulling out his hand cannon and pointing it at the head of the child’s body, the Ghost suddenly finding her voice.

In a special box made to nullify the abilities of a Ghost… There will be a bag in the second cupboard on the right with him in. Please… Don’t shoot him!

“What sort of gun is that?” I asked, Shin looking to Ikora who was already heading for the cupboard.

“It contains stolen bullets. They have Hive runes carved into them, they destroy a Guardian’s connect to the light in an instant, killing their Ghost along with them. The original Dredgen made them should he ever feel he became too much of a threat. But he did not have the balls to use them” Shin stated.

“You should shoot him anyway” Sera hissed, her eyes not moving from the Ghost. The Ghost looked terrified.

“I have them!” Ikora stated as she pulled a bag out of the cupboard, inside was a small black box, as she opened it a light flickered within it and Neptune emerged, all the other Ghosts going to support him.

“Sera… Let me… Be with him” I said softly, placing my hand over hers, her knuckles almost lilac from how hard she was grasping the Ghost. “I have her” I said, Sera taking a shaky breath as she slipped her hand out from under mine. I applied slightly more pressure to the Ghost than Sera could, keeping an eye on it as I listened to what was taking place behind me.

_____

IKORA’S P.O.V

Sera moved over and knelt next to Zavala’s body as Neptune, with the other Ghosts sticking close by, floated down to Zavala, placing a hand on his arm, I simply watched her carefully, the tears still trailing down her face. She was distraught.

I feel weak… I may need help
I am right here… We have this Neptune
Thank you, Orion… Let’s do this

The two Ghosts glowed, a warm light radiating from them for a few moments before stopping, Orion staying close to Neptune.

“Zavala… My love, wake up. Please wake up” Sera whispered, wiping tears from her eyes. After a few seconds Zavala let out a gasp and his eyes opened, the light the Awoken had to their eyes was not as bright as usual, but there non the less. Sera just broke down, holding him close as he sat up, Zavala pulling Sera even closer into his body and holding her tightly.

“I am here, I am here” Zavala muttered, stroking Sera’s hair as she sobbed into his chest.

I stood and moved over to where Cayde and Shin were stood, giving Zavala and Sera at least some privacy. Cayde holding the Ghost still, she wasn’t even trying to get free.

“He is okay… Isn’t he?” Cayde asked, looking at me, I just nodded, Cayde nodding back before silence fell. The only sound where Sera’s sobs. Though, even they were becoming less and less frequent, ceasing after a minute or two.

“What do people feel is the best course of action?” I asked after another thirty seconds with no more sobs coming from Sera. The Huntress standing and helping Zavala to do the same.

“Let Shin use the gun. He is evil and clearly enjoys inflicting pain on others. Let’s rid the world of him” Sera practically hissed.

“Unsurprisingly, I agree” Shin added, his gun still aimed at the child’s head.

“Whilst I believe he should be taken care of; we need all the information we can get. I say we restrain the body, then allow his lovely Ghost here to resurrect him so we can question him. Then we can take it from there” Cayde said.

“I agree with Cayde, once we have ascertained if he can provide us with anything useful, we can then decide his fate, we do not need to jump straight to killing him” I said.

“I agree Ikora… He could prove useful” Zavala said, looking to Sera who sighed and nodded in agreement. Shin sighing and lowering his gun, though he did not holster it, nor take his finger off the trigger.

“Pass me that box Ikora. Let’s lock this one up whilst we restrain her partner in crime” Cayde said. I nodded and grabbed the box, Cayde keeping a tight hold on the Ghost moved her into the box, quickly shutting the door.

“You two sit down, Cayde and Shin can restrain the body” I said, Sera nodding and helping Zavala to the dining room table before coming back over to me.

“Ummm… There is rope under the bed” she whispered, and I just nodded, avoiding looking back at Zavala as I made my way to the bedroom.

_____

LUCA’S P.O.V

I ran out of the elevator and to Sera’s apartment, the door had been kicked in and it looked like a bomb had gone off. Shin and Cayde were tying the clearly dead body of a boy to a chair whilst Ikora seemingly supervised. I glanced around and Sera and Zavala were sat at the dining table, Sera had clearly been crying and Zavala looked pale.

“Dom said there was an explosion… What happened?” I asked, Shin looking over at me.

“The child assassin hitched a ride after attacking us at the campsite. He probably wanted his knife back” Shin explained, Ikora then pulled the knife out of her robes, at the debrief she had wrapped it in a purple cloth, but it seemed to be wrapped in something thicker now, and she had tied it with a purple ribbon rather intricately.

“It is still dangerous, but I cut a ribbon of material from a rare armor piece, it is imbued with void light, therefore, whilst the knife is wrapped with it, its effects are weakened” she said, before returning it to her robes.

I just nodded and went over to Sera, giving her a squeeze of the shoulder before stepping round debris and finding several mugs that were still mostly intact and praying to the Traveller that the kettle worked.

Chapter Text

ZAVALA’S P.O.V

After Luca had finished making everyone drinks, Cayde grabbed the box, releasing the Ghost trapped within it. Sera stood from where she was and moved closer as the child was resurrected, immediately snarling at Sera.

“I am going to enjoy killing you, you bitch!” he spat at her, though before I could even say anything Sera had her knife to the boys’ throat, using his hair to manipulate his head so she could get a clear look at his throat.

“I have no qualms about repeatedly slitting your throat… Do you know what quick consecutive deaths does to a mind? I’ll give you a hint, it is not good” she hissed at him, the boy just looking her in the eyes. I doubt either of them blinked.

“Sera… you need to control your emotions, don’t let them get the better of you, I am fine, you have not lost me” I sighed, feeling a little stronger than I did ten minutes previously. But that was not saying much.

“I am relieved you are fine, that I have not lost you, but this feral animal attacked my family, in my home and tried to kill you. As a Hunter, I defend my territory, I won't stop till the threat is eliminated for good, and I am the same with my family. It is why we take their cloaks… it is a promise to avenge them” she said. Though she still stepped away, clearly shaking.

“Whilst every Hunter in this room agrees with you Sera, your wounds are still raw, you need to take a few moments. He will be dealt with, he will never be allowed to harm another person again” Cayde said, Sera looking to him and nodding. Though after a moment she turned and threw her knife past his head, causing him to flinch, embedding it in the already extremely damaged wall. 

“If you do not give us the information we require, I will allow her to continue to let her emotions take over and do whatever she deems necessary” Ikora stated, and I looked at her a little shocked. Was she seriously considering letting Sera torture a child? I looked to the boy, who had tensed up, though he soon took a few deep breaths.

“There is nothing that pathetic excuse for a Hunter can do to me that has not already been done” he hissed, Sera moving across the apartment and pulling out another hidden blade, Luca placing his hand on her shoulder for a moment. Whispering something to her.

“Tell me, have you ever experienced what the Awoken call a link?” Sera asked, turning to stare at the boy, passing Luca her knife. The boy just looked at her confused causing Sera to smirk and make her way back over towards him. Ikora moving to intercept her, placing a hand on her shoulder.

“I know you are experiencing a lot of emotions right now, but you need to ensure you do not completely destroy his mind” Ikora stated.

“Are you joking? He is a child! Is this really necessary?” I stated, standing, causing Sera to look at me, though before she could say anything Shin spoke up.

“This ‘child’ has been around for longer than a lot of Guardians in this tower, had he been able to age, he would have become an adult centuries ago. You have to look past his physical appearance, because right now, that is the only thing protecting him” Shin stated, he was being very blunt, none of the usual Hunter charm to any of his words.

“Here…” Luca said, passing me the cup of tea he had made me, I took it and sat back down, my body protesting every little movement I made. “Shin is right, that individual takes great delight in causing others harm. He attacked you, killed you, and then tried to do the same to Sera… He has murdered people for insulting him in the past, subjecting them to slow, painful, agonizing deaths. Deaths he happily watched as if it were a sport. He deserves no sympathy simply because he has the body of a child” Luca said. I sighed and looked to the child who had not taken his eyes off of Sera, though she had hers set on me.

“We don’t know what Dredgen has done to him. What he has been through. We can’t just pass judgment on him without knowing what caused him to become like this” I sighed, Sera looking at me torn. She wanted to protect those around her, at any cost, but her mortality was not a cost I was willing to pay.

Dredgen didn’t make him this way…
What did then?
Nothing in this life… I resurrected him from the remains of a burnt-out ship. There must have been hundreds of bodies in there. I couldn’t tell male from female or adult from child. But since that day, killing has been a sport, and the bigger the prey, the better. Other Light Bearers being the most fun, in his eyes, to hunt. When we lost our connection to the light, he murdered three Light Bearers who had insulted him, Dredgen turning a blind eye to it.
Your Guardian is a monster
I know!
HE TRIED TO MURDER MY FAMILY! YOU COULD HAVE STOPPED HIM! YOU COULD HAVE WARNED SOMEONE! OR ARE YOU JUST AS SICK AND TWISTED!

Sera quickly pulled Orion back towards her, he was floating closer and closer to the other Ghost who had fallen silent and sunk back. I had never seen Orion so heated, so angry. “Orion… we are all alive” Sera muttered to him.

“You are useless. If it were not for you, none of this would have happened, you should have left that ship and found another set of bones to make your play-thing” the child snarled at his Ghost. She flinched backward even more.

Your Guardian should not make you react that way. You are the source of his power. You could stop him if you wanted to. You chose not to. Out of fear or because of your own selfish need to have someone there all the time it does not matter. You could have prevented all of this.

Orion sighed, moving over to be close to Neptune who just seemed to lean his shell on Orion’s, almost as if they were hugging.

“Okay. Enough discussions. We are getting the information we need one way or another. Now everyone needs to be silent, or get out” Sera suddenly said, grabbing a slightly damaged chair and sitting in front of the restrained boy. “Ikora, can you… prop the door back up?” Sera asked, Ikora nodding, moving the door from where it rested against the wall to sit back in the frame, sort of.

Everyone remained quiet, whilst I still thought there were better ways to go about this. I did not have the energy to argue, and it seemed Shin and Luca were right. The child was a monster. At least there was hope for Eva and the other child still in Dredgen’s grasp.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

After a few moments of silence, I closed my eyes, focusing on the boys' mind. As he was human and had obviously had no experience with Awoken links before I easily found my way into his mind.

_

I pushed any thoughts aside that he was having at the moment, wanting to find as much information as I could that would help us take Dredgen down.

As I thought about Dredgen memories and bits of information became clear…

_

“I studied under him… He asked me to continue his work. So that is what I am doing. All these books and journals were once his. I have spent years practicing the art of Hive magic. Growing stronger, something that over time, you can do to” the Warlock stated, the Hunter child stood before them holding the Hive blade. “I can make you so powerful that no one can stand in your way” Dredgen chuckled.

_

“Once he has taught me how to drain the light from others, and I have mastered it, I shall kill him. Then no one can stand in my way. No tyrant, no city-dwelling Guardian, no Hive God, no Fallen machine. They will all be at my mercy” the boy stated, his Ghost just staring back at him as this boy gently caressed the Hive blade as if it were to break if handled wrong.

_

There was so much passion in his mind, though none of it was positive, he was angry, furious, held a deep passion and love for violence… Something innate in him was twisted and sick. No one had made him that way. It was something that not even the Light could combat.

As I dove deeper into his mind there was one memory that was pushed deep down. Deep, deep, deep down.

_

“There has to be a way to prevent a final death, if the Hive had managed it surely, we can” the boy stated, Dredgen looking to him with a raised brow.

“I am telling you, child, there is no way to escape it. It will come for you one day, be it in the form of the Hive, the Fallen, the Vex, the Cabal, or some other twisted and dark race out there. But it will. It may even be another Light Bearer” Dredgen stated, the boy's body filling with fear. A fear of death that never went away.

_

I searched and searched his mind for anything else when I heard what sounded like a Hive creature screeching. As I moved towards that memory there was a sense of great hidden power coming from it. Though that power was trapped beneath something in a chamber.

_

“A Hive Wizard, how do you keep it so subdued?” the boy asked, the Wizard just staring at him, watching him closely.

“Hive runes, they work on their own kind. Though it usually screeches more than this, it is sizing you up. Deciding if you are worth the energy” Dredgen said, the boy simply nodding. “Once a month I drain energy from it, that staircase there… Leads to my chamber. My own personal Hive specialist and energy source” Dredgen chuckled.

“Won’t taking its energy kill it? And what if it does escape and tries to kill you?” the boy asked.

“If I took too much it would kill it… But if it ever got out and killed me it would die too. We are linked now; it knows as much. Though if I killed it, I would just have to find another to replace what energy and power I would lose… It being so close provides me with so much more power, the feeling is indescribable” Dredgen explained.

_

I started to withdraw when I heard a scream, it sounded familiar… It sounded like me. I dove back into his mind, chasing echoes of a scream, eventually finding myself in my own apartment. Zavala stood with his back to me, looking in one of the cupboards for coffee…

_

“Neptune, remind me to get coffee soon, we are running low” he sighed, shutting the cupboard door. Though as he did something flew past me, the assassin appearing behind him, driving a blade into his back at the top of his spine causing Zavala to cry out as he fell to the floor gasping for breath.

“You are going to pay for going against Dredgen Yor!” the child snarled, beginning to choke Zavala until he went limp. Letting him fall to the floor, grabbing Neptune as soon as he materialized to revive Zavala.

As soon as Neptune was shut inside the box he shoved Zavala’s body to the back of the kitchen, making sure he was out of sight before looking around the apartment. “Plenty of hiding places… That bitch won’t know what happened until it is too late” he cackled.

_____

I gasped as I opened my eyes, the boy looking at me terrified and shocked, anger coursing through me at what he had done, but there was more he could give us. Ripping his mind apart would have prevented us from getting more information.

“The tunnels. There is a Hive wizard help captive in them. Dredgen draws his power from it. We need to kill it to weaken him. It is right below Dredgen’s chamber, but it can be accessed from the tunnel system too” I said, looking to Ikora who nodded. “It seems he is continuing the work of the original Dredgen Yor. He has his books, his journals and knew him personally” I added.

“It is disturbing how much knowledge he left behind for others and that no one had a clue” Shin sighed.

“We need to kill that Wizard and then kill him. He has to die” Ikora stated, everyone nodding in agreement.

“You won’t be able to stop him. There are countless settlements loyal to him. They will carry on his work and bring you all to your knees! Your walls won’t protect you forever” the vermin rather coldly stated. I had to hold myself back from stabbing him in the face repeatedly.

“We need those locations” Zavala suddenly sighed, and I looked to him, he looked to me, and I looked back to the child.

“I just watched you die, Zavala… I can’t promise I won’t tear his mind to pieces once I have the information” I said the child staring at me, trying not to look terrified, though his eyes betrayed him.

“At this point, it is clear he is beyond saving… as much as it pains me to say, his mind is not the priority” he stated, I took a deep breath and took my seat again. Looking back at Zavala once more before creating a link again. His mind attempting to put up some resistance.

_

I dove back into his mind, focusing on locations, a map appearing before me, South Africa coming into view, and these green wispy tendrils spread out across the map… Alaska, India, Hungary, Samoa, and Ireland. Though off each tendril came more, they had footholds in various places in those countries… It would take a lot to root them out. As I was listing the places over and over again to myself, I felt a presence join me… Zavala…

Chapter Text

ZAVALA’S P.O.V

I let Sera know I was there, that was I here for her, she then shared an image with me, a map of various places highlighted. How widespread had they become?

After a moment I felt a sharp pain in my side and wave after wave of panic coming from Sera, she was stood in front of me, blood on her hands and tears streaming down her face.

The link became shakier and shakier, not only was Sera struggling to control herself, but the child’s mind was trying to protect itself as best it could, the only way it knew how was to flood us with information. Images of Hive creatures, bodies on floors slowly dissolving into a black, bubbling puddle and my own body on the floor, Sera pleading with me to wake up… A young Awoken girl looking down on me as ships filled the sky, she was screaming for someone to get up, that they were coming for them…

_____

CAYDE’S P.O.V

I carefully monitored Sera, her breathing was becoming more rapid, she had clenched her fists so tightly blood was dripping from her hands. “We have to do something, we can’t let her continue” Ikora whispered, I just shook my head.

“We could do more harm than good. Especially with three minds being involved” Cayde whispered back, I looked to Luca who was keeping an eye on Zavala, he seemed to be doing much better than Sera, however that could change in a heartbeat.

_____

ZAVALA’S P.O.V

I tried to reassure Sera that I was here, still very much alive, and well. Though the images of the Cosmodrome combined with images of my attack seemed to be becoming more and more prominent.

After a moment I found myself on top of a cabal ship, Sera was stood in the middle of the deck clutching her head, the boy doing the same dangerously close to the edge, screaming, though no sound came from him. A body lay at her feet, Alexis… I looked around, a faint image of an Exo walked over to Sera, telling her to let go…

I tried to reassure her once more that everyone was safe, that Ghaul was not returning, she had made sure of that.

“Aren’t you just the epitome of gracefulness Sera” Jackal’s voice suddenly said, and I turned to see him stood in our apartment as Sera wrestled herself into the bodysuit, she wore under her armor. Though seconds later a blade burst through his head.

Before I could even process it I felt a falling sensation.

_

I opened my eyes and looked to Sera, standing to move towards her, though Luca stopped me, she was still in the boy’s mind, tears streaming down her face. “She is reliving memories from when Ghaul attacked and when Jackal died, but they are merging into one. She is tearing herself apart. Stop her!” I snapped at Cayde who looked to her and then boy. He was gritting his teeth; his entire body had tensed up to the point he was straining against his restraints.

“I have no idea what damage intervening could do to her” Cayde replied, though before I could do anything Orion moved around her to float in front of her.

I am so sorry Sera

He said before ramming himself into her face, as he did, she shot back gasping, standing up startled and taking a few more steps back, breathing heavily for a moment before she looked to Cayde.

“Oh Sera” Cayde sighed stepping forward and she collapsed into his arms sobbing, sinking to the floor with her whilst the boy just looked at the pair, terrified out of his mind. “I know… I know. It isn’t pleasant, the fog clearing and that pain returning. Though it feels real, it isn’t, trust me Sera. It is not real” he said, soothing her.

Ikora moved to go and check on Sera, though Shin stopped her whilst Luca kept his hand on my shoulder. I just looked on feeling helpless, I was useless to the woman I loved so deeply and it was painful to see her like this.

“There is a downside to letting nothing be off-limits in your life… It means your memories aren’t either. Even if you can’t remember them, they’re there waiting to resurface” Luca said, a look in his eyes telling me he knew exactly what was happening to Sera.

_____

SHIN’S P.O.V

As Cayde comforted Sera I noticed the kid trying to wiggle free of his restraints, I walked over to him, pulling my gun out and pointing it at his head, his Ghost looking at me with a panicked look whilst the child just looked bored.

“I think it is only fair I let you know this bullet… it is the equivalent of your little Hive blade” I said, his eyes going wide. “I don’t regret it” I added before pulling the trigger. His Ghost’s optic immediately beginning to fade as she fell to the floor.

I looked to everyone else, all eyes were on me, though only Zavala shook his head. It seems no one else was sad to see him be put down. Sera even looked relieved.

_____

ZAVALA’S P.O.V

It took several hours and a lot of help from Shaxx to get the apartment secured and in a liveable state. By the time we had, it was almost a new day, but neither of us was in the mood to go about our duties. We both climbed into bed and lay together, holding one another close and a little more tightly than usual.

“Sera, Luca said something after the last link… something about memories not being off-limits?” I asked, Sera looking up at me and sighing.

“As a Hunter, we have this innate urge to explore, go wherever we can, no matter the danger. Nothing is off-limits. We want to tease out the secrets and treasure of the universe, to unlock them and tame them. That also applies to our pasts. We are built to scout, to uncover things… Yet the biggest mystery is our identity” Sera said, I just nodded along, understanding what she was saying, just not sure of the point. “It is more common in Exo’s than Awoken, and more common in Awoken than Human, but when emotions are running high, there is a high stake, high-pressure environment, the mind races to find a way out. Nothing is off-limits, not even our pasts” she said.

“The memory I saw, it was just outside the walls of the Russian Cosmodrome” I said, Sera nodding, grasping the material of the shirt I was wearing. “You were revived in the Russian Cosmodrome” I sighed, Sera looking to me and nodding.

“There was a split second where I was back there, hearing and feeling everything going on around me, and it was terrifying… the image is seared into my mind, a Fallen Captain stood over me, aiming down… then it all went black” Sera said, recounting what she recalled. Though what she recalled did not explain what I saw. “Most who experience it are on the edge of death or have just experienced a major trauma” Sera then added.

“I am here for you Sera… I love you” I said, placing a kiss on the top of her head and holding her tightly.

“I know, and I love you too” Sera replied, making herself comfy as she closed her eyes, drifting to sleep. I allowed myself to do the same, though as I let myself succumb to sleep, I couldn’t help but wonder why mine and Sera’s recollection of the same memory differed.

Chapter Text

SERA’S P.O.V

I woke to the sound of a gentle hum, it took me a moment longer than it should have, but I soon realised it was Zavala. Not only was he humming to me, but he was also stroking my hair. I lay there a moment, content in his arms before letting him know I had woken. “I love you” I whispered after a moment, Zavala chuckling.

“I love you too… You looked so peaceful, content” Zavala said, I smiled as I rolled to face him, snuggling up to him.

“If I could have my way, we would never move from our bed again, that way I can spend an eternity in your arms” I sighed, Zavala, letting out a content-sounding hum.

“That does sound wonderful Sera, I would very much like to spend the rest of eternity holding you close… However, and very sadly, that cannot happen” Zavala sighed.

Oh good, you are awake. I really did not want to wake you
They’re up! Thank the Traveller! I have every faction leader and their lackeys DEMANDING to speak with you! Not to mention Cayde! Saladin! Shaxx!
Needless to say, you are not as popular… Though Cayde, Shin, and Luca did all try and get hold of you. Cayde to tell Zavala to respond to him.
Also, Ikora has arranged for a meeting of the faction leaders, Vanguard, Hawthorne, and Eva. Oh, and you Sera as well as Arjic and Luca Thankfully she is considerate and scheduled it for an hours’ time from now which is almost four-thirty in the afternoon.

“Okay, thank you for letting me know” Zavala sighed, removing the covers, and slowly getting out of bed and making his way towards the bathroom, the shower starting to run.

The kettle will have boiled in the next thirty seconds

“I fucking love you Orion” I sighed as I pulled myself out of bed, heading into the kitchen and starting to make myself a rather large and rather strong coffee. Hopefully, it would do the job of waking me up in time for this meeting.

How are you feeling this morning?

“I ache, I wish I did not have to get out of bed, and I feel like we need stronger coffee” I said, Orion simply nodding as he surveyed the apartment. “Hopefully Zavala kept nothing sentimental on those shelves…” I sighed. Continuing to drink my coffee whilst Orion surveyed the damage.

By the time I had finished my coffee Zavala had finished in the shower, walking into the living room, and making himself a coffee in nothing but a towel. It made for quite the sight. “Sera… I know to a Hunter this may sound like a strange question. But why did you have explosives hidden in our apartment?” Zavala asked as he went through the steps of making his coffee.

To a Hunter that is indeed a strange question…

“Oh! shut up, Orion… It is a common-sense thing, not a Hunter thing” I said, Orion chuckling whilst Zavala just looked more confused. “I have always hidden explosives in my apartments. It is like a little ‘just in case’ button, you know, just in case I was attacked in my own home or needed to very quickly destroy sensitive data” I said, Zavala taking a moment to have a rather large sip of his coffee before responding.

“Okay, I see some logic in your explanation, though when you replace it, at least let me know what container I should make sure not to knock off the shelf” he chuckled, and I smiled and nodded.

“I hope you had nothing of sentimental value on there… I had honestly forgotten it was even there otherwise I’d have moved it or told you not to put your stuff near it” I said, Zavala shrugging.

“It is fine, as long as you are okay, that is all that matters” Zavala said, wrapping an arm around my shoulder and placing a kiss on my temple. “Though you are footing the majority of the bill for the repairs” he then added, and I chuckled.

“That is not a problem, I spend most my time working with the bulk of my payment being in currency or items I can trade for other goods, services, or more currency. I am not short in Glimmer” I chuckled, Zavala looking to Orion.

There is a reason she doesn’t care if she doesn’t win at poker, we have been in The Last City well over seven years now. I’ve lost count of how many Gods we slew in that time, but each one was worth a pretty penny to the Vanguard… Oh, and Osiris, as thanks for saving Sagira, gave us a lot of Glimmer too. He doesn’t have a need for it anymore apparently.

“How do you think Cayde could pay off every Guardian he bribed to rescue me and Jackal from Nessus?” I asked Zavala who just looked stunned for a minute. “In the grand scheme of things, being a Guardian and taking out a handful of high-value enemies equals never having to worry about being able to afford anything ever again unless you spend it on ridiculous things” I added.

“I shall have to speak with Ikora and Cayde about the amount of Glimmer we are offering per bounty and per high-value enemy eliminated” Zavala muttered.

“Maybe put some clothes on first” I replied before going to take my own shower before getting ready for the day.

_____

EVA’S P.O.V

I stood outside the meeting room, waiting for Sera to appear, Ikora had said she would likely be one of the last to arrive. I looked around as I heard footsteps, Sera and Commander Zavala rounded the corner together, speaking about shelving units…

“Ah, Eva… Everything alright?” Sera asked, stopping in front of me whilst Commander Zavala simply nodded to me before heading inside the meeting room.

“How are you? I heard about the attack, what happened? Was anyone else hurt? Has he been secured?” I asked, Sera smiling softly at me and chuckling a little for some reason.

“I am fine Eva, as is Commander Zavala thankfully. It is not something you need to worry about, he can’t hurt anyone anymore, that was ensured” I said, Eve nodding and then looking at me a little confused.

“What do you mean it was ensured that he could not hurt anyone anymore?” Eva asked, and before I could reply another voice did.

“It means I killed him” Shin said as he walked out of the meeting room, Eva looking from him to me, her expression seemed to be an alarmed one.

“Why would you allow him to kill another Guardian?” Eva asked, raising her voice slightly.

“She didn’t. Sera held back from killing him, restrained herself even… despite the fact he almost murdered her lover” Shin said, and I just shook my head at him, Eva sighed and looked at me.

“I always hoped he could be saved” she said before walking into the room, Shin receiving a firm whack around the back of the head as I passed him, taking my seat next to Luca.

Everyone slowly filling their seats. Though as Zavala passed me on the way to his seat, he bent down placing a kiss on my cheek. I found myself smiling, grabbing one of his hands and giving it a squeeze as he walked away. As I watched him pass, I noticed the empty seat beside Luca.

“Where’s Arjic?” I asked Luca, Luca shrugging as we both looked around the room, I looked to Orion who nodded, his shell whirring as he tried to contact Ansel, though after a moment he looked to me and shook his optic. “Have you spoken to him at all today?” I asked Luca quietly as Ikora explained why everyone was gathered.

“We had coffee earlier, he was rather uninterested in just about everything” Luca replied in a hushed tone. I sighed and looked to the door, no sign of him at all.”

"I am worried about him; did he tell you everything that happened?” I asked Luca, Luca nodding in reply.

“Sera, is everything okay, you look concerned?” Ikora suddenly asked and I looked to her and then back to Luca, grabbing his arm, and starting to stand.

“No, something is wrong. We need to go find Arjic” I said, practically dragging Luca out the room before anyone could say anything. Orion and Dom following close behind us.

_____

ZAVALA’S P.O.V

As Sera and Luca exited the room dissolved into indistinct conversations and arguments. Various individuals already trying to drag me into heir conversations to back them up or promise them support.

“I swear that woman is aging me” I sighed, Ikora chuckling, watching Cayde push the buttons of some New Monarchy members who were present.

“You decided to enter into a relationship with a Hunter, what did you expect?” Ikora said, all I could do was sigh and hope I could get everyone under control as easily as they turned into bickering children.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

“I am worried Arjic has done something stupid or is on his way to do something stupid… Orion, find out if he has left via the Tower Hangar at all” I said, having let go of Luca’s arm and allowing him to follow me of his own free will.

“Okay, so we search all the usual Arjic hang-out spots, Dom, keep trying to get hold of him via Ansel” Luca said, Dom nodding.

His ship is still in the Hangar, and he hasn’t taken anyone other ship

“Okay, so we know he is most likely in the Tower, but he could possibly be in the city, you check the Bazaar, I will check his old apartment and then Phoenix’s and then we meet back here” I said, Luca nodding as we both headed off.

I quickly reached his old apartment, it was empty, it looked like they were even getting ready to re-assign it. I made my way down to Phoenix’s apartment, Orion not even having to hack the locking system as it was unlocked.

“ARJIC! ARJIC ARE YOU HOME!” I called out, hoping that the unlocked door meant he was in. Though that turned out to be optimistic thinking. “Where the fuck could he be…” I sighed.

I just had a message through from Ansel… He said Arjic is just taking some time and he will return when he feels ready… Sera, what if he left the city on foot? If he left whilst you showered before the attack he could be anywhere by now!

“Tell Luca I am on my way back up and to meet me” I said, Orion nodding as I dashed back to the lift, willing it to go a little faster, practically running at a full sprint to meet Luca.

“Did you get that strange message too? Where do you think he is? Where could he have gone?” Luca asked and I shrugged, pacing for a moment before turning to Orion.

“Orion, send Arjic a recorded message” I said, Orion nodding and floating at eye level in front of me to record the message.

“Arjic, we need you to come back, without you our mission to take out Dredgen is doomed to fail, only a Warlock can cause him any real damage, we would stand no chance” I said, Luca suddenly butting in.

“Exactly, and you are family, we are always here for you, my brother, and not just my brother in arms, you may as well be my flesh and blood brother. And I am totally up for being your wingman on a night out! We can find you the one or just a bit of fun!” Luca added.

“You are family Arjic, so please come home” I said, nodding to Orion to send the message whilst me and Luca just sat on the floor, waiting for a response. Though after about ten minutes someone stopped in front of us, and we looked up to see Arjic stood there.

_____

ARJIC’S P.O.V

I looked down at the two, Sera quickly jumping up and embracing me “Don’t you ever scare me like that again! I could strangle you right now!” Sera exclaimed, Luca standing and smiling at me.

“She’s not the only one who could strangle you right now!” Luca said as Sera let go of me and Luca gave me a rather tight hug.

“I just needed some fresh air and some time to think, Phoenix also messaged me saying he was leaving the Tower today, and I wanted to watch him leave, close that chapter of my life” I explained, Sera and Luca nodding. “I did not mean to worry you like that, I promise” I added, Sera sighing and embracing me one more time.

“Just never do that again” she muttered, squeezing me tight, I relaxed into the hug, feeling more at home than I had done in a long time.

“Shall we get back to that meeting then, I am sure Zavala was thrilled to be left with the faction leaders in such a manner” Luca said, Sera nodding as she let go of me, the three of us heading to a meeting room that was oddly quiet.

“Arjic, I am glad to see you safe” Ikora said as I walked in, I just looked at her and nodded, it would be some time before I could look at her again without feeling ashamed of myself. “Why don’t you three take a seat and we can discuss the issue at hand” she then added, the three of us taking our seats, Zavala standing to speak.

“We face a rather unusual threat, a student of the Guardian once known as Dredgen Yor, going under his mentor's name, has appeared in South Africa and has been capturing, enslaving, and weaponizing Guardians… Child Guardians even. And we must put a stop to it and ensure no one else is hurt by his man” Zavala stated, the faction leaders all reacting differently.

“I warned you old enemies would come to our doors” Lakshmi stated, whilst Arach Jalaal of Dead Orbit just sighed.

“We rely too much on Guardians and the power they yield, and it leads us to situations like this” he said, Sera scoffing at his words and muttering something under her breath.

“Strong and consistent leadership is what could have prevented this from occurring” Executor Hideo stated, Lakshmi shaking her head at his words.

“What happened or did not happen in the past does not matter now, and those Guardians are also the ones who will fix this problem. We are not looking to assign blame but figure out how to best face this issue. And if you have nothing constructive to add, then please leave” Zavala stated very sternly, the three leaders falling silent for a moment.

“There are very few options, we cannot allow this individual to continue to grow in strength nor amass a force that could threaten the city. We either send someone in to play the long game and assassinate this Dredgen Yor, green light a full-on assault on the settlement, likely killing many if not all civilians in there, or send in a small strike team to take him out with minimal impact” Lakshmi stated.

“Playing the long game is not an option, he is too dangerous. Our best option is a strike team, a strike team put together solely with this mission in mind” I said, everyone looking to me. I resisted the urge to shrink back into my seat and hide away from everyone’s gaze.

“Arjic is right, we just need to be smart about it. We know that he has a small civilian-based force and a force comprised of Hunters and Titans, we can exploit that” Shin stated, nodding at me once most people’s gazes had left me.

“Why no Warlocks?” Lakshmi enquired.

“Due to the side effect of the Hive magic he uses to empower himself. He is more vulnerable to an attack from another Warlock. And we know Hive magic and solar energy do not mix well for various reasons but apparently, he is extremely susceptible to it” Sera explaining, Lakshmi nodding, taking a moment to think before looking to Ikora.

“A strike team comprised mostly of Warlocks seems to be the best plan” Lakshmi stated, everyone seemingly agreeing.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

“I shall reach out to a few of my best, see who wields solar light, though I can think of one Warlock off the top of my head” Ikora stated, looking to me. I sighed, I knew exactly who she meant and why she was looking at me.

“Osiris owes you his life, I imagine you can make a compelling argument for him to aid us in this matter” Ikora stated, I just nodded. I am sure I could try and make a compelling argument, but my first matter of business with him would probably not be so compelling. “Whilst you approach Osiris, I shall speak with others I know, put together a suitably experienced strike team” Ikora added.

“Very well, Fireteam Survivor shall approach Osiris whilst Ikora makes arrangements for other Warlocks to aid in the strike. The Vanguard, Shin, and Fireteam Survivor, as well as any other strike team members, shall meet once we have an answer from Osiris” Zavala stated, dismissing everyone.

As I stood to leave the room Eva approached me. “I want to meet Osiris. I want to go with you, no matter where it is you are going” she stated rather firmly. I looked from her to Zavala and Hawthorne stood not far from us. Zavala sighing.

“It is up to you and your Fireteam” Zavala stated, earning himself a look from Hawthorne, but that was not my problem to deal with.

“Very well, but you do what I say when I say it without question” I said, Eva, smiling at me and hugging me rather tightly around my waist. I just smiled and patted her head. “Go with Eva to see Banshee, see what you can do for her armor wise” I said to Luca who nodded, herding the rather excited Guardian in the right direction.

“You keep her safe out there Sera” Hawthorne rather sternly stated as I walked past her and Zavala.

“I shall, Mercury is probably the safest place I could take her, and we will stop by the Lighthouse first, plan a route to the gate, and once through, we should be fine” I said, Zavala simply nodding, his hand brushing mine ever so slightly as we passed by one another.

Chapter Text

LUCA’S P.O.V

Luckily, by the time Sera and Arjic had prepped not only their stuff, but mine as well, Banshee had found Eva some suitable armour and given her a crash course in using a hand cannon. Something I am sure Sera would appreciate. A child Guardian was better at using a simple weapon than she was.

“Okay, everyone ready to go?” I asked, Sera nodding, making sure Eva got on her ship alright. Arjic looked at his ship a little unsure for a moment before he nodded. “You will be fine” I smiled, patting him on the shoulder. He simply nodded.

_

The flight to Mercury was not bad, as usual, it went by quickly and the comms were pretty quiet, probably because Sera had Eva to talk to and Arjic was rather nervous following what had taken place with Ikora and Sera. Though it seemed Sera was treating him no differently, something he was probably grateful for, to be honest. If I were in his boots, I would hate for someone to treat me like I was more fragile than I was.

Though once we had our boots on the ground and were safely in the Lighthouse Arjic did appear to become more nervous than usual. Whilst Sera and Eva discussed what would happen and what Eva was to do in certain circumstances, I stood with Arjic. “You doing okay?” I asked, Arjic looking at me and giving me a sad smile.

“I just feel nervous being here” he replied, I nodded, I got why he would. I knew it was Osiris that got him on the path Ikora, and Sera had yanked him off of. I doubted Sera was happy about being the one to have to come to see Osiris due to that fact, but I did not know if she would be able to keep it professional for the sake of the mission at hand. Or if she would shoot the old man in the face just because.

“Well, I am right here, I will be by your side the entire time” I said, giving him the best reassuring pat on the shoulder possible. He simply nodded to me before looking back at Sera and Eva, Sera pointing out the path we would take. “Let's just focus on getting the four of us to the portal before we worry about anything else” I said, checking over my weapon quickly.

____

EVA’S P.O.V

After Sera had pointed out the path we would take we made our way out of the Lighthouse and descended down to make our way to the portal.

“Okay, I will take the point, Arjic you stick by Eva as much as possible, and Luca you bring up the rear… And if you get shot for the love of all that his Light, DO NOT stay quiet Eva, make for cover and call out that you’ve been hit” Sera stated as we walked in the direction of the gate. Sera raising her weapon and firing at two robots stood with their arms up to the sky… Where they Vex? They were not at all what I expected.

“I trust Luca taught you how to use your weapon well” Arjic said as he came to stand beside me as Sera drew fire from some very large and intimidating creatures.

“Yes…” I breathed, focusing on the feel of the gun in my hand, just like Luca had said to do. As soon as one of the creatures came into my line of sight I fired at them, they stumbled back and Arjic raised his weapon, firing at them causing them to drop to the ground.

“Not bad… I know it is hard to hit their heads, they are not very proportionally sized” Arjic chuckled as we made our way around a wall, Sera mostly clearing the way until we reached some steps down.

“PHALANX!” Sera suddenly called before being thrown back and tumbling to the ground as she hit a wall, Arjic throwing a grenade between her and the creature. I aimed for him, but his shield blocked any clear shots.

“LUCA! MOVE UP!” Arjic suddenly called surging forward, lightning bursting forth from his hands as he did so, the shield providing no protection, though Arjic did not stop with that creature. He surged forward, taking out several others before stopping and making his way back to us.

“Sera, are you okay? That looked like a nasty hit” Luca asked as Sera pulled herself back up, her armour was shattered in some places and her skin was already looking somewhat discoloured, turning a shade of black. “Oh shit, you really took a nasty hit” Luca said, Sera looking at him.

“I can tell, I think some of my internal organs have been rearranged” she sighed, Orion going about healing her as Luca came to stand next to her.

“Well, just a few more of them at the top of the steps but between the four of us, they shouldn’t be an issue” Arjic stated, Sera nodding and watching as Orion stitched her armour back together like it was nothing.

“Okay, let's get going, Arjic, you take the point, I will take up the rear” Sera said, Arjic nodding and leading the way, Sera slotting in behind Luca and myself. “You holding up okay Eva?” she asked as we descended the steps, I simply nodded, keeping my eyes out. “Good… You are doing well” she said, though moments later the shooting started as Arjic fired at the creatures on the steps up to a giant portal.

I pointed my gun at the closest one and fired, doing my best to aim at the head, though my first shot missed my second did not.

After a few minutes of shooting Arjic stood triumphantly on the top of the stairs. “Easy” he chuckled, Sera smiling as she approached him, patting him on the shoulder before entering the portal without a second thought.

“We got this” Luca said, taking a few steps towards the portal, Arjic nodding to him and me following closely. I was not entirely sure who Luca had tried to reassure with his comment, but it seemed to have worked for both Arjic and myself.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

“This is not what I expected” I heard Eva say as she and Luca stepped through the portal, Eva looking round amazing, studying every little detail, every symbol carved on every piece of stone.

“Once we get to the other side the fighting starts again, though from what Orion has told me Osiris is not far. We just have to hope the forest is not in too much of a flux” I said, Arjic sighing and Luca nodding.

“Did that make sense to you?” Eva asked Luca, my fellow Hunter shaking his head whilst Arjic nodded. I just chuckled and started heading onwards, everyone following. Though a quiet had fallen and I could practically sense Arjic’s nervousness.

We got this…

I looked to Orion and nodded, taking the quiet moment as we walked to think over the vision, I had of my death…

_

I held something or someone close as shooting sounds started, after a moment a sharp pain originated from my back but spread throughout my body as I fell to the floor. I could only just make out a shape stood above me, though as the figure came into focus a sharp sound, that of a Vandal’s rifle filled the air and they dropped. A Fallen Captain coming into view.

_

I looked up as the buzzing of the portal became louder, I was inches from it, the others only a few steps behind me.

“Okay, stay close, pick smart routes and don’t make a jump if you don’t think you can make it” I said, looking back at everyone, Arjic and Eva eagerly nodding whilst Luca just tilted his head. “Behave, no stupid jumps Luca” I sighed, Luca chuckling.

“You got it boss, shall we?” he asked, and I just nodded and headed through the portal.

______

ARJIC’S P.O.V

We started our journey through the Forest, my nerves slowly building with every step we took. Though I just focused all my energy on the task at hand and keeping Eva safe. Whilst she was getting into the swing of things, there were plenty of Vex around and they were not making it an easy journey.

“Is it usually like this in other areas? On other planets?” Eva asked as Sera took down a Minotaur with some help from Luca.

“It depends on where you are, though there are usually plenty of one enemy or another lurking around. Though more often than not, you will be rather unlucky and two different enemies will be lurking and you have to hope they kill each other before either notices you” I said, Eva just nodding. “Though in the Infinite Forest there are only Vex, it is like their homeworld, like their version of The Last City” I added, Eva nodding.

“So, we are invading their home to visit a different Guardian who has invaded their home?” Eva asked me, Luca and Sera looking at her.

“I have never thought about it that way, but yes, essentially” Sera said before we continued on our journey. Only having to change our route once.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

It took about half an hour before we made it to where Osiris was lurking, Sagira noticing me before the Warlock.

SERA! How good to see you all… And who is this?

“Sagira, it is good to see you too! This is Eva… If you will excuse me… Osiris!” I called, the Warlock turning to look at me and smiling at me, though his expression quickly changed, he attempted to dodge my swing, but my fist still connected firmly with his cheek.

“SHIT! SERA!” Arjic called whilst Luca just laughed, Eva I imagined just look confused.

“If you dare push another Warlock to practice some twisted so-called art form you be getting a lot more than a punch” I said, Osiris looking from me over my shoulder to Arjic. Luca’s heavy footsteps moved behind me, it sounded as if he moved to cut off Osiris’ gaze. Probably with a glare of his own. “Now, we need your help” I then said, the Warlock looking back at me.

“You expect me to help you after you just punched me in the face?” Osiris asked, I just nodded causing him to burst out laughing. Why did Warlock’s always have the weirdest reactions to things? “What do you need my help with?” he asked, his gaze softening, obviously he was not too insulted by the punch.

“This is Eva” I said, moving and beckoning for Eva to move forward, Osiris’ eyes lighting up with intrigue and questions as he saw her, though before he could voice them and waste our time I continued. “Eva escaped from a man calling himself Dredgen Yor has set up shop in South Africa and is using Hive magic to kill other Warlocks and draining their light, making himself stronger in the process. He is also collecting child Guardians like the sick bastard he is. He had a child assassin who used a Hive blade that could kill another Guardian just by wounding them. Though they met their end at the hands of Shin Malphur who himself carries magic bullets that can outright kill a Guardian” I said, Osiris taking a moment to process everything I had just told him.

“Okay. So, why do you need me?” Osiris asked.

“Those who defected from this Dredgen’s settlement have pointed out that when a Hunter or Titan challenge him, they struggle to damage him, however, another Warlock, especially if they wield solar light, are able to cause him significant damage… If he did not have the manpower he does, I imagine he would have been killed by now.” Luca explained, Osiris nodding as he spoke, clearly intrigued by what we were telling him.

“So, draining the Light of other Warlocks has made him more susceptible to their attacks… Interesting. Whilst this is all very intriguing, and I wish I could help; I am too busy dealing with the Vex. Surely Asher Mir or Ikora would be able to aid you” he said.

“The Vanguard feel it is too risky for Ikora to go and that Asher Mir is, well, he is not the most stable individual as I am sure you are aware” I said, Osiris nodding.

“Valid points… Though I cannot afford to leave the forest I am afraid. You will have to find someone else to aid you” Osiris stated going back to what he was doing. I wanted to punch him again, looking back to Luca and Arjic and shrugging, Arjic stepping forward.

“I have seen what will happen if you do not aid us, Sera, Luca and myself will be killed facing Dredgen Yor. He will then taunt the Vanguard with our deaths and in a fit of rage Commander Zavala will lead a team to take him down… They will all be lost. The Last City will have lost its leader and the Followers of Yor will use the instability in the year that follows Commander Zavala’s death to infiltrate the city, taking the leadership down from within. The ensuing panic and uncertainty will lead to the fall of the Guardians and of the city leaving the Traveller vulnerable… Giving our enemies the opening they need. And whilst you would not be there to witness any of it, Sagira will still be lost. You will be unable to combat the Vex any longer, allowing them to flood the system, to take control… Leaving you alive just long enough to see the future you have fought so hard to prevent come to fruition” Arjic stated, his voice unwavering, his gaze never leaving Osiris.

I looked to Luca who looked shocked, had Arjic really gone and defied orders from Ikora, was he really willing to risk his place in the city?

“I need to know more, how does everyone die, what is it exactly that the Vex do in order to take control of the system? Do none of our other enemies stand in their way?” Osiris suddenly asked, Sagira giving him a pointed look.

Read the room!

“Actually, never mind, I can see it for myself. I am aware Awoken have the ability to share memories and can facilitate two non-Awoken sharing memories, I have seen it done before” Osiris stated eagerly, he looked to Arjic and then myself.

“I am happy to show you your future should you not aid us” Arjic said looking at me. I just shook my head… Had he gone mad!

“NO! I do not want to see that; I cannot bear the thought of seeing that!” I said, the memories of watching Zavala die through that monsters’ memories coming flooding back.

“Why? If it could help end the threat the Vex pose to us why not?” Osiris asked, though before I could respond Luca got between us.

“She said no. You should respect that, especially after all Sera has done for you, even after all the stress you put her through with no regard for how she feels following such a traumatic event such as The Red War… To have to then deal with your fuck ups in the Infinite Forest” Luca said, pushing the Warlock back, Osiris seemingly deciding not to retaliate. “If you had any dignity, you would realise you owed Sera, and big-time, she lied to those she loves to help you and Ikora out” Luca said. He was clearly very emotional and frustrated with Osiris for multiple reasons.

I took a deep breath, placing a hand on Luca’s shoulder, stopping him in his tracks. “If Osiris is happy to let us die, so be it. We will go, we will fight, and we will die. Then he shall as well, and he shall have all the answers he wants” I said, turning to leave. As I passed Eva I placed a hand on her shoulder, trying to guide her to follow me, though she shrugged me off.

“You are the one who knew about the Shrine of Oryx” Eva said, Osiris looking to her and nodding.

“Yes, I am” he replied.

“Dredgen knows you and of your extensive knowledge, you told him of the Shrine when he came to you asking about Hive magic when you were still the commander of the city, you started this, when it became clear to you that they were a Follower of Yor you pushed them away, you exiled them… I guess you are not man enough to fix your own mistakes… I hope you are at least able to make peace with them since we will all be dead soon enough anyway” Eva said. Osiris stared at her, his expression one of shock almost, though after a moment of silence Eva turned and started walking away. I, Luca and Arjic followed her.

WAIT! Come back! Osiris you need to help them! You owe Sera your life! You need to bloody well realise your high horse in this situation is a miniature pony!

Despite Sagira pleading with us to turn back, we continued on our way, at least until Osiris called us. “WAIT!” he called, and we stopped, I turned, and he walked over to us, sighing. “I will help, though I want to see that vision, even if it is not going to be you who facilitates that happening, though I would prefer you, I trust your skills more than those of a stranger,” he said, and I nodded.

“I will find an Awoken willing to do it, but I will not, I simply cannot” I said, Osiris nodding, looking into my eyes for a moment.

“Why? Are the rumours true?” he asked, and I looked at him a little confused.

“What rumours are you on about?” I asked, Osiris sighing.

“The rumours that you and Commander Zavala have more than a work-based relationship” Osiris stated, and I was a little shocked, I did not take Osiris for a gossip… Then again, Saint-14 had not long returned to the Tower, he likely was not aware of our relationship and had relayed rumours to Osiris.

“They are… We are in a relationship, despite the fact that my helping you and keeping your secrets almost ended our relationship” I said, Osiris nodding.

“Very well, I will accept another Awoken” Orion simply stated

“We are not in the position to launch the strike yet. So, you don’t have to leave the Infinite Forest just yet” I said, Osiris nodding. “I will also have Ikora put together a strike team to watch over the place whilst you aid us on Earth” I then added, he would be less likely to go back on his word if he knew the Infinite Forest was not left unattended.

“Very well. I shall await your return” Osiris said.

“Okay, I shall see you soon. You keep yourself safe Sagira” I said before turning and starting to make my way back. The others were silent as we made our way back to the portal, even Eva was quiet for a while.

“Sera… How long have you and the Commander been together?” Eva suddenly asked when we were about halfway back to the portal.

“A while… it is not something we broadcast to everyone, but it is not exactly a secret either” I said, Eva simply nodding, clearly content with the answer.

_____

ARJIC’S P.O.V

Once we left the forest we headed straight back to the Lighthouse, Sera obviously wanting to let off some steam on the way back there. Though I could tell what was coming, a conversation she wanted to have away from the Tower.

Once we reached the Lighthouse Luca and Eva went to speak with Brother Vance, Eva being rather polite whilst Brother Vance tried his best to pretend to be interested as not to appear too rude.

“When did you have that vision Arjic?” Sera suddenly asked as we sat on some steps in the Lighthouse, I took a deep breath. “It wasn’t in your journal with the others…” Sera sighed, not giving me the option of lying to her, not that I had planned to.

“The day we got back” I muttered, Sera taking her helmet off and placing it next to her, running her hands through her hair and looking at me. She looked distraught.

“If you want to continue to be a member of Fireteam Survivor you have to stop. I mean it Arjic, no more visions. I cannot risk you not being your best at all times… I have lost enough, too many of my friends have died or almost died, you cannot be another loss Arjic… I cannot lose you and I am terrified this is how I am going to lose you” she said.

“I am sorry Sera, I just needed to see if I could make sense of it all… I needed to do it when I was properly alone, fully able to control my environment. It was my best chance at bringing all my visions together, of making sense of them all, and it worked” I said, Sera shaking her head.

“If you ever do it again, I will be telling Ikora and leaving your fate in her hands” she said.

“I promise Sera, I won’t do it again… I swear” I said, Sera sighing and placing her head on my shoulder.

“Good… I cannot lose you Arjic” she sighed, and I wrapped an arm around her shoulder and gave her a squeeze.

“You won’t… I promise” I said, the two of us sitting there for a moment, just composing ourselves and taking comfort in the presence of the other. There was something about knowing you were not alone in your battles that was comforting.

_____

IKORA’S P.O.V

Not long after Fireteam Survivor and Eva had returned to the Tower Sera entered the Bazaar and made her way over to me. “We need to speak, privately” she stated, and I nodded, the two of us moving away from other Guardians and civilians, finding a quiet corner.

“Osiris has agreed to help us, though, as everything does with Osiris, it comes with a cost to me. Though it is nothing I cannot take care of… You just need to put together a Fireteam of nine to take care of the Infinite Forest whilst Osiris is aiding us on Earth… The better their knowledge of the Vex the better” Sera said, clearly drained from her interaction with the old Warlock.

“Very well, I shall have that sorted as soon as possible… Though what is the cost this has incurred?” I asked, Sera slumping against a wall.

“A personal one” Sera said, and I nodded.

“The prices we pay usually are… Though you will be pleased to know I have found two experienced Warlocks willing to aid you. Both wield Solar Light and have done for the past two years” I stated, Sera nodding.

“Thank you, let them know how they can reach me… I need a shower” Sera said pulling herself up. She was clearly exhausted despite the long sleep she had after the attack. Then again, I doubt it was enough with how exhausted she must have been.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

As I headed to the elevators to make my way to my apartment, I noticed Luca and Eva were already waiting for them. “So, do you feel you could get a bit more used to a hand cannon with some more practice?” Luca asked, Eva carefully studying the gun in her hand.

“I don’t know, it is a nice size, I just struggle with aiming with it… But I don’t know if another gun would be too big… Since my size is an issue” Eva sighed, I found myself chuckling a little bit, drawing their attention.

“Sera… I thought you would have been in the shower already” Luca said, I just shook my head.

“Catching Ikora up on a few things… And don’t worry about your size, whilst it may make carrying a sniper rifle around with you impossible, you won’t have to worry about being short on hiding places” I said, Eva just nodding.

“That is true… And you’re not a Hunter, so no one expects you to be any good with a sniper rifle anyway” Luca added, I just shook my head, walking into the elevator as the doors opened.

“I do have one question… Is everything always that intense?” Eva asked as we all stepped into the elevator, Luca pressing the buttons for the floor my apartment was on as well as Hawthorns. Luca looked at me, giving me an unsure look, I just shrugged.

“Most the time when we are in the wilds or off-world things get intense, just usually not in that manner, if was a very difficult situation and there is a lot of history there that I don’t think anyone had explained to you” Luca said, Eva looking at him and then back to me.

I can explain some of it to you Eva later, but some of it is personal to others
Don’t worry too much about it, you will have minimal interactions with Osiris anyway

_____

ZAVALA’S P.O.V

I stood looking at the Guardians going about their business when one caught my eye, it was not often they were out of their armour in the Tower.

She looks stressed

“She does” I sighed, noticing the expression on Sera’s face as she made her way over, wordlessly coming to stand next to me and looking out over the city. We both stood wordlessly for a moment, Orion and Neptune greeting each other and beginning their own conversation out of the way.

“It would be wrong of me to subject another Awoken to what Osiris wants in exchange for his help. I know it should be me to do it… But I don’t know if I can handle seeing you die again… Especially in whatever future vision, Arjic had… It sounds horrific” Sera sighed, and I looked at her for a moment a little confused. “Arjic has been doing stuff he shouldn’t be to see into the future or something like that. I don’t fully understand it, all I know is Osiris should not have taught it to him and it hurts to punch him in the face. But it was also worth it” Sera sighed, and I just nodded, looking to Neptune and Orion for any form of coherent explanation

Osiris told Arjic how to become a Thanatonaut
WHAT! Did you say you punched him, was it hard?
She did, and it was. Dislocated a knuckle, though I doubt she noticed she had that much adrenaline running through her system.
Good. Though, you are going to have to elaborate further because I am still confused and if I am, Zavala certainly is.

“I am sorry, I am just stressed. So, Ikora and I confronted Arjic and Phoenix about them being Thanatonauts, Phoenix left the city and Arjic stayed, promising never to do it again. Though that lasted all of a few hours. He had a vision about what would happen if Osiris did not help us. A vision in which we all die. And as, payment essentially, Osiris wants to see this vision. The only way for that to happen is with the help of an Awoken. Osiris has ‘compromised’ and will agree to another Awoken facilitating it, but is it fair to subject someone else to that?” Sera sighed, turning to look back at the Plaza.

“Does seeing your own death even have an impact on your anymore?” I asked, Sera looking thoughtful for a moment.

“It does to an extent, but not as much as seeing others die. Seeing others die is more painful than any death I have ever experienced, and that includes the time I repeatedly drowned” she said, looking to me, a sad smile on her face. I placed my hand on her cheek and just looked at her for a moment.

“Do you think it would be a good idea for you to take some time out of the field? You have gone from one traumatic event to the next and then to the next for the last few years” I said, Sera closing her eyes and leaning into my hand.

“Maybe, or maybe I could spend a few months doing what I enjoy, patrolling the EDZ, maybe the Cosmodrome, but not until we have taken care of the current threat. Maybe even spend some time on Io, annoy Asher a bit” Sera chuckled, it was nice to see her smile.

“Have you been back to Nessus since… Since Jackal?” I asked, unsure of how to phrase the question, what did I call one of the most traumatic events of her existence?

“No… I have not even been to Jackal’s grave” she sighed, moving away from me a little, looking back out over the city.

“You should, Luca put a lot of effort into making his grave look exactly how he felt Jackal would want it,” I said, Sera just nodded looking up at the Traveller. There were nights when I woke to find her staring out the window up at the Traveller. I was never sure if it was appreciation she felt for the Traveller or something else entirely. It was our connection to it that gave us the ability to do what we do, but it also meant that she had been through some very traumatic battles.

As we both stood in silence, I heard footsteps approaching but did not take my eyes off of Sera, hers unmoving from the Traveller. Though a moment later a soft robotic cough caught our attention. I turned to see Lakshmi standing there, Sera not turning for a moment.

“Lakshmi, how are you?” she asked before turning, it still surprised me, how Hunters could tell who was approaching with such accuracy. Then again, when you are alone in the wilds for so long, you need to be able to tell friend from foe.

“I am well thank you Serafina. I came to ask if you plan on leading the assault on the settlement?” Lakshmi asked, Sera looking at me as she spoke.

“I plan on doing so” she said, I simply nodded, both ladies simply nodding in response before facing each other again.

“Good… I just wished to make you aware that, whilst Osiris’ presence may change the tide in your favour, fire catches quickly” Lakshmi stated, both myself and Sera’s expressions changing to confused expressions of confusion.

“What do you mean Lakshmi?” I asked, I was not one for vague comments with a deeper meaning. If she had something to say or information to provide, it was best to be direct. Something I knew she has no trouble doing.

 “I mean exactly that, that fire catches quickly. There are innocent people in that settlement, and they deserve our help” she stated, Sera simply nodding, the acknowledgement from Sera seemingly enough as she turned and left.

“Well, she always keeps things interesting at least” Sera sighed, looking at me.

“True… Why don’t you go and get some rest, it will be a few days before everything and everyone is ready” I said, Sera nodding.

“Okay… I will see you later, don’t go getting into any trouble without me though” she said with a smile before heading off.

Chapter Text

IKORA’S P.O.V

As the three Fireteams who had agreed to ensure the security of the Infinite Forest looked over the information Osiris had sent over, Sera and Arjic stood silently in the corner watching them. She had not spoken to any of them, though she had been paying particular interest to the Awoken Titan.

“Arjic, go see if Luca has sorted the issue with his ship. Amanda wants us to be out the hangar in the next thirty minutes I think” she said, the Warlock nodding and heading out. As Arjic left I walked over to her, joining her.

“Fireteam Warp-speed seem to have captured your attention, any particular reason why?” I asked as quietly as I could, Sera looking to me and then back to the Fireteam in question.

“The Titan, he’s Awoken” she replied, I raised a brow, she had not exactly answered my question. “Osiris wants to see a vision Arjic had as… payment, for helping us. I don’t know if I can go through seeing a loved one’s death again… But it also is not fair to ask another to do it… is it?” she asked looking at me.

“I would understand if you chose to ask the Titan to facilitate Osiris seeing the vision, you have been through a lot in the last few days. Through events that it will take you some time to fully recover from. Then again, what impact will it have on Cuzal to have it sprung upon him at the last minute?” I said, Sera sighing.

“Zavala thinks I need time out of the field… I think I need to take time away from my duties, maybe just do my own thing in the EDZ for a few months” Sera said, I just nodded. Whilst those few months would not doubt benefit her greatly, Zavala would no doubt find her absence for so long difficult to cope with. Since the beginning of their relationship, she had spent no more than a month away from the city. Though before either of us could say anything more on the topic Arjic entered the room.

“Luca is ready to go” he said Sera nodding and looking to me.

“Good luck out there Hunter” I said, Sera nodding and starting to head out to the hangar.

“Preparation time is over. Time to head out” she said, the nine Guardians looking to her and following closely behind her.

_____

ZAVALA’S P.O.V

“OKAY! OPERATION KICK-ASS PREPARE FOR THE GREEN LIGHT! FIRETEAM WARP-SPEED YOU ARE UP FIRST FOLLOWED BY FIRETEAM BASILISK WHO ARE THEN FOLLOWED BY FIRETEAM CATACLYSM WHO WILL BE FOLLOWED BY THE FINAL FIRETEAM, FIRETEAM SURVIVOR!” Amanda called from across the Hangar, for a rather small woman she certainly had a loud voice… “YOUR DESTINATION IS MERCURY! YOUR GHOSTS SHOULD KNOW THIS BUT JUST IN CASE THE COORDINATES ARE… RA ONE-THREE-H ONE-TWO-M THREE-TWO-S DEC ONE-ZERO DEGREES THREE-SEVEN MINUTES FIVE-SIX SECONDS… FIRETEAM WARP-SPEED YOU HAVE ONE MINUTE TILL THE GREEN LIGHT!” Amanda then added, some of the Ghosts rolling their shells at her comments.

“Commander, glad to see you could make it” Ikora stated, appearing beside me.

“Ikora, you know I wouldn’t miss seeing such a big operation off. A moment of silence fell as we watched the Guardians prepare to leave.

“FIRETEAM WARP-SPEED! YOU HAVE THE GREEN LIGHT! TURN AROUND FOR FIRETEAM BASILISK IS THREE MINUTES! I REPEAT THREE MINUTES! SO, NO! YOU DON’T HAVE TIME TO GRAB SOME RAMEN BEFORE TAKING OFF! YES, HUNTER, I AM LOOKING AT YOU! I REMEMBER THESE THINGS!” Amanda called Ikora chuckling as the Hunter of Fireteam Basilisk was scolded by the petite shipwright.

“COME ON EVERYONE! DON’T KEEP OUR SHIPWRIGHT WAITING, SHE HAS WORK TO BE DOING! CHOP-CHOP!” Cayde’s voice called from behind us.

“THE EXO GETS IT! HUSTLE! HUSTLE! HUSTLE!” Amanda called, the only way you could tell where she was, was the wrench being waved in the air.

“Do you remember when I said Cayde would not be a bad influence on Amanda?” I asked Ikora, the Warlock looking to be and nodding. “I take that back” I said, Ikora chuckling once more as we began to make our way towards the Guardians doing their last checks and preparing their gear.

“Commander, come to ensure it is all running smoothly” a voice said, I glanced over my shoulder to see Sera standing there.

“I imagine everything is running smoothly under Amanda’s watchful eye. Are you ready for the mission ahead?” I asked, Sera moving to stand on my other side.

“She certainly has her fingers on the pulse of this hangar. I had a departure schedule off of her three days ago, though it has changed five times since then to adjust for other strikes and operations. I believe Fireteam Corpse Maker left for Io today, didn’t they?” Sera said, I simply nodded, that was a very secretive operation, I was sure I had not mentioned anything about it to her at home… “Don’t worry, Max has been gossiping about it to everyone, no mission he is sent on is ever secretive” Sera then added with a chuckle.

“I see. It is a miracle Hunters can keep any secrets. Anyway… Are you ready?” I asked, Sera looking at me and smiling, her hand brushing mine gently.

“As ready as I can be. I am more worried about Arjic, to be honest” Sera said, looking over to the Warlock who was helping move crates around. “Though I am sure he will be fine, he has been leaning a lot on Luca for support, not that Luca minds to be fair” Sera shrugged.

“Luca can be a good influence on others when he wants to be” Ikora said, Sera nodding in agreement.

“What is the plan once you reach South Africa?” I asked, Sera taking a big breath in before sighing.

“As much as I want to tell you a greatly detailed plan, we have the basics down, Shin and the others that have set off with him earlier today will be split into two teams. Shin and two others will enter via the hole Eva exited by, and if that hole is no longer there, then they will make one. The second team will be the Warlocks that have agreed to help and Osiris, they will access the underground chambers via a cave system the Guardians who defected informed us about. I, Luca and Arjic will be the ones knocking on the front gate to give the other teams as much time as possible to get into place. From there, we wing it… Though this is of course, after a few days of intelligence gathering and preparation” Sera said, trying to hide a smirk and failing.

“Given who you are going up against, winging it may be the best plan” I replied, Sera letting out a chuckle.

“A Hunter's way of thinking Commander Zavala, one must be rubbing off on you” Sera chuckled, Ikora simply shaking her head at the exchange.

“FIRETEAM BASILISK! THIRTY SECONDS TILL YOU ARE IN THE GREEN! GET YOUR GHOSTS READY GUARDIANS! YOU SHOULD BE EYES UP IN THE HANGAR!” Amanda called out, Sera chuckling at the young shipwright.

“You can tell she is very much a Titan” Sera chuckled, watching everyone scramble at Amanda’s announcement.

“You think?” I asked, standing up a little taller, feeling slightly proud for some reason.

“You did pull her out the rubble when she was a girl, she’s been wherever you have been ever since” Ikora stated, Sera looking at me with a soft smile.

“You never told me you had kids” she chuckled, leaning up and placing a kiss on my cheek.

“SAVE IT FOR AFTER YOU GET BACK SERA! FIRETEAM BASILISK YOU HAVE THE GREEN LIGHT! FIRETEAM CATACLYSM, YOU HAVE THREE MINUTES TILL THE GREEN LIGHT!” Amanda called, Sera chuckling at her announcement.

“YES, COMMANDER HOLLIDAY!” Sera yelled back at the shipwright, getting a salute from Amanda as she went back to work. “I swear this place would fall apart without Amanda Holliday” Sera chuckled, moving out into the hangar, and starting to interact with her fireteam.

“Commander, Ikora” a voice said, I looked over my shoulder to see Hawthorne and Eva. “I take it they have started departing?” Hawthorne asked, I simply nodded, the two coming to stand with myself and Ikora.

“Shin and a small group left this morning and half of the remaining Fireteams have left” I said, both nodding.

“REMAINING FIRETEAMS, WE HAVE REPORTS OF A METEOR STORM ON APPROACH TO MERCURY! ALERT IS BEING BROADCAST TO ALL MERCURY BOUND SHIPS!” Amanda called out.

“OKAY! THE MEETING POINT IS STILL THE GATE IF WE HAVE TO ADJUST OUR LANDING POINTS! DO NOT DEVIATE FROM THAT!” Sera then called. “Orion, inform the departed Fireteams that the gate is still the meeting point if we have adjusted landing zones. Though if they can highlight a safe path through, ping it to the next ships to get them through safely!” Sera then added.

“She certainly is in her element here” Hawthorne commented. She certainly was not wrong, she commanded respect, though having slain the Gods of the Black Garden, Crota, his father Oryx and defeated numerous Fallen, repelling attacks against the city and brought Ghaul to his knees, she had certainly earnt the respect she commanded.

“FIRETEAM CATACLYSM, YOU HAVE THIRTY SECONDS! GET READY TO GO!” Amanda called, Sera coming back over, smiling at Hawthorne and Eva.

“I am hoping we will have enough information to run the strike within two days, we don’t want to rush it, but we also don’t want to wait too long and let them set up more secure defences” Sera said, I simply nodded.

“It is a smart plan, and if he does decide to attack you first, the fighting will at least be away from the civilian population” I said Sera nodding.

“The people are only there because they are not allowed to leave, they have no choice. Please don’t let any harm come to them” Eva said, Sera looked to her and nodded.

“We will make sure they are safe” she reassured Eva.

“FIRETEAM CATACLYSM YOU ARE GREEN! GET OUT MY HANGAR!” Amanda called, Sera turning back to look at the shipwright once again causing Guardians to scatter in various directions as they got ready. “FIRETEAM SURVIVOR! YOU BEST BE GETTING READY! YOU KNOW THE DRILL!” Amanda then added.

“SERA! The only thing not checked is your ammo crate!” Luca called over; Sera just nodded.

“I checked it when I picked it up, so as long as the red tag is still on the latch it is good!” Sera replied, Luca, looking to the crate, flicking the red tag attached to it. “I shall see you on the other side of this” Sera said turning to us and smiling.

“Best of luck Sera” Eva said before Sera turned to me and smiled.

“I shall see you in a few days” Sera said, placing a hand on my cheek and leaning up to kiss me, I returned the kiss, pulling her close.

“COMMANDER ZAVALA! IF SERA IS NOT ON THAT SHIP IN ONE MINUTE AND FIFTEEN SECONDS, I WILL BE BLAMING YOU!” Holliday called, Sera chuckling as she stepped back from our kiss.

“Well… I shall see you all soon” Sera chuckled before heading across the hangar towards her ship. Ikora and Hawthorne both smirked at me before looking back out over the hangar.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

By the time Luca, myself and Arjic had arrived on Mercury the other groups had made it to the gate and were waiting in the passage between Mercury and the Infinite Forest for our arrival.

“Okay, before we get going, I want to warn those of you who have yet to have the displeasure of meeting Osiris that he has an ego bigger than the Traveller and he is the king of backhanded compliments, so try and reframe from punching him!” I stated, a few of them chuckling, probably the ones who had met him before.

“However, if you do punch him, go for the nose… Now, shall we!” Luca called, making his way towards the gate to the Infinite Forest, everyone else following suit. Though Arjic hung back with me for a moment.

“So, is the Titan facilitating the link?” he asked, and I shook my head, Arjic looking confused for a moment before the realisation dawned on him. His expression then changed to one of guilt. “I am sorry Sera… I have put you in this position” he sighed.

“That may be true, but that does not mean I am holding it against you, you did what you felt increased our chances of getting Osiris on our side, and at the end of the day, that was ultimately our goal” I said.

_____

ARJIC’S P.O.V

It did not take the twelve of us long to navigate through the Infinite Forest and to Osiris’ location, and the Vex posed little resistance, though, even if they had, I doubt we would have noticed.

“Ah, I thought the Vex had fallen quiet, I see it is because you brought a small army with you Serafina” Osiris stated, keeping a broken pillar between himself and Sera this time. “I guess I should debrief you all as to why you are here” he then said stepping around the pillar cautiously, Sera deciding to perch on it, watching Osiris closely.

“Whilst I am away from the Infinite Forest you shall be monitoring the three current simulations, ensuring the Vex do not reclaim them and thinning their numbers. My copies will remain and can provide support where required. Though, Ikora was resolute in the belief that you would need little support from my copies” Osiris stated, the nine simply nodding. “Brilliant, now before we depart there is the matter of this vision, so who is facilitating that process?” he asked.

“I am, it would not be fair to subject someone else to the vision” Sera said, Osiris turning to look at her, simply nodding before looking to me. “Luca, maybe you and the others could secure the surroundings? We will need peace and quiet for this to be as effective as possible” Sera said.

“You heard her, Cataclysm, I shall stick with you” Luca said, patting me on the shoulder as he and the others dispersed. An awkward silence fell for a moment, or at least I felt it was awkward.

“Okay, I suggest you both kneel or sit. Osiris, clear your mind and open it to others, Arjic, focus on the vision, and just replay the first few moments in your mind so I can pull Osiris into it” Sera said, both of us doing as she requested without question or hesitation.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

I knelt between the two, slowly taking my gauntlets off, walking myself through the process in my head as I did too, clearing all other thoughts. Both Osiris and Arjic had their eyes closed, both, hopefully preparing their minds.

Once I had removed both gauntlets I placed one other Osiris’s closest hand, the older Warlock’s muscles reacting to the touch, rippling as he reigns in his reaction. I then placed the other hands over Arjic’s hand, the younger Warlock flinching but quickly regaining his composure.

______

I took a deep breath, reaching out to Osiris’ mind, finding it open and willing, I easily guided Arjic’s mind into the link and helped him focus on the memory playing itself on a loop.

Our previous encounter with Osiris… I could feel Osiris focusing on it, I pushed Arjic to focus on that memory, to let it play out, and he obliged.

_

We stood in the same spot we had on our initial visit to Osiris, the Forest around us in a state of constant flux, Osiris, Luca, Arjic, Eva and I stood there.

“I apologise Serafina, but I can’t leave the forest, the Vex are the biggest threat to life as we know it, I cannot let them get out of control!” Osiris sighed, looking at Eva. “You are lucky it was Serafina who found you, there are few as talented. I am glad she got you to safety” he said.

“Come on Sera, we can handle Dredgen ourselves… We don’t need a Warlock who has a tendency to desert those he proclaims he cares for” Arjic stated, turning and leaving, Luca and Eva following suit… The memory then started to become hazy…

_

The forest slowly faded, a dreary hall coming into view, a large stone throne at one end of the room, a Warlock stood before it, myself, Arjic and Luca stood around the room…

“You cannot triumph here… This is where you DIE!” the Warlock, firing a Nova bomb straight for Arjic. Though before anything else could happen the flash of Luca’s red cape came into view, taking the hit, Dom and Luca dissolving into void light whilst Arjic fell to his knees screaming Luca’s name…

“LUCA! NO! LUCA! WHY!” Arjic cried, the view changed as he raised his head, I was charging Dredgen… Though he blocked my attack with ease, sending me flying into a wall, though that hit did not end my life, it was the ward on the wall that activated as I made contact, my body contorting in pain, a soundless scream escaping my lips as all Arjic could do was watch…

_

I could feel Osiris’ mind pushing, the link becoming unstable for a moment as Arjic tried to focus on the two presences in his mind as well as the memory, there was suddenly a shimmer to everything.

I focused on Arjic for a moment, calming his thoughts, pulling Osiris back, the man needed to learn some patience.

_____

ARJIC’S P.O.V

After a moment the room refocused, Sera’s body lay on the floor, Orion broke in two next to her. I watched as I pulled myself to my feet, grabbing Sera’s sword as I did before blinking in front of Dredgen and taking a swing, cutting his arm.

Though before I could make another move a hand came into contact with my chest, Dredgen muttered something under his breath and I felt as if my soul was being pulled from my body, Ansel frantically floating around me, trying to push me back… I then heard the thud as he fell to the floor… Silence and darkness followed…

_

I took a moment, focusing on the calm, it was as if there was a gold and purple hue to everything, a presence lingered in the colours.

As I refocused on the memory Sera’s apartment came into view… Commander Zavala was sat on a sofa staring at a photo of myself, Luca and Sera, his thumb running over Sera’s image… As he did the image began to burn and it panned up to a burning village, the screams of men, women and children filled the air.

“GET THE CIVILIANS OUT OF HERE!” Zavala’s voice called as he and others marched on the settlement, as he moved through the settlement the dead lay scattered, civilians and Guardians alike.

Everything fell quiet for a moment, Zavala moved through the halls of an old building, slowly, one by one, those who accompanied him were picked off until Zavala entered the same room in which myself, Luca and Sera died.

“Come to avenge the fallen Commander?” a gravelly voice asked from a dark corner, though before Zavala could take another step the same sort of ward that killed Sera activated and Zavala fell to his knees… As I focused on the next vision, I noticed cracks forming in my memories, though before I could take a moment to refocus everything around me shattered, floating through my consciousness.

I looked at one of the shards to see Zavala and Sera sitting in a restaurant laughing whilst sharing some food… Another contained a memory of the Last City, but Andal Brask was stood beside a familiar Warlock… Another contained one of my memories, myself and Phoenix sat reading books, lazily holding on another’s hands. As I looked through various memories, I noticed reflections of Osiris doing the same, though they were only fleeting reflections… Any that contained Sera were of her focusing, though her expression was pained.

After a few more moments the shards started to fade and for a brief moment, the purple and gold on the edge of my consciousness were right in front of me before receding. I took that as my cue to refocus, we were back in the hall, Dredgen addressing his followers.

“The Last City is ready to fall, ready to bend to our will, the only thing that stands in our way is the two remaining Vanguard… Infiltrate the walls, bring them to their knees!” he called, the memory fading and the Tower came into view.

Banners with the symbol of The Followers of Yor hung from balconies, bodies lay in the courtyard… Ikora, Cayde, Amanda, Banshee, all amongst the bodies… Though as I observed the bodies they melted into a white fluid and for a moment everything was white before the Infinite Forest formed before me.

Osiris was stood looking out over the platforms, they were still in constant flux, but more so than usual. There were more Vex than before, Vex Minds then started to appear, Osiris fleeing, fighting his way through the Infinite Forest. Though before he could reach the exit Sagira screamed out as she was caught by a Vex weapons blast, falling to the group motionless… Lightless.

An army of Vex streamed out of the gate on Mercury, out of gates on Earth, out of gates all over the system, the Last City eventually falling to the Vex… The Traveller hanging above a city of the dead.

Chapter Text

SERA’S P.O.V

As the last of the vision played out, I extracted myself and Osiris from Arjic’s mind as quickly and safely as possible before severing my link with Osiris, slowly opening my eyes, the Infinite Forest coming into view. Though before I could gather my thoughts properly, I felt someone squeeze my hand.

“Sera, I am sorry that I had to put you through such a traumatising event, though I can assure you, I have gained some insight into how to best win the war against the Vex” Osiris stated, releasing my hand after a silent nod from myself. I slowly gathered my gauntlets, putting them back on as Arjic slowly stood, moving to a slightly raised ledge and sitting there for a moment.

“We don’t have long to compose ourselves; we need to head out, Shin is expecting us” I said, Arjic simply nodding, Osiris looking to Sagira who nodded.

“I shall quickly debrief the Guardians who shall be tending to the forest in my absence, then we can depart. And again, I am sorry, to both of you, for putting you through that” Osiris stated, Arjic just waved a hand whilst I looked to Osiris.

“I am not going to accept your apology, at least not for now. But I am glad that you gleaned some useful information from it” I said before looking to Orion. “Call the others back, I want to be on the ship within thirty minutes, so they best not have strayed far” I said Orion nodding.

_____

SHIN’S P.O.V

“Camp is set up, we left spaces for their tents” Viper stated, her optics scanning the horizon as she spoke. It was quiet, too quiet for my liking, Dredgen had to know we were back, and he had to know what was coming. He would be an idiot to not plan for an attack… Yet, the hole in the wall had yet to be repaired and the entrances to the caverns below the settlement that layout if its bounds were unguarded. “Is it bothering you too?” Viper then asked, I looked at her, a little confused by what she was asking. “The quiet… is it bothering you too?” she asked again, I just nodded.

“It is indeed if I were him, I would have repaired that hole, ensured that any access to the settlement was barricaded, and also have extra patrols out, maybe even task a few patrols with keeping us occupied, seeing what damage they can do,” I said.

“Maybe he does not have the numbers to risk attacking us. That or he is hoping his Hive magic is all the protection he needs” Adrul said, approaching us from the camp. For a Titan, he was not as physically imposing as you would have expected, then again, neither was Commander Zavala.

“From what others have told us he is a paranoid man with a reliance on Hive magic, so that may very well be the case, only time will tell... What are our three Warlocks up to?” I asked, Adrul looking back to the camp.

“Ollie is taking a nap, Barrage is doing weapons maintenance and Phantom is doing Exo maintenance on herself and Barrage, she told me to mention it to you Viper” Adrul stated, Viper’s optics widening for a moment.

“I shall take my leave then, I haven’t been in the Last City in about seven years, so I could do with some work doing” she chuckled, heading back to camp.  

“Have you ever met any of Fireteam Survivor, other Guardians in the Tower talk about them as if they are legends amongst the stars” I said, Adrul chuckling to himself.

“I met Sera when she was part of her previous Fireteam, Fireteam Constellation, she was rather humble about her talent then, she still is by all accounts, as for Luca I have never knowingly met him, however, Arjic I met a few months back. I used to be in a Fireteam with his ex-partner, Phoenix… Nasty piece of work he was, one of the many reasons I did not regret leaving that Fireteam, he just made everyone around him miserable... Anyway, we had one last get-together before the Fireteam split, he brought Arjic along. Poor guy was bombarded with questions about what happened on Nessus or about Sera and Luca… I asked him what book he was reading at that time, he told me about all seven in great detail, we then talked about this crazy strike they went on, on the Moon, I think it was” Adrul chuckled… Maybe I had been judging Arjic too harshly… “Though Sera, she is a legend, she is who baby Guardians aspire to be, her titles are endless” Adrul then added.

“Her titles?” I asked, Adrul taking a deep breath and holding it for a moment, looking thoughtful.

“Hivebane, Crota’s End, King Slayer, Slayer of Oryx, Lady Guardian, Young Wolf, Warrior of Light, Vanguards Trusted, Captain of the Exodus Black, Hero of the Red War, Calus’ Shadow, Saviour of Rasputin, God Slayer, Rivensbane, Wolf-slayer, Killer of Wolves, Kell of Winter, Kell of Stone, Kell of Kings, Kell of Scorn, Kell of Kell’s… She has killed a lot of Kell’s and theoretically, that makes her the next Kell” Adrul said. I just looked at him confused.

“That is a lot of titles… Does she ever use them?” I asked, smirking at the thought of her reeling off the list in order to get a free bowl of ramen.

“I doubt she knows she has half of them… I think she is technically an Iron Lady at this point too, but no one dares ask Lord Saladin to clarify if she is or is not” Adrul said, I just nodded and made a mental note to ask him at some point.

“THEY’RE HERE!” a voice suddenly called and both I and Adrul turned back to camp, three ships coming in low and slow on the horizon.

“Well, she may have all those titles, but she can’t tell east from the west it seems” I chuckled.

______

LUCA’S P.O.V

“I told you we said east when we left Mercury, but you didn’t listen to me did you!” Sera sighed as she walked towards the camp, Osiris looking like he regretted leaving the Infinite Forest already.

“I could have sworn you said west when we left for Mercury!” Arjic replied, Sera just shaking her head and looking towards the camp. “Well… They certainly wasted no time” Arjic chuckled.

“Because someone took ten minutes to answer a yes or no question” I said, Osiris seemingly deciding to ignore my comment. Though, he may also have not heard me as it seemed he had just spotted Shin Malphur.

“Malphur” Osiris stated as the Hunter came to stand in front of the Warlock.

“Osiris, it has been a long time, a very long time, I never thought we would be seeing one another again” Shin replied, placing a hand on Osiris’ well-feathered shoulder, and smiling at him.

It has certainly been many, many, many years… Osiris and Ikora, and me, we should have listened when you brought your concerns about the Followers of Yor to us

“I agree, though we cannot fix the mistakes of our past, only ensure we do not repeat them” Shin replied. Osiris just took a moment before heading into the camp, being greeted by the others. Hopefully, he was not going to be as much of an ass as usual.

“Not as awkward as I thought it would be, got to admit” I muttered to Sera as we followed suit, earning myself a slap around the back of the head for my comment. “What? It is true” I said, Sera just sighing and shaking her head.

“That doesn’t mean we just say it out loud, otherwise Asher Mir would seem a lot more likable,” Sera said.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

Between nine of us, it did not take us long to put up another few tents and organise our supplies, Luca ensuring everything and anything cooking-related was organised to an outstanding degree. “I hope you are as good at cooking as you are organising a crate that is almost two kilos heavier than it needs to be” Adrul commented, having been the one to carry the crate across the camp to appease my fellow Hunter.

“Oh, believe me, he is, after years of rations, tinned food and the odd bit of game meat, I thought I had found every trick in the book to make that stuff taste as good as it could be, but that Hunter, no Hive magic could explain what he can do to a ration pack that has likely been out of date for a year or two” Shin said rather passionately from his place by the fire pit.

“No pressure, but whatever you cook for dinner this evening better be the best thing I have ever tasted, because I know the sort of meals he was used to when he was in the Last City” Osiris chuckled, Luca just looked rather smug as he moved over to another, much smaller, crate and opening it to reveal a selection of spices, labeled jars, and bottles of oils and dressings.

“This crate has come on every strike that is expected to last more than three days with me for the last three years. Whilst you are on a strike with me, you eat like royalty” Luca stated.

“And people call me a pampered Titan for taking an extra camping pillow on a strike” Adrul then stated, everyone bursting out laughing.

_

Once everyone had settled and organised things as they needed them, we all gathered around a few crates we had fashioned into a table, Shin spreading out a map with various symbols on it.

“Okay, so, Osiris, you have the option of entering the underground system from one of two points we could identify, either here, or here” Shin said, pointing to two spots on the map, one a lot closer to the settlement than the other. “The first option is further out, but you run less of a risk of being spotted before even reaching the Wizard, whereas the second option gives you more time to find it and take it out before the rest of us are in place” Shin said, Osiris studying the two options carefully.

“I assume it is the two of the Warlocks joining me?” Osiris asked, Shin, shaking his head.

“Adrul would never fit through the hole in the wall, his armor is too bulky. He will be joining you, Ollie, and Barrage in taking out the Wizard whilst myself, Viper and Phantom will be entering via the wall breach in order to disable the guns before dealing with any guards in the main building, where you will no doubt exit the underground system” Shin explain, Osiris simply nodding, obviously happy with that arrangement.

“That leaves, me, Arjic, and Luca, we will be the distracting… We are going to knock on the western gate, draw Dredgen out, leaving him exposed, we cannot risk attacking him in his quarters or his throne room” I said, everyone else nodding.

“And remember, there are civilians inside those walls, do not harm them, the Vanguard will be sending in transport ships once we give the all-clear to ferry them back to the Last City, so we need to make sure they have a chance to see it” Arjic added. Everyone nodded rather firmly in agreement with his statement.

“Over the next three nights minimum, we will undertake extra scouting, plan for if it all goes wrong and how we get the civilians out if it becomes an all-out warzone, maybe even scout out this tunnel some more, ensure you encounter no issues en route to the Wizard” Shin said. Everyone just nodded and after a few more minutes of planning and organising things, we all settled for the night ahead.

“I will take first watch, I doubt we will have any trouble before it is dark, but you never know” I said, picking up my sniper rifle and heading to sit on some of the crates we’d used to make a wall of sorts to obscure the tents.

It has been a while since we have been on a strike with this many Guardians, it reminds me of the push to take back the Last City

I looked to Orion who was looking around the camp as everyone settled, Adrul who was within earshot looking over. “What was it like, fighting him?” he asked, I looked to him and then back out over the plains of South Africa.

“It was tiring, he absorbed so much light, he was throwing solar attacks at me, followed by a volley of void attacks and then all of a sudden there were arc attacks flying towards me, there were a few moments where I was sure he would win, that he would get the upper hand and that would be it, that would be the end of the Last City” I said pausing to glance back, noticing that now pretty much everyone else was listening. “So, that is what it was like fighting him… Tiring… What about you Adrul?” I asked, Adrul looking to his Ghost.

“We were on Titan; we’d been trapped in part of the Archology following a rather vicious fistfight with a Hive Knight and a large, very, very, very large number of Thrall that I was losing. Getting our light back when you freed the Traveller allowed us to fight our way out. Commander Zavala was rather surprised to see me once I returned to the Last City, he had been the one on the comms to me when I got trapped and lost my connection, he was sure I had died down there, ripped apart by Thrall” Adrul said, and I looked to Orion and then back to Adrul.

You are the one who got trapped in a closet in the Archology for a week?

“It wasn’t exactly a closet… But… Yes… How did you know it was a closet?” Adrul asked, “I only told Commander Zavala about that…” Adrul commented, and I just chuckled.

“Zavala told me about it one night after a few drinks, we were sharing embarrassing stories we had heard from others… Or in my case had happened to me… Don’t worry, I once wrestled a Vandal naked in a stream whilst washing and once I had killed it turned to see a Fireteam stood there staring at me… Anyway, Zavala said it was less of an embarrassing story and more of an impressive one because you managed to survive that long… In a closet! I’d have swallowed a bullet” I said, Adrul looking kind of impressed with himself.

“I got bit by a Thrall, on the ass, whilst taking a leak” Ollie then said and everyone looked to him and burst out laughing, Ollie seeming to revel in the laughter. He seemed like a joker.

“Orion once got swallowed by a Thrall, it choked to death on him, I stood and watched” I said, most of the Ghosts commenting on how awful that must have been whilst most the Guardians laughed.

“Does killing a God or three or four get you drinking privileges with the Vanguard then? I never took Commander Zavala as the type to be so informal with others to the point you don’t even use his title” Viper asked.

“That is right, you have been alone in the wilds the last seven years…” Shin suddenly stated, and I nodded, if she had been in the wilds so long and alone, Viper would have no idea of any of the Tower gossip.

“I live with Zavala, we’ve been together a fair while,” I said, Viper just nodding whilst Adrul looked to me, seems he was having his own moment of realization.

“That gives Lord Saladin’s comment a lot more context…” he said, and I raised a brow. “So, Lord Shaxx frequents a bar popular with Guardians, and one night he, Lord Saladin, Cayde, Banshee, Saint, and Hawthorne were all sat in one of the bigger booths having a few drinks whilst my old Fireteam and a few others were sat in the next one along. I was essentially back-to-back with Lord Saladin” Adrul explained. “Anyway, a few of my table had gone to order more drinks and I was left with two Warlocks, one I didn’t know very well and one who was a right asshole, his ex in fact…” he said, pointing to Arjic who just gave me a look that said he would fill me in later.

“Okay… The comment?” I asked and Adrul nodded.

“I could hear their conversation pretty well as it was rather quiet on my table, Saint was going on about everyone having a weakness, Cayde was denying he had one at all… Hawthorne said something about flame turrets, which, sounds awesome… Anyway, Lord Shaxx said he doubted Commander Zavala had an easily identifiable weakness and without missing a beat Lord Saladin said, and I am pretty much quoting him here… ‘Pretty Hunters in tight-fitting dresses’ which got a fair few laughs” Adrul said.

“Oh, I forgot you said he caught you two making out in a lift” Arjic then said.

“Was it Saint who told you there were rumors of me and Zavala being an item?” I then asked Osiris and the old Warlock looked up to me from his datapad and nodded.

“Yes, he had heard some Titans talking about how your esteemed Commander Zavala obviously wanted to keep you sweet or get into your armor judging by the gun he had commissioned Banshee to make for you” Osiris said, I just smirked and gestured to my rifle.

“I have been admiring that…” Viper muttered.

“You are not the only one” Shin then added, and I chuckled.

“You guys can have a go, with us all still up and active keeping watch isn’t as much of an issue” I said, the two Hunters, and Luca moving over to me.

_____

Hawthorne’s P.O.V

“I will give you some credit Cayde… This was a pretty good idea” I said, sitting back in the camping chair and looking up at the stars.

“I have them occasionally… Anyway, how is being a new mum going?” Cayde said, I just glanced to him and then back to the stars, he had invited me out here for a chance to have a break and a serious conversation about the state of things… and he opens with that…

“Well, this is like my third child… Serafina fell at my feet, I picked Zavala up off the street, and by that point people just then found a kid and handed them to me” I joked, Cayde chuckling as he looked up at the stars as well, sipping his… Whatever it was that Exo’s drunk.  

“Yeah… In all seriousness though, we are all extremely grateful that you took Eva in” Cayde said, I looked at him, he was still looking at the stars, but I could tell he was being sincere by his voice. “I doubt it has been easy for you, not just taking her in, but supporting her, being there for her in the middle of the night when the nightmares are just too much…” Cayde added, I just looked back to the stars.

“It is not, but it also is not my first rodeo either. Living on the Farm with numerous Guardians, all of whom pretty much were experiencing some form of post-traumatic stress disorder… I remember this Titan, he was experienced, seems like he had been around a while. I would find him standing on the shore, looking out at the water every night. One night he told me about how it had taken him seventeen years to make it to the Last City, he then spent fifty years helping build its defenses, protecting the city and its inhabitants whenever there was an attack, and now all he could do was stand on the shore and look out over the water, hoping that one day, just maybe, he would be able to see it again. We spoke every night on the water's edge… Each night he would tell me a different story about how he protected the city in those early days, and at the end of every story, he would tell me about a friend or an acquaintance who had died doing the same thing… In total, he told me the names of over one-hundred Guardians who had died protecting the city. You Guardians see so much death, so much destruction, yet you act like it is nothing, either you all very quickly become desensitised to it all, or you all need a really good, and I mean, really, really, really good, shrink” I said, not taking my eyes off of a small cluster of stars. A silence fell, though it wasn’t an awkward one, it was thoughtful.

“Suraya… Please tell me he got to see the city again” Cayde muttered after a few minutes and I found myself looking to the Hunter, his eyes fixed on me.

“He did… He is the head of the Pilgrim Guard now” I said, Cayde just nodding before both of us went back to staring at the stars. “I imagine you, Ikora and Zavala have seen your fair share of death” I then said, Cayde letting out a sigh.

“More than anyone being should. Ikora is probably the only one of us with a healthy approach to it… Zavala blames himself for the deaths of others whilst I make inappropriate jokes” he said, chuckling a little, I just nodded at the stars.

“Speaking of Zavala, how is he doing? I know after the attack he and Sera were both shaken, but by the time I next saw them, they both seemed relatively composed” I said, Cayde shifting in his seat, grabbing his bottle of Exo alcohol from next to his chair, and topping his glass up.

“Zavala is processing it, Ikora is making him do daily meditation sessions with her, though there is something he is not telling us, I am just not sure what it is…. As for Sera, well, let’s just say she needs a shrink for sure” Cayde said, I just nodded, I had talked with Sera a few times about the things she had been through, she probably needed a few shrinks.

“Hopefully within a few days this whole saga will be behind us, and we can all enjoy some more time drinking under the stars,” I said. Cayde simply raising a glass to the stars before taking a sip.

“I will drink to that” I said, downing the rest of my whiskey.

Chapter Text

Ollie’s P.O.V

I sat looking out over the horizon, something felt off, it had fallen far to quiet out there. Not half an hour ago you could hear lions roaring, now there was hardly the sound of the leaves in the wind filling the air.

“Siren, wake one of the other Hunters… I don’t like how quiet it has fallen” I said, my Ghost nodding, heading to one of the tents, though just as he entered a shot rang out, clipping the tent post.

“SNIPER!” I yelled dropping behind the crates as I looked back to the tent Siren had entered, he, Luca, and Dom were looking out, staying low as others stuck their heads out of their tents. “Keep low! Sniper!” I snapped as Viper exited her tent and stood up stretching, quickly dropping to the ground when someone shot at her, narrowly missing her.

“Shit sniper” Shin muttered, crawling over to the crates, and looking out, his rifle materialising, Sera, Luca, and Viper following suit. “Northeast, the trees I watched you from the night before you left the first time” Shin muttered, Sera shifting her position.

“That sounds creepy” I muttered, crawling out of their way. “Barrage, Arjic, and, Osiris, can you check no one is trying to flank us. Phantom, Adrul, you guys keep an eye on the wider horizon” I said, everyone, doing as requested. It felt weird, giving orders to so many Guardians, let alone Osiris.

“I see his Ghost. He is on the move, changing vantage points, I think. I doubt he is alone” Sera said as I crawled towards my tent.

“Only one way to tell if anyone else is out there… You keep your sights on him, everyone else keep an eye out” I said grabbing a small portable light, turning it on, and throwing it in the air. Within a few seconds, there was a loud bang and it shattered into pieces.

“Got a second shooter, I have a shot” Viper said.

“Take it” I said, sound of her rifle firing must have been deafening for Luca and Shin who were on either side of her. “Once his Ghost is up, fire again” I said. Viper quickly reloaded the chamber and fired again.

Sagira reports movement from the south, A group of three maximum, they don’t know they’ve been spotted.

“Ollie, your call” Sera said, I looked at her and nodded.

“Engage, we can’t risk them getting off a warning” I said, Orion nodding and relaying the message whilst Siren looked to me and then back to the Awoken Hunter.

Do you still have eyes on the other sniper Sera?

“Yes, but I don’t have a shot. He is behind a tree; I can see his cloak moving. As soon as we took out the others Ghost, he froze in place” she said.

Will your rifle not be able to penetrate the tree?

“I have no idea. I have never tested that out” she said, and I took a deep breath in, looking to Adrul and Phantom who were keeping an eye out for any other suspicious movement.

“Is it the tree with the climbing plant on it?” Luca asked suddenly, looking down his scope.

“Yes. You got it?” Sera asked.

“I have… Keep your sights on it, I have just the thing to get through the trunk” Luca said, nudging Shin and Viper out the way as a rocket launcher materialised in his hands.

Sagira is reporting that they are about to initiate an attack against the other group. So, I would fire sooner rather than later.

As Siren spoke Luca nodded and lined the shot up, “Firing!” he called, the rocket exiting the launcher and sailing through the air with a terrible scream, that Hunter knew what was coming for him. He had to.

Attack initiated.

“He’s down. But the Ghost isn’t coming up” Sera said, Viper retraining her sights to where there used to be a huddle of four trees. Now just charred burning stumps.

“Possibly a non-light bearer?” Luca asked.

“Possibly. Viper, on me, we will go join the others” Shin said, he and Viper quickly moved back through the camp in the direction Osiris had led the others.

“Still no Ghost…” Sera sighed, though she did not take her eyes off her scope.

_____

ARJIC’S P.O.V

As an explosion sounded in the distance Osiris gave the signal and we rushed from our hiding places, Barrage firing into a Titan who went down very quickly. Osiris quickly took out the Ghost whilst I put a shot in the back of the head of one of the others, though no Ghost appeared, the other just cowering against a tree.

“PLEASE! PLEASE DON’T SHOOT ME! I HAVE NO LIGHT!” he cried out, Osiris stopping before him, his gun aimed at him, though he did not fire.

“The Titan was the only Guardian. No Ghost on this on” I said, Osiris looked back to the body and then the man before us.

Beep. Beeeeep.

“He has no light either. He is telling the truth” I sighed, turning as I heard footsteps approaching. Shin and Viper appeared through the trees. “One Titan, two non-light bearer” I said, Viper sighing.

“One Hunter, one non-light bearer, both dead” she said, Shin, moving over to the man Osiris had at the end of his rifle and pulled him up.

“You are coming with us to answer a few questions. And if you co-operate, I might let you live” Shin growled, dragging the now sobbing man back towards the camp. “Utilising non-light bearers against Guardians. The man you serve is a sick bastard who has no regard for your life” Shin huffed.

“Can you two take the corpses further out and burn them? They’ll attract predators otherwise” Osiris sighed, and I nodded, Barrage sighing and looking to the Titan, he looked like he weighed a fair bit.

“I’ll help” Viper said.

_____

Adrul’s P.O.V

Once everyone was back at camp and our new friend had calmed down, Sera supplied him with a hot drink with a splash of whiskey to help with his nerves. “Look, we are not going to hurt you, we just want information” she said as he took the mug and took a few sips of the drink.

“Please don’t make me go back there! He will kill me and my family if I return!” he sobbed, leaning into Sera, and bawling his eyes out.

“We are not going to send you back… We can help get you and your family get to safety and ensure Dredgen Yor never hurts anyone again. We just need some information” Sera said, pulling back a little bit and smiling at him. He simply nodded, taking another sip of his drink.

“Do you think we can trust him? Or is this an act?” I asked Shin who took a deep breath before gesturing for me to follow him. I did so, Viper also followed suit. We walked to the edge of the camp and faced away from everyone else.

“So, whilst Serafina was making the drink, she made use of her weird Awoken telepathic abilities, he is desperate for an out, to save his family. He has no loyalty to Dredgen Yor” Shin said, Viper looked a little shocked.

“Is that ethical? Using her abilities like that?” Viper asked and Shin shrugged.

“I think in the case of ensuring not only his safety, but our own, it was warranted, and I doubt he noticed at all” I sighed, not entirely happy with the situation, but I understood why she did it.

“Exactly” Shin said before looking back out over the horizon. “I did over to speak to him myself, but Sera said the fact that I had dragged him back to the main camp threatening to shoot him probably would not make him very trusting of me” he then added, Viper chuckling.

“You think… The poor guy looked like he was going to die from fright” she said.

“Well, hopefully, he can provide us with some useful information, even if it is just a rough number of guards” I said, glancing back at Sera and the man, Osiris had now joined them. Sera smiled softly, nodding along as the man spoke. Osiris on the other hand looked stern and serious, though I could not hear a raised voice from him at all, and the man seemed relaxed when Osiris spoke…

“I did another quick sweep of the surrounding area, I found five mines” Barrage said as they walked over, throwing a bag to the floor at Shin’s feet. Shin didn’t even flinch, unlike me and Viper who practically jumped out of our skins.

“Are they still in working order?” Shin asked, Barrage shaking their head, Shin letting out a slightly disappointed sigh.

“Do you think I would throw mines to the ground in that manner if they were in working order?” Barrage chuckled before heading towards the camp and resting on some crates.

“We still have a few hours before sunrise, we should probably figure out who our new friend is going to be bunking with” Shin sighed, turning around, and heading towards Sera, Osiris, and our new friend. Shin and Arjic nodded at him as he walked by. Arjic looked over and nodded to me as well, I smiled back at him, and I could have sworn he blushed…

_____

LUCA’S P.O.V

I looked from Arjic to Adrul and then back, Arjic’s cheeks were a little flushed. “You remember when you said you were going to stay single, find yourself, all that jazz?” I asked, Arjic looking back at me a little confused but nodding. “Does that include finding out what is under our Titan friend's armour?” I asked, Arjic’s eyes going wide for a moment before he just turned and walked towards his tent. “Is that a yes?” I chuckled, Arjic turning back as if to say something but instead, he just stuck his tongue out at me before entering his tent. “I will take that as a yes” I then chuckled to myself before walking over to Shin, Sera, and Osiris.

“… The surrounding area is clear of any other potential threats, including five mines that Barrage found and disarmed, hopefully, there are not anymore” Shin stated, though before anyone else could say anything, our guest spoke up.

“There were only five… We left the settlement with five” he said Sera nodding.

“Good, Magnus has been able to give us a more accurate number on the number of guards currently in the settlement as well as what sort of weaponry they have as well as how to tell the elite from a general guard” Sera said, Shin and I nodding.

“Should we send Magnus back to the settlement, he will be killed, as will his family for failing to die with honour in the protection of the settlement. The only reason he is here is that if he did not comply, he and his family would have been killed. We have agreed he will stay here until the raid on the settlement is complete and his family safely extracted. He can then join his family in the Last City to restart their life” Osiris added.

“Do we have a spare tent or is someone sharing?” Shin asked, Sera looked to the two of us.

“You have shared a tent before if one of you wants to give up yours, or share with Magnus” she said, Shin smirking and looking at me.

“Fancy putting up with my snoring again Luca?” he asked, I just laughed and nodded.

“Fine, not like Hunters need sleep anyway” I said before looking to Magnus. “I have a smaller tent than him so you can take my tent, it is plenty big enough for one person. We will see if we can find a spare sleeping bag and I believe Adrul has an extra pillow to hand” I said, Magnus just nodding, tears forming in his eyes.

“Am I really going to be free? I won’t be jailed or tortured for attacking your camp?” he asked, his voice cracking as he tried to hold back the tears.

“Why would we torture you? You were forced into this; you had no choice… Once this is all over, you and your family can start a new life in the Last City, without fear of being jailed or tortured” I said, Magnus nodding and wiping the tears from his cheeks. “Does Dredgen spread that sort of shit? That we jail and torture people in the Last City?” I asked, Magnus nodding.

“I can assure you that, that is not the case” Sera stated before looking at me and Shin. “Why don’t you guys sort the tent situation out and we will go from there” she said, both of us nodding and heading over to the tents to move belongings about.

“Anyone got a spare sleeping bag?” Osiris called out as we did so, Ollie standing up.

“I do! Give me a few mins” he said, and after a few minutes something hit me in the back of the head, and I turned to see a sleeping back on the floor and Ollie stood there looking a little sheepish.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

After everyone had sorted their tents and Magnus had settled, Shin made a small ration pack up and passed it to him, Magnus stared at it for a moment before tentatively taking a mouthful before devouring it.

“When did you last eat?” Shin then asked, drawing most of the camp's attention.

“Ummm… I eat a bit of bread and some mashed potato some days, most of the food goes to my wife and children, so most of the bread, what meat we get, the majority of the vegetables… At least if I am thought dead my family will get compensation in the form of extra rations for a week” Magnus sighed, and I looked to Shin and then back to Magnus.

“Well, within that week we will take Dredgen down and you and your family can start a new and safer life in the Last City,” I said, Magnus, smiling at me slightly before finishing off his meal. “Anyway, Osiris, I believe you have watched, the rest of us should rest, I want an early start for recon and getting our final plans in place,” I said, everyone, nodding and heading to their tents, Shin showing Magnus to his.

Chapter Text

OSIRIS’ P.O.V

The next morning, the Hunters emerged first, Ollie the first to wake, Viper second, followed by Luca and Shin, Sera being the last to wake, though, only minutes after Luca and Shin.

“Morning… Oh, we did make a dent in those trees didn’t we” Ollie chuckled, looking out to the group of trees that Luca had fired his rocket launcher into. Of the five Hunters, Ollie seemed to be the happiest, Viper the most scatter brained, Luca the chattiest, Sera the most realistic and Shin, Shin was the quietest when interacting with anyone other than his fellow Hunters.

“What you thinking so hard about old man?” Shin’s voice asked as he came to perch next to me, I looked to him.

“The nature of Hunters” I commented, Shin chuckling and looking at the three Hunters going about setting up for breakfast, Sera and Luca chuckling, Ollie asking questions about the pair’s adventures like an enthralled child whilst Viper seemingly listened intently. However, every few seconds she would seemingly space out. “You are all so different in your natures, and yet, you interact so easily. For ones who so vehemently claim to be lone wolves, you are truly a pack animal” I stated, Shin simply chuckling.

“Only those Hunters who do not know what it truly means to be a Hunter claim to be lone wolves… Or those who lost their way” Shin replied before standing and moving back towards the four going about their business, placing a hand on Viper’s shoulder, the Exo Hunter smiling up at him.

“Osiris, sausages, or bacon?” Luca then called over and I looked to the Hunter.

“Surprise me” I replied, Luca chuckling and going back to preparing everyone’s breakfast. It would not be long before the smell of his cooking woke the others. Everyone gathering for breakfast, even our guest from the settlement seemed to be more at ease this morning. After a minute Luca stood with a small plate and walked over, presenting me with my breakfast.

“Surprise” he chuckled as I took the plate, one sausage and two rashers of bacon, as well as beans, a slice of fried bread, an egg, and some mushrooms, not a bad breakfast at all, certainly more enticing than those I had in the Infinite Forest.

“Thank you, Luca,” I said, accepting the cutlery off of him as well before he returned to his own breakfast.

“I was thinking, today we could survey those two entrances Malphur, make a decision this evening on the best course of action” I said in between mouthfuls. Shin looked up and nodded, looking over to Sera who smiled and nodded.

“Sounds like a plan, how do you want to do that?” Sera asked and I looked at her for a moment as I took another mouthful. Hunters were always so plan orientated, it was one of the perks of having a Hunter around.

“I was thinking you and Phantom could join me at the closer site whilst Shin and Ollie went to the other site, giving me the option to travel between the sites so I can observe both for myself” I stated, Sera nodding.

“Sounds like a solid plan, we will get ready and leave after breakfast” Shin said, I simply nodded and carried on with my breakfast, observing the horizon, it was a beautiful view indeed… Though the burnt and fallen trees did mar it somewhat, then again, rocket launchers are not known for improving the natural beauty of an environment.

_____

PHANTOM'S P.O.V

I lay on my stomach staring through the scope of Sera’s sniper scope at what was essentially a glorified hole in the ground. How Hunters spent so much time scoping places out and gathering intel I would never know; it was the most boring activity I could possibly think of.

“Still no sign of any guards or even someone just poking their head out to check their surroundings… I’d have at least expected a snake or some kind of rodent by now” I sighed, looking to Sera who was laying on her back with her eyes closed. Though I doubted she was asleep, Hunters were known for their lack of sleep above almost all else.

“Look at the ground around the entrance, there are two spots in which the dirt is more compact, suggesting something, or someone, regularly takes up occupancy of that space. Now, unlike places with a constant guard, it is not completely compact, suggesting that the guards are not a permanent fixture, they may not even be there for the purpose of guarding the entrance. At least two people may be using the area to ensure they have some peace and quiet” Sera said without even opening her eyes.  

“How can you tell it is at least two people?” I asked, looking back down at the scope, trying to determine where exactly she meant.

“Because if it was one person, they would likely use the same spot repeatedly, and on the off chance they were moving around, it would likely be to follow or avoid the sun, as both spots are currently in the sun and close together, moving would not achieve such goals” she explained before rolling over and looking at the site we were scouting.

“How do you do this? It is so boring” I sighed, Sera chuckling before rolling back onto her back and closing her eyes.

“It is a Hunters dream, to sit and enjoy the fine weather all day whilst having to look down a scope… The best days are when we get to pull the trigger!” she said, rather excitedly. “I once spent a week in the mountains taking out Cabal after the Red War, it was just so calming, tracking them, taking them out one by one, watching them fall to the ground” she sighed, I just looked to her, a content smile on her face.

“I don’t spend time with Hunters often… I know why now” I muttered before going back to looking down the scope. Sera simply chuckled before silence fell again.

_____

SHIN'S P.O.V

I sat staring up at the trees above us, Ollie looking down the scope of his rifle. He had a rather nice rifle, though after using Sera’s, I found every other rifle lacking… It was simply exquisite; it was made for a Hunter.

“How much do you think it cost?” I asked, looking to Ollie who looked at me rather confused. “Sera’s rifle… It must have cost a fair bit” I clarified, Ollie nodding and looking back down the scope of his rifle.

“Banshee made it, so it was certainly not cheap, a friend once asked him how much it was for a custom hand cannon… close to six figures, so I imagine a sniper rifle with all the extras was close to seven” Ollie said, I nodded in agreement. “Though I doubt that was an issue for Commander Zavala, he has been around the block a few times, I imagine he has accrued a sizeable financial portfolio” Ollie then added.

“Sizeable financial portfolio?” I chuckled, not expecting that kind of language from Ollie, he seemed far to… happy, to be thinking about finances.

“Yeah, he obviously invested his glimmer wisely, and if he saved enough early on with the correct people who then became banks, the interest he must see on his savings must be decent… I mean, I am not that fresh out the grave, so I have some savings and some glimmer invested, but I am far, far, far younger than Commander Zavala” Ollie said so nonchalantly.

“How do you know so much about finances?” I asked, Ollie just shrugged.

“I read about it and then put it into practice and then read about it some more… Just rinsed and repeated really. Isn’t that how you learn about thing?” He asked and I just chuckled and nodded.

“It is I guess, I just never took you to be interested in finances is all” I said, Ollie chuckling at my comment, though it was a chuckle I had not heard from him before, it was a little deeper, some would say it was an evil chuckle.

“I can be quiet disarming with how… Simple, I come across, but I am well versed in finances, Golden Age history, the evolution of weapons through the collapse, the history of the Vanguard, and growing poisonous plants” Ollie stated, I just nodded, her was certainly full of surprises. “If you ever need any poisonous plants, just let me know, same if you want any help with finances or to chat about how weapons have evolved” Ollie added.

“I shall remember that… You are certainly full of surprises Ollie” I chuckled, both of us falling silent for a moment, and in that moment, we heard a twig snap and we both sat up, hand cannons drawn.

“Glad to see I still I am still able to sneak up on Hunters” Osiris chuckled, I just sighed and lay back down, Ollie chuckled and went back to looking down his scope as Osiris sat and leant against a nearby tree. “Anything of interest?” he asked.

“No, it does not look like it is guarded at all, a few rodents have come in and out, but that’s it” I said, Osiris nodding and looking over at the entrance.

“It looks more accessible as well as the other entrance” Osiris mused.

“Osiris… You’ve seen Sera’s rifle; how much do you think it cost Commander Zavala?” Ollie suddenly asked, the old Warlock looking the Hunter with a raised brow, not that Ollie had looked away from his scope.

“I don’t concern myself with those thoughts of things” Osiris replied, Ollie glanced to me and pulled a face before going back to looking down his scope.

“I think it was close to seven figures, I may ask Banshee when we get back, see if he remembers” he said, I just chuckled.

“Well, if he does, let me know” I said, Ollie simply nodded. Silence then fell for a while and I lay watching the trees once more, it was peaceful, serene, I enjoyed stake outs like these, they were not too taxing on the mind or body. Osiris seemed to be enjoying himself as well, writing in a notebook, when all of a sudden Ollie made a sound and we both looked to him intrigued.

“Oh! Another rodent, it has babies with it… How cute” Ollie said, oblivious to the annoyance of both me and Osiris at him cooing over baby rodents.

_____

ZAVALA’S P.O.V

I stepped out of the shower and looked to the alarm clock… It was four in the morning, and I had been up since three, a lot earlier than I was usually up. Though it seemed I had inherited Sera’s inability to sleep.

The kettle has just boiled

“Thank you, Neptune,” I sighed, heading into the living room and over to the kitchen, making myself a black coffee and staring around the apartment as I drank it, it felt empty. Even when Sera was present and remained in bed, it never felt empty, I knew she was present, that she was in the apartment.

Luca sent an update this morning, some of the group have gone to scout to possible entrances for Osiris…

“Hopefully they won’t need to do too much scouting, having the scans Sera obtained last time should help” I sighed, Neptune simply nodded before darting around the apartment, examining items on shelves, looking at the underwatered plants… “What else did Luca report?” I asked, knowing Neptune was hiding something.

Well, Dredgen knows they are present, he sent a team to attack them. However, that team was almost entirely wiped out. One Non-Light Bearer was captured and has since been providing the group with what information he can.

“Were any of the group wounded?” I asked, Neptune shaking his shell. “Good, good…” I sighed, downing the rest of the coffee before placing the mug in the sink and going to dress.

You don’t have to head out just yet, no one will be expecting you, you can take your time in the mornings you know?

“I know Neptune, I just need to occupy my mind, I worry about Sera when she is in the wilds, especially when she is on missions such as this one…” I sighed, starting to dress, though before I could put my top on there was a knock at the door.

Well, that has to be Cayde, he is the only person who would be up this early

“Well, lets find out” I sighed, pulling my top on over my head and making my way to the door, opening it to see Cayde there, he looked rather surprised for a moment.

“I did not expect you to be up… It is a bit early, even for you” he said, slipping past me into the apartment as he spoke.

“Then why are you here? Sera is in South Africa” I reminded him, Cayde looked to me and then held a datapad up to my face. I blinked a moment as I focused on the screen, it was a report… Luca’s report that Neptune had told me about.

“Neptune informed me…. Why did you feel the need to come and show me?” I asked, Cayde simply nodded, lowering his arms and the datapad with them.

“So, this morning, Shin, Luca and Viper had contacted me, they wish to know how much you paid for Sera’s rifle, it seems to have caught their attention” Cayde said, and I looked at him a little confused. “The Hunters want to know how much the shiny custom-made toy cost so they can sulk about the fact they cannot afford it… Well, Shin may be able to, and Ollie, he’s smart with glimmer…” Cayde added.

“It is four in the morning, and you came to ask me how much I paid for a gun?” I asked, Cayde simply nodded.

Just tell him, or they’ll go to Banshee and that will just confuse the poor Exo.

“Fine… I will tell you how many digits it cost me... will that suffice?” I asked, Cayde nodded eagerly. “It cost seven digits for the gun itself and another two for him to never remake the gun for another again. It is and always shall be a one of a kind” I said, Cayde looking at me more than a little shocked.

“How the hell could you afford that?” Cayde asked.

“I am old, and I invested wisely, it honestly did not make that much of a dent in my savings… How do you not have more savings?” I asked, Cayde looked to me, and without missing a beat responded.

“Gambling and booze, why else wouldn’t I have savings?” he asked, and I found myself laughing at his response. 

Chapter Text

VIPER’S P.O.V

After a few hours, the group returned to camp, Shim immediately getting his map out and laying it out, everyone gathering around, even Magnus.

“Okay, Osiris, Adrul, Ollie and Barrage, you will be entering from this entrance with Osiris in the morning. You will leave an hour before the rest of us in order to give you time to get into position. The closest entrance is used as a getaway spot for some occupants of the settlement. We cannot count on it being abandoned during the time period we need it to be” Shin said, everyone, nodding. “We also did a quick sweep of the perimeter of the settlement, the hole in the wall is still present but appears to be guarded, so myself and Viper will enter there and take care of the guards, Phantom following suit after three minutes… and I am being generous there, we should have the guards taken care of within thirty seconds, but just to be on the safe side” Shin then added, once again, we all nodded.

“I want this done by midday… So, Osiris, you and the others leave at five. The rest of us leave at six. Magnus… I am going to make a call; whilst I doubt you would have any trouble whilst waiting for us, I don’t want to chance leaving you on your own and defenceless” Sera said, Orion coming to float before her, connecting a call.

“Serafina! To what do I owe the pleasure?” the voice of Amanda Holliday asked, Sera smiled at the sound of the shipwright’s voice.

“I need one civilian picking up at around six tomorrow… and I do mean the morning, I hope that isn’t too much of an inconvenience” Sera chuckled, the shipwright sighing heavily on the other end of the call.

“Very well, who is it, and where from?” Holliday asked.

“A new friend of ours, Magnus, a civilian from within the settlement walls who escaped Dredgen’s clutches. I shall have Orion send you our campsite coordinates. Can you bring him to the agreed meeting point with the Vanguard once the all-clear is given?” Sera asked.

“I sure can… Speaking of the Vanguard, your Commander is a bit on the tired side, I think he is missing his bedfellow, it is making him grumpy” Holliday commented, everyone letting out their chuckles, Holliday included.

“Thank you, Holliday, I will see you soon” Sera sighed, nodding to Orion who ended the call before the shipwright could respond. “Okay, you will be safe with Amanda until we have taken care of Dredgen, you can then be reunited with your family” Sera said, Magnus, letting out a relieved sigh.

“Thank you, I can’t wait to see my wife and children again, I cannot imagine the hell they are going through, thinking I am dead” he sighed.

“It will be over tomorrow; the nightmare will end. We will see to that” I said, looking to everyone present, they all nodded firmly, we were going to see this tyrant brought to his end.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

As the day went on, we busied ourselves, preparing our weapons, ensuring we had everything we needed, sharpening our knives, going over the plan again, and again, and again, making tweaks where needed. By the time Luca had begun to prepare our meal, the sun had set.

“I am going to take ten minutes; I suggest if you have any pre-mission rituals you carry them out now. Once we have eaten, unless you are the first guard of the night, retire to your tents, go over the plan, do whatever you wish, but ensure that you rest well” I said before standing and heading out of the camp and towards a small group of trees, sitting at the base of one and closing my eyes, clearing my head, and taking a few moments to enjoy the stillness.

Do you wish for me to see if he is free?

I looked to Orion, he was floating next to me, observing the area as I took a moment. “Yes…” I said, smiling softly at my Ghost as his shell twisted and turned.

“Sera…” Zavala’s voice cut through any tension or worry I was still feeling, it felt like a weight had been lifted from my chest.

“Hey handsome, thought I would give you a call before we ate and called it an evening… We strike tomorrow” I said, silence falling for a moment.

“I shall inform the others, what time?” Zavala asked.

“Orion will send Neptune all the details, right now, I just… I wanted to hear your voice” I sighed, Zavala, chuckling.

“Funny, I was just thinking, how much I wanted to hear your voice, granted I would much rather be stood before you, to be able to hold you in my arms” Zavala said and I just closed my eyes, I could almost feel his arms around me, holding me close, the scent of his body wash and cologne, the warmth of his body…

“You’ll be able to hold me tomorrow…” I said, opening my eyes, it was dropping cooler, the sky was clear, full of stars. “The stars are beautiful tonight” I sighed.

“I am afraid I cannot comment, the sun is out in all its glory currently” Zavala sighed, I hated it when we were not in the same time zone, not looking upon the same sky. “Though, I look forward to seeing them. I imagine I will be leaving to oversee the transport of civilians under starlight” Zavala said, and I smiled, hopefully, the stars would be just as beautiful.

“That is very likely. I imagine from leaving camp to completion of the strike it will be only a few hours…” I sighed, silence falling once more.

“I love you, I really do Sera, and I have missed you terribly” Zavala suddenly said after a few minutes of silence.

“I love you too Zavala, and I have missed you too, though tomorrow night, we will be back in one another’s arms, and that, is always a pleasurable experience” I chuckled.

“That it is… I shall let you go and enjoy Luca’s cooking, and I shall see you soon” Zavala said, I smiled to myself and nodded.

“That you shall, I love you” I replied.

“I love you too Sera” Zavala said one final time before the call ended and I was once again left in silence.

Do you want to record it now?

I just looked to Orion nodding, the Ghost coming to float just before me, nodding to me once he was ready, I nodded back and waited a moment.

“Zavala, if you are watching this, the strike did not go to plan and either I, or some of us lost our lives…” I said, pausing for a moment… These never got easier to make.

_____

Arjic’s P.O.V

I headed out of camp a little bit, found myself a secluded rock to perch on and looked up at the stars, enjoying the silence, the calm, the wave of serenity the night sky seemed to bring me.

“They are beautiful, are they not?” a voice suddenly asked, and I looked down to see Luca standing there, I glanced back over in the direction of the camp, half expecting to see a giant fire, he never left his cooking unattended. “Don’t worry, it is a stew, there is not much they can do to it that would ruin it” Luca chuckled.

“If you say so” I chuckled, Luca and I both looking back to the stars.

“I know you usually take this time to sit in silence, but I thought I should come and remind you that me and Sera, we are here for you, we are not going anywhere. We have your back” Luca said, I simply closed my eyes and smiled.

“Thank you, Luca, I appreciate it” I said, looking down at the Hunter who smiled at the stars before looking at me.

“Enjoy the stars Arjic, savour their beauty, a night sky is never the same twice” Luca commented before heading back to camp. I just smiled and did as he said, I savoured the view.

When it did come time to return to camp, I was the last back, though Luca had a bowl ready for me, still piping hot. “Thank you” I sighed, taking my seat, and digging into the meal, everyone was quiet, enjoying the stew, even Sera looked content.

“The Vanguard has been sent all the details of tomorrow, they will be on the comms where necessary, but I have requested they have minimal involvement given the precision that is needed for the initial attack… and whilst I plan to be awake to see Osiris, Ollie, Adrul and Barrage off, if I don’t get to personally say it beforehand, keep your heads down, and your guns up,” Shin said, everyone nodding, those who had finished their food retiring for the evening, as I retired only Sera and Adrul were still up, Sera as she was taking the first watch, and Adrul because he was having a second helping of the stew. It seems Titans surely did have a larger than normal appetite.

_____

OSIRIS’ P.O.V

As I ensure I had all the gear I needed I turned to see the others ready and Shin and Sera stood there, looking over their map.

“We are good to go. We shall see you shortly” I said, the pair looking up from the map and nodding.

“That we will, I shall let you know as soon as we are in position” Shin said, Sera nodding in agreement.

“Good luck, keep your eyes open” Sera said, I simply nodded and gestured for the three joining me to follow suit, Ollie waving at the two hunters as we left camp and made for the entrance to the underground tunnels we had decided upon. It would not be long till this day would be done with, and I would be back in the Infinite Forest where I belonged.

_____

LUCA’S P.O.V

As six approached a ship came in low and slow. Amanda had arrived and greeted us all with hugs. “It is so good to see you all made it past the meteor shower of Mercury and didn’t crash on the way here! I do worry about you flying especially Luca… You are terrible at it!” Amanda laughed as she hugged me.

“I am not that bad! I have seen a lot worse!” I chuckled, Amanda, raising a brow as she went to hug Sera.

“The Vanguard are en route, the prototype… Oh, what is it… Hub for Emergency Logistics and Manoeuvres is getting its first outing. I personally think they can go bigger, but we shall see” Amanda chuckled, Magnus nervously approaching.

“Amanda, this is Magnus” Sera said, introducing the two.

“Ah! Nice to mee ya! Don’t worry, I will take good care of you, we will safely join the others in orbit, and we will be back on firm ground in no time” Amanda said smiling, patting Magnus on the back as she showed him to her ship, giving us all a wave as she went.

“Poor guy is going to get his ears talked off” Arjic chuckled as Amanda’s ship vanished back into the atmosphere.

“Well, he could be going where we are instead, so we can count him as the lucky one! Now, everyone, we are heading out. The camp will be packed up after the operation” Shin stated, everyone nodding and splitting into their groups. Shin, Viper, and Phantom headed for the gates we would ensure the escape of civilians through whilst myself, Arjic and Sera made our way to the main gates. Whilst our paths were the same, to begin with, it soon came to the point where we split from Shin and the others.

“Good luck everyone, the drinks are on me when we are back in the Last City!” Sera called as we went our separate ways from Shin’s group, Shin laughing.

“I am holding you to that Sera!” Shin called before we picked up our pace.  

“Now that is a rarity! I can’t remember the last time you paid for drinks” I chuckled as we ran, Arjic chuckling a little. “If I remember correctly, it was on a rare night out after a strike a few months ago, and even then, you put the drinks on Zavala’s tab!” I laughed.

“You know he never noticed! So, maybe I can get away with that again” she laughed, though that was the last thing we said until we neared the gates.

“This is it… No turning back now” Arjic commented, and Sera nodded.

“We are prepared, and we are not alone. Keep your eyes peeled and your wits about you and we’ll be just fine” I said.

“Let's get this done then… Team A getting into position” Sera said, the comms crackling to life.

“Team B are in position” Shin replied.

“Team C are undertaking their attack” Osiris responded, the sounds of a Wizard crying out in the background.

“So, who gets to knock” I chuckled.

Chapter Text

SERA’S P.O.V

As we got closer to the main gate, the guards became more rigid in their stances, glaring at us as we approached, it was clear they knew we were not there simply by accident, that we were not some random, lost Fireteam.

“State your business here!” one of the guards spat, I chuckled as I pulled the child assassin's blade out of my belt, holding it up for the guards to see.

“I have something Dredgen may want back, but if he wants it back, he must come and get it himself!” I called up to the guard. The guards’ eyes going wide upon recognising the dagger, he turned to one of the other guards, giving him a hushed order before the other guard vanished from our sights.

“How did you come into possession of that blade?” the guard in charge asked, eyeing me carefully.

“I took it… the former owner of this blade has no use for it anymore… Or anything else for that matter” I stated, the guards looking shocked for a moment, though they quickly composed themselves as someone approached, a woman coming to stand next to the guard.

“Dredgen sent me to assess the situation. All I see is three pathetic excuses for Light Bearers and a stolen blade” she stated… Those who had fled with us the first time we had scouted the settlement had spoken of Dredgen’s second in command. A vile woman was how they described her… She was certainly giving me the same impression.

“If you want an assessment of the situation, I am more than happy to provide you with one” I responded, the woman raising her brow, though she certainly was not expecting what came next as I grabbed the blade of the knife and threw it at her. Its trajectory took it over the wall, though not before it left a thin cut along the side of her neck.

Her hand came up to her neck, examining the blood seeping from the wound. As she looked back at the three of us. “If you think you are walking away from here with your lives you are sadly mistaken!” She growled.

“If you had worn a helmet perhaps you would be as well” I commented, though instead of replying she turned to the guards, giving them an order.

“Keep them there! Shoot them if they try and depart!” she hissed at the guards before storming off.

“She seemed pissed” Arjic chuckled.

“Well, she certainly acted that way” Luca replied.

“Take aim men! You heard her; they are not to leave!” the guard who was in charge called, all the men doing as they were told.

“It is cute that they think they would come out on top, they have no idea how this would realistically end for them” I said to Luca who just chuckled.

“This is your last chance for an out, to free yourselves from Dredgen and his control… The Vanguard are prepared to offer anyone a second chance, though, this is an offer that will not be put on the table again after you open fire” Arjic called, none of the guards even moving a muscle.

“We are loyal to Dredgen Yor!” the guard in charge called, silence then fell for a few minutes before all the guards tensed as the sound of heavy boots on wooden stairs was heard. A tall man with dark messy hair appeared, and he glared down at us.

“I would ask you to identify yourselves, but after attacking my second in command I don’t see why that would matter. You are not going to walk away from here today” he said, his voice booming, commanding… But ultimately, it was an act, an act that would end today.

“We are here to put an end to your tyrant rule, to avenge those you and your little assassin have senselessly murdered and to ensure the safety of Eva!” I called back up, Dredgen chuckling manically for a moment, the guards closest to him were clearly unnerved by this.

“Eva will soon be back within my grasp and once she is, I will send what is left of her body back to the Vanguard before I bring them to their knees!” He responded, I just looked at Arjic and Luca before looking back up at him.

“Do you really think you are a match for all ten of us” I chuckled.

“I only see three pathetic Guardians” he said, practically hissing the word Guardian as if it were a bad taste in his mouth.

I turned to look at Arjic who smirked. “Osiris how is it going?” he asked, the comms crackling for a moment before Osiris’ voice rang out clear as day.

“The Wizard will be dead shortly, she is a lot tougher than we thought for a Wizard who has been held captive” Osiris stated, Dredge glaring at us whilst Luca opened a comm link to Shin.

“Shin, an update?” Luca asked, the comms crackling once more before Shin responded.

“We met no resistance from the guards and all anti-aircraft guns have now been taken offline, they are mere decorations now” Shin stated. I smiled and looked up to Dredgen.

“Are you ready to deal with both Shin Malphur and Osiris, because both are in your settlement and ready to take you down!” I called up, and as if on cue Orion had my rocket launcher loaded and ready, I smirked as I levelled it at the gates of the settlement and fired two rockets in quick succession. The doors splintering and flying inwards.

Luca and Arjic quickly opened fire on the guards, if any survived they only did so due to retreating to save themselves. Though before I could give an order to enter Dredgen Yor jumped from the walls to in front of us, his hand closing around my throat, he cut of my air supply almost immediately, his strength was what I would expect from a Titan. Though before he did any real damage, he threw me into the settlement. My body hitting the ground the sound of a few ribs cracking filling my ears.

“Orion… ribs” I gasped as I started to push myself up, though Dredgen was approaching, muttering something in what I can only assume was the language of the Hive, though before he could cast whatever spell he was casting Luca dived past him, driving a blade into the back of his leg whilst Arjic stuck a grenade to his back. The pair quickly ran over to me and pulled me up.

“EVERYONE OUT! TO THE OTHER GATES NOW! YOU WILL BE TAKEN TO SAFETY! TO THE LAST CITY!” Arjic yelled as we went, Luca, pointing people in the direction of the other gates. “GO! GO! THE LAST CITY WILL PROVIDE FOR YOU! FOOD! SAFETY! FREEDOM!” Arjic called, people were already leaving their homes and making for the gates… Only a few guards tried to stop them, though they were quickly taken care of.

As we ran, I glanced towards the other gates, glimpsing the others pointing civilians in the direction of safety, of freedom.

“The Wizard is on death's door, she was much, much tougher than expected” Osiris’s voice suddenly rang out over the comms, though before I could reply, the sound of a gun being fired rang out and I fell forward, pain spreading across my back.

Don’t worry! I’m on it!

Orion stated from beneath me, we had instructed all the Ghosts to stay out of sight where possible, we could not risk their safety. If there was any chance Dredgen could use Hive magic to damage them, we did not want to risk it.

Once Orion had repaired the damage I rolled over and began to pull myself up, Dredgen, however, kicked me back, standing over me, muttering something as he raised his fist, though as he went to swing at me he stumbled back, crying out in agony, clutching at his chest, his eyes glowing green for a moment before it faded…

“The Wizard is dead…” Osiris stated over the comms, and I took my chance and ran for the main building, though as I rounded a corner I saw Luca being pushed up against a wall by Dredgen’s second in command as she plunged the assassins blade into his stomach.

“LUCA!” I called out, darting over and shoulder barging her out of the way to the best of my abilities, taking the Hive blade from Luca’s stomach and going for the second in command, slashing at her a few times before shoving her up against a wall and plunging the blade into the back of her neck and twisting it, her screams ringing out as blood spluttered from the wound, splashing onto my visor, though as I pulled the blade out my visor was drenched in blood, I quickly wiped it, sheathing the blade at my side and moving to Luca, Arjic already supporting him.

“Quick, go ahead Arjic!” I called, as he moved forward Shin brushed past me, the two of them taking the other guards out with ease, the two Hunters guarding the door, however, put up more of a fight, but not enough of one.

“He will die soon, there is nothing you can do but watch your friend perish!” Dredgen called from behind us, I glanced back to see him walking behind us, laughing maniacally again.

“I have the balm, leave me and go, you can do it without me” Luca groans.

“No, that is not happening… Duck!” I called as I saw Shin run at us and summon his Golden Gun, solar energy radiating from him as he let a volley of flaming bullets fly towards Dredgen Yor. As the bullets initially hit, he cried out in agony again, though after a moment he began to compose himself.

“Inside, quick!” Shin said, helping me with Luca, Shin holding Luca up as he pulled the balm out, applying it to his own wound before Dom could heal it, using Shin’s body as cover to ensure he was out of sight.

“Okay, the other child, he’s supposed to be… In here!” I said, running up to one of the doors, I tried the handle, but it was locked, I took a step back and shot at it, I did not have time for locked doors. As it opened a young boy and his Ghost turned to me.

“I am here to get you to safety, but we need to be quick because Osiris is about to bring this place down on us!” I said, his Ghost perking up at the mention of Osiris. Nodding to their young Guardian, the two followed us. As we made our way through the corridors we ran into Osiris and Sagira.

You!

Sagira called out, I looked to her, as did Osiris.

We both found you at the same time… She conceded your resurrection to me…
It is good to see you after all these years!
You too!

“Whilst I thank you for allowing Sagira to resurrect me, you need to get out of here, follow them out, you will be safe!” Osiris states, the Ghost and boy following Barrage down the corridor where he was met by Ollie who took him from there.

“Luca, go with them” I said, though Luca looked at me and shook his head.

“I sat back and allowed you to do all the dirty work on Nessus, that will not be the case today” he said, and I just chuckled and nodded, hopefully, his wound had healed enough for him to be able to put up a good fight.

“He is approaching… Are you ready?” Shin asked, Osiris simply nodded whilst Phantom and Barrage nodded firmly, Arjic and Luca smirked, and I just took a deep breath as I looked around at them. Hopefully, we were enough.

After a moment of several sets of heavy footsteps approaching, Dredgen and several others rounded the corner, mostly Titans, though there was one Hunter among them.

_____

OSIRIS’ P.O.V

I stepped forward as Dredgen looked me up and down, I did recognise his face somewhat. Whilst I did not recall any interactions in detail, I knew I had met him before. “I do remember you…” I lied, Dredgen carefully examining my movements as I took another step forward. “I was wrong to have turned you away, I know now I should have killed you on the spot, just as Shin did your mentor” I stated, Dredgen narrowing his eyes, glaring at me, though his gaze shifted as Shin stepped forward.

“I will take great pleasure in killing yet another Dredgen Yor, in continuing to avenge my master” Shin growled through his smirk, his gun ready, the famous Last Word.

“I think you find I will be the one avenging his master, and I shall take great delight in taking avenge on you, especially you old worn-out Warlock… At least you being here will save me the trouble of sender that arrogant Hunters corpse to the Vanguard” he responded.

I found myself smirking, “I have not been a member of the Vanguard for many years, if you had not isolated yourself so much, you may be more aware of just how many Warlock’s now yield the power of Solar Light” I stated, summoning my Dawn Blade, and beginning to swing at the monstrous murderous man stood before us. Whilst he managed to dodge the first few swings, his luck eventually ran out, it was then his minions got involved.

_____

ARJIC’S P.O.V

As Dredgen took a hit the Hunter on his side popped their Arc Staff and surged for Osiris but was intercepted by Sera and her Arc Staff, the two of them duelling across the corridor, Shin was the next to pop his super, taking out several of the Titans with his Golden Gun before one of them reacted and Shin had to dodge their attack.

As I dodged an attack by another of the Titans, a Hunter’s body flew past me, dissolving into Arc energy as Sera kicked the Hunter back, Arc energy slowly dissipating from her body. “Well, he didn’t put up much of a fight” she stated, going for his Ghost as it appeared though before she could it shattered, and we both looked to Shin who just nodded before looking to the Ghost of the Titan he had just killed and taking it out.

“Sera, ensure Osiris keeps Dredgen in the rough area he is now!” I said, before running for a set of stairs for several floors and positioning myself roughly where Dredgen should be…

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

Both I and Shin helped Osiris keep Dredgen pinned where he was, whilst our guns did not do as much damage as Osiris could, they kept him in a small area, though after a moment there was a crashing sound and the familiar sound of pulsing Void Light getting closer.

“BACK UP!” Shin called and I jumped back, as did Osiris, and as we did a Nova Bomb burst through the ceiling, enveloping Dredgen, forcing him to the ground, though before Osiris could swing again at Dredgen he held his hand up and a ward activated in his hand, causing Osiris’ attacks to be deflected, thankfully, they did not hit anyone. Though as the ward faltered, Osiris’ super ability dissipated, allowing Dredgen a chance to attack, forcing Osiris back with his melee ability.

As he did, I focused my energy and brought my Arc Staff forward, swiping at Dredgen, causing him to stumble back, though as he did, he pulled out another Hive blade, lunging at me with it. I quickly moved my staff to one hand and unsheathed the Hive blade the child assassin had used, using my Arc Staff to block the attack, swiping with the blade at Dredgen, though he managed to avoid my attack. As he moved to take another swipe, he began muttering something and pain burst forward out of nowhere, throughout my body causing me to stumble back into a wall.

“SERA!” I heard Luca call, I looked to him as he opened fire on Dredgen, drawing his attention for a moment, causing the pain to lessen, though before I could react Solar Light filled the room as Phantom launched forward, swinging at Dredgen. Though as I tried to move for cover, I suddenly found Osiris standing over me, holding his cloak out. Any of Phantom’s attacks that came close to us were absorbed by Osiris’ cloak, the Solar Light running underneath his skin, as if he was Awoken, before vanishing.

“Are the civilians clear?” he asked, and I quickly opened my comms channel.

“Are the civilians clear?” I asked, waiting a moment before the comms crackled and Ollie’s voice came over the comms.

“A final sweep is taking place; we will let you know as soon as we are done!” he called.

I looked to Osiris who nodded, he glanced back and helped me up and we moved out of Phantom’s way, they were dealing some serious damage to Dredgen, though out of nowhere they suddenly flew across the room and into a wall, a Titan had shoulder charged them whilst they were focused on Dredgen.

Luckily as Arjic jumped down the hole he had made in the ceiling he helped Phantom up whilst Shin and Barrage dealt with the Titan.

_____

LUCA’S P.O.V

As Shin fired a full clip of ammo into the Titan’s chest, I dodged behind him and sunk my blade into his neck, putting enough force behind it to allow half the hilt to sink into his neck. As I pulled my knife out, his body dropped to the floor, and his Ghost appeared, facing me, the Ghost never saw Shin raise his gun and pull the trigger.

I looked across the room at Arjic helping Phantom up, there were no more supporters for Dredgen to rely on now. We slowly closed ranks around him, though he just chuckled as he began to chant, several wards on the walls beginning to glow, and after a moment Thralls began to pour from them. Dredgen uses the hole in the ceiling as his escape route, leaving us in a room filling with Thralls.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

I ended up back-to-back with Osiris, firing into a sea of Thralls. “Follow me!” he suddenly called, pulling me with him. “I have a plan, but you won’t like it” he said.

“Not if you sell it to me like that! What is it!” I replied.

“You get that dagger in his back, and we can finish him off with our supers, Shin can then finish off his Ghost. But that means you need to get close to him” Osiris said, looking up the hole, Dredgen stood looking down as Thralls still poured into the room.

“You are right, I won’t, but I am always one to do what needs to be done” I said, Osiris nodding and jumping up, I followed suit, Osiris grabbing my hand and using his momentum to get me higher and to Dredgen’s level. I was able to grab him and pull him forward despite the resistance he put up, though he used the fact he could push off from the floor to ensure I would be below him.

As we hit the floor the sounds of Thralls being slaughtered still filled the air, but the sounds of their claws on the walls had stopped, it seemed he could no longer focus on summoning them. Though before I could really react, he had pulled out his blade, I barely had time to bring my arms up to stop him from sinking it into my neck.

“You are going to die here, you don’t have the strength to reverse our roles, Hunters always have been and always will be weak!” he hissed, I just narrowed my eyes at him.

_____

“You are overthinking it, stop thinking so much and just act… Wrap your legs around my waist, and use my weight to roll us” Zavala explained, I looked up at him and smirked.

“Maybe if we were not in a bed, I would be more inclined to do well” I chuckled, Zavala just smirked and shook his head.

“Well, as you pointed out if we did this in the living room, we would likely end up needing a new TV” he replied, and I chuckled.

“Now come on! If you can manage this… I am sure I can think of a way to reward you for all your hard work” Zavala said, leaning down so his face was mere inches from mine, his breath hot on my skin.

“Very well” I said, allowing my body to just go through the motions, wrapping my legs around his waist and using his weight to roll us over so I was on top, a position he was rather fond of…

_____

“Had you allowed Hunters to get closer to you, then you would be well aware that we simply use our strength differently… Even I have a few tricks up my sleeves!” I snapped, wrapping my legs around him as best as I could and using his weight against him, rolling him onto his back. Allowing me to pin his arms with one of mine.

“I told you I would end you” I said, unsheathing my blade and driving it into his chest as hard as I could with one hand, he cried out in pain, dropping his own blade, I quickly brought my other hand to the hilt, dragging it down his chest, feeling it eventually meet resistance from his ribs as I sunk it in deeper.

As I pulled the blade out Osiris, Phantom and Barrage summon their supers, driving their blades into him several times each, I scrambled back as far as I could to avoid accidentally being stabbed. Though once they stopped, he was well and truly dead… Shin stood close by, and as his Ghost rose, Shin and the Ghost made eye contact, though neither said anything, the Ghost seemed to accept his fate, and as Shin pulled the trigger it was over in a wave of Light and Ghost fragments.

“As far as we can tell, we are clear… Ready when you are!” Ollie called down the comms and I chuckled; his timing was impeccable.

“Shin, the orb” Osiris said, Shin, pulled a small orb from his belt, it had a faint red glow about it. “Get out, I shall detonate this from the Wizard's chamber, ensure that its remains cannot be used in any way untoward” Osiris stated, quickly heading for the Wizard’s chamber.

“You heard the man! OUT!” I called, everyone getting out as quickly as possible, both I and Shin waiting for Osiris.

_____

SHIN’S P.O.V

After a few minutes, the old Warlock emerged, nodding to Sagira who looked back at the building, a whirlwind of fire bursting up from the tunnels beneath it and engulfing the building.

“We should leave, if the wind picks up…” I started, just as the wind picked up and the fire jumped to a few of the neighbouring buildings. “That could happen” I said, turning, Osiris was already halfway across the settlement, of course, he was. I turned to Sera, though she was just staring at one of the buildings. “Sera! Come on!” I called.

“Did you hear that? It sounded like a baby crying!” she said, the flames already covering the top of the building she was staring at.

“Sera, I didn’t hear a thing… Come on!” I said, grabbing her arm but she just shrugged me off and ran towards the building, barging through the door. “HOW ARE YOU NOT DEAD YET!” I yelled after her, following her into the building, she was already in the corner helping a lady up, she was holding a baby, no more than a few months old.

“Shin! THE ROOF!” Sera yells suddenly and I look up, dodging forward just in time to miss a falling beam, a beam that blocked the door.

“Woman! You are going to get me killed!” I yelled at Sera, smashing the nearest window, and helping the woman through with her child, someone else helping her from the other side. “Come on Sera! Before we become burnt toast!” I called, jumping out the window, helping Sera as she also dived out the window to avoid more falling beams. The two of us ended up on the floor with her straddling me.

“Shin… You always were a womaniser” Osiris sighed, helping Sera up before pulling me up.

“You were no better old man” I chuckled, the three of us jogging for the gate, catching up with the woman and baby, Ollie already helping her.

_____

ARJIC’S P.O.V

As Sera, Osiris, Ollie, and Shin reached us with the woman and her child, the fire was really beginning to spread. Luca had already informed the Vanguard the settlement had been cleared and they could land for the civilian transportation.

“Excuse me… Is… Is he dead? Dredgen… Is Dredgen dead?” a hooded woman asked suddenly, her voice catching my attention. I slowly moved towards her, Osiris and Sera looking at the woman.

“Yes, he is” Osiris stated, smiling at the woman, though her response seemed to confuse both he and Sera.

“Oh, that’s sad to hear” she muttered, lowering her head, and lowering her hood, as she did, she exposed a thin, freshly healed scar along the side of her neck. And before either Sera or Osiris could glimpse her face, she unsheathed the Hive Blade from Sera’s belt.

It was if time slowed as I launched forward, pushing Osiris out the way, and turning the face of the woman as the blade came down in my chest. Time caught back up with me in that moment as she repeatedly stabbed me, her eyes filled with venom and anger. I became vaguely aware of people screaming and the sound of a gun firing, it was then that the stabbing stopped, and I felt the blood pooling in my mouth and running down my chin.

Chapter Text

LUCA’S P.O.V

I lowered my gun as she fell to the floor, Shin quickly taking care of her Ghost. I ran over, Osiris with Arjic in his arms, lowering him to the floor. “Arjic! Arjic!” I called, falling to my knees and pulling my balm out of my pouch, Sera scrambling to do the same, both of us frantically applying the balm.

Though as we applied it, Arjic reached up and pushed Sera’s hand away a few times, eventually grabbing her wrist, stopping us both in our tracks. “Stop… I don’t know… If I want… to do it” he coughed, blood still tricking from his mouth.

“Do what Arjic… Do what?” Sera asked, grasping his hand in hers, holding it to her chest.

“Live… not being loved” he chocked out, Sera placing his hand down and pulling off her helmet as Shin knelt down next to Sera.

“Now you listen to me you fucking idiot, you are loved” Shin said, grabbing Sera’s balm and applying it to the wounds. I also quickly reassumed applying the balm. “Your Ghost loves you, adores you even, even the original Dredgen Yor’s Ghost loved him. Then there is your fireteam who loves you and you will break their hearts if you die on them! Especially like this! And I respect you! You didn’t hesitate to get between Osiris and that crazy bitch! Taking a hit like that is not something many Guardians would do!” Shin snapped, by this point, Sera was sobbing and I was trying to keep it together enough to apply the balm.

“Arjic… Don’t do this, don’t leave us… Fight! Live… please” Sera sobbed as Arjic’s hand began to go limp, slipping out of Sera’s grasp, both were covered in blood… in Arjic’s blood…

“Arjic… Buddy… Come on! You have to live, you have to keep fighting, I need you, you are my best friend, I tell you everything… I need someone to keep me in line by blackmailing me with all the stupid shit I do” I cried, watching as Ansel, Dom and Orion worked to heal the wounds… And they did it, the wounds closed, but Arjic didn’t even stir a little…

_____

OSIRIS’ P.O.V

I slowly lay Arjic down, I stood as quietly as I could and stood back, looking to Shin and gesturing for him to do the same. Shin stood slowly and moved back, allowing Sera and Luca the moment they needed.

“The Vanguard and civilian transport ships are coming in” Shin said, I looked over to the horizon as the ships landed, Ollie, Barrage, and Phantom directed the civilians towards them and away from Fireteam Survivor. “We best greet them, explain” Shin added.

“Yes, we best” I sighed, the two of us making our way over, watching as Commander Zavala, Ikora Rey and Cayde departed the ship. All of them looked over to the three Guardians in the near distance. “Dredgen’s second in command disguised herself as a civilian, she went to attack me with a Hive blade, Arjic got between us, he was stabbed repeatedly and viciously… We are giving them space and awaiting an outcome” I stated, Ikora’s feelings were immediately discernible from her expression as she looked at the three, as was Commander Zavala’s, the concern and worry for his partner evident.

“Thank you, Osiris, … Will you both be joining us back in the Last City?” he asked, and Shin, nodded. “I shall, the Infinite Forest is in good hands for a few more hours” I sighed.

“Thank you both, for your help in dealing with this tyrant. Hopefully, we can weasel out the rest and bring them to their knees as well” Commander Zavala stated, nodding to the two of us before his gaze returned to Sera.

“Indeed, thank you for doing this Osiris” Ikora stated, and I nodded to her.

“Though I must ask why you helped… There have been calls for aid from the Last City before, yet you did not respond. Why does the fact it was Sera that asked change anything?” Commander Zavala then asked, I looked at him, meeting his gaze.

“She had something I wanted… It was a fair trade” I said, Commander Zavala simply nodding. Ikora Rey, Cayde, and Shin moving toward the civilians to aid with ensuring their safe transport back to the Last City. Though Commander Zavala remained watching Sera. “I have seen her memories, observed her thoughts as she fell apart… All overseeing you die. She is terrified of your death, yet her own, she could watch herself die over and over and the reaction would be minimal. A fear like that stems only from real love” I stated, the Commander looking at me.

“I know, though I would appreciate it if you could reframe from further traumatising her…” he stated and I simply nodded, an awkward moment of silence falling.

You know, she would make an excellent Hunter Vanguard
I agree

“That would mean Cayde would be unleashed upon the solar system… Mercury included” Commander Zavala stated.

“That would mean too much work for you. Let us hope he never initiates the dare” I stated, Zavala then looking at me.

“Are you aware of how Andal Brask died?” he then asked, and I nodded my head. “Then you know why he won’t… At least now with how dangerous the system is at the minute” Zavala stated.

“I attended his funeral, and his memorial service, they were both beautiful, Cayde spoke wonderfully about him,” I said, Zavala, smiling ever so slightly.

“He was always sure you were there, that despite your differences, you would never let Andal down like that,” he said, and I nodded. I may not have seen eye to eye with the Hunter, but I respected him. Greatly.

“I had to pay my respects to him” I stated. Another silence fell, though thankfully it was broken quickly by the approach of Ikora. She stood with me for a moment in silence.

“Sera, despite being as angry at you as she was, was grateful towards you for agreeing to help” she stated and I nodded, I doubt she had let go of all her anger, she would likely remind me of it for months to come.

“I never did thank you, for sending Serafina into the Infinite Forest upon Sagira’s discovery. There is no one more suited to the task than she of keeping the galaxy safe whilst I battle the Vex on one front, and Asher Mir on another… You were also right; Asher would have been too unstable to carry this mission out” I stated. Ikora looked at me with a raised brow.

“Asher Mir was never even considered for this mission” She chuckled, I looked over to the Awoken Hunter, had she not been knelt beside the body of her friend, I may have said something.

“Even I know better than to believe everything a Hunter says” Commander Zavala then commented. I sighed and looked back to the Fireteam, a silence, once more, falling. “Arjic is stirring…” he suddenly breathed.

_____

ARJIC’S P.O.V

I groaned as I shifted, my eyes fluttering open, the sun would have been blinding had Sera and Luca not been hovering over me, both of them were clearly crying. “Don’t you dare do that to us again!” Sera sobbed, slowly helping me sit up, Luca suddenly wrapping his arms around my neck and holding me close.

“I thought we had lost you! I was beside myself Arjic! You cannot do that to us! I almost had a heart attack” Luca sighed, I wrapped my arms around him and squeezed him back, enjoying the hug, Sera also wrapped her arms around us, her tears slowly ceasing.

“I am sorry… I know you both love me so much, and Ansel, I could not abandon you, I am sorry” I sighed, Ansel floating close, and I pulled him to my cheek, hugging him in whatever way I could.

After a few more minutes the Vanguard and Osiris started to move towards us, though as they did the other child Guardian approached, holding his hand out for Sera which she shook.

My Guardian cannot speak, he is mute… His name is Emeka, I speak for him, I am Sarlia.
Oh, Arjic’s Ghost cannot talk, you are opposites!

“That is right, my talk cannot Ghost” I sighed, pausing for a second as Sera and Luca chuckled, the child smiling at us.

BEEP!
Exactly!

“It is great to meet you Emeka, I am Sera, this is Arjic, and this is Luca” Sera stated, the child smiling at her before looking towards another ship that had just landed, Hawthorne and Eva departing. “I feel you two have a lot of similar experiences, Eva is a wonderful Guardian, she will surely love to meet you” Sera stated, the child nodding, he, and his Ghost heading towards Eva and Hawthorne.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

As Emeka left, the Vanguard approached, it took both me and Luca to get Arjic standing, and Luca to help him stay standing. “How are you feeling Arjic?” Ikora asked, Arjic looked at her for a moment before taking a deep breath.

“Like I need a very, very, very, very long nap” he sighed, I found myself chuckling and looking at him, brushing a strand of blood-soaked hair from where it had become stuck to his face.

“You have certainly earned one, and a shower” I said, Arjic smiling at me.

“Well, let us get you back to the Tower so you can get that Shower at the very least, you all look like you need one” Zavala stated, I just smiled at him, and he smiled back for a moment.

“Well, let's get going, before those two move past making eyes at each other to getting handsy” Cayde stated, patting both myself and Zavala on our shoulders and guiding us towards the ships, I just laughed.

“We will meet you and Arjic back there, we need to pack up camp” I said, Ikora nodded, though Cayde raised his hand just in front of my face.

“I know your habit of leaving your camp till last and as a result, I sent some frames in, they have already packed up your camp and everything is on its way back to the Last City as we speak” Cayde said, I just stared at him in disbelief before shaking my head and walking with him towards the transports.

Chapter Text

IKORA’S P.O.V

We all stood in the Hangar, Osiris saying his goodbyes to Phantom and Barrage, he had extended them an open invitation to the Infinite Forest, which was very generous of him, not that he controlled who entered the Infinite Forest. At least he found them both interesting to a degree to extend them such an invitation.

“Arjic, you take care, rest, heal fully” Osiris said as he approached the young Warlock and his fireteam, Arjic giving him a small smile and nodding back to him. I imagine they would have very few interactions going forward, at least not without others present. “And Luca, Sera, you are two very interesting Hunters to work with… I hope to see you again” he stated, Luca, chuckling.

“I am going to take that as a compliment and you can’t stop me” Luca said, Sera smiling and shaking her head at her fellow Hunter.

“I am sure we shall cross paths again soon enough. Stay out of trouble, for my sanity, please, stay out of trouble” she stated, Osiris simply nodding and moving to stand before myself, Cayde, and Zavala.

“Ikora, I have enjoyed seeing you, we should not leave it so long next time. And Cayde… We should leave it longer” Osiris stated, Cayde chuckling and nodding at the older Warlock. “Though hopefully the next time, it will be under better circumstances” he then added.

“Yes, here is to no longer meeting each other’s eyes at memorial services and pretending that I never saw you” Cayde replied, Osiris chuckling and nodding.

“And Commander, I wish you the best” Osiris stated, Zavala, shaking his hand as he extended it to him.

“And to you Osiris” he replied, Osiris looking back to me and smiling.

“I plan on visiting Brother Vance before my return to the Infinite Forest, and upon their return, I am sure those who you sent to watch over the forest shall provide you with a thorough debrief of all they discovered whilst there” he stated, and I nodded.

“I am sure they will do just that. Stay safe Osiris” I smiled, he nodded before turning and heading for his ship, leaving the Last City once more overseen by the Vanguard, thankfully this time, it was on much better terms.

_____

SHIN’S P.O.V

After saying my goodbyes to Osiris, I met and sat down with the group of Guardians who had defected prior to the attack on the settlement as well as three more who had defected during the attack, finally seizing their opportunity to escape.

“This is not going to be easy; you have to show you are trustworthy, but you can do that, you will be paired with experienced Guardians, ones who can help you adjust and show your loyalty to the city. Once you have earned that trust, you will be able to form your own Fireteams or join others, but until then, you need to be on it, at the top of your game… And remember, mistakes happen, own them, and you will be fine, the Vanguard want you to succeed, they are invested in you, so don’t think you have to be perfect to keep their favour” I said, everyone, nodded. “You can do this, you can rebuild… Get the chances you deserved from the day you were resurrected” I said.

_____

CAYDE’S P.O.V

As the evening fell over the city, I met with Shin and Sera in the Bazaar for a drink. “You know, you need to visit more often” I said, passing Shin and Sera their beers, Shin nodding.

“I will endeavour to do so” he said, taking a swig of his drink.

“Maybe also get a casual girlfriend as well” Sera commented, both Shin and I laughing at her comment, though, both of us also nodded in agreement.

“That is certainly advise I shall consider, though I do have to say I am thankful to have met you and your fireteam Sera, I shall probably call on you in the future should I find myself in need of your expertise and quick wit” Shin said, Sera smiling and nodding.

“I shall be waiting then, in the meantime though, I am going to be doing my own thing, I have neglected the part of me that wants to explore the wilds, I need to reconnect with that part of me, with being in the wilds, immersing myself in them… So, I am going to spend a few months in the EDZ, maybe a few weeks on Io” she said, smiling to herself as she talked about her plans.

“Good, it is something I think you need, to get back in touch with the wilds” Shin stated. I simply nodded in agreement. “And hopefully I will get back in touch with the city a bit more, it has changed so much since I was last here, it has grown so much and evolved, I hardly recognise it” Shin added.

“They sound like good plans indeed” I said smiling. The three of us stood looking out over the city from Hawthorne’s usual vantage point, I understood now why she liked the view so much… It was stunning, especially as the evening rolled in.

“ENJOYING MY VIEW!” an all too familiar voice then called, the three of us turning to see Hawthorn, Eva and Emeka making their way to the ramen bar.

“THAT WE ARE!” I called back, raising my bottle to her, she simply nodded and caught up with her two small charges who would soon be going to live with Eva Levante in the city until they were properly settled. Then they could begin some specialist training Zavala had Shaxx come up with for them.

“When I bumped into her earlier, she said they are staying with her tonight and, given the stressful events of the day, she wanted them to have a fun night, just like any other Guardian” Sera stated, I just chuckled, I am sure they would learn what Guardians really did for fun soon enough.

“Ah, it seems Luca and Arjic have finally joined us” Shin suddenly said, and I looked to the entrance to the Bazaar, the pair walking in and waving over at us. Hopefully, Arjic had taken some time to rest, it certainly looked like he had managed to shower at the very least. “Will your esteemed Commander Zavala be joining us?” Shin then asked Sera who smirked.

“He and Ikora are on their way, now, I think it is about time we go join the others and pretend we can play nice in groups” Sera chuckled. The three of us made our way down the steps and greeted Arjic and Luca.

_____

LUCA’S P.O.V

“I hope you got some sleep” Sera said as she embraced Arjic, though she quickly moved to embrace me as well, both of us squeezing the other just a little tighter than usual. Almost losing Arjic, it reminded me all too much of losing Jackal, and of almost losing Sera.

“I made sure he got at least two hours sleep” I whispered, Sera nodding before we stepped apart, allowing me to greet Cayde and Shin.

“I did, I managed a few hours sleep after a long and very hot shower” Arjic said, smiling as Cayde squeezed his shoulder.

“Well, now that both of you two have had your near-death experience, the baton passes to Luca” Cayde joked, whilst I laughed, Sera elbowed the Exo, rather solidly, in the arm. “It was just a joke… Mostly” Cayde stated in his defence.

“Well, let's not tempt fate” Shin laughed, the five of us making our way over to the ramen bar.

_____

ZAVALA’S P.O.V

As Ikora and I entered the Bazaar I looked over at the small crowd gathered by the ramen bar, laughing, exchanging stories, recalling good memories, it was a nice change of pace. “You would never have known that they’d been through hell today” I sighed, Ikora chuckling at my comment.

“No, you would not… Though that is the Guardians for you, able to walk through hell and return home at the end of the day and act as if they’d never left the Tower” she stated, I nodded and looked back to the group. Sera was stood with Cayde, Shin, Luca, and Hawthorn, the five of them laughing at something Cayde had said or done.

“Do you think he would ever initiate the dare?” I asked, Ikora looking to me and then back to Cayde who had noticed us and raised his beer to us.

“I believe he will, once he had buried all his demons, so I feel we have a while to wait for that day. Do you worry Sera will take it up? Given that Andal lost his life to the dare, I can see why you would be worried” Ikora replied.

“No… I don’t think Cayde would let her either, They are too similar, he knows she would wither stuck in the Tower all day, as much as she says she enjoys coming home and spending time here, the wilds are always going to occupy her heart, as the stars do his” I said, Ikora looking at me for a moment, an almost quizzical look on her face.

“That was rather poetic of you. Now, how about you try and focus on enjoying the evening with friends… and your future wife, even if she doesn’t know it yet” Ikora chuckled, beginning to walk towards the small crowd, I smiled and joined her.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

After an hour of laughing, snacking, and enjoying winding down, I felt someone grab my wrist and looked to see Zavala, he had not long been handed his third beer by Cayde and his bottle was close to empty. He certainly seemed to be unwinding.

“I am going to steal you away now, I have somewhere I want to take you” he whispered, pulling me away from Cayde and Luca, I just looked at the pair with raised brows, Luca laughing, whilst Cayde just smirked.

“What do you know Exo! I can see you know something!” I laughed, Cayde simply shook his head, leaving me to follow Zavala to the elevators. “You can’t be ready for bed already, or did you just miss me that much” I laughed, Zavala, turning to me once we reached the elevator doors.

“You will see, just, trust me” Zavala stated, smiling at me, he had such a sweet smile.

“Fine… This should be interesting” I chuckled.

The elevator ride down to the city was as long as usual, they certainly needed to get a faster elevator, though, it gave me and Zavala time to enjoy one another’s company for a few minutes. “Are there cameras in here?” I asked as Zavala pulled back from the kiss, smiling at me and shaking his head.

“Why do you think I risked kissing you in the elevator that time Lord Saladin caught us in a… compromising situation” he chuckled, leaning back down, and capturing my lips with his. I moved my hands up from his waist to wrap them around his neck, pulling him closer, savouring the taste of his lips, enjoying the feel of them against my own.

Ten-second warning….
Five-second warning…

I chuckled as Zavala pulled back from the kiss, Orion and Neptune just floating there, facing the doors, as Zavala took a step away from me the doors opened and a few Guardians were stood there, they nodded to me, bowing their heads to Zavala, before entering as we exited, Zavala taking my hand and leading me through the city.

“Where are we going?” I asked, we had passed a few places we had been before, but we were now in an area I did not know that well.

“Do you remember Shaxx talking about the bar he frequents?” Zavala then asked, glancing back at me, I just nodded, Zavala then smiled, I laughed as we rounded a corner and game to stand before a large, wooden door, I could already hear the chatter from inside.

“This should be fun” I laughed, opening the door, and walking in, Zavala following suit. As soon as the door had closed, I heard an all too familiar voice from the corner of the room.

“ZAVALA! SERA! COME! JOIN US!” Lord Shaxx called, I looked over to see him and Lord Saladin sat in a booth in the corner, I wonder if this is the bar Adrul mentioned. As I made my way over to where the two Titans sat a few Hunters nodded at me as we passed, though pretty much every Titan in the bar greeted Zavala. “I am surprised you are not enjoying a peaceful evening at home after all the excitement of the day!” Shaxx said as we sat down, I just chuckled.

“Well, you kept telling me to bring Sera here, and I thought tonight would be a good night, enjoy some fun and games” Zavala said taking a seat, Lord Shaxx laughing, loudly, as usual.

“A ROUND PLEASE! SINCE THE COMMANDER HAS DECIDED TO GRACE US WITH HIS PRESENCE AND THAT OF HIS PRETTY HUNTER!” Lord Shaxx called, Lord Saladin just shaking his head and sipping his drink.

“I hear it went well today” he said, and I nodded, Lord Shaxx glaring at the two of us.

“We don’t talk strikes, just fun and games” Shaxx said, and I laughed, nodding to the young man who brought us our drinks over. “Anyway, what were we talking about before you decided to grace us with your presence” Shaxx laughed, Lord Saladin looking at him.

“We were just beginning to talk about how we clash due to our personalities,” Lord Saladin said, I just raised a brow and looked at Zavala who took a sip of his drink, glancing at Shaxx sat behind him, his green eyes staring off into the distance for a moment.

“I don’t think it was that…” Shaxx then said, Lord Saladin, sighing, though before he could speak again, I decided to interject.

“If Osiris can play night for a few days, the two of you can play nice for one night, for the sake of your friend’s sanity, but I can guarantee, when you two have one of your silly arguments, I hear about it that evening” I said, Shaxx just chuckling.   

“I am sure we can manage that for one night, for your sanity’s sake” Shaxx said, I just chuckled, Lord Saladin, smiling and nodding before downing the rest of his drink. “Anyway, how about you tell us about how the old Warlock is doing, he still as obnoxious as ever?” Shaxx then asked and I laughed.

“Having not been in the city when he was a member of the Vanguard, I can’t speak on if he is as obnoxious as ever, but he is certainly obnoxious” I laughed, taking a few sips of my drink.

“The answer is yes, he is. Though he managed to avoid rubbing too many people up the wrong way, it is Shin who was the most fun to deal with” Zavala said, Saladin chuckled.

“I heard he got handsy Sera” Saladin said, and I nodded, smirking.

“He is lucky I didn’t stab him in the face” I replied.

“There is still time, I understand he is still in the city” Saladin stated, all of us laughing at his comment. He could have fun when he wanted to.

“I don’t think it is me he needs to watch out for, it turns out someone has a protective streak” I chuckled, raising my brow at Zavala as I took a sip of my drink, he just smiled back, reaching across the table and grabbing my hand.

_____

ZAVALA’S P.O.V

As she looked at me over the rim of her glass, her brow raised, a coy smile no doubt playing on her lips, I just had to smile at her, my heart ached at the thought of being apart from her, I reached over and took her hand, I opened my mouth to say something but paused.

“Is everything Okay Zavala?” Lord Saladin asked, Shaxx looking at me with raised brows, though, the look Lord Saladin gave, he knew what I almost just said.

“I just, had an idea… Do you remember the conversation we had, the first time we went up to the cooling ducts?” I asked Sera, she chuckled and nodded. “You told me how Cayde was useless at teaching you how to use a hand cannon, and I revealed Cayde had tried to teach me how to use throwing knives whilst I was somewhat inebriated…” I said, Sera giggling a little.

“Yes… Where is this going?” she asked, looking to the two other Titans present for any hints.

“Well, since then you have endeavoured to teach me how to use throwing knives, and sober at that… But you did say you wish you could have seen me attempt to use throwing knives whilst somewhat inebriated… Like I am now” I stated, Sera bursting out into laughter. “Well, I bet I can beat you at throwing knives” I stated, Sera laughing even more.

“You have no hope! None! You are going to lose! However, a Hunter never turns down a bet” Sera laughed, and Shaxx and Lord Saladin also laughed at the bet.

“Shall we?” I asked, standing, and holding out a hand for her to join me, walking over to where the boards and knives were for the game. “What shall we bet?” I asked, Shaxx piping up however before Sera could suggest something.

“IF COMMANDER ZAVALA WINS, SERA BUYS EVERY TITAN IN THE ESTABLISHMENT A DRINK!” Shaxx called all the Titans cheering.

“VERY WELL THEN! AND IF I WIN, SHAXX BUYS EVERYONE IN HERE A DRINK!” Sera yelled back, everyone cheering at her response, knowing they were very likely going to be getting a drink. Even if I was the commander of the vanguard, going up against a Hunter at a knife game ensured the odds were not in my favour.

“VERY WELL! THE TERMS OF THE BET HAVE BEEN SET AND WITNESSED!” Shaxx replied, Sera walking over to the rack of knives, taking both sets, and handing one to me. It was three throws each, taking it in turns, the closer to the middle the knife, the better. It was apparently based on an old game called ‘Darts’ and the Hunters were renowned for never losing.

“Since this was your idea, you can go first, Commander” Sera said, walking behind me and leaning against the wall as I stood on the well worn make on the floor. “Let's hope you remember more of my teachings than Cayde’s” she then chuckled.

I just smiled and lined the knife up, throwing it at the board, and, surprisingly, hitting it, though, I was far from hitting the middle, most people making some kind of surprised sound. “Well, that is better than not hitting the board, so already an improvement over when I played with Cayde” I chuckled, Sera smiling and swapping places with me, placing a kiss on my cheek as she passed me.

“Watch and learn” she chuckled, quickly lining up, and taking her shot. The knife pierced the middle of the board with a thud, every Hunter in the bar, and Lord Shaxx cheered. “And that is how it is done my dear” Sera teased, swapping places with me once again.

I stood on the mark again, taking a moment to line the shot up before throwing it, though it very quickly embedded itself in the wall beside the board, not even on the blacked-out area of the board. The Hunters cheered and laughed at my shot. Whilst the Titans would receive a drink, either way, they would still stand behind one of their own, even if that had no chance of winning.

“It must have been beginners’ luck, your first throw. Oh well” Sera chuckled, not even taking a moment to properly line up her shot, as soon as she was on the mark, she threw the knife at the target, dislodging the first knife and taking its place in the centre of the board. “This is too easy” Sera chuckled.

“Really?” I asked as we swapped places, giving her hand a quick squeeze as I passed her. I looked at the board, whilst I had already lost, Sera was just being polite and letting the game play out, I still wanted to try and hit the board. I lined the shot up carefully, took a steady breath and threw the knife.

“How the fuck did you manage that…” someone muttered, the Titan’s cheering, my knife had lodged itself just a little left of centre, even Sera looked surprised and was laughing.

“That is amazing… Though I have still beaten you, this was just too easy, even sober, you would not have stood a chance” she laughed, walking up to me and leaning against me, her last blade to throw in her hand.

“Well then, how about we make things interesting… You have to wear a blindfold, and anything less than a centre hit, and I win” I said, Sera looking up at me and chuckling. “What do you say, Hunter? Fancy your chances?” I asked, Sera just smirked and looked around the room.

“Does anyone have anything I can use as a blindfold?” I asked, one Hunter scrambled from his booth, pulling what looked to be a shred of a cloak, holding it out for Sera who took a moment before accepting it gently and looking at the material for a moment.

“She would have loved to see this” the Hunter laughed, Sera smiling and moved back to the mark, passing me the material so I could tie it for her.

“You are still going to lose though Zavala, is this now more for your own entertainment?” Sera asked as I tied the material around her head, ensuring it was secure.

“To a degree” I chuckled, moving to stand in front of her, resting my hands on her hips. “Though I enjoy any time I spend with you my love” I said, placing a kiss on her lips and savouring the taste of the whiskey she had been drinking and the lip balm she used. When I pulled away from the kiss and glanced around, everyone was awkwardly taking a sip of their drink or smirking. I then spun Sera around a few times, smiling as she giggled.

“Now this does not change a thing! I will still win!” Sera exclaimed as she came to a stop, facing one of the booths and not the board. I stepped out of her way, Sea smirking as she took her stance and raised the knife as if she was going to throw it forward.

As she was still taking her time I slipped a small black box out from my pocket, glancing down at it for a moment before looking back up just in time to watch Sera fling the knife backwards. She hit the dead centre of the board.

In the few seconds it took everyone to process what had just happened I moved to behind Sera, as gently and as silently as possible getting down on one knee and opening the box.

“OH MY!” I heard Shaxx exclaim, clearly shocked.

Oh my indeed…
Well, that was certainly surprising

I watched Sera’s hands come up and lift the blindfold, looking at those opposite her and then to where Shaxx and Lord Saladin were sitting, Lord Shaxx looked shocked whilst Lord Saladin was smiling. “Oh, this could either be great or terrible judging by your faces!” Sera laughed, spinning around on her hell. “Aww, I didn’t hit centre…” she sighs for a moment before she manages to process the fact, that I am in front of her, down on one knee. “OH! TRAVELLER ABOVE!” Sera suddenly exclaims, her hands flying up to cover her gasp.

“Sera, the time I have spent with you over the last few years, has been the most fulfilling time of my life as a Guardian, and I wish to stand by your side forever… I hope you feel the same and will do me the honour of becoming my wife” I said, swallowing the lump in my throat as I stared up at the woman, I loved staring in surprise back down at me. Though as I finished speaking, Sera started to slowly nod, holding her hands out for me to take as I stood.

MY HUNTER IS GETTING MARRIED!
TO MY TITAN!

“Of course, I will marry you!” She exclaimed as I lifted her up, spinning her around in the air for a moment laughing before I pulled her close, wrapping my arms around her and claiming her lips with my own.

Everyone in the bar was already cheering, I could hear Lord Shaxx over everyone else, though I could also make out cheers from Lord Saladin as well.

As I pulled back from the kiss, Sera held her hand out, I smiled and slipped the ring onto her ring finger, thankful for it fitting perfectly. Sera looked down at it, and then up at me and smiled. “It is beautiful Zavala, I love it… I love you” she sighed, hugging me once more, I just held her close, enjoying the feel of my fiancé in my arms.

“THE DRINKS ARE ON ME FOR THE REST OF THE NIGHT! FOR THIS ROUND, DOUBLE FOR THE HUNTER! TRIPLE FOR THE HAPPY COUPLE!” Shaxx called out, everyone cheering once more, the bar staff suddenly looking a little more panicked as they started to prepare drinks for everyone in the bar. Sera took a moment to remove the blindfold and return it to the Hunter who had given it, giving them a quick hug as she did.

I am so happy! You make each other so happy, and you deserve so much happiness!
Oh, I cannot believe you popped the question! How did you keep that a secret from me?

“It was rather easy” I chuckled, Neptune just glaring at me.

After a few moments we returned to the booth, though not before Shaxx stood and gave us both rather long, and tight, hugs, I was sure my back cracked as a result. “I am so happy for you both, though, Sera, you must teach me how to throw a knife backwards with such precision!” Shaxx exclaimed, Sera simply nodding as she sat down.

“I am also very happy for you both, and I wish you the best of luck” Lord Saladin stated, I smiled at him and nodded.

“Thank you… I have to admit, tonight was, not planned, that is how I kept it from Neptune” I said, Sera looking at me and smiling.

“Sometimes not having a plan can work out for the best” she chuckled, reaching across the table, and grabbing my hand in hers, I smiled and held her hand back, feeling the cool material of the ring against my skin and smiling even more.

Chapter Text

CAYDE’S P.O.V

As we walked into the rather energetic bar, I spotted Zavala and Sera standing talking with some Hunters and Titans, I smiled and looked to the others. “I told you they would be here!” I stated, Ikora looking to me and raising a brow. “Look, it is not my fault I got this place and the other few confused… The important thing is that we got here in the end and that is all that matters!” I stated, she just shook her head and walked into the bar.

“REMEMBER HUNTERS GET DOUBLE ROUNDS!” Lord Shaxx suddenly called, and I cheered and made my way toward Sera and Zavala.

“What is with Shaxx buying the Hunters double rounds? He hasn’t spiked them, or anything has he?” I asked, Zavala, looking at me and then Sera who laughed.

“He lost a bet!” She said and I laughed, she then held her hand out and I looked at it confused for a moment. “Zavala also asked me to marry him, and I said yes” she said, and I stared at the pair of them shocked for a moment before grabbing her hand and admiring the ring that she was now wearing.

“IKORA! IKORA! IKORA! IKORA! IKORA! IKORA!” I called, reaching out for the Warlock who was attempting to start a conversation with Lord Saladin before giving up and allowing me to drag her over. When she finally came to a stop next to me, I held Sera’s hand up for her and she looked at me and then down at Sera’s hand. “SEE!” I exclaimed.

“Congratulations! I did not think you planned on proposing yet, at poker you made it sound like it was something you were taking your time with” Ikora said, Zavala shrugging.

“I just looked at her and knew I could not wait any longer, I had to ask her to marry me” he explained, I just patted him on the shoulder.

“Well, congratulations… HEY! LUCA! ARJIC! GET OVER HERE!” I called, Zavala glaring at me for yelling down his ear, but he had just got engaged, so that meant I got to yell all I wished!

_____

ARJIC’S P.O.V

I smiled at Adrul and nodded to excuse myself, both myself and Luca making our way over to where Cayde, Ikora, Zavala, and Sera were stood, Cayde holding Sera’s hand in his own for some strange reason. “What is it, Cayde? I was in the middle of a conversation” I said, Cayde looking at me and Luca and just holding up Sera’s hand some more.

“Sera has hands… Did you not know this?” Luca asked, everyone, laughing apart from an exasperated Cayde.

“SERA IS ENGAGED!” Cayde then exclaimed and I looked to Sera and then took her hand from Cayde and titled it so I could see more than her fingertips and saw the ring, she was laughing and smiling at me and Luca, Luca taking her hand from me and bursting into laughter.

“SERA! ZAVALA! THIS IS GREAT NEWS!” Luca practically yelled, hugging both of them, I then hugged Sera and shared an awkward half-hug with Zavala as Cayde managed to get in the way.

“Did Cayde say you got engaged! FINALLY!” Holliday said as she made her way over, everyone soon catching on and crowding around, I stepped back a bit, smiling at them, though Sera kept looking over and smiling at me, Luca coming to stand beside me.

“Our little Hunter has grown up and got engaged… She has grown so fast” he chuckled.

“Indeed, she has… Though I am happy for them, they have been through a lot and deserve the happiness they have” I said, Luca nodding in agreement. “Do you think she will ask us to be bridesmaids?” I then asked and Luca looked at me and then back to Sera.

“You could pull off a dress” he then commented, both of us falling into a fit of laughter. It took us a few minutes to compose ourselves and stop laughing when we looked at one another.

“Seriously though, do you think she will want us to be involved in the wedding?” I asked, Luca, took a deep breath, letting out a heavy but content sigh.

“She will, we are a family, after all, you involve your family in your wedding… Just as long as we don’t have to wear anything too awful that is” Luca chuckled.

“Yeah, as much as you think I could pull off a dress, I would not” I chuckled, Luca, smiling and taking a sip of his drink.

_____

LUCA’S P.O.V

After an hour or so of chatting, drinking, and playing a few small games, everyone started to wind down, though obviously not enough for some. I watched Sera slip past group after group, eventually slipping out the door and into the night. I gave it a few minutes before following her out.

“Everything OK?” I asked as I stepped out into the night air, Sera stood to one side, leaning against the wall and looking up, it was certainly a clear night. Not as clear as it had been in South Africa, but that made it no less beautiful.

“I just wanted to look at the stars… Do you think Jackal is amongst them?” she then asked, and I moved to lean against the wall next to her, looking up at the stars as well.

“He is, I am sure of it… He would be proud of us, and happy for you” I said, Sera looked at me and smiled.

“He would, wouldn’t he… Could you give me a few minutes? I will be back in soon, I promise” Sera said, and I just nodded, silently slipping back inside, re-joining the party and striking up a conversation with a small group of Hunters.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

Once Luca had gone back inside, I just stood there, enjoying the silence, admiring the stars. “You take care up there Jackal, and Phobos, I hope you are enjoying the view… As for you Alexis, thank you, thank you for teaching me what love is not, it helped me find real love” I said as I looked to the stars. If they were amongst them, I hope they were all at peace at last.

Sera, you have an incoming comms request from Osiris…

“Well, it better not be urgent, I have had too much booze to be dealing with anything urgent” I sighed.

“Sera, I hope I am not interrupting any celebrations. I just wished to inform you of my return to the Infinite Forest… after a long, lengthy, detailed, and tiring conversation with Brother Vance” Osiris said, and I found myself chuckling.

“Yes, he can hold a conversation for some time should he wish to. I did think about warning you but decided against it” I replied.

“Well, I shall not keep you from whatever celebrations Cayde has organised” Osiris said, starting to say goodbye.

“If he had anything planned, it fell apart when Zavala asked me to marry him” I chuckled.

“Well, that is certainly an event that can change the tone of an evening, I assume you accepted the proposal?” Osiris asked and I smiled to myself.

“I did” I sighed happily, whilst the day was hard, tiring, sweaty and emotional, the night had been wonderful. After a moment, I could hear Osiris let out a soft hum, as he did when he was thinking about how to word something so others knew what he was talking about.

“You know I have a love of my own, and whilst I wander the Infinite Forest, he supports Guardians and works with your Vanguard in the tower… I have always wondered what he would say, should I ask him to stay in the forest with me, but alas, he is a Titan, and as with Hunters, Titans have a stubborn streak… And contrary to your belief, I do care, and I am happy for you and wish you all the best. I will no doubt see you again in the not to distant future” Osiris said, and I was slightly taken aback but smiled non the less.

“You shall, goodnight, Osiris” I stated before the comms cut out.

Well, that was very honest of him… Then again, he is a very honest man, that was more… Open of him. Yes, more open.

“It was, wasn’t it… Shall we go back in, people may start to notice we have slipped away” I said, Orion nodding. As I opened the door though I noticed that someone, probably Cayde, had started everyone dancing. This was certainly going to be an interesting evening.

_____

ZAVALA’S P.O.V

As the evening began to wind down and most Guardians had left, we sat and talked, enjoying one another’s company, celebrating not only my and Sera’s engagement but the win in South Africa today. It was always good when things went our way.

“So, what are your plans now Sera?” Lord Saladin asked, I looked to my fiancé as she sipped her drink, smiling at the older Titan.

“A few months in the EDZ, probably a few weeks on Io, then home… enjoying time with my loved ones, maybe some crucible” she said.

“It sounds like you have it all worked out” Saladin responded, Sera nodding and finishing her drink, moving her glass so Shaxx nor Cayde could reach it to refill it.

“I think I do, but we shall have to wait and see what the world has to throw at us” Sera said, everyone nodding in agreement.

“Well, as long as you feel you are ready for the next threat that clouds our horizon” Saladin stated, Sera just chuckled.

“My dodge is pretty good, and I have had a few good teachers over the years, an old, grumpy Iron Lord being one of them” she said, a few people tried to hide their laughs, but Shaxx did not.

“By the way, old, grumpy Iron Lord when will Shiro be back in the City? It has been a while since I have had a good catch up with my fellow Exo Hunter” Cayde then said, Lord Saladin sighing as Sera’s description of him caught on.

“He is currently at the Iron Temple training, he has spent some time on Nessus, I am sure if you contacted him, you could arrange something” Saladin stated, his answer seemingly enough for Cayde at that moment.

“I miss Shiro, he always called me Lady Hunter, I liked that nickname, one of my favourites” Sera said, Shin chuckling.

“You certainly have many of them from the sounds of it” Shin said and Sera laughed.

“I certainly do, Asher Mir calls me his assistant, and from time to time he calls me Serafina which, isn’t a bad one. Eris calls me God Slayer, but that comes with a lot of expectations. Then there is Young Wolf, but I certainly don’t feel young anymore, maybe compared to some of you I am, but it has been a fair while since I was a pile of bones on the ground…” Sera said, Shaxx chuckling.

“Do you know your crucible nickname?” he asked, Sera shaking her head. “Haha, it is ‘That Fucking Hunter’” he stated, and everyone burst out laughing.

“What was Ikora’s nickname Shaxx?” Cayde then asked, Shaxx looking at him and shaking his head.

“I refuse to repeat such a nickname” Shaxx responded, Ikora chuckling.

“So, will Sera get a fancy title for marrying the Commander of the Vanguard?” Hawthorn then asked, everyone shrugging, Sera smiling and shaking her head.

“Lucky!” Arjic then exclaimed, causing everyone, once more, to fall into a fit of laughter.

“I hope it comes with nothing, I am not a commander, nor a member of the Vanguard, I am just a Guardian who happens to be in love with, and loved by, the Vanguard Commander” Sera said, smiling at me as she spoke. Whilst she may be considered the lucky one, I felt like I was the lucky one.

“You know, I’ve never been to a Guardian Wedding before, what does one look like?” Holliday then asked.

“I have only ever been to one, two Hunters, lots of drinking after the exchange of knives and rings… Such a lovely couple” Cayde mused.

“I heard of a Titan and Warlock who married, they got married at the Farm actually, apparently Tyra conducted a lovely ceremony” Luca commented.

“I made a set of rings for a wedding, two Titans, great guys… They got married in the Tower, Lakshmi conducted the ceremony” Banshee added.

“Oh! I heard about that from Lakshmi, she said it was a nice change of pace to her day, I was slightly surprised she did it, to be honest” Sera commented, it was no surprise she had heard of that wedding given her loyalty to the Future War Cult.  

“We can figure out what we want to do, before then we have an apartment to redecorate” I stated, Sera chuckling.

“I said I am sorry, but at least it was not like the explosives I had set up in my last apartment, that was made from cabal fuel and a few other bits, it was very volatile…” Sera stated, I just sighed and shook my head. A few others laughed at the pair of us.

_____

SERA’S P.O.V

After a few more drinks, people started to retire, and Zavala and I decided to take a slow walk back to the Tower. Though we ended up sitting in a small park, enjoying admiring the stars.

“I know you said you did not plan on asking me tonight, though I have to know, how long had you been planning on proposing?” I asked, Zavala smiled and chuckled.

“A few months, I had not finished planning on how I would propose. Everything going on in South Africa had become the main priority, I only brought the ring this evening, whilst you were showering” Zavala chuckled.

“For someone who plans everything, meticulously, I am surprised, I would have thought you would have some elaborate plan in place before even considering asking” I said, Zavala shrugging and looking to me.

“Maybe had I not been so swept up in my thoughts of wanting to keep you close, to call you mine, then I would have planned something in more detail, but at the end of the evening, all that matters is that you said yes” Zavala stated, and I smiled and nodded.

“That is true, though, you know I rarely plan anything, you are probably going to end up planning most of our wedding” I chuckled, Zavala laughing along with me.

I am so happy for you both, you deserve this happiness
I am as well, I cannot believe how much things have changed since I found you outside of the Cosmodrome, just a pile of bones
I found Zavala in a downed ship, he was so clumsy at the start
Aren’t they always, just like toddlers

“How about we head home and leave these two in the living room” I chuckled as Orion and Neptune went on about how newly revived Guardians were like toddlers.

“I think that sounds like a wonderful idea” Zavala chuckled, leaning down and kissing me, his hands cupping my face as the kiss deepened, I brought my hands up around his neck, shifting to straddle him. As soon as I was straddling him, Zavala’s hands moved to my hips, pulling me closer.

Oh… Neptune…
IN PUBLIC! YOU’VE HAD TOO MUCH TO DRINK!

I pulled back from Zavala and smirked at him. “We should go home… We are in a park” I chuckled, Zavala nodding in agreement.

_____

ZAVALA’S P.O.V

Sera and I made our way through the city and to the elevator, as we waited for it to arrive, Neptune glared at us.

“I remember you being the one laughing when we got caught making out in an elevator by Lord Saladin” I stated, Sera chuckling.

That is a bit different, you were in the Tower
I don’t think you are going to make them feel guilty Neptune
Fine… But keep your hands to yourselves until the apartment door is closed AND locked!

“Very well Neptune. The door shall be closed and locked” I chuckled, Sera smiling at me.

“I love you Zavala” she stated, leaning up and kissing my cheek.

“I love you too Sera, and I cannot wait to spend the rest of our existence together” I said, pulling her in for a hug.

“I never want you to let me go” Sera muttered into my chest, wrapping her arms around my waist, and pulling us closer together.

“No matter how far apart we are, I will always be with you Sera, I love you and I will always be here for you” I said, Sera letting out a content hum. The two of us stood there for a few more minutes, enjoying holding one another when a familiar mechanical whirring sound began as the elevator arrived. “Come on my love” I said, Sera looking up at me and smiling, the two of us entering the elevator, Neptune and Orion following us in.

Once we made it to our floor, Sera left the elevator first, grabbing my hand and leading me to the apartment door, the coy smile on her face letting me know exactly what would happen once the door was closed… and locked.

_____

SIX MONTHS LATER

I dismounted my sparrow, looking around the Winding Cove, the coordinates Sera had sent me were for the Winding Cove. “She best not be playing hide and seek” I sighed, slowly looking around, there weren’t even any signs of Fallen in the area.

Look up…

I looked to Neptune and then up at a fallen tree trunk, near the tip of the fallen tree trunk was a Hunter looking down at us. The armour was unmistakable, I smiled, waiting for Sera to make her way down. Though, as usual, she did not take the expected route.

Sera stood, and looked to Orion who I could hear was saying something, but I could not hear what. Then, after a second, Sera jumped from the trunk, her cloak flowing behind her, making a small second jump to slow her descent as she neared the ground.

FOR CRYING OUT LOUD! WHAT IS WRONG WITH CLIMBING DOWN THE WAY YOU GOT UP!
You resurrected a Hunter, that is what is wrong

I chuckled as Sera walked over, taking her helmet off as she did, I took this as a prompt to do the same thing, I assume Sera had taken care of any Fallen in the area.

“I was beginning to think that you had gotten lost” Sera said, wrapping her arms around my neck and kissing me, I smiled into the kiss, pulling her closer, kissing her deeper. It had been five months since I had seen her, the last month she had been on Io, meaning we had spoken less due to the time differences.

I think they missed each other
Yeah, I think they did

After a few moments Sera pulled back, smiling up at me, I smiled down at her, brushing her hair out her face and placing a kiss on her forehead. “I missed you, do you have any idea how many times Shaxx has asked if we have set a date” I said, Sera chuckling.

“I missed you too, now, are you ready to see my favourite place on Earth other than our bedroom… and shower” Sera chuckled.

“I am indeed, lead the way” I said, Sera smiling and making her way over to a large formation of rocks, the fallen tree trunk she had been sitting on originating from the formation. Sera easily made her way onto the rocks, coming to stand on another fallen trunk, smiling at me as I came to stand on the rock across from her.

“Be careful when making your way down, the ledge slopes a little and if you are not careful you may slip” Sera said, I simply nodded, and Sera just smiled before jumping down into the opening.

Just jump down, how wrong could it go, it seems to never go wrong for my Hunter

I just chuckled at Orion’s comment, making my way down into the cavern, I saw Sera sat on a moss-covered rock. As I made my way down, I noticed how peaceful it was, the ceiling sparkled, mushrooms that glowed grew near any water source, the small waterfall ran clear and the entire cavern smelt of wet grass, a smell I found pleasant.

“It is stunning isn’t it” Sera said, I looked at her and nodded, l then took a few steps, the sound of my boots disturbing the water filling the air. “I come here to just sit in peace, and then let any anger out” Sera explained.

“How do you let your anger out?” I asked, Sera smirked and stood up, her auto-rifle materialising in her hands.

“So, the Fallen keep setting up show further into the cavern, I go and crash their party, it is great fun, want to join me?” Sera asked, smirking, I chuckled, drawing my auto rifle as well.

“Well, it would be impolite of me to turn down such an invitation” I said, Sera smiled, gesturing for me to follow her.

This is going to be good
It definitely is