Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

MISTIKA

Mistika sat clutching her mug of sugar water with a hint of tea. She didn’t sleep earlier in the day when she was supposed to have, and now had to suffer through the night watch. At least tonight she was working the SSE position in the last Tidemaker Watchtower on Imperjurn island.  It faced the dilapidated fifth harbor so she wasn’t in any hurry to get her bleary eyes into focus. If a ship could actually manage to tie up at those rotted worm infested planks, they deserved the Counsel of Tide’s blessing to berth. 

Although, with the city several weeks into the Queen Lady’s Plague, no ships wanted in. And the citizens had finally given up on trying to sail out. Or were dead. 

Slowly the sugar started doing its job and Ketterdam’s East Stave coastline came into view. Along with the Reapers Barges. They were the Merchant Council’s solution to the massive body counts the plague was leaving in its wake. While Mistika understood the need, she still found the practice of unceremoniously dumping and burning peoples loved ones barbaric. Survivors needed the closure a funeral provided. 

One by one the boats lit aflame almost outside of her range of vision to the east. 

Mistika firmly focused her eyes back on fifth harbor. Which is how she was in perfect position to witness the sun burst from the water’s depths.

The sugary tea water ended up forgotten at her station. 

~☀️~☀️~

“I know what I saw.” Mistika mumbled, but it was lost in the chaos that had taken over the Council of Tides War Room. There was a War Room situated at the top of each tower. Just below the observation deck. Above the Speaker’s quarters. Each obelisk was laid out the same, and housed all the Tidemaker’s comfortably, even though most all shared their sleeping quarters with two other Tidemakers. But the four hours on, eight hours off schedules ensured the rooms were never crowded. 

However, all those rooms were currently empty and the sundown quiet hours has been abandoned in light of Mistika’s emergency report. 

“It was probably just the initial lighting of a Reaper’s Barge.” A colleague sneered. 

“Or the moonlight, it’s been hard to see through all the smoke lately.” Another chimed in. 

“Oh I bet it was a grieving mother lighting a lamp to Sankta Margaretha.” A third spoke up. 

“Oh yes. There have been so many of those to the patron saint of lost children as of late, makes my heart weep.” 

Frustrated, Mistika pounded her fists on the black lacquered table standing so fast her chair went clattering behind her. “I know what I saw!” She shouted above the noises of everyone talking at once. 

“I know what I saw.” She repeated again. Gathering her composure in front of her shocked colleagues. “The light came from beneath the water. It was no reflection. And it was brighter than a hundred lanterns could produce.”

The silence made the deep breath she took much louder than she wanted. 

“There’s only one explanation for it. It had to be a Sun Summoner.”

Chaos erupted again.  This time however it was the Speaker banging their gravel who reigned in the circle of bickering Tidemakers. 

“What news do you bring Zelver Tower?”

All eyes turned as one to the pair of Tidemakers just entering the Imperjurn Tower’s War Room. 

Mistika, along with everyone else, held their breaths. The Zelver Tide Watchtower’s SSW observer would also have been in perfect position to have seen the light. 

The Zelver Tower Speaker nudged a shaking Tidemaker youth forward. “Tell them what you told me.”

‘Saints,’ Mistika thought, ‘he’s younger than me, and I thought I was the youngest in the Council of Tides fleet.’

“I…. I sa…saw the S..s… sun…” he started by stammering terribly, but ended with a rush of words. “I sawtheSunBurstfromtheWatersOfTheBay!”

Seconds ticked by as those assembled processed the jumbled exclamation. 

“We’re bound by our pact with the Darkling to report this.” A horrored whisper came from someone. 

“True. But that’s all. Report a Sun Power was witnessed simultaneously by two of our Watchtowers. We’re not his precious Second Army. If he wants to find this potential Sun Summoner, he’ll be doing it without our assistance.” The Speaker declared. And with that a runner was sent with a missive to the Little Palace in Os Alta. 

THE BOY / SUN SUMMONER

A scrawny dark haired child huddled soden and terrified in the questionable supports of the wooden pier he just climbed up out of the bay from. In the chill of the night air, the bust of warmth that flooded him as he sank moments earlier was quickly dissipating.  But the burst of energy: he held onto that with a fierce determination. He molded it into a vow to find Jakob Hertzoon. To make him pay for, experience every ounce of suffering, and the death of his brother. 

Jordie Rietveld.

Chapter Text

RETVENKO 

Retvenko sat in the dark eves of Councilman Hoede’s private boathouse lamenting every one of his life choices that landed him here. Banished from the Little Palace. Assigned in a foreign country. Indentured to an idiot. Voluntold to keep up a search that everyone now knew was pointless, but the Darkling could never give up on. 

“I should’ve known the Darkling would’ve taken that prank personally.” Retvenko muttered under his breath as he took another swig from the flask he packed for this task his so-called employer had for him. Grisha enslaving themselves to rich pompous asshats. Disgusting. Yet here he was. Thank the Saints for alcohol. 

Yes. Retvenko was certain that the Darkling kept this Ketterdam search for the supposed Sun Summoner the Council of Tides reported seven years ago still active just to get rid of Grisha he no longer wanted in the Second Army. Because he can’t just discharge Grisha, got to keep appearances that all Grisha are welcomed with open arms in Ravka.  

Nevermind that if it was a Sun Summoner, they were probably a sailor and had shipped out the same day. Or more likely that burst of light was probably some other phenomenon and the Council of Tides just reported to be asshats. They sure as shit haven’t done a thing since then to help. 

With a sneer, he took in the sight of Councilman Hoede jiggling around by his private boat that just finished docking. The man was absurdly excited over whatever this thing was.  Considering it was Shu, it couldn’t be that jiggle worthy. 

However, as far as assignments from the Councilman went, this one wasn’t so bad. Retvenko got to drink and brood alone while still calling it work. Win win.  

Retvenko went for another swig, but discovered his flask was empty. He hadn’t realized he’d been here for that long, watching the puppy eyed guards scurrying to please their masters' wishes. Finishing up the construction of an odd, observation room. That was the only way Retvenko could think to describe it. A large metal box with one wall Hoede’s Grisha Fabricator Yuri created a one way viewing and unbreakable glass for. It had to be a project for the Stadwatch. Some kind of interrogation room. The Sobachka guards were installing a small heavy table and two chairs now in it. 

Or was Retvenko just drinking faster than he meant to? Didn’t matter. He was stationed here all night. He was bound to get an opportunity to slip out and refill it once the Councilman left. 

Thunks sounded on the roof. Retvenko thought of creating a small squall outside to blast whatever vermin found its way up there. But then that required moving. And moving would remind Hoede that he was here, and he really didn’t want to listen to that man bitch about whatever minor grievance Hoede could concoct. 

Probably about his drinking. He did not have a problem. No. Not true. He had a million problems, alcohol just wasn’t one of them. 

Retvenko was here. He was doing tonight’s job of keeping the boat and it’s precious Shu cargo safe. As if anyone even knew about it anyway. As far as Retvenko knew, only a handful of people knew, and they were all here. 

Councilman Hoede was finally finishing up down there. Prattling on about contacting Jan Van Eck, and needing Yuri soon, and how his guard needed to make sure no one else entered unless he personally escorted them in. 

“Blah Blah Blah.” Retvenko mouthed while using his right hand as a puppet, mocking the Councilman.

“Why am I on the roof. I’m not a roof person.”

“Shhh!”

“Because I need you up here. Now shut the hell up.”

Retvenko blinked. Those voices came from above him. And now that his attention was focused there, those thunks were distinctly human foot falls. Even more interesting, he could only make out two sets of feet when he knew he heard three different voices. 

Well. This night certainly just got a lot more interesting. 

Glancing back down into the boathouse, he could see Hoede leaving. Taking a few builders with him now that they were done. The remaining guards stationed themselves in pairs on either side of the ship’s dock house entrance, on the vessel itself and at the opposite pedestrian door that led to the estate. 

Eight guards inside. Probably another two outside the pedestrian door. And however many else Hoede hired to patrol the grounds. 

Retvenko knew they were actually worthless in a fight.  And it seemed so did Hoede, considering he tasked Retvenko to stand guard out here all night. 

Kerch merchants, paranoid over everything. 

Kerch merchants, always given reasons to be paranoid. 

Chapter Text

KAZ

Kaz was going to kill Jesper. That fool knew better than to blow their cover by talking. They were doing this job without Per Haskell’s support. They couldn’t fuck it up. 

Kaz led the way up to the boathouse’s cupola. Using the beak from his crow’s head cane topper, he quietly pried open one of the ventilation sidings he had already taken the time to dismantle a few nights ago.  Peering inside he found what he expected. 

And something not.

As expected, Councilman Hoede’s private boat was back from some super secret Shu Han expedition. 

Not expected, the number of guards the Counsilman had stationed inside. This put a wrench into his plans. Yet confirmed this was a worthy mark. Inej was proving a worthwhile spider. This was a secret no one else was able to get. Which was why Haskell didn’t sanction the job. He didn’t believe in the Wraith yet. 

But Kaz did. 

Kaz knew from experience it took a couple years to earn Per Haskell’s version of trust. And Inej has only been with the Dregs eight months. 

It also helped that the Councilman tipped Kaz off himself by suddenly doubling his guard. Many gangs believed that Councilmen were known for spontaneously upping their guard randomly. Only Kaz knew their reasons. Granted, most reasons were misconceived paranoia. But educational nonetheless. You could learn a lot about a man by what he considered valuable. 

A councilman adding guards for a new painting? Art. A new dog or horse? Animals. A new mistress who’s suddenly shown pregnancy? Heirs.  Councilman Hoede? Big profit. 

Chiefly secretitive big profit that Kaz was going to liberate.

But the guards being inside the boathouse was a problem.  Even bigger problem with them actually looking like they gave a shit and were going to stick to their posts. 

Kaz slid his back against the small ventilation steeple at the apex of the boathouse’s roof and fought the urge to growl in frustration.  This was no longer a three man stealth job. They needed distractions. And muscle. 

Inej seemed to have picked up instantly on Kaz’s need. Jesper however just stood awkwardly fiddling with the pearl handles of his twin revolvers. 

At least the fool was being quiet, and Kaz could trust him to not accidentally set off one of said pistols. 

Kaz locked eyes with Inej and whispered, “Go fetch Big Bolliger and Rotty. If they can make it here within the hour I’ll double their cuts.”

Once Rotty and Big Bolliger drew the attention of the extra guards stationed inside the perimeter outside. Kaz could still work with the original plan. Inej to sneak in and incapacitate the guards on the boat. Then Jesper helping to lower Kaz down from the cupola on a rope. Then Kaz to break the locks to the Captain's cabin and desk where the log book detailing the cargo should be. Once they actually knew what the cargo was, then they could plan to get it out. 

But thanks to this unexpected setback, Kaz knew where the cargo was. With all the guards being stationed inside, it meant that Councilman Hoede had not taken the Shu Han delivery off the ship yet. If it was small enough for his Crows to carry, then they could just get it now and not have to come back for it. 

Rotty was there within the hour. 

Big Bolliger was not. Kaz made a mental note to find out why later. 

RETVENKO 

Retvenko was not fidgeting. But he was getting impatient. He hadn’t yet notified the other guards to the potential thieves up on the roof. Retvenko was a soldier, and a damn good one. And It’s been years since he’s been able to let loose in any form of combat. Why spoil the fun by alerting the thieves that they weren’t being as sneaky as they thought they were.

But did they really need to wait this long to act?

“This is a private boathouse, you’ll need to turn around and leave immediately.” Retvenko’s attention was drawn from the roof to the boat gate on the river. The guards there had their rifles out and pointed to something outside. 

“Ah no man. Tis cool. We got a delivery! See!”

Huh. Retvenko wondered if this might be part of the thieves' plot. He twisted the fingers of his right hand in a small clockwise motion and a small vortex of air formed from the spot on the roof to his ear. A trick he had developed to help enhance sounds. Sure enough, there was still someone up there. 

“There’s no deliveries scheduled today. Be on your way.” 

Retvenko snorted, because they had in fact accepted a delivery today, it was sitting in the boathouse still. 

“Aww. Come on my man. I can’t take this back! My boss will have my hide!” 

And Chaos erupted. 

Chapter Text

JESPER 

As the adrenaline of the fight surged through Jesper, he gave a loud “Whoop!” that was still drowned out by chaos of, quite frankly, some of the absolute worst gunmanship he ever had the misfortune to witness.  With the back of the boathouse being built over the river as it was, it was impossible to completely close off the boat doors, if you could call the planks boxing the boat in ‘doors’. Rotty and Big Bolliger had no issues maneuvering the small barge they managed to get their hands on close enough to actually engage with two of the four guards back there. How the other two armed guards on the other side of the 26ish foot gap were completely missing Rotty and Big B with their guns was completely baffling. Though appreciated. Jes liked both of those members of the Dregs. 

Inej had literally disappeared the second Big Bolliger called out. Jesper would give up his second favorite revolver to know how she did that vanishing without a sound thing. Kaz sure did know how to build a perfect team. After all, Kaz had also found and locked onto Jesper’s amazing talents right away too. 

Big B and Rotty had the river guards. Inej still had the Councilman’s boat guards. That left the two by the land door for Jesper. They had time to turn around, but not much else before Jesper sent simultaneous gun shots.  Feeling the cold hard steel around the powder encasing the loaded bullets in each revolver and the copper buttons adorned at the top of each uniform. Both guards dropped with a single shot through the neck. 

Jesper spun his revolvers, then snapped them towards his lips, blowing whatever smoke might be lingering out of the barrels off with a cocky tilt of his lips. THIS is what Jesper LIVED for. The high of the fight. The power that came with using his guns. Not that he ever talked about it out loud, but he got antsier, felt duller the longer he went without shooting. Which was crazy, because he really didn’t like the killing aspect. He was just good at it, and it released something typically held deep within himself. 

“Protect the Jurda Parem shipment!” A young guard engaged with Big B shouted and Jesper’s shoulders dropped for a flash of a second. They were doing this for a shipment of Jurda? Ah man. They were going to be the laughing stock of the Barrel.

RETVENKO

If these thieves didn’t kill the idiot guard, he was. The boy was showing his youth and inexperience in a hundred different ways. But announcing the cargo in the middle of a fight for it. That wasn’t just a rookie move, that was sheer incompetence. Retvenko gave into his reflexive urge and reached for the air, twisted his forearms and flung a spare rope fender that was hanging by his feet towards the kid who hadn’t yet grown into his uniform, knocking him unconscious. 

“Squaller!” One of the thieves shouted in a gravelly voice. 

Right. There went his element of surprise.  He must have been drunker than he preferred for a fight.  That, or incompetence was contagious. He sure as shit been swimming in idiots since entering Kerch. 

He was Emil Retvenko, Squaller of the Second Army, he didn’t need the element of surprise in order to stop a bunch of street rats. 

Centering his weight to be even on both feet Retvenko stood to full height. Bringing his arms up in front of him till his hands were over his head. A clockwise swirl of his wrists morphed into a full arm spin over his head and with a subtle shift of his body weight back he quickly snapped forward, pushing. The air responded with force enough to rattle the ceiling planks and its debris was carried in the squall to the scuffle at the boat door at the back of the building. 

The councilman’s boat rocked violently against its moorings and the thieves' ship darted to the other side of the river. Everyone who was in its path lifted off about ten feet and flew another fifteen across the river. Screams were cut short as startled thieves and guards alike splashed down. 

“Come out, come out wherever you are.” Retvenko sang as he circled around the upper loft he was in. He knew the sharp shooter was up here. And that he was good with those white n silver pistols he saw the guy twirling around.  Only two shots, one through each neck. It’d been a long time since he’d seen that kind of efficiency. 

Retvenko knew there was at least one other thief on the boat. Maybe two. He had heard a female voice shushing on the roof, but had yet to see her. But the guards on the boat would need to deal with them while Retvenko was busy with the tall lanky shooter. 

Retvenko felt the shot before he heard the gun go off. Hissing he went through every curse word in every language he knew at the sensation. Thank the Saints he had kept his bulletproof Kefta, that shot was perfectly aimed at his heart for the kill. 

He flipped up the hood on his Kefta, keeping his face shadowed. It limited his vision, but this would make sure he kept his head. “It’s been awhile since I’ve been in a fight with a half decent gunman.” Retvenko taunted. 

“Oh I guarantee you’ve never met a better shooter than me.” A cocky teenage voice called back.

Years of discipline had Retvenko blasting air in the direction of the voice before his conscious mind registered it. A hat went flying, but it seemed the kid was able to dodge behind a support. 

A bullet ricocheted twice then pain blossomed at the back of his skull. As stupid as the hoods looked, Retvenko could kiss the Materialik who insisted upon it right now. 

Blinking the stars from his eyes, he focused on the air under the whining shooter.  The shot to the head had dropped Retvenko to his knees, and he used that crouched position to hide the movements of his left fingers. A tornado sprouted underneath the shooter, picking him up and twisting him against the ceiling. 

Retvenko used his rage from having been shot (twice!) into the mini twister, ripping through the roof and flinging the bastard out.  Standing took more effort than he was willing to admit. But at least he was ready for when two thieves emerged from belowdecks of the Councilman’s boat and started making their way off ship with a water tight Shu styled bag slung over the slender shoulders of the one not limping. 

Retvenko waited until they jumped, then pulled the air down underneath them making their jump fall flat. Dumping them into the harbor water between the boat and the dock. With luck they would get crushed between the ship and the dock house . 

Creating a cushion of air to soften his landing, Retvenko jumped from the storage loft down onto the boathouse floor. Making his way to where the thieves went under.  Luck was not on his side however. As he looked into the murky depths, he could feel his retinas burning as pure sunlight burst forth engulfing the entire boathouse with the power of the sun. 

Chapter Text

KAZ

“Squaller!” Kaz shouted, his frustrations managing to add extra gravel to his voice. He planned for everything. So why hadn’t he planned for Councilman Hoede to use his Grisha for protection?

Because Hoede had always relied on hired and paid guards before this. His philosophy being: Never trust anyone who owes you money. Which was every indentured servant. 

Just what made this so announced Jurda Parem special enough that it warranted breaking protocol for an indentured Grisha servant playing guard? 

Kaz managed the leap from the dock onto the boat and headed straight aft to the doghouse. A bullet ricocheted in the background. Jesper was holding his own against the Grisha. Good. If he could just keep the Squaller busy for a few more minutes they could still pull this off.  Inej was already inside and had the two guards incapacitated. 

“Please mister! Help us! She’s a demon!” The one who spoke looked like he could be the captain, he had stripes on the shoulders of his uniform. The other was some sort of laborer or muscle. 

“Oh the Wraith is no demon.” Kaz looked between the two, then smashed the head of his cane into the grunts face. “She’s the one who abhors killing. I do not have such morals. However, if you tell me where the Councilman’s Shu Han delivery is, I may consider sparing your life.”

The captain paled in the face of Kaz’s display of violence. Then wisely decided that his life was more important than any punishment his employer would merit out. 

“Down the ladder, turn aft to the Captain’s quarters. There’s a hold under the mattress. The Shu contact gave us a red water tight bag with a gold eye inside a white Jurda flower. That’s all that we received, I swear!”  

Inej disappeared below decks, which left Kaz in the navigation cabin with the pathetically pleading captain. “That’s it, I swear! Please don’t hurt me. I don’t…”

“Oh shut up!” Kaz hissed and slammed his cane down on the desk behind the overreacting fool. He couldn’t hear how Jesper was doing with this man prattling on. It didn’t sound good. Like the roof was getting ripped off in a tornado. Fucking Grisha. 

Inej was back with the Shu bag strapped across her shoulders before Kaz could get a further read on the battle outside. They locked eyes and moved together out of the cabin and ran for the dock. 

Everything had gone quiet in the boathouse. Looking up, there was indeed a hole by the cupola. But Kaz wanted off the ship before looking for Jesper. 

He ever made it to the dock. 

As soon as he was airborne, an air tunnel formed below him and Inej, sucking them down into the harbor’s waters. 

PANIC 

Kaz was nine again, sinking below the waves. Dead bodies touching him. The harbor was right there. He just needed to keep holding onto Jordie for a few seconds more. Fingers grabbed slick n bloated dead flesh, but at least it was buoyancy. 

‘Why was he still sinking?’

No! Want to scream, can’t or else the water will claim him. He can’t die yet. Arms squeeze tighter around the body he was clutching for dear life, even though all he wanted was to let go. 

A braid of long hair bounced into his face. Then again.

‘Jordie doesn’t have long hair.’

“INEJ!” The realization shocked Kaz out of his past. But he was still a prisoner to the panic.  He couldn’t move. Muscles clung to Inej’s body even though his lungs were screaming for air. Dimily he noticed the trickle of blood from Inej’s head and realized she must have hit it during their unceremonious dump into the harbor. 

‘I can’t die like this. I can’t let her die like this.’

A feeling Kaz had forgotten over the years flooded him, warmed him and chased the chill from Inej’s body. It unlocked his limbs and he managed to maneuver them both up to the surface and back onto the boathouse floor. 

All Kaz wanted to do was cough up water that managed to get into his lungs, but Inej wasn’t moving. He crawled to her, ripping off a glove to check for a pulse. Underneath the leather, it almost looked like his hand was glowing. Whatever it was, it helped Kaz manage the aversion to skin on skin contact when he went to check Inej’s pulse. 

Inej’s pulse was there, thready and weak, but her heart still beat. Kaz turned her over and pounded on her upper back. After two or three hard thuds Inej began hacking up water and breathing on her own. 

Kaz struggled to his feet. Shit. His cane had to be at the bottom of the harbor. He really liked that cane. But, they had to get out of here. Now. “Jes!” Kaz called while looking for his third Crow. The only ones still breathing in the boat house were himself, Inej and the Squaller. Though the latter acted like he was blinded.

Odd. But Kaz wasn’t complaining. They needed every ounce of luck they could get. 

He and Inej had come up on the other side of the boat. Next to the odd black box room and crates of firearms and explosives. What was Hoede planning that needed this much firepower?  

Kaz picked up a pack of dynamite and lighter, luck was never to be waisted. He lit it and threw it towards the Squaller. But his bad leg messed with his throw and it went wide. It’d still keep the Grisha busy so that he and Inej could escape. 

She was standing now, grabbing his clothed arm and helping him out. Or was he helping her? It wasn’t right. Kaz felt physically better than ever, but mentally he was exhausted. 

Inej shoved them both behind a spare dinghy sitting by the door right before the dynamite blew. Ears ringing, they kept moving. 

JESPER 

Last thing Jesper knew was that he was bitching about how unfair it was that Grisha’s Kefta were bulletproof. And since when did they have hoods? Then he was flying up out of the ripped apart roof and into the starless night into a Saints forsaken tree! He wasn’t sure how long he hung there, cataloguing bumps and bruises. Making sure nothing was actually broken when sunlight of all things poured out of the hole in the roof right before the boom sounded, shaking the boathouse to its foundation. 

That got Jesper moving. Kaz and Inej were still in there! 

Painfully he got back to the ground. He did not fall, thank you very much. It was a controlled descent. Just part of the fast way down. Oh. Ow. That ankle was twisted before he left the tree. Or so he planned to tell anyone who might actually care. 

Jesper first had to shoot the guards who were coming from the grounds gate before he threw open the boathouse door. Only to stumble back at the downed rats who were his colleagues.

“Holy shit! What the hell happened to you two?!”

“Shut up and move! We need to leave. Now.”

“Hey Boss!” Big Bolliger was calling from the bank of the river. The three Crows limped their way to the getaway boat and hopped in. It was then Jesper realized Kaz’s cane was missing. And ohhh, Kaz was going to be more difficult than normal until he got that back, or replaced. 

RETVENKO 

Retvenko sat nursing a hangover via the hair of the dog remedy. Now that his letter to the Darkling was sent, he could take care of his pounding head. He had fucking done it. He’d found the Sun Summoner. Or at least, had it narrowed down between two individuals. The dark haired boy with the gravelly voice or the eerily silent Suli girl. Retvenko hadn’t even known she was in the building until he saw her with the boy. 

Still fucking impressive on his part, considering the lack of information and resources he was given at the start. And that one of the little shits had almost killed him. Retvenko was not expecting the dynamite, but again, he thanked his lucky stars with all his years on the front line. Instinct saved his arse more than once this night. 

He paused to rub his eyes. Anya, Councilman Hoede’s Healer, had done the best she could with his eyes, but there were still bright spots that kept flaring up. The welts on his head and chest where the bullets struck were easily healed, as with the shrapnel the dynamite produced. She refused to help with the hangover however, because of ‘principles’. 

So he drank. 

Whatever. 

This place wouldn’t matter in a month's time. With the fastest Grisha ship, the Darkling’s runner would get to Ravka in four to six days, another couple to the Fold and across. And from there it was a weeks hard ride to the Little Palace. The issue was with getting across the Fold…

No matter. If the Darkling or his envoy with an Examiner was not here within the month, he’d just send another. 

Hopefully by then he’d at least know the two kids' names…and where to find them. 

Shit. 

He poured himself another drink. 

Chapter Text

RETVENKO

Councilman Hoede’s stumbling anger was usually amusing. When it wasn’t directed towards himself of course. Which at this moment, it was. 

Turns out, that Shu Han Jurda shipment was as important to the Merchant Council as finding the Sun Summoner was to the Darkling. 

Interesting. 

But for Retvenko, irrelevant. His first loyalty was to the Darkling, and only priority was getting out of this Kerch hellhole. So the Councilman’s Jurda Parem was just going to have to remain lost. So sad. Retvenko played a tiny violin in his head. 

And as much as it would be damn convenient for Retvenko to have Hoede’s men and resources ferret out the brats, Retvenko couldn’t have all of Ketterdam hunting the Sun Summoner. Especially when Hoede wanted public examples made of the thieves. 

Retvenko wasn’t a particularly religious man, but he was willing to discover which Saint it was that was watching over him and build them a fucking statue made of gold. Or whatever else They’d want.  Somehow, only himself and the captain had seen and interacted with the three teenagers who made it into the boathouse and lived to tell about it. And the ship captain had the good graces to notice Retvenko was injured and come offer aid instead of running off. The man talked excessively when stressed.  He wouldn’t shut up about the Wraith, a little girl who moved without sound and a boy who killed with a bird headed cane. And all the things Councilman Hoede was going to do to the pair when he found them. 

Retvenko knifed the captain. It had felt good to slip the blade he kept in a boot between the mans ribs then drop him in the harbor. He couldn’t let Hoede get his hands on the kids. At least, not until he figured out which one was the Sun Summoner. 

“Damnit Grisha! There has to be something!” Hoede’s angry purple face sent flying spittle that ended up spattering across his nose and left cheek. Bringing him out of his thoughts and back to the interrogation.  

“No. Sorry sir. The thieves wore black” (well, the two he needed did) “and didn’t use names.” (Wraith was clearly a nickname) “Any gang marks were covered up.” (Huh, I can be truthful) “I had only noticed the two decoys who approached via river in a boat. Both of whom I was able to keep out.”

“You also sent my guards with them!” The Stadwatch Captain behind Hoede muttered while also giving him a look of contempt. 

“Well they mentioned the Jurda Parem shipment, hire better people.” Down the line of soggy guards standing behind him, the young idiot cringed. 

“So you can manage to blow a bunch of guards out of my boathouse, but not the thieves who were in it.”

Retvenko held his temper, granted, by the skin of his teeth. But he held it. “They managed to set off a flare directly into my eyes. Even blinded I still got one of them before they started throwing dynamite that was laying about.” He spoke through gritted teeth. 

Hoede sniffed, as if it wasn’t his fault for leaving explosives just lying about. “You didn’t get any of them. The only bodies recovered have been my personal guards or Stadwatch. The damage you inflicted will be added to your contact. You are dismissed. If you ever remember anything more useful, report it to me immediately.”

Retvenko left, only because he couldn’t murder the pompous ass. 

INEJ

Everyone was silent on the ride to the safe house. Even Jesper, which Inej had yet to witness from the Zemeni gunman. He was looking like he got into a fight with a tree, and lost. She wondered what had actually happened to him. Although he was at least dry.  Soaked leather was chafing. But thank the Saints, at least her special fabricator made shoes spared her from having to deal with wet squishy feet.

Inej had never been in a fight with a Grisha before, she hoped to never repeat the experience. But she had to go back. Kaz’s cane got left at the bottom of the boat dock.

He saved her life. And it was looking like it had cost him some sort of battle with a personal demon to do so. That. Inej wasn’t sure yet what to do with that knowledge. 

They got the boat stowed and lit the fire in the abandoned bakery Kaz had acquired for the Dregs. There were many more safe houses he had for just himself, but those he only trusted to her. If felt, good. Nice. To be trusted with someone else’s, Kaz’s, secrets. 

So what did that mean?

Kaz was still struggling with whatever demons the battle brought out, although he was hiding it well from everyone else. Inej has always been able to read him. It’s why she approached him that day in the Menagerie.  Something in her just, knew.  And right now she just wished she knew what the issue was so that she could help him through whatever was panicking him. 

But she didn’t, so she just did the next best thing, she left it alone. Giving him the space he coveted. 

“What the fuck happened back there!” Big Bolliger was the first to speak. He was being exceptionally childish. Practically ripping his sodden outer clothes as he stripped out of them. With the exception of Jes, they were all drenched and miserable. No need to make a show of it. 

“Complications arose.” Kaz answered. “But we kept our cool and still managed to get the score.”

“Some score.” Jesper grumbled. “Even if that bag was stuffed with Jurda, which it’s not, there’s not enough to sell and make a profit from.” 

“WE RISKED OUR LIVES FOR JURDA?!”

“Big B, shut up and sit the fuck down.”  Kaz’s stern tone worked. But Inej heard the fatigue. Which was odd because the dark circles under his eyes seemed better. 

“The guard said it wasn’t just Jurda, but Jurda Parem.” Kaz took the bag from her and started working on the water tight clasps. 

“That’s still Jurda.” Big Bolliger and Jesper almost muttered simultaneously.  Kaz just gave them both a withered look as he handed the bag to Inej for unpacking. 

So she did. If it was packed this tightly into a water tight bag, then Kaz wasn’t going to unpack with his sodden gloves. She knew by now he wouldn’t take them off. 

It was worse than peeling an onion. The Jurda Parem was wrapped in so many layers, Inej was beginning to think there wasn’t actually anything inside. It might as well have been nothing. Half a dozen one ounce packages was usually half an order of what a dealer on the streets would sell. 

“That’s IT?” 

Inej was almost frustrated enough to imbed Sankt Vladamir through Big B’s shoulder. Especially when he grabbed a packet and emptied it onto his tongue. 

It looked different from the Jurda Inej was used to seeing on the streets, or the few occurrences when it was forced upon her at the Menagerie. Much finer of a powder and a pure white color. 

“Dude! Big B! Show some restraint! That’s our money you're snarfing, dumbass!” Jesper berated while attempting to take back the other packet Big B snatched before anyone else could react. 

“Come on Jes, we nearly got ourselves killed by that Grisha! We earned this Jurda high right now. Besides, it's purer and sweeter than the shit we can get in the streets.” 

Inej took the rest of the packets before Big B could get his giant hands on anymore. 

“Beside, Boss said double cu…”

It was a good thing Kaz didn’t have his cane, otherwise Inej was sure Big B wouldn’t be conscious right now. He was late, forfeiting the double cut claim. Although, it appeared that the Saints were going to take care of Big B for all of them.  

Big Bolliger’s eyes bulged as he suddenly went rigid, toppling to the floor his body was attempting to spasm but couldn’t really convulse due to how rigidily his muscles were locked. A thick white foam started choking him. And before any of them could really react, Big Bolliger was lying on the floor. 

Dead. 

Chapter Text

JESPER 

“Shit, fuck. This is so bad.” Jesper was pacing along the back wall of the safe house. 

“Jesper, calm down.” 

As if Jesper could calm down. Big B just died from taking one of those Jurda packets! Jurda wasn’t supposed to be deadly!

“What are we going to do?” Rotty asked from the sidelines.  

“Nothing.” Kaz slowly hauled himself up from the chair and table he had seated himself at and went over to Bolliger’s body.

“Nothing?” This earned Kaz wide eyed looks from everyone. 

“Nothing.” Kaz repeated as he started rifling through Big Bolliger’s pockets. “We didn’t do a heist tonight. We were never at Councilman Hoede’s estate. We don’t have this new Jurda Parem the Shu made.” He held up both the empty and partially consumed second bag he lifted off Bolliger’s body. 

Jesper wasn’t successful at containing his shudder. How was Kaz so calm about touching dead bodies? Jesper would, one kinda had too with life in the Barrel. But still. Gross. 

“Damnit Bolliger.” Kaz muttered and finally stood. In his hand was a card with a black hand. 

“No.” Inej whispered.

Kaz did a street magic thing with his hands and the hand on the card suddenly lost two fingers. “Yes. We’ve found our leak.”

Rotty cringed, “I was going to mention it to you later, but Bolliger had left the Crow Club before I did and managed to take twice as long getting to you tonight.”

Kaz ran a sodden gloved hand through his hair, thinking. “We need to find his contact and hope he didn’t tell them we were doing a job in the Geldstraat. I have a feeling Councilman Hoede is going to have every resource tapped looking for this Jurda Parem.  That’s what I’d do if I was him. As deadly as this stuff is, I wouldn’t want anyone knowing it existed either.” 

“Geels has been handling the sleeper spies the Black Tips have in various other gangs.” Of course Inej knew that detail. Jesper briefly wondered what secrets she may know about him. Then realized, it didn’t matter because he actually trusted her with them.

Kaz looked each of them in the eyes. Sighing, he turned to Rotty. “You can always say no, but you’re the best man I got for the job. I need someone to go to Geels saying Bolliger trusted you enough to make contact in his stead. Say I’m suspicious of Big Bolliger’s lateness tonight and have extra eyes on him so he can’t come himself. But he needed the Black Tips to know of this new drug. I want you to take this partially used packet of Jurda Parem and make sure Geels taste tests it. Or if Geels actually isn’t Bolliger’s contact, try to find out who is and get them to ingest it to.”  A dark look came over Kaz’s features. “I want to know if this new Jurda is what actually killed Bolliger and if it works this fast at killing with a smaller dose.”

Rotty took the pack from Kaz. “You can count on me Boss.”

Kaz nodded. “Thank you. Inej can shadow you and be your backup in case anything goes wrong. If you can ensure you’re not seen dripping wet, feel free to stop by the Slat first for a dry change of clothes. It is imperative that no one knows what we did tonight.”

“I can get in and out with no one knowing, just let me know where and what to grab for you Rotty.” Inej told Rotty as the both of them were exiting the safe house. 

Jesper let out a loud breath of air through his mouth, thinking back on the night. “I don’t think any of Hoede’s personal guards or hired Stadwatch saw us Boss, but that Grisha did.”

A sour look crossed Kaz’s face. “I’m aware of that. Inej and I also left the ship’s captain alive belowdecks.”

Jesper cringed, two eye witnesses then. Not good. 

“What are we going to do about them?”

“I dunno yet.” Kaz grabbed a bucket of water and splashed the foam off of Bolliger’s face. “Help me with the body.”

Keeping his constant litany of ‘eww, gross eww, gross. gross, eww’ to himself, Jesper helped Kaz get Bolliger set out for the nights Reapers Barge. 

No mourners. No funerals.

Which, even just thinking their slogan felt too good for the treacherous rat.  

INEJ

Kaz and herself had been trying to find their leak for weeks now. Big Bolliger was on their list, but she hadn’t actually thought it was him. And while she hadn’t been able to catch their leak in the act, she knew where Geels would be waiting to receive a report from a contact who wanted to get new information to the Black Tips.  

And there he was. She moved silently across the roofs, manoeuvring for a better position to hear from. 

Rotty was doing a great job, he had Geels easily convinced he was with Big Bolliger. Inej kept a close watch for any potential hand signs or double meaning code words. She liked Rotty and trusted him, but then, she had trusted Big Bolliger too.

Inej couldn’t help but hold her breath as Rotty pulled out the Jurda Parem. She had never encountered anything that could kill a person so quickly. She didn’t like it, but she understood why Kaz needed to know just how deadly it was. And why Geels needed to be silenced.  They couldn’t let anyone even suspect they were involved or had the Jurda Parem. It was too dangerous.

Her mind flashed back to the captain that they let live on the ship and the Grisha who nearly killed them. Was it even worth duping Geels and taking him out in this way when the Councilman already had two eye witnesses that could ID them? 

“Bolliger already sampled some back at the club.” Rotty’s conversation with Geels drew her attention back to the street.  “Said it was sweet like candy.”

“Did anyone else try it?”

“No man, Kaz is keeping this shit real quiet. Wants to be the only source for it. Bolliger couldn’t leave without being frisked, but knew you’d be able to cut us a bigger share. Try it, and then start talking numbers with me. If you want my help, it’s going to have to be worth it.”

Geels licked his pinkie finger then dipped it into the powder then stuck his finger into his mouth. ‘That’s not going to be enough.’ Inej thought. 

“Ohh, that is sweet. The ladies and kids will love it. What was Bolliger’s high from it like?”

“It hit him fast and hard. And you know how big he is, he only needed an ounce when it usually takes three for him to feel anything.”

Inej didn’t like the greedy look that was starting to shine in Geels eyes, and readed her knives. “How much does Brekker have? What’s production for it…” 

Inej stopped. Rotty had also dropped his act and looked at Geels expectantly. Sure enough, within seconds Geels was dead. Just like Big Bolliger.  She checked the ally before leaving her hiding place to join Rotty. 

“What is this stuff? Geels barely put this shit in his mouth and it still killed him just as fast.”

“I dunno.”  But she was going to go find out. And retrieve a lost item while at it. “You good to take care of the body and get back to the Slat yourself?”

“Yeah. I’ll make it look like he got caught snitching. The Black Tips will have to go through a lot of names before they get to us.”

Inej nodded before disappearing into the night.

~☀️~☀️~

Councilman Hoede’s estate was a beehive of activity. While she decided the place was too hot to linger for information, she might still be able to retrieve Kaz’s cane. She made it to the boathouse and slipped into the river. Yes, there was breathing space between the water and floorboards of the boathouse. She slowly made her way through the supports, too much splashing would draw the attention of those inside. 

She saw the haul of the ship and vaguely remembered where they had attempted to jump over at. Searching the dark depths of the river, there was a lot of debris. But the random small bits of light seemed to be gleaming off of something down there.

‘Sankta Margaretha, please guide me.’ Inej silently prayed as she took a big breath of air and went for it. ‘I am not here, no one can see me, silence follows me.’ Inej repeated over and over as her fingers found the crow head cane topper and she kicked back up to the surface to breathe. ‘Silence.’

“My money’s on the Grisha being behind the theft.”

‘What?’ Her mantra stalled as she overheard a guard speaking above. 

“Then why did he stick around?” 

“To throw suspicion away from himself. Also, he’s under contract. He’s got nowhere to go until he’s paid off.”

“So if he stuck around to make everyone not suspicious of him, then why is everyone suspicious of him?”

“He’s Grisha! Honest folks like us can never hope to understand their kind.”

“So how do you understand him?”

“Because I understand thieves. Thieves don’t leave witnesses. So, if he wasn’t a thief, he’d be dead.”

“Or the thieves just weren't able to kill him because he’s Grisha.”

Inej couldn’t believe what she was hearing. What happened to the captain they left alive? The Squaller wasn’t the only eye witness. But even if he was, why wouldn’t he give up their descriptions? She knows he saw their faces. She looked him directly in the eye before he pulled that air trick that sucked them downwards. She couldn’t get caught here. 

Mind spinning with questions and cane successfully clutched in her grasp, Inej quickly made her way back to the Slat. 

Chapter Text

(Weekish later after the heist.)

KAZ

“Pekka Rollins has been asking around about who hit Councilman Hoede’s estate.”

Ah, so Per Haskell was going to address him about the heist. Kas rolled his cane Inej managed to retrieve for him between the palms of his gloved hands.  He was aware that Pekka Rollins had called a parley with all the gang leaders last night, trying to suss out who stole the councilman’s Shu Han package.  It was clear Rollins was in Councilman Hoede’s pocket, the night after the Heist Inej caught him going to the councilman’s estate for a private meeting. Since then, Dime Lions have been hitting the streets for rumors. After four days of nothing, Rollins finally called all the bosses together. 

Not unheard of, especially if something is threatening the Barrel. But still exceptionally rare. 

Thankfully, Haskell kept quiet last night and so far no other suspicions had come down upon them. 

Kaz still wanted to know how the ship captain he left alive ended up dead. Almost a week had gone by and none of them could figure it out. It had to have been the Grisha. But why? That Grisha can’t possibly know who they are. Why cover for them?

“I fail to see what business it is of his.”

“Tell me you didn’t do it.”

Kaz didn’t miss a beat. “I didn’t do it, sir”

Per Haskell stared long and hard at Kaz. 

“You came to me multiple times for that heist.”

“I did, Sir. But you said No.” Twice, he only brought it before Haskell twice. 

“Damn straight I said No. Good thing too. The whole Merchant Council is set to burn whatever gang did it out of existence.” Satisfied now with Kaz’s answers, and seeming innocence, Per Haskell sat back in his chair and lit a cigar. “Any idea on who might have done it or what the score was?”

“No Sir.  But I can have the Wraith start checking into it.”

“See that you do.” Haskell wasn’t even looking at Kaz anymore, instead attention focused on the little ship in a bottle he was finishing up.

~☀️~☀️~

“So, how am I supposed to find this group of thieves and what they stole from Councilman Hoede’s boathouse?”  Inej was waiting in his office, arms crossed leaning on the windowsill, when Kaz finally made his way up the stairs and let himself and Jesper in.

Of course she had listened in on his meeting with Per Haskell. 

“Oh that’s easy. We plant the evidence on Pekka Rollins and watch the Dime Lions burn.” 

“WHAT?!” Jesper screeched, and even Inej’s eyes went round with disbelief. “We can’t let knowledge of this Parem stuff hit the streets.”

“I’m aware.” How was Kaz supposed to explain how badly he wanted to see Pekka Rollins empire burn? He wasn’t going to. At least, not right now. Not with this Jurda Parem. Even though he could see the plan forming. This wasn’t the way to do it. As much as Kaz wanted to see Rollings burn, he wasn’t about to burn his crows in the process. And giving back the Merchant Council this deadly of a drug? They could wipe out the barrel in a matter of bells. 

“Anything new on the Grisha?” He shifted topics.

“Still hasn’t mentioned us. Still under constant surveillance. Still hasn’t done anything to even hint at why he’s covering for us.” Kaz could hear the frustration in Inej’s voice. They’ve been up every night trying to come up with reasons the Grisha was keeping them secret, and nothing.  It was driving them all crazy. The Grisha had his reasons. Just. What were they?

~☀️~☀️~ Two weeks since heist ~☀️~☀️~

“What do we know?” Kaz sat at his door desk. Paperwork neatly stacked and organized. His elbows were on the table, chin resting on his gloved steepled fingers. His crows spread out in his office at the top of the Slat. Inej perched on the window ledge. Jesper and Rotty taking up the two rickety chairs in front of the makeshift desk. 

It had been a couple weeks now since the heist, and they still had more questions than answers. 

Rotty spoke first. “There’s mum being said about a new Jurda, Councilman Hoede may be using every resource at his disposal to try and find the thieves who robbed him. But he’s keeping the knowledge of what exactly was stolen secret. It’s making many of the gangs think there wasn’t actually anything taken and this is a ploy by the Merchant Council to finally make good their threats of cleaning up Ketterdam by getting rid of the Barrel.

“The Black Tips are finally realizing that Geels last contact was with us. Even though they’ve no idea what Bolliger reached out Geels for. If Pekka Rollins holds yet another meeting with all the Barrel bosses, they might wise up that his death coincides with the heist.”

A sour look crossed Kaz’s face. “That alone would probably be enough for Rollins to start making our lives miserable.”

“You mean he doesn’t already?” Everyone ignored Jesper.

Pekka Rollins would call a third Barrel meeting. The Merchant Council were NOT giving up on this hunt. Which proved how important this Jurda Parem was. Normally people forgot about stolen goods after a few weeks with no leads. But not this instance. 

“Big Bolliger?”

Jesper shrugged, “with the Black Tips starting to look for him as well, that just cements the fact that he was our rat. Everyone believes Big B realized you were on to him and split before you could make an example out of him.”

Well. That was good news.

All eyes drifted towards the Wraith. 

She blew out a frustrated huff of air. “I still can’t discern the Grisha’s motives!  He was the only possible person who could have killed Hoede’s captain after we left and before the guards and Stadwatch showed up. But the Grisha doesn’t talk to anyone at the estate, let alone outside. He came to Ketterdam two years ago. Running from Ravka’s Second Army. Rumors I was able to learn in Little Ravka were old, but apparently he did something that embarrassed the General. Since then he’s been living and working for Councilman Hoede and drinking whiskey.

“He was certainly trying to stop us from getting away with the score, so I can’t imagine why he’s now not giving us up when it’s clearly casting negative suspicions upon himself.”

Her dark eyes bore into his. “Kaz, what exactly happened once we hit the water?”

Kaz leaned back in his chair. Over the past several weeks they’ve each retold the events multiple times to each other in this room. Looking for details they may have overlooked or missed. Clues that didn’t look like clues. 

Truth was, Kaz still wasn’t sure what happened in the water. He was the only one who could tell this portion, and he always glossed over it. Because they didn’t need to know about his past. But it was clear that something happened down there, or else the Grisha wouldn’t suddenly be covering for them. That was the turning point of when the Grisha stopped fighting them.

Everyone was staring at him with various incredulous looks, which meant he was allowing emotions to display across his face. Schooling his facial muscles he opted to try giving them some truth. “I panicked.”

As much as he liked to spin tales of his lack of humanity, it always hurt when Jesper and Inej seemed to forget he was actually human. 

Growling he started again gritting out as much as he could. “I panicked. Inej was bleeding and drowning. There was a sudden warmth in the water and I was able to get us both back into the boathouse dock. I managed to get us on the other side of the ship away from the Grisha. He must’ve been preoccupied by something because he wasn’t immediately on us. Giving us the time we needed to recover, create a distraction via the use of the explosives Hoede had lying around, and get out.”

Jesper looked thoughtful, this couldn’t be good. “I saw the Grisha when I ran into you both at the door to the boathouse. He was behaving like he was blinded… I had assumed it was because of the dynamite. But, there was a bright burst of sunlight moments before I got there. Could that be connected to the warmth you felt in the water?”

Kaz didn’t care about appearances, he screwed up his face. “I suppose… but sunlight? Where the fuck would that come from?”

No one had an answer for that. Although Kaz saw Inej pray to her Saints forsaken Saints. 

(Towards the end of week three after the heist.)

RETVENKO 

It had taken Retvenko three weeks. THREE! But he finally managed to slip out of the mansion.  Every time he turned around there was a guard, or Stadwatch, or even Hoede himself. Just watching him. It was like they thought he was in on the heist. Or lying about it. Which, he was. But they still didn’t need to watch him like he was. 

But now that he was out, he had no idea where to look. And he was about out of time, if his letter he sent that night made it to the Darkling, then he or his envoy would almost be to Ketterdam by now. 

The Barrel, sure. That’s where the Ketterdam gangs congregated. Probably East Stave, which is why he was here. But this was still a sizable chunk of the city. At least he could start at a bar. 

What he needed was a Barrel Boss who knew everything that happened in this city. He knew there was Pekka Rollins.  Councilman Hoede had the man over for dinner the night after the heist. Rollins didn’t know anything about it then. He might have gotten some information in the past few weeks. But he’d go back to the mansion if he had info. And he’d yet to report anything of use. Retvenko didn’t need, or even want, to seek him out. 

“Whiskey. Make it a double.” Retvenko ordered from the barkeep. “And another of whatever my friend is having.”

“S’Why thank … Who the fuck are you?” 

“Is that anyway to greet a man who’s buying your drink?”

Retvenko had no idea who he was talking to, the drunkard had a tattoo of a hand missing two fingers. What gang that was, he didn’t care. Just that this guy was in a gang. 

“I need someone who knows all the business happening in the city.” Retvenko cut straight to why he was here. “Know anyone other than Pekka Rollins?”

The drunk snorted, “yeah”, he responded without hesitation. “Dirtyhands. Kaz Brekker.”

Dirtyhands, Retvenko had heard of him too. Dregs and ruthless. Even if only a quarter of the stories about him were true, it still was not a person who made for pleasant company. 

“Where might I find him?”

“Keep asking around.  He’ll find you.” And with a pleasant mimeing motion of using his fingers as a knife, he shoved his greasy fingers into Retvenko’s ribs.  “And stick you.”

Retvenko watched him walk away with a disgusted look on his face. “Charming fellow” he groused into his whiskey.

“Don’t mind him.” The barkeep spoke up while wiping the counter where the gang member just left. “If you really want to find Dirtyhands, he’s usually running the Crow Club.”

“Thanks.” And he paid for the drinks leaving a sizeable tip for the information. “Is he easy to spot?”

“Sure is, just look for a teenager who looks to young to be running anything, dressed in black and limping around with a black cane with a silver crow’s head.”

Retvenko couldn’t help it. He stopped and stared at the barkeep halfway up from his stool. It couldn’t be. “Short black hair, pointy face, gravely voice?”

“Yep. Sounds like you already crossed paths with him.”

“You could say that, he was with a small Suli girl and tall Zemeni boy.” Retvenko winced at the memories of the boathouse fight.

“I’m impressed,” the barkeep let out a low whistle and now really looked at Retvenko, making him glad he left his Kefta behind and donned basic sailor breaches and cap. “You met The Murder and lived then.”

Oh look. A free shot of whiskey.  Why wasn’t that making him feel any better.

Chapter Text

IVAN

Ivan still couldn’t believe it. He was on a ship pulling into Ketterdam. It’d been nothing but hard travel via horseback and pushing the Squallers and Tidemakers to their limits on the ships for the past 15 days. Emil Retvenko had said he’d done it. That he’d found the Sun Summoner the Council of Tides reported seven years ago. 

He didn’t give a name. Or even a gender. Or much information at all. His letter simply said, “I’ve witnessed up close and personal the Sun Summoner use their power. A teenage thief here in Ketterdam. Send an Examiner.” Not exactly useful in his opinion. But the Darkling’s eyes lit up at the news. 

It was too long of a trip for the Darkling to make personally. Although, he was going to. The King was the one who decided that the Second Army’s general could not take a month long sabbatical to track down a myth in a foreign nation.  Which Ivan agreed with. And he was honoured that the Darkling entrusted him directly with this task. 

He just didn’t want to deal with Emil Retvenko. 

RETVENKO 

Of all the bloody Corporalnki the Darkling could send in his stead, it had to be Ivan, complete and utter asshole. Fedyor wasn’t so bad, at least he had something of a personality. And Retvenko didn’t know Ashlinka. She was young though, just out of schooling most likely. The grey on her red Kefta indicated Healer instead of Heartrender like the first two. She also had to have been an Amplifier to administer the exam since the first two Corporalnki were not, and the last two of the Darklings envoy were Oprichniki. 

“So where is the Sun Summoner?”

See? Asshole. No hi how are you doing. Or good to see you’s. Just ‘where’s the Sun Summoner’ with that disgusted look upon his face like Retvenko had just tied a dirty smelly rotten sock under his nose.  

“This is why I requested an Examinator, I’ve narrowed it down between two individuals.”

“Of course you don’t know who it is.”

“I know it’s one of two people!”

“So where are they?”

“Ketterdam.”  Okay. So Retvenko was feeing like being a smartass. 

The glare Ivan gave him was worth it. “Where in Ketterdam.” He grit out. 

“That’s… complicated.”

“I bet. Did you even see any actual Sun Power?”

“Considering I still have bright spots in my vision from where my retinas got burned when I stared down into what should have been watery darkness only to have pure sunlight assault me instead. Yes. I did.” 

“I can attempt to clear those up for you.”  The Healer timidly spoke up.  “If you’d like.” She added when Retvenko’s attention shifted to her. “And if there’s time.” She amended, quickly looking away as Ivan the Asshole’s glare fixed upon her.

“I would greatly appreciate it Miss.” See Retvenko had manners. It earned him a small smile even. But back to business.  “The Sun Summoner is either a small Suli girl named Inej Ghafa with the moniker, the Wraith. Or a black haired wiry Kerch male teen named Kaz Brekker, who’s known as Dirtyhands. They both fell into the river at the same time right before the Sunlight emerged. Hence why I’m uncertain as to which teen it is and needed an examiner. 

“They’re members of a gang called the Dregs down in the Barrel. Both thieves, who often hang with a third teen, a tall Zemeni boy named Jesper Fahey. Everyone in Ketterdam refers to the trio as the Murder. Pleasant, I know. They seem to have a strong crow theme amongst this small band inside the Dregs.”

Ha! Ivan actually looked pensive. Good. Retvenko kept going. 

“The girl is under contract and working off her debt. If we’re lucky, she’ll turn out to be the Sun Summoner. I think she’s originally from Ravka and might not be as opposed to leaving Ketterdam. The boy has been fast moving up the ranks in the gang and is currently their top lieutenant. The leader of the Dregs is Per Haskell, whom I’m to understand actually leaves the running of the gang's businesses to a sixteen or seventeen year old kid.  Needless to say, the boy is smart, cunning, and most likely not interested in leaving his little empire he’s building.”

“So you didn’t approach the kids to have them meet with us here for testing because you didn’t want to spook them into hiding if it turns out to be the boy.” Ivan deduced. “Of course you would get the lazy way to complete your job. But, you’ve managed to get me useful information for bringing the Sun Summoner back to the Darkling.”

Retvenko bristled. But held his tongue at the backhanded compliment. He wanted off this Island, and regrettably, Ivan was his ticket out of here. 

FEDYOR

Fedyor internally cringed at the thought of the Sun Summoner, Ravka’s only hope for destroying the fold and saving their nation, being a foreign teenage gang thief.  Could be worse, could be a Fjerdan Drüskelle. But still. No wonder Retvenko didn’t drop that loadstone of news on them until they got here. 

What a mess. 

Although, Ivan was right, as he usually was.  Kerch provided a, let’s say unique, alternative to conscription.  Still, the thought of indenturing a kid to the Ravkan throne was, underhanded? Unconscionable? Didn’t quite sit right with him. 

But then again, with the realisation upon being Grisha, they’d probably want to move to Ravka anyway. It really was the safest nation to be if Grisha. 

PER HASKELL  

Per Haskell was sweating, he needed to get back to the Slat. Kaz said he didn’t do it, and the boy has never done a job without his seal of approval. But it's been nearly a month now and Pekka Rollins just cornered him a few blocks ago to mention that in the month of digging, he's so far only got one sniff of a lead on who might have done it. The Dregs. Kaz. 

Logically, Haskell knew making a show of this was kind of a bad idea. But he didn’t have the patience to remain cool and collected. It’s why he worked best with young kids and small time operations of working the streets. 

But Haskell had to talk with the boy. He remembered now Rotty and Big Bolliger heading out the night of that heist because Kaz called them for some sort of mission. And now knowing that the Black Tips lost their wrangler that night as well. Combined with the fact no one has seen Big Bolliger since that night either. 

It was a lot of lines pointing back to the Dregs that they didn’t need. 

So caught up in the fear that his lieutenant may have actually lied to him, Haskell didn't see the carriage until two Grisha dressed in red Kefka’s grabbed him by the arms and tossed him in it. 

Chapter Text

IVAN

Ivan sat silently and openly judged the balding middle aged man before him. Sweat seemed to pour off his face and he reeked of Ketterdam stench. This whole city had a peculiar odour, the Barrel more so than the rest of it. But this man smelled like he bathed in it, then slathered it on like a heavy aftershave cologne. Then there was the atrocious flashy clothes the man was wearing. His nose and his eyes were waring over which was worse.

So this was Per Haskell, leader of the Dregs. Ivan was not impressed.

But if he could ensure the Darkling got what he wanted, then Ivan could deal with the stink.

“Ah, look here Grisha, I don’t know what business you have. But I doubt I’m the person you want.” He spoke with a fairly good confidence, but Ivan didn’t need his Heartrender abilities to tell the man was growing more uncomfortable by the second.

“You are Per Haskell are you not.” Ivan asked. Best to make sure after all.

“Yes?”

“Leader of the Dregs.”

“I am.”

“Then we have business.”

“Oh… okay?”

Ivan sighed. Why was dealing with peasants so taxing.

“We’re ambassadors from the King’s Second Army in Ravka. His magisty has a job that requires a certain, skillset, and it’s recently come to our attention that a member of your Murder happens to fulfill the jobs particular needs.”

Ivan was confident in his Kerch, but the man was looking at him like he couldn’t figure out what he was saying.

“My Murder?”

Saints, did the man not even know how the locals referred to his supposed highest ranking lieutenants crew? “Yes, you do employ a Dirtyhands and Wraith do you not?” Ivan thought it was best to use the kids gang names, but perhaps he shouldn’t have. The man looked even more lost. But then again, most men whom didn’t often interact with Grisha tended to get dumb when suddenly in close proximity to two Corporalnki.

“Kaz? Wait, you mean The King of Ravka wants to hire Kaz and his two seconds Jesper and the Wraith for a job?”

Ivan was failing in containing his emotions, he had a very low tolerance for stupidity. Which this man possessed in abundance. glancing at Feydor, he noticed the bastard was clearly trying not to bust out in laughter.

“Let me start again.” Ivan spoke low and dangerously.

KAZ

Inej had gotten back hours ago. She had followed Per Haskell to the latest gang leaders meeting. As expected, the Black Tips were finally piecing together the timeline of losing Geels and Big Bolliger on the same night of Councilman Hoede’s heist. Even more expected, Pekka Rollins cornered Per Haskell afterwards to apply some pressure. Which, curse Haskell, he panicked and Inej had reported him rushing back when she broke off to beat him here. So Kaz sat waiting with his crows in the main common room of the Slat. Waiting for Haskell to get back so they could talk.

But unexpectedly, Haskell still hadn’t returned.

“You don’t think he’d abandon us do ya?” Jesper whispered, for once not paying attention to the cards in his hand.

Kaz fiddled with the deck he was shuffling. Mind running scenario after scenario in his head of what could have possibly happened to Per Haskell after Inej stopped tailing him on the way back to the Slat so that she’d be able to report in.

Apparently, she needn't have rushed. Where was he.

“No.” Kaz grunted as he dealt the next set of cards to Jes and Rotty.

“Haskell may have his faults, but he’s loyal to us.” Rotty spoke quietly back.

Kaz sensed more than heard Inej snort behind him. She sat cleaning her knives behind him. Keeping a steady surveillance of the door without looking at it.

“What if a Black Tip decided to get a piece of him after Pekka was done?”

Kaz pursed his lips, that was a prominent seneario he had been theorising.

Inej tensed and Kaz looked over in time to catch Per Haskell rushing into the Slat like a dog whimpering in after a scuffle with something bigger than it. As soon as he crossed the threshold however, he stood straighter and became the big dog in the room lording over his domain. Whatever plagued him outside seemed unable to get him here.

It was still early enough in the night that the place was fairly full. As soon as he saw Kaz’s little group, he made a beeline towards their table. “You.” Haskell grunted pointing to Kaz. “Wraith.” He pointed behind Kaz. “My office. At four bells.” And with that he swept back the way he came, leaving everyone in a stunned silence.

“Wait, not me?” Jesper was the first to speak.

“At four bells? Why so early in the morning?” Inej inquired.

Kaz didn’t answer either of them. Choosing to sit and ponder Haskell’s strange behavior instead. That time was right in the Barrel’s quiet hours. The Barrel mostly closed down a several hours before sunrise, and really started waking up in the early afternoon. No one inside did business at that time.

“Scheming face?” Kaz heard Jesper ask someone, probably Inej.

“No, not quite.” Inej could always read him.

“Haskell was waylaid by outsiders. That’s probably when they want to meet to discuss a job.” Kaz clenched his fist. He needed more information, but had very little time and no clues to work off of.

PER HASKELL

After letting the boy and Wraith know what time to report in for heading to the Ravka Grisha meeting in the Saints forsaken morning, Haskell retreated to his rooms/office at the slat and headed straight for the liquor. He kept his mouth shut and just sat quietly. He couldn’t mumble or mutter about this upcoming job else the Wraith would know, and the Grisha were adamant about not letting the kids know they were going to get tested for Grisha powers in the morning. It was their money, Haskell would keep their secrets if that’s what they wanted and paid for.

500 kruge sat in his vest pocket, that was for keeping their secrets and bringing the boy and Wraith to them in the morning. Another 500 kruge was waiting for him when he delivered. Then there would be the nice fat 2 mil kruge payday of when they bought her contract.

‘The Wraith isn’t natural,’ Haskell thought. ‘She’s got to be the Grisha they’re wanting.” And that was okay. Selling her contact would be easy. The boy would probably put up a fuss, but Haskell didn’t want no Grisha in his Dregs anyway. Letting her go with her own kind was a kindness not usually available in the Barrel.

Chapter Text

INEJ

What were they doing in Little Ravka? Per Haskell was rushing them all through the pre dawn streets as if he needed to get to the destination before the rest of the city woke up. Which, considering they left a full two bells after Haskell told them they needed to go, they probably were. Inej looked at Kaz and Jesper. They both seemed just as confused with what was going on as she was. After so long stressing over the Jurda Parem and Squaller’s motives, this sudden mysterious job that Haskell of all people got was blindsiding all of them. 

Haskell paused and spoke with a vendor sleepily setting up outside a bar that was still cleaning up from a long night.  Jesper mouthed ‘What the fuck is going on?’ and Inej just shrugged, glad he was even here. Haskell tried to be adamant about only needing Kaz and herself for whatever this was. But Jesper was insistent, and Kaz also didn’t seem inclined to leave one of their trio behind to meet for an unknown job. Hence why they were two bells late setting out. 

They were let into the bar and shown to a backroom. 

“Cutting it close Mr Haskell, Ivan was about set to send out a search party.” A teasing voice announced and Per Haskell nearly went white with fear. Inej, Kaz and Jesper froze at the exchange and the sudden presence of a Ravkan Corporalnik. Heartrender if Inej was remembering the red and black trimmed Kefta correctly. He bowed slightly to the teens following Haskell and introduced himself.  “Fedyor Kaminski.” Then frowned, it was clear that he was expecting only Kaz and Inej. 

Inej could feel Kaz’s smirk at having already derailed someone else’s carefully laid plans.

Then Fedyor snorted, “we really should have expected the whole Murder this fine morning.” Kaz scowled at their trios street nickname, but Inej just rolled her eyes while Jesper grinned like a fool.  “This way, follow me.” And the Grisha led them into a floor hatch, through a crawl space under the bar and eventually a tunnel that ended at a circular room. 

A room filled with Grisha and Oprichniki. Inej’s heart started pounding in her chest. Not just because there were now three Corporalniki along with two of the Darkling’s personal guards. Not because the Squaller they had fought almost a month ago was there as well. But because she recognized this type of set up. A Grisha Examination tent. What exactly was going on? 

After a few moments of the two groups sizing each other up, the other Heartrender whispered to Fedyor in Ravkan, “Itak, kto, po vashemu mneniyu, yavlyayetsya Prizyvatelem Solntsa?”

Inej belatedly thought that it was a good thing she was already in a mild state of panic, because her heart skipped a beat and she really didn’t want to give anything away to the Corporalniki who could read heart rates in the room. But at his question: “So, which one do you think is the Sun Summoner?” She was suddenly a little girl, hanging on her Papa’s stories of the fabled Sun Summoner who was going to destroy the Fold and save everyone in Ravka. They were just stories though. A part of her childhood she had forgotten about until this moment. 

Was the Sun Summoner real?  And here?  Jes had mentioned Sunlight pouring from the boathouse during the heist… the Squaller that had been covering for them was here, staring intently between Kaz and herself.  They both had fell in the water… Saints. All this time, why he covered for them! He had been protecting the Sun Summoner! 

“Inej?” Kaz turned and asked softly when he noticed her swaying. He was trying not to show it, but his eyes were brimming with questions as they darted back and forth from her to the Corporalnik who spoke. That’s right, he doesn’t speak Ravkan, her mind whirred. She glanced back at Jesper. He looked to be attempting to parse out the Ravkan, so he knew some of what the Grisha said, but it was clear he didn’t understand either. Not like she did. And she couldn’t pull them away to explain it now. 

Saints preserve them.

So this is why they set up a Grisha Examination in Ketterdam’s Little Ravka. The Squaller couldn’t know which of them summoned the sun. Her breath caught in her throat as she looked into Kaz’s coffee eyes that were begging, demanding answers. She couldn’t even begin to convey this silently. 

Kaz was the fabled Sun Summoner. 

Inej felt faint. 

IVAN

It’s the boy. Ivan couldn’t keep the shark tooth grin from his face as the Suli girl connected the dots and all but confirmed the Sun Summoner was here. She gazed at the boy beside her as if she was seeing him for the first time. Her fingers kept twitching like they wanted to send prayers to the Saints.

The Kerch were notorious for only sticking to their own language. Just because most everyone else learned Kerch because practically all trade and business went through Ketterdam, that didn’t mean the Kerch shouldn’t have to learn other languages.  

So, Ivan spoke in Ravkan to see how much the kids would understand. 

It turned out to be a much more informative exchange than he anticipated. He now at least had a few more minutes to refine the Darklings plans in his head.  He’d never admit it aloud, but Retvenko had probably made the right call in not approaching the boy before they made it to Ketterdam.  Even not knowing the stories or history of Dirtyhands, the boy looked like trouble. It’d be best if Ivan could manage to uncover the boys weaknesses before they left. 

KAZ

Kaz was hating everything about this. He’d built his life on making sure he knew everything. Secrets were his trade. And right now Inej was looking like she finally put the pieces together before him. But she wasn’t able to tell him. Saints damn this job Haskell found. 

That Grisha from Hoede’s estate was here, along with several others from Ravka. There was too much Kaz didn’t know, they were in a tight enclosed space while being outnumbered by Grisha.  Kaz was good with working with improbable odds and being dealt a terrible hand, but three Corporalniki? That wasn’t just a bad hand, that was the house’s deck being stacked against him when he prepared for blackjack only for the game to be poker instead. 

Frustrated at being in the dark about what was happening, Kaz leaned on his cane and spoke first. “Alright, what business?” He did his best to ignore Inej at his side. She already seemed to know! How could she possibly know the job from just entering a room?  If he could only get a moment of privacy to talk with her!

Shark teeth’s gaze locked onto him, “Before we discuss ‘what business’, we need to confirm if we’re hiring Grisha or not.”  Kaz bristled at the Corporalnik’s imitation of his gruff speech pattern. “It’s a simple and quick procedure.” 

Haskell, you son of a bitch, Kaz cursed in his head. Jesper. How was he supposed to protect his crows when he wasn’t in on the plans! Kaz was fairly certain he had devised a way Grisha Examiners would fail to detect if the one they touched was Grisha. But it was a moot point when he couldn’t prepare.  What was going to happen if they discovered Jesper was Grisha?  

He didn’t like the idea of these Ravkan’s trying to conscript one of his Crows.  

Jes was his. 

Corporalnik Heartrender’s or not, Kaz wouldn’t let them take Jesper without a fight. 

Chapter Text

RETVENKO

Even without using his Small Science, Retvenko could feel how still the air had become in the small room. Everyone was holding their breaths. Per Haskell and the kids from the tenseness of being in such tight quarters with so many Grisha.  The Ravkan’s because this was the moment they had been waiting for their entire lives, the reveal of the Sun Summoner. And it wasn’t until this moment that he realized that somehow the Darkling’s desires had become their own. 

He wasn’t sure how he felt about that revelation. 

Thankfully, he didn’t have the time right now to ponder it. 

Ashlinka approached the girl first and Retvenko was momentarily confused by the sad look that crossed the Suli girls face. “I’m not Grisha.” She told the room while offering her right arm for Ashlinka to take before having needed to be asked. “I was tested twice as a kid.”

Ashlinka paused before grasping the offered arm, but went ahead and focused, going forward with the exam.  

“Twice?!” Fedyor choked out from his guard position by the door.  Retvenko shared his incredulousness. Sure, every child in Ravka was tested at some point, but twice?

A faint blush crossed the Suli girls cheeks, “My family wasn’t quite convinced that my affinity for the high wire and heights wasn’t an indication of being some sort of Squaller.” She shrugged sheepishly.

‘Huh’ Retvenko thought to himself then cringed, because if the girl was Ravkan and had already been tested. Twice apparently.  Then that meant the one they were looking for was the boy.  He sneaked a peek at the boy in question. It was clear the boy was absorbing every ounce of information he could, but he was missing the Ravkan cultural references that would allow him to understand what was actually going on. Still, the scheming face he wore just proved that kid was trouble. At least here there were no explosives just lying around and he’d be ready for the light when it came this time. 

“She’s right,” Ashlinka spoke a minute later, “she’s not Grisha.” The two girls shared small smiles. 

Then Ashlinka stepped in front of the boy holding out her hands.  Which is when he realized he was next and promptly jumped back a foot as if Ashlinka was going to burn him instead of gently holding his hand.  “Absolutely not.”

KAZ

Kaz wasn’t proud of how he reacted when it clicked that they actually meant to do this exam on himself as well. 

The girl Corporalnik shyly smiled up at him. “Hi. My name’s Ashlinka, I just need to hold your forearm for a moment please.” She spoke slowly and calmly, and Kaz hated the fact that he needed her to do that in order to hear her. He shouldn’t be panicking like this. This was a room full of enemies, he couldn’t reveal to them one of his greatest weaknesses. 

He couldn’t make his body stop trembling. 

“You are not touching me.” Kaz growled in an attempt to fight against the pull of the tides threatening to drag him under, to drown him. Skin on skin contact. He just, couldn’t. Her eyes lost their hazel color and Jordie’s milky white dead eyes stared back at him.  

His bad leg threatened to give out from under him. It was enough of a shock to stop Kaz from retreating and let him attempt to breath and regain his lost composure. 

It proved to be the perfect opening for the Grisha Examiner. 

ASHLINKA

Ashlinka slowly approached the boy now, reaching out with her Small Science trying to calm him from a distance. He was clearly having a panic attack. He was fighting against it, but she could feel the erratic beating of his heart.  See the sweat that was forming on his brow. Hear his breathing getting shallower. Did he know he was Grisha and just didn’t want to reveal it? It saddened her that all Grisha outside of Ravka had to hide who they were. 

But this was a room full of Grisha.  Outside of Ravka, she had thought Kerch would have been the second best, safest place to be Grisha.  This should be a safe place for him. She had never considered herself to be threatening before. Her small size and demure personality made her perfect for going out to the remote locations for Examining children. It’s probably how she was chosen for this mission. 

But, Ashlinka needed to touch him. Not just because the exam required it, but to try and help calm him. This wasn’t supposed to be the traumatic experience it clearly was for the boy. 

“Brekker stop this no touching nonsense and roll up your damn sleeve.” Per Haskell demanded and Ashlinka had the sudden revelation that this had nothing to do with herself or him trying to hide any Grisha secrets. This was a touch phobia.  She’d read about such afflictions of the mind and they had had a few people, volunteers for the Corporalniki studies, suffering from other phobias at the Little Palace, for practice. But trying to cure the sufferers from their afflictions? Results were fifty/fifty at best. Either they were cured or went insane.  

Ashlinka did not want to be the one responsible for making the Sun Summoner go insane.

This was not now she liked testing afraid or unwilling candidates, but it was the only way. Ashlinka took control of the boy's body. Just enough to keep him rooted in place so that she could carefully take his right arm and unbutton his shirt sleeve to roll it up with his forearm along with the jacket sleeve. It revealed quite an interesting tattoo of a glass with only the dregs of a liquor still in it and a crow perched on the rim. 

Ashlinka had hoped that if she left the boy's glove on, it’d possibly help him, but a glance into his dark eyes revealed the naked terror roaring under the surface. Best to be quick then. 

Ashlinka wrapped her cold hands around his forearm, breathed, and sunk her awareness down into his bones. 

His panic rolled in her gut, a sense of drowning surrounded by dead flesh.  Ashlinka acknowledged that she would be dealing with the nightmares, just later.  For now, she pushed the waves of fear aside and rooted herself in his heartbeat. Then connected it to her own, forcing it to slow down. Opening up the natural pathways inside him to release any Grisha abilities that could be lurking within.  There was a warmth there she hadn’t ever experienced before. 

Yes. Relax. Ashlinka thought as the nausea started to abate. She went to poke more at that warmth.  Shifting her hands on his forearm, repositioning her right thumb just under his glove to settle on his pulse point had instantaneous results. 

Instant disastrous results. 

The panic came back in force. Which triggered the boys' defences, and considering Ashlinka was working on opening his Grisha channels, that power was unchecked as it broke free.  The skin on her hands, arms and face started blistering as if she had laid in direct desert sun for hours instead of the seconds it took her to back away from the boy. 

She was also thankful that she had her eyes closed in concentration. Even still, bright spots filled her vision as the sunlight receded as suddenly as it came. It sounded like no one was prepared for the onslaught of noon day sun. Everyone seemed to be momentarily blinded. One person was even retching. 

Oh, that was the boy. Ashlinka winced in sympathy remembering how she felt his guts wanting to throw up everything he’d eaten in the past day. It sounded like his body was trying to purge anything he might even consider eating in the near future as well. 

She wanted to help him, but her own skin had started sloughing from the second degree sunburn he’d given her.  

Ashlinka needed to focus on healing herself first, before the pain won out and she became useless to everyone.  

INEJ

Inej had hoped that by going first, Kaz would learn the test required touching and he’d be able to prepare himself for it. But no. Inej knew Kaz didn’t like being touched, but she’d never seen him get so violently ill from it. Her instincts told her to hold him to ease the suffering, but she knew more touching was the last thing he needed right now. 

So she did the next best thing, she used her body as a shield to hide Kaz’s doubled over form from the rest of the room. She couldn’t help him with his own demons, but she could watch his back and protect him from the external ones crowded about the room. 

The Grisha who were quickly recovering from, whatever it was that Healer pulled out of Kaz. 

Chapter Text

JESPER 

Oh shit. Shit shit shit fuck shit. Things were bad. They were so bad that Jesper was lamenting the lack of proper swear words to accurately convey how bad everything was in this moment. 

Kaz fucking Brekker, Bastard of the Barrel, was Grisha! How the fuck did THAT happen?! 

Jesper really wanted to lay into him for keeping THAT a secret from him. They could’ve been secret hidden Grisha buddies! But then again, Kaz kept everything about himself a secret. Also considering that he was still retching along the wall, Jesper was inclined to believe that Kaz may not have known…

That’s a scary thought. But not impossible, he supposed. The girl his mother had saved was unawares of her ability until his mother touched her. But she was like, eight. Kaz was what? Seventeen? And yeah, sure, sun light? That was an unknown power. Not something a kid’s going to easily move by accident. Certainly not something that would make people think immediately of Grisha, probably consider it tricks of the eye. Which, Kaz was good with those non Grisha magics…

“You cannot sell Kaz to Ravka!” Inej’s sharp commanding voice brought Jesper out of his bouncing thoughts, because, WHAT?!

“I’m not selling him.” Per Haskell huffed indignantly. “We’re simply working out terms for a job contract.”

“You’re speaking of indenturing him to the Second Army General and Ravkan throne.” 

Whoo shhhhit, Inej was livid! Sure Inej could get angry, but it was usually the kind of anger a parent has towards a group of unruly kids. Not this, I-have-sharp-pointy-things-and-will-gut-you-with-them, kind of anger.

“It’s what the job requires.”

“No. You can’t sign him up for a permanent job placement.” This anger of hers was personal.  “This isn’t some quick in and out, grab a score and run contract.”

“That’s right.” The other Heartrender, the one who never introduced himself, the one who seemed to be in charge, spoke over Inej. Cutting her off.  “This job requires a longer commitment. You’re from Ravka, you should be intimately familiar with the Fold.” Jesper didn’t like the way Inej paled at its mention. Rumors made it sound pretty bad, but it couldn’t be as bad as rumors made it… right?  

“It’s destruction requires a certain talent that your friend actually possesses.”

Wow dude. Don’t sound so incredulous about it. You saw the glow like everyone else. Hell, Jesper was still seeing sun spots. The only one in the room to actually not be looking at Kaz as that girl Grisha tested him was the annoying ass Squaller. Which, now that he thought about it, this whole setup is probably that dude’s fault.

“So unless your friend is interested in quitting your little gang and helping Ravka,”

“No. Fuck off.”  

Jesper couldn’t help it, he cackled at Kaz’s blunt ass reply. Shame his natural scare factor was diminished due to the shaking, disheveled, post upchucking. At least, Jesper hoped his boss was done tossing his cookies…

“There.” Asshole leader continued.  “Since he’s not inclined to help we are forced to go to his boss to broker a contract for assistance.”

“Which, for proper compensation, I’m willing to negotiate.”

“Kaz isn’t yours to sell.”

Oh man, shit was getting worse. 

“Loan, Wraith. And there’s no pre-existing contract like you have. This is a unique situation in which we need to work with laws we have in order to accommodate the needs of these clients.”  Jesper snorted. Clients. Yeah right. Army recruiters who found a talent they wanted to exploit.  And from the look of things, had no moral qualms about using dirty, underhanded techniques to get what they wanted. 

“HE’S YOUR FIRST LIEUTENANT!”  

Oh ouch, now Jesper’s ears were ringing. That was a fun combo to go with his eyes dancing lights. Too bad it wasn’t a party outside of his head as opposed to inside. 

“That’s right, Wraith.” And oh, it was so easy to forget that Haskell was actually the one in charge when Kaz was the one who visually did everything. Per Haskell was finally showing them all the gang leader he probably had to be to claim the title of boss. “He’s MY lieutenant. That Dregs tattoo on his arm marks him as mine.  He signed himself over to the gang when agreed to be inked. And right now, the gang is going to need him to take this Ravka job.”

And THIS was why Jesper refused to do any business before noon. Let alone before the sun has risen. 

“Haskell.” Dang. Kaz’s voice was worse than normal, like rocks scraping on a chalkboard. But at least he had finally gotten himself upright, even if he was still a bit green and leaning heavily on his cane. 

Haskell came over, almost went to put a hand on his shoulder but stopped at the feral look Kaz gave him. “Listen son.” He whispered, and Jesper had to lean in to hear. “That Grisha in blue is Hoede’s. And he can place you all at that robbery that has the Merchant Council in a snit.” 

A cold sweat broke out on the back of Jesper’s neck. Because, even a month later, the Merchant Council was still putting every resource they had into finding them and the Jurda they stole. 

Because no matter how bad things may be going, if it was early enough in the day, things had just too much time to keep getting worse. 

“So take the job. Let me get the Dregs this fat Ravkan contract. And you come back when it’s done. After things here have cooled off. And with that giant fat completion bonus they’re offering.”

And this morning’s business was shaping up to be epic. Epically horrible. 

“I’m Grisha!” Jesper’s mouth was moving before his brain caught up. “I want to go to Ravka too.”

KAZ

He wasn’t the only one staring at Jes with an open mouthed shocked expression. Everyone was now glued to the sharpshooter with various degrees of surprise or disbelief written on their faces. 

Kaz really appreciated everyone’s focus directed elsewhere, but dammit Jes. Stop acting before thinking!  

And just because he didn’t know when to shut up, he continued to ramble. “I mean, it’s something I’ve been considering for years anyway, just never seemed like the right time, or didn’t know how to get there…”

“You’re Grisha as well?” The Corporalnik in charge cut Jesper off.

“Yep. Ahh, Durast…” Jesper was looking off to the side. Why? Oh. Their examiner was curled up by Hoede’s Squaller, whimpering and attempting to heal herself. Then promptly looked away because her skin…

Kaz leaned his head against the wall. He needed to pull himself together. This situation required attention and quick thinking. Both things he prided himself on and made his reputation upon. However he was struggling to do anything other than curl up and shake in a corner. He hadn’t suffered this much since he was nine and crawling out of the harbor. 

A shadow shifted and Kaz noticed Inej, hiding him. Shielding him from the Ravkan’s. And something caught in his throat. A feeling he couldn’t, wouldn’t name. 

Even Jesper. He was showing off his Durast abilities to draw their attention away. A skillset he kept so hidden there were times Kaz could almost forget they existed. But here he was, reforming spent bullets back into perfect condition to reuse. Proving his Grisha status since their examiner was out of commission. 

Served her right for taking control like she had and touching him when he explicitly said not to. 

Kaz would do anything to protect his Crows. And here they were, protecting him when he faltered. Letting him fade into the shadows to be unseen for a much needed moment to regain his composure. 

But not only that, his brain started working again. Jesper had immediately found a way to make sure to accompany Kaz to Ravka. One Per Haskell wouldn’t be able to prevent. 

Inej…

It was clear there was currently no way Kaz could get out of this job. Even if Haskell wasn’t inclined to work a deal with the Ravkan’s, Kaz knew they would just bypass Haskell and probably just kidnap him and bring him to their precious Darkling, physically gagged and bound. 

Better to be at least seemingly willing so when an opportunity arose to get out he could take it. 

But he wanted, needed Inej. How to get the Ravkan’s to purchase her indenture was the first puzzle he needed to solve. Fast. 

Chapter Text

PER HASKELL 

Haskell was about to be a rich man. A very rich man. He had long ago thought that his grandpappy was pulling his leg about Ghezen honoring the fifth generation of faithful. 

But he still paid the monthly tithe. He’ll admit, it was mostly out of habit. He’d been going to the Church of Barter all his life. As a young boy he watched as his grandpappy prayed and paid. Then as his father took his turn, his grandpappy would wink at him behind his dads back, wiggling his long fingers. On the way out of the Church he’d kneel eye level with him and boop him on the nose with his thumb. Saying he’d be the thumb that completed the Ghezen Haskell Hand. As long as he kept the faith, paid the dues, he’d reep Ghezen’s Haskell family blessing.  

It took five generations. It had to start with a young boy who starts tithing early, he was the pinkie finger. Then he needed to have a son to carry the family name and devotion, he would be the ring finger. Then he needed a son to carry the family name and tithes, he would be the middle finger. Then he needed to have a son, he’d be the first finger. Then he needed to have a son, still carrying the family name the pinkie had started, and if he kept paying the faith as well, he would complete the hand by being the thumb and Ghezen would reward the family with riches untold. 

Rumors were all the Merchant Council family seats were those first families who managed to complete a full family hand of Ghezen. 

As a young man, Per Haskell remembered going looking for that reward. That fabled fortune a devoted family of Ghezen was said to inherit. The priests said he should indenture himself. Go to auction. So, he did. He was bought by a Madam to be her personal assistant. And after a few years, he paid off his indenture. He found it easy and wasn’t sure how all the girls who worked there never seemed to be able to pay theirs off. The Madam told him it was because of poor work ethics, Ghezen didn’t favor them.  She also gave him a piece of advice, that the best way to make money was simply finding the right child who had something a person with a lot of money needed, and brokering the contract. 

So, Haskell started collecting children off the streets. Kids with talents, skills he could cultivate. Decades went by and slowly over time, he stopped looking for Ghezen’s fabled reward. Then Kaz came along and started making his gang money. Which was good. He was starting to see some kind of fortune. The money from the Crow Club was nice. The Fifth Harbor even better. 

But then the younger Dregs started reporting to Kaz instead of himself. Which was fine Haskell told himself, he was tired of dealing with all the brats.

The boy was competent, so Haskell sent Kaz to do his business. That was fine. That’s what the boy was for, doing work. 

But when other gangs started to just go directly to Kaz… Haskell had been praying to Ghezen for guidance on what to do. 

So, when the Ravkan’s approached (kidnapped) him with how the Second Army general (and King!) were looking for a specific Sun Grisha to help them destroy a plague. Haskell sat all night plotting on how to raise the Wraiths contract, to make the most of this business transfer. 

But when Kaz lit up like the Sun itself… Haskell saw Ghezen’s Blessing come to fruition. He could lease the boy to Ravka for a year at a time. Charging the Ravkan’s double, or triple of what the boy financially brought him. Each year, renegotiating the contract to benefit himself more and more. 

And if by some miracle the boy actually managed the task the Ravkan’s expected… he could basically name his price of completion from the King of Ravka.  

Ghezen’s Blessing was his. 

IVAN

Ivan attempted to gain an understanding of Kerch laws and indenture services/contracts during the voyage over. He read the half dozen books the Darkling had sent with him. Along with explicit instructions to do everything in his power to get the Sun Summoner indentured to him. Permanently. 

Ivan knew the Darkling wanted the Sun Summoner under his complete control. Which made perfect sense. Only the Darkling knew what was best for Ravka. Only the Darkling knew the intricacies of the Fold. No Ketterdam riffraff, or in this case Barrel Rat, could be trusted with the future of Ravka. 

So, Ivan read those books. Then reread them. Half of it went right over his head. Then he did what any responsible person would do when they needed a contract done right.  He hired a Ghezen priest to lay out the base contract he’d need for a proper indenture that could hold up across country lines. 

After a quick reconnaissance in the Crow Club, he and Fedyor had seen the boy they were after and discovered Per Haskell was their leader. 

It was simple luck that lead them to being able to jump Haskell in the ally and really grill him for the information they needed about the kids. That information is what they took to the priest last night. 

The girl would have been easy to sign on, she was already under contract. But Ivan was actually grateful it wasn’t her. It would have been harder to keep her under contract. It was a substantial amount, but not impossible.  The Darkling needed something that was going to last.

The boy however, Haskell liked him. Liked him enough he wouldn’t just sign the boy over permanently for a flat charge. He wanted to be able to call him back to Ketterdam. He also wanted the power to keep renegotiating the boy's fee. Which actually worked in Ivan’s favor. Nothing the boy did in Ravka would end his contract, with the exception of destroying the Fold. Which, even being a Sun Summoner, Ivan didn’t think it could actually be done. 

The trick with the boy was getting him to sign into the indenture.  The priest had made it clear that for the eyes of Ghezen to approve, which meant the Kerch Government would recognize and enforce it without question, the boy had to sign himself.  

Although, with all the questionable contracts that this filthy city was built upon, they had good odds that doing the contract with Per Haskell as planned would achieve the same results. Just because it had never been done before, one ‘employer’ leasing an indenture to another ‘employer’. That didn’t mean it couldn’t work. It just meant they had to be perfect with the wording. 

The boy did sign on to work for the gang. The tattoo proved it. The leader of the gang technically held all the members under a verbal contract. So Per Haskell putting a verbal contact into writing with himself, Ivan, the Darkling’s proxy wasn’t beyond the realm of possibility. 

The priest came up with a great contract of indenture leasing. Which, he was able to pull out and start haggling over numbers with Haskell after the unexpected announcement from the Zemeni boy. Durast. That was probably the most unexpected thing that had happened this morning. And he finally witnessed a Sun Summoner summon the Sun!

But, still. Durast. Blea. Talk about one of the most useless Grisha abilities ever. But the Darkling would still be pleased to have another Grisha in the Little Palace. 

“Ghezen, therefore the ruling body of Kerch, will not uphold this deal without my consenting signature.” 

Well, look at that. The boy was no longer sick along the wall. He still looked a bit green, and his limbs were shaky when he lost focus on holding himself completely still. 

Ivan itched to know what had actually happened during the exam. But he wouldn’t be able to get the details from Ashlinka until after she recovered. 

Per Haskell snorted. “You consented to be one of my Dregs,” 

“Ravka does not deal in indentures.” The boy cut him off. Ivan did like the boy’s spunk.  “A Kerch indenture is not going to hold up over there without the support of Ghezen.” The boy locked eyes with him. Ivan raised an eyebrow in signal that he was listening. The boy was interested in dealing? Ivan would deal. Especially if it got his signature on this contract. 

“I’ll sign if you agree to purchase Inej’s contract and we see her safely to her parents in Ravka.”

“Now wait a minute boy…”

“Deal.”  Ivan wasn’t interested in whatever Haskell was going to complain about. He needed the boy's signature, and the kid knew it as well. If buying the girls, in comparison, small contract would ensure the boys compliance, it was too good of an offer to pass up. Ivan let his patented shark tooth grin spread across his face. 

“Fine. We’ll take the whole Murder with us then.  What is it you Kerch say? The deal’s the deal?”

What could possibly go wrong.  He was achieving everything and more the Darkling had tasked him with. The boy, Kaz Brekker, is what he penned to the paper. Was that really his name? Ivan hadn’t thought the heavy machinery company was a family name… 

Didn’t matter. Kaz Brekker belonged to the Darkling now, and forever. 

Chapter Text

KAZ

“I can’t believe they’re not letting us go back for our stuff!” Jesper paced across the round room, long arms flying everywhere. 

“They said they would provide us with everything we will need.” Inej replied, standing in a guard position she took up by the door. The other Heartrender, Fedyor, was guarding the otherside. No doubt ensuring their expensive investments didn’t disappear on them. 

The room had no other exit. They had checked it thoroughly once they were left alone. 

Kaz had settled himself on one chair, his bad leg propped up on the other, at the table where moments before the Corporalnik in charge and Haskell haggled over the numbers for the indenture loan contract. His indenture contract. Shit.  

He wanted to be proud of the fact that at least he wasn’t cheap. But the practical side of him was running the numbers, attempting to figure out how long it’d take to pay it off. Kaz brought Haskell about 500 Kruge a week as his first lieutenant, that was 26,000 Kruge a year. And of course Haskell practically doubled it for the Ravkan’s.  

50,000 Kruge for Kaz to live in and work for the Ravkan’s for one year… It was insane. He still couldn’t think of any way out of it. 

Kaz took a long slow breath and ran a shaky hand through his hair. This whole thing was fucked up beyond all recognition. FUBARed, Kaz was certain he’d once heard Jesper use that acronym. At the time Kaz had chided him stating that if he was smarter, things wouldn’t go out of his control. 

Well, Kaz was never going to apologize. But apparently smarts had nothing to do with it. Because if the universe wanted to fuck you over, it would. Kaz stared at his gloved hands. At his bare forearm still showing all the world he was a member of the Dregs. Until a bell ago, he had been proud of this tattoo. Now it felt like the symbol that it was, property of another person.  No wonder Inej had refused to get one.

“Well, they can’t replace sentimental items! What if we had things like that we wanted?”

“If you don’t keep those items securedon your person at all times in the Barrel, you deserve to lose them.” Kaz responded without any of his charistic venom. He was too tired to be mean, and he didn’t feel the need to keep up his well crafted persona anymore with these two. Especially since they were alone.  

He felt their twin intense stares, but he kept his gaze locked on his hands. His bare skin that moments before lit up as if Kaz was the sun. He thought back on that warmth. The power that pulsed in his veins. It wasn’t anywhere as intense as it was when the Healer had grabbed his skin. But now that he was aware of it, it was like a permanent itch under his skin. Curious, he channeled that itch into the palms of his outstretched hands. Sunlight shone out from the cuffs of his gloves. 

Immediately Kaz stopped the focus and rubbed his hands together to dispel the tingling. Counting the seconds as he breathed in then out. Because if he didn’t focus on that, he wasn’t sure if he’d be able to maintain any sense of composure. 

“Okay fine. They should at least let us go say goodbye to our friends!”

Kaz wanted to scoff at the idea of any of the gang members being ‘friends’ and berate Jesper for being so sentimental. But the truth was, he was grateful for Jes’ efforts at distraction. In keeping the topic away from himself, at what he just did. 

He summoned sunlight.  Fuck.

“No one will be up at this hour anyway.” Inej said with a fond smile at Jes’ antics. Pulling Kaz’s thoughts out of their negative spiral of being an actual fucking Grisha. 

“We shouldn’t be up either!” Jesper exclaimed. “Oh! Maybe this is just a terrible stress nightmare! And we’ll wake up in our beds back at the Slat at a respectable time of day and laugh over this craziness!”

Kaz couldn’t help the broken laugh that escaped him, made worse by the rougher than normal gravel in his voice. He pulled off a glove and condensed the thrumming under his skin again. A bright ball of light hovered an inch above his palm. “How would anyone’s subconscious ever even THINK that THIS should be a THING anyone should EVER BE ABLE to DO! Let alone ME!” Frustrated, Kaz flung his wrist thinking to dispel the miniature star only for it to fly across the room creating a scorched dent in the brickwork. 

All three of them stared wide eyed at the accidental bit of destruction. 

It took several moments, but Kaz eventually found his voice. “How have I gone my entire life not knowing I was Grisha?” He rasped. 

Jesper shrugged. “If you come from a Grisha-less family, or don’t know your family at all, and don’t have a Grisha around to notice and tell you. Then you wouldn’t be aware of the subtle tells that mark a person as Grisha.” He shrugged. “And sometimes people have to be touched by an Amplifier for their powers to manifest at all.

“But that thing you just did with the light ball.  That was incredible! Can you do it again? What about bigger! Or smaller? Or not damaging the wall? Or more damage!” Jesper practically vibrating out of his cloths grinned at Kaz.

Kaz blinked back at him. His stunned brain for once struggling to keep up with Jesper’s fast paced inquisitive mind. 

Could he actually do any of those things? He should start testing this newfound power.  The sooner he mastered it, the sooner he could take care of the Fold. Get the completion bonus and get back to Ketterdam. He still had a score to settle with Pekka Rollins. He had finally gotten the groundwork laid to really start dismantling Pekka Rollins empire, brick by brick. And he now also needed to get back to kick Per Haskell’s teeth in for getting him involved in this indenture business to begin with. 

RETVENKO 

Retvenko stood seething at the end of Second Harbor where Ivan the Asshole had just set sail without him.  He really, really wanted to call Ivan out for bullshitting him. That Ivan’s claims that he’d already spent too much money buying two other debts they hadn’t planned on drained their coffers. So oh, so sorry, we can’t afford yours as well at this time. Tough luck. But hey, now you can actually work to pay it off and come back! With the Sun Summoner found, the Darkling didn’t need him to lollygag anymore to keep the indenture cover. 

As if it was ever just a cover. The Kerch took their indenturing very seriously. Hell, their whole religion was practically built around it!  It was disturbing how devoted the Kerch were to work.

But honestly, Retvenko was surprised they could even afford the Zemeni boys' debt and the girls' contract after the price the gang boss had set for the Sun Summoner. You could almost buy a small DeKappel painting for the price agreed upon! 

So maybe there was some truth to the lack of funds. 

Or Ivan was just a grade A asshole. 

That was probably it. 

As the ship finished setting her sails and finally caught the trade wind that blew towards Ravka, Retvenko caught sight of the three teens huddled on the back of the aft deck. No doubt watching their home disappear as he watched his chance at going home vanish. Like him, they also wouldn’t have any idea if they’d ever make it back again. 

It brought Retvenko’s thoughts back to the snippet of conversation he caught as they left the teens alone in the secret room. “That was stupid, why did you do that? You signed yourself into an indentured contract with a foreign nation Kaz!” The girl had really torn into the boy.

Yes. To save her. How could the girl not see that? 

Chapter Text

~☀️~☀️~

“How have you gone your entire life without having to learn another language?”

“Everyone speaks Kerch.”

“But still! Pigeons!”

“They speak Kerch in the Barrel.”

“But outside of the Barrel!”

“When have I ever had the need to leave the Barrel to deal with a pigeon?”

“Oh, I dunno. How about like, NOW!”

“Right. Which is why Inej is teaching me Ravkan. Now.”

Jesper just stared open mouthed at his boss while Inej’s eyes actually fucking twinkled.  This. This was his life. 

~☀️~☀️~

“What’s wrong boss?”

“I don’t like not knowing what I’m doing.”

Jesper leaned over his legs that he had dangling off his bunk to look down at Kaz hunched over in the bunk underneath him. 

Why did they build boats in such tiny proportions anyway? 

“Don’t beat yourself up too bad. You’ve only found out about this yesterday. And it’s not like you have anyone who can actually teach you. There aren’t any other Grisha who can summon sunlight.”

“That’s not helpful. You’re Grisha, you should be able to help me figure this out.”

“What exactly is it you're trying to do?”

There was a long beat of silence before he admitted to trying to summon through his gloves.  Huh. Jesper had never even considered it before, but all Grisha kept their hands free of any constraints, be it long sleeves that went past their wrists or gloves. It just made it easier to connect with the thing you wanted to manipulate if there wasn’t a barrier between skin and object. 

Jesper watched as Kaz focused on his hands. Light started shining through the slits Kaz cut in the leather that allowed him to still pick locks in them. Then faded just as quickly as he actually growled in frustration. 

Well. Shit. Kaz Brekker just couldn’t catch a break lately could he. That moment where they were left alone in the examination room was the first time he’d ever seen one of Kaz’s hands. And after witnessing how he reacted to physical touch. He kinda understood why… 

“Well, the only way to figure it out is to keep experimenting. At least in this cabin you can work with it without the gloves. Perhaps once you figure it out without them, you can figure it out with?”

There was no verbal response, but Jesper wasn’t expecting one really. But seeing the cabin light up made him grin anyway. 

~☀️~☀️~

“Just let me heal it, would you.”

“No.”

“But, why not!”  Kaz’s stubbornness was really starting to grate on Ashlinka’s nerves. 

“It’s fine.”

“It is NOT fine!”

“It’s my leg, I know best if it’s fine or not.”

“Then why rely upon a cane to walk!”

“It’s for defense.”

“Fine! Walk across the deck without it.”

Kaz’s bravado wavered without his permission. The deck was slick with water, it made no sense to Kaz why the sailors soaked it in sea water every shift.  Something about keeping the wood swelled. They weren’t inclined to talk to him, and he didn’t care to start conversations with them either. But it still made for a slick surface, under constant unpredictable movement, and over half the lines attached to the ship he couldn’t use for support because they were what the sailors referred to as ‘running’ rigging and they’d scream at him each time he inevitably grabbed one for balance to let go or risk losing his hands. Kaz knew they weren’t talking about cutting off his hands for touching something he wasn’t supposed to, that somehow the ship and rope itself would maim him without the sailors intervention. 

Kaz hated being on deck. The chaos was unfamiliar and dangerous in a way he couldn’t control by being more dangerous than it. 

But he had to get out from below decks every now and then. The waves were large enough that the ship was in a constant churn, interspersed with the occasional jarring crash that tossed anything that wasn’t tied down. Which apparently included Kaz’s stomach. 

He had been resting on one of the cannons lining the midship's starboard rail when the Healer felt he was safe enough to approach to offer to fix his leg.

It wasn’t that Kaz didn’t want it fixed per say.  He just didn’t want her hands on his skin again. The last time she touched him he turned into a fucking Grisha and landed in this mess. Also, he’d just gotten accustomed to the advantages it gave him. People saw it and automatically underestimated him. It gave him a leg up in every interaction, pardon the pun. 

He needed a distraction. His gaze immediately sought out Jesper. Who was currently hugging a leeward port cannon, head and shoulders fully out the gun port, Inej holding his ankles so he wouldn’t slide overboard.  Thankfully Kaz couldn’t hear Jes retching from this side of the ship. The crashing of the ocean, the flapping of the sails and creaking of the stressed wood drowned it out. 

The Healer’s soft heart would soon take her over to Jes to ease his seasickness. He just needed to wait a moment more and she’d go. 

“What if I learned how to heal without skin on skin contact?”

Kaz’s head snapped back to Ashlinka. Surely she didn’t whisper what he thought she did. But her eyes held the earnestness of her offer. 

His throat wouldn’t snap off the biting retort he wanted. 

She offered him a small sad smile and stepped away from the rail, heading over to help someone who would appreciate the relief she could deliver. Someone who wouldn’t break down mentally at her kind touch. 

~☀️~☀️~

“Do these people ever sleep?” 

“Jesper, shut up.”

“Sailors are not human.”

“Jesper, why are you like this?”

Jesper snorted, although quietly as the soft sound of Kaz’s snoring continued to sound throughout their tiny cabin. It was seriously the same size as Inej’s room back at the Slat. And that was barely wider than a hallway.

Thankfully the cabin was tall enough that they could string an extra hammock above the two bunks that were already built in, allowing all three of them to share. And long enough that Jesper could lay out straight in the upper bunk. Although tonight that wasn’t helping him sleep any better. 

“How is it that he’s the one asleep?”

“It’s been three days.”

“So?”

“He’s been up all that time. His body was eventually going to give out on him sometime.”

“Why? It’s not like he’s human either.”

“JES!”

Inej loved her ability with silence, it meant she could hit Jesper in the face with her pillow with little worry of waking Kaz from finally getting the rest he desperately needed.  

Although it just encouraged Jesper to start poking her through the holes in the hammock. 

Why. Saints, was this her life now? 

~☀️~☀️~

“Buch of superstitious, overgrown man children I swear! If I didn’t need the Captain and the crew to get us back to Ravka I’d toss the lot of them overboard.”

Ivan stomped down the ladder that led to the few actual cabins located below the Captain's quarters and navigation/helm part of the ship that was all the way aft. They had put the children in the one reserved for passengers with enough cash to afford a bit of privacy. (He and Fedyor took one of the better paid cabins that was just forward of the Captain’s.)

The cook and watch leaders were supposed to berth down here as well, but apparently they were scared of a little light and relocated themselves to the focsle where most of the crew slept all the way forward. Which relocated a few of the crew to sleeping in hammocks above the below deck cannons with most of the cargo and poor went. Which Ivan didn’t see the issue with, but apparently they all did. Which now made it an issue for Ivan. 

How was this his life now?

He paused outside the curtain that acted as a door to the children’s cabin. 

“Nice! But you’re still not burning anything with it.”

“Jes, this is a wooden ship. We don’t actually want Kaz to set it on fire.”

“Why not? I’m ready for it! Three slop buckets filled and ready!”

“If you really want me to burn something I can start aiming at you.”

“…. Light without heat is great! Let’s keep focusing on that!”

There was a frustrated gravelly growl then, “I think I need more space.”

“We could go on deck?” 

“No, you can’t.” And yes, Ivan took immense pleasure over how they all jumped.

“And why not.”

“Several reasons. Primarily because we should be keeping your Sun Summoner status a secret until we get to the Little Palace. 

“And also because it’s making the crew paranoid. We need them concentrating on sailing the ship. Not creating imaginary demons that distract them from their duties and turn them on us. I have no qualms about sending them to their Bearded Johnes locker early, but being stuck on this floating pile of wood longer than would be necessary would not be worth the satisfaction.”

“Fine.” Kaz hated that he understood and agreed with the Heartrender.

~☀️~☀️~

Ivan glared at the slack sails, barely fluttering in the near nonexistent breeze. He’d pushed the ship's Squaller into exhaustion and now they were reliant on actual nature.  “Why won’t the winds shift in our favor?”

“If you wanted to control the wind you shouldn’t have left your Squaller standing on the dock.”

“He pisses me off.”

“More so than this?”

Ivan stood fuming. “Yes.” 

Jesper traded a look with Kaz.  That sounded like a “I-want-to-say-no-but-I’m-going-to-force-a-yes-because-SPITE.”

Kaz just shrugged though. “Fine. Then stop your bitching.”

“Oh, I think someone is trying to communicate with me, shame this ship is Ravkan and I no longer understand Kerch.”

“Khvatit skulit, mudak.”

Annoyingly, what pissed Ivan off the most was the fact that the boy's Ravkan was accurately said. Even if he didn’t approve of the sailor's vocabulary influence.  Still, he couldn’t continue this verbal spat without losing more face. 

The boy was intelligent, he’d only been taking lessons from the Suli girl for two days and Ivan was quickly losing an advantage he held over the Sun Summoner. 

That’s okay, Ivan had plans for a perfect, glorious payback. 

~☀️~☀️~

“What is that?” Kaz growled, the gravel in his voice adding an extra level of threat to his tone. 

“Barrel flash.” Ivan simply answered. 

Oof, if looks could kill.  “I do NOT wear Barrel flash.”

“You do now, it’s what the Tsar will be expecting.”

“The King, sorry, Tsar is going to have to learn to live with disappointments.”

Okay, so this wasn’t the payback he’d planned it to be. 

Oh, Ivan craved for someone to tell the Tsar no to his face.  How could he ensure that he was there to witness it when it inevitably happened…

~☀️~☀️~

“You three really are fucking magpies, I swear.”

“Hey! I had no part in this collection!”

Fedyor gave Jesper a flat look. “But you didn’t stop them.”

“Why would I want to stop him?”

Fedyor didn’t miss how he said him instead of them, indicating that it was really only one of them that had been going around stealing the crew's things. 

“If they didn’t want their stuff taken, they should have stored it more securely.” The primary culprit rasped. 

“More securely!?” Fedyor could feel his eyes bulging at their Sun Summoner.  Supposed hero of Ravka.  He who apparently took anything shiny that wasn’t embedded in fabricator cement just because he could. “Those things were either in their locked sea trunks or secured on their person!”

“Right. Shaudy security.”

Fedyor just, couldn’t. The captain of the vessel had come to Ivan and himself because the crew's morale was getting dangerous, (again!) due to a thief onboard. Saints preserve them, but they had picked up three gutter rats from the worst area of Ketterdam. Even though the kids didn’t need to steal to survive here, it was apparent that long standing habits were simply not going to stop due to a change in fortunes. 

“Give everything back. Now.” He pushed with his Heartrender science to let the boy know he meant business. 

Kaz grimaced at the invasion of his person, but since Fedyor didn’t touch him, he wasn’t flying into an outright panic attack. “Whatever.” He mumbled as he reached under his mattress to the hold under his bunk. A sea bag ended up being tossed at Fedyor and all the items clattered and clunked as the contents spilled across his feet. 

Fedyor did a double take. That was way more than the Captain had reported. And was that? Yes! His feline broach!  Here he had thought Ivan had finally tossed it overboard due to it being unnecessary sentimentally. He snatched it from the top of the pile giving the thief a truly impressive impersonation of Ivan’s most fearsome glare. 

Kaz didn’t even look the slightest repentant and the other two were crying from laughing so hard. 

How was this his life now?

~☀️~☀️~

“Why is it always a blinding ball of light! Doesn’t matter if I put a little into it or a lot, it’s still lighting up everything.” 

“Can you focus it in a different way? Ugh, there’s no good way to try to explain this, and not being a summoner, I have no idea how it actually works. But instead of a little or a lot of whatever you do. Can you narrow the paths it comes out of?

“Like a faucet! You can currently turn it on and off, but what if you could change the pipe it comes out of? Long thin flexible hose opposed to a large open nozzle?”

It’s almost a full bell before light once again fills the cabin. But instead of a ball hovering above Kaz’s hand, it’s a four inch stream of light extending from his fingertips.

“Neat! Think of all the things you could cut if you could manage to get that light dagger hot enough. WE COULD HAVE INSTANT SLICED TOAST!”

“Pufflehuff.” Inej said fondly.

“Toast? You realise how much longer I could keep people alive as I tortured them for information if I cauterized their wounds as I made them?”

“Slitheron.” Inej and Jesper intoned at the same time. 

“You two are referencing those books again aren't you.”

“Wait. You still haven’t read them!”

“I don’t have time for children’s stories, Jesper.”

“Oh THIS WILL NOT do! I’m going to go see if anyone has a copy with them.”

~☀️~☀️~

“Just you wait. The Darkling is going to demote me to some rural Saints forsaken outpost.”

“I think the Darkling is going to love them and reward you for bringing the complete Dregs Murder set to the Little Palace.”

“You just find the Durast funny.”

“He’s hysterical! Fabrikators are typically so dull and disinteresting. He’s a refreshing change.”

“Hn.”  Ivan couldn’t argue with that. 

“Also, for not being Grisha, the girl has some kind of ability. The Darkling does love collecting otkazat’sya who display a Grisha type tallent. No wonder Per Haskell called her Wraith. I’ve never met anyone who can disappear like she does.

“We’re on a boat, even for being a bigger ship, there’s still not a lot of space. And I know she’s onboard. But damn if I don’t still jump out of my skin when I finally notice her! It really is like she materializes out of nowhere.”

“She would be an excellent Oprichnik.”

“Yeah, but I doubt she’d have the loyalty to the Darkling that he demands.”

“No, but she is loyal to the Sun Summoner.”

“You think the Darkling would make an exception for that?”

“Knowing how much she curbs the boy’s temperament, yes.”

Fedyor kept quiet at that. He lacked the ruthlessness essential to doing the things that really ensured other people’s compliance. 

Chapter Text

KAZ

Pain. That was all Kaz knew at the moment. His bad leg was in agony, shooting fierce unrelenting fiery pain up his side. And there was no way to get relief. Not while crammed into a carriage with five other people when it was only designed for four. 

Sure, he’d done jobs that required being in small spaces with a lot of people. Sure, many of times he’d have to bend his bad leg into awkward bent positions. Sometimes, even both of those at the same time. 

But NEVER for sixteen hours straight. Nor stuck being tossed around in the back of a carriage. How had Ravka missed out on the invention that was paved roads?  Or did they just not have the funds to keep up with the maintenance. Considering how much they spent on him, he was inclined to believe the latter. 

Kaz was only focused on getting out of the damn contraption when Ivan finally announced they were at their destination and to disembark. The asshat had hurried them right from the ship into a carriage and taken off with no explanations. No chance to prepare himself.  Just an irritating ‘do as I say when I say’ attitude. Kaz made the mistake of grumbling aloud his complaint about the treatment. He wasn’t accustomed to taking such orders. 

Inej was no help with her “oh, so does this mean you’re going to be more forthcoming with your plans now?”

At Kaz’s blank stare she rolled her eyes and said he was just like Ivan. 

Of course he’d vehemently disagreed. To which Jesper had to chime in with his two Kruge opinions that sided with Inej. 

Traitors, the both of them. He was nothing like Ivan. He did not enjoy keeping information from his crows and ordering them about. It was just that circumstances always demanded the secrecy. 

Ivan, the bastard, was clearly enjoying being obtuse and ordering them about for no other reason than because he could. Kaz was about three seconds away from smashing Ivan’s smug grin off his face with his cane. He was sure he could land the blow before the Heartrender could use his powers for defense. 

“What in the Lady’s name is THAT!”  

Jesper swearing to any deity was shocking enough that Kaz stopped planning bodily harm and refocused his efforts into getting his leg to straighten. Kaz may have been the first to exit the carriage, but he was the only one still at it. Both hands and forehead flat against it, using it as the support he’d vehemently deny needing as he focused on breathing through the pain. 

“Why, that’s the Fold your friend has so graciously agreed, by way of written contract, to destroy for us.” The oily convection in which Ivan had spoken made Kaz’s skin crawl. 

“You can’t be serious!”

Gritting his teeth, Kaz put weight on his bad leg. He couldn’t afford any more time on it. He needed to look at the Fold Ravka so desperately needed help destroying that they apparently had spies planted everywhere across the globe just on the off chance someone literally started shining.  

Kaz really wished he had given his leg a few more moments. 

Thankfully it was Inej who was there when he stumbled. Although for once, Kaz couldn’t blame it on his bad leg. The never ending black void of nothingness that stretched in all directions (left, right and up) farther than the eye could see was… soul crushing.  

That was the Fold?  This was the thing he had to destroy if he ever wanted to go home? 

Sure, Kaz figured it was bad. But this was something far worse than what his mind could conjure. Kaz considered himself good at doing the impossible. Up until this point he’d believed there wasn’t anything he couldn’t do, couldn’t think around and through to get the results he desired. 

But that wall of nothingness didn’t just absorb any and all light, but it also seemed to siphon off his confidence. The longer he stared, the more he withered and faded.

Thankfully Ivan chose then to get in his face with his demands for them to load up on the wooden contraption they called a sand skiff. 

Kaz verbally laid into him. Fuck Ravka and their stupid language and stupid Grisha worshiping and thrice damned Fold.

ZOYA

Zoya found herself immediately volunteering her services to take Ivan and his odd grouping of teens through the Fold. 

True, she just sailed the skiff they were still unloading here from East Ravka. Under any other circumstance, she’d tell the irritating self entitled prick who demanded an immediate crossing back to East Ravka exactly where the trail was and send them walking across with a gentle push to get them started. 

And by gentle, she totally meant a giant gust of air that sent them flying into the Fold.

But, this was Ivan. Still a self entitled prick to be sure. But the Darkling’s prick, his primary second to be exact. If someone other than her was going to know what the Darkling’s business was, it was Ivan. 

Ivan who had been gone for over three weeks on a secret mission for the Darkling. A secret mission that required a back up Heartrender, two of the Darklings own personal guards, and an Examiner of all things. 

A mission that brought back a colorful trio of teens from Kerch. One of whom moments ago was quite creatively shouting at Ivan at being tricked, terms of some sort of contract needing rewritten, and that there was no way that anyone could expect him, or any one person, to destroy ‘That kind of out of control Ravkan Grisha disaster”.

“If one person could create it, then one person could surely destroy it.” Was Ivan’s cheeky response. 

Zoya itched to go over and meet them. But Fedyor was hovering off her side, so she watched from afar. it was clear the Zemeni and Suli teens were attempting to comfort the irate one of their group. With everyone at arm's length from each other, it wasn’t looking all that successful. 

“Quite the trio aren’t they?”  

“Who are they really?”

“Why do you ask me questions you know I can’t answer?”

“Because I usually my get answers anyway.”

Fedyor laughed. “Oh honey, as pretty as you are, you know you’re not my type.” And he winked at her. 

Zoya grinned back at him, tossing her hair. “Still doesn’t stop me from getting my answers.”

“Sadly, it will fail you this time.” And his eyes strayed to the Fold as everyone’s eyes always did when standing so close to it. “Although, I have a feeling our luck’s about to run out and you’ll get the answer soon enough on your own.”  

Chapter Text

JESPER 

Believe it or not, Jesper had a long list of Things He Did Not Like. Some of the more notable items were things such as: His friends being shot at. Losing to Lady Luck for weeks/months on end. Not having his pearl revolvers on his person. Caramel AND marshmallows on his waffles. Important things that affected his quality of life. 

However, riding this Ravkan sand skiff into the Fold outstripped everything that was on his list to date. The three of them had crowded into a corner on the main deck, way aft under the platform the Squallers stood on to operate this questionable contraption. There were a few other passengers like themselves, he thought he saw maybe two or three others that weren’t in some sort of military gear. But mostly, the skiff was nothing but Grisha and soldiers. He wasn’t going to lie, being around so many Grisha in their bright Kefta’s was making him twitchy.  Even in Kerch, most Grisha hid what they were. They sure as shit kept to themselves in Novyi Zem. To see so many out and about proudly displaying their Grisha-ness was unnerving to say the least. 

An entire Grisha army. It was kind of mind boggling. Jes knew he wasn’t cut out for the military, it was, well, had been a major motivation for not coming to Ravka before. Even though formal Grisha training would have been nice, the rigidity and conformity of being in a military was not appealing. Not for a free and restless spirit such as himself. Even if, especially since, as a Durast he wouldn’t have been expected to fight in the front lines where most ended up dead.  

Something he had learned during his stay in the Barrel and working for Kaz in the Dregs, was that he loved being in the middle of a fight. 

Not that he wanted to get into one right now. There were some odd red lights, but they didn’t cast much in the way of illumination.  So Jesper could barely see Kaz and Inej in this darkness, and they were within arms reach. No way he’d be able to shoot something he couldn’t see in this place. 

Apparently actual light was a bad thing. Even with all the precautions being taken, everyone on the skiff was on high alert, expecting an immediate attack from something in the darkness. Which, granted, this Fold was creeping him the fuck out too. But these Ravkan’s did this all the time right? They should’ve been more relaxed about this trip, right? 

Unless they knew something he didn’t. 

Which, Kaz must’ve come to a similar conclusion because he caught a nearby soldiers attention, First Army going by the more drab olive green uniforms and rifles. Which, riffles? How were those standard military anymore? There were way better guns being developed. 

Kaz gruffed his customary “what business” at the random soldier. Only to receive a confused look, because of course Kaz reverted back to Kerch. And WOW. That face Kaz made was a whole new level of annoyance Jesper had yet to manage. He needed to step up his game. 

“What’s going on?” Kaz asked instead, in Ravkan this time.

Jesper gave Kaz a shit eating grin, silently communicating his gloating over the fact not everyone spoke Kerch. 

The glare he got back was typical Kaz. A look that spoke, ‘fine, you were right, but I’d rather carve my spleen out with a dull spoon rather than admit I was perhaps wrong.’  Or maybe he was contemplating digging Jesper’s spleen out with a wooden spoon…

Either way, Jesper just leaned back against the rail and sent his awareness out into the darkness. Inej almost looked like she was seeing something, the way her eyes kept darting back and forth. She was clearly looking up, were there killer birds out there?

“We’re crossing the Fold.” 

Yeah, no shit buddy. Kinda obvious there. Jes gave the man the exasperated eye roll Kaz couldn’t be bothered with because he was too busy scaring the man with his face. 

DUBROV

“Mikhael, manners.” Dubrov wanted to laugh when Mal chastised Mikhael while simultaneously smacking him upside the head. 

But didn’t. 

These three the Grisha all but dragged aboard the Skiff were… odd. They were clearly part of the Grisha’s group, but didn’t dress like Grisha.  There was a Suli, just seeing one of their kind outside of their bright caravans and dressed in dark leathers was jarring by itself. But then there was a tall dark Zemeni who was dressed in contrasting patterns and colors. Bright yellow and green plaid pants, maroon shirt, striped dark green and orange vest. Honestly, it was hard to look at him, while the Suli girl seemingly vanished into the darkness of the Fold. Then there seemed to be their leader, all sharp edges and in a black suit that was probably nice once, but had clearly been lived in for weeks on end. He radiated a dangerousness that Dubrov would associate with a wild, trapped animal instead of a human.

So, since only Grisha mixed with others of various ethnic groups, that just proved their unnaturalness and inferred these three were in fact Grisha. Just from another Nation. Dubrov couldn’t even begin to place what language the sharp boy spoke, thankfully he did know Ravkan. Though he clearly didn’t know anything else about Ravka and the Fold.

“We’re on watch for the Volcra. It’s more dangerous to immediately cross the Fold back to back like this because it’s more likely for them to be able to find us.”  Mal, ever the nice guy. 

“Wait. What’s a Volcra? And why are we crossing now if it’s not safe?” The Zemeni was starting to look a bit panicked.

“If it wasn’t for your group showing up when you did, we wouldn’t have left until tomorrow.” Mikhael actually wilted at the pale boy’s glare. 

“There.” Where the hell did the Suli girl get those knives from? Dubrov was comforted in the fact that Mal and Mikhael also jumped at her sudden, sharp appearance. 

Then everyone was grabbing for their weapons as the screech of the Volcra cut through the darkness. 

“Looks like you have all the bad luck, you’re getting to discover what a Volcra is in person.”

IVAN

Just when Ivan thought there wasn’t much else that could make him pause and stare. Especially in the middle of a life or death battle. Ivan found himself just standing and staring. 

Ivan stood in front of the small crowd that was sheltering under the overhang aft of the Skiff.  It was only a quarter of the passengers that were on the original station bill (1). His original focus was to attempt to protect the passengers, also known as the children, as the Volcra attacked. But instead, it became the best front row seat to watch the Murder absolutely slaughter the Volcra instead. 

The Sun Summoner. Ivan had expected him to be able to fight off the Volcra to some extent. Afterall, this is why the Darkling had been investing so much energy and resources into finding a Sun Summoner. Although the fact that the boy got this good with his abilities in such a short time was incredible. It looked like his cane became a sword of pure sunlight. 

Ivan was NOT jealous… he just wanted one.

But… The Durast?! What?! How?!

Chapter Text

INEJ 

Inej was pulling Jesper away from the rail, and herding everyone towards the center of the Skiff right before the grotesque shape of an over large, clawed human hand that was nothing but bones and skin stretched taught reached through, blindly swiping at them.  Her knife cut through the outstretched fingers, scraping against the creature's bones. There was a surprising amount of dark blood considering how little flesh there was and Inej just backed further from the enraged beast, trying not to crowd Kaz, Jesper and the three First Army soldiers they had started a conversation with. Although there was next to no room in this Skiff, so crowding them was inevitable.  

“WHAT THE FUCK IS THAT?!” Jesper yelled.

“Volcra.” The taller and more handsome of the three soldiers replied. Giving her an appreciative glance. “Good instincts you got there.”

“It’s not going to be enough.” She replied through gritted teeth, because she knew how rare it was to escape a Volcra attack and live to tell the tale.  The soldiers grimaced along with her, because they knew that too.  

Saints bless him, Kaz did not.  “Where’s the emergency hold?”

“The what?”

“Emergency hold? A hidden compartment under the decking we can hide in until these… things… get bored and go away?” 

“That’s not a thing.” Then a beat later. “WHY IS THAT NOT A THING?” The skinnier of the three soldiers exclaimed to his comrades. 

“Probably because they don’t work. Once these things get a whiff of your blood they rip through anything to get to you.” The first one spoke again. 

“Then what’s the best way to kill them?” Kaz growled as his crow headed cane connected with the flat skull of the Volcra crawling through the wide opening they were just standing at. Inej shuddered as dead lifeless eyes snapped to Kaz. Then its jaw seemingly disconnected so that the top of it’s head went straight up at a 90 degree angle revealing row, upon row, upon row of sharp misshaped teeth. Gleaming with sickly grey saliva that splattered them all as it screamed at them.  

“We don’t.  We die.” She vaguely heard through the ringing in her ears. 

That was NOT the answer she wanted to hear right now from the guard who had yet to speak. 

“Mr Brekker, now would be an excellent time for you to practice your lamp skills.” Fedyor called from the fore of their meager shelter. 

“You said any light in this place would bring certain Doom upon us all.”

“We think yours will be different. Besides, Doom is already here.”

“Wait. What do you mean ‘you think’ ?  I thought the whole reason you dragged me here in the first place was to destroy this black pit you call a Shadow Fold!”

Inej caught the sudden startled looks from the soldiers, but knew this was no time for secrets. “You don’t just wield a night light Kaz, you have the power of the Sun. it’s supposed to be their only weakness.”  Kaz gave her an unhappy look, then turned his glare onto Fedyor. Which just drew their attention to the losing battle that was happening out on the open deck as Volcra swooped in on their massive skinned wings and grabbed screaming soldiers and Grisha alike straight off the deck. 

Kaz may have been grumbling as he clumsily stripped off a glove, but Inej knew he could do this. Each day that he practiced on the ship he got better and better at summoning the light. And Kaz was a whole different level of focused when in the thick of a fight. He’d never admit it with words, but he was a good person. She had long ago learned to read him by what he did, not the words he said while he did it. 

The shriek the Volcra gave before was nothing compared to the one it gave now as pure sunlight assaulted its face that was currently nothing but an open maul containing too many teeth. 

Kaz stepped forward, ungloved hand stretched outright pouring the power of the Sun into its face as it attempted to twist and turn to get away in the cramped space. Inej just barely dodged a flailing arm. One of the soldiers was too slow to avoid the hooked wing as it slammed into his face. 

Another step forward had the Volcra scrambling along the rail. Its unbridled panic preventing it from retreating effectively. 

Sweat broke out on Kaz’s brow and Inej knew he didn’t yet have the strength to keep this up. So she stepped in. Side stepping a errant kick by the beast she swiped at where it’s hamstring would have been on a normal human. The Volcra didn’t even register her blade cutting through its flesh due to the pain it was in from Kaz’s sunlight. 

But her cut was enough to fold the Volcra in on itself so that it could fit back out of the Skiff. She just couldn’t get in close enough to push it. “Jes shoot it!” She yelled and a crack of a gun answered her call hitting the Volcra square in the chest, sending it tumbling overboard. 

Everyone stared where it had been, Kaz and herself panting from the excursion. 

“Saints…” one of the soldiers whispered under his breath. 

“So.  We going to go get the rest of em Boss?” Jesper had that manic look in his eye he got when a fight was messy, but he could still see a way to win it. His gaze kept returning to the fore deck as he twirled his revolver by his head. Just waiting on Kaz’s signal.  

Judge him by his actions indeed. Kaz did care about people. He made sure the Dregs had a better quality of life. A solid roof over their heads. Warm food for their bellies. If he could help a victim, he would. If he thought no one was looking. 

Because he needed his image of a hardened ruthless criminal to keep them safe from the other truly ruthless criminals that would rather crush young children just trying to survive on the streets rather than look at them. Kaz played at being the baddest threat on the streets to keep them safe. He let the rumors run rampant then was perhaps too good at proving them true when needed. But Inej quickly noticed Kaz didn’t instigate bloody violence when he could talk through it. He only hurt others before they could hurt those he cared about. 

She saw the bright spot of love Kaz did possess, just had effectively hidden from the rest of the world. 

But here that spot of light became a literal manifestation as Kaz nodded to Jesper then strode forward out from the overhang. Cane now in his ungloved dominant hand as this time sunlight engulfed his hand and cane alike making it look like a Sword made of Sunlight.  Which actually did cut the wings and arm off an unsuspecting Volcra eating a fallen victim on the deck that was in Kaz’s path forward. 

JESPER

Bad Luck. Jesper was starting to think he should just adopt that as a new name. Or get it tattooed onto his person. But right now, he could feel his luck changing. 

As much as Jesper wasn’t interested in a fight, he loved being in one. Even this one, shrouded in a pitch blackness with creatures darker than it, shrieking with inhuman cries and speed pouring at them from all directions.  Jesper felt more alive here than anywhere else. Other than holding a winning hand when truly desperate at the card table, or an amazing tumble with a handsome stranger. This is what got his blood singing in his veins. 

To be fighting for his life alongside Inej and Kaz, just made it feel more like home. 

And to be free to use his Durast abilities, just made it that much better . 

Those early years with his mother, out back of the farm, learning how to shoot came back to him in new clairity. 

“ Aim .” She’d whisper into his ear. 

Jesper had always thought she was talking about eyesight and distance and winds, all the other hundred factors one had to consider when aiming with a gun. 

But now that he was older, more in tune with his Durast abilities, and not actively trying to suppress it. He suddenly got what she meant by Aim . His awareness hummed in sync with his revolvers, he wasn’t just a man holding a gun. He was the gun. All it’s moving parts were just extensions of his person. He was the cold steel. He was the bullet.

And because he was all things steel, he could sense other bits of metal out in that inky darkness. Small subtle blobs and pieces, like melted brass buttons or bits of jewellery darting all across the skys. Swooping down to the Skiff and back out again. Like somehow these creatures had absorbed these bits of metal.

Jesper closed his near useless eyes and Aimed . Shot after shot he connected the metal of his bullet to the bits he could sense in the horrid flying creatures. Shot after shot, a Volcra screeched in pain as his steel tore into its leathery flesh dropping it from its flight to the Skiff. 

He could tell by the sounds not all the Volcra carried metal. But those that did, were His. He got to the point where he didn’t even have to point his guns at his targets, his bullets still found their marks. 

And when he ran out of bullets? A sweep of his hand had all the spent metal casings answering his summons and piling in his hand. Where a quick squeeze and the right focus reshaped the metal to be the perfect fit for his babies. Reloading was automatic and the chaos of battle continued on. 

FEDYOR 

Fedyor joined Ivan in front of the crowd of soldiers and Grisha that was forming to watch as the Kerch Murder proved their moniker was much more litteral, opposed to the quirky association with corvids they had going for them.

The Sun Summoner was breathtaking. The light he wielded just served to be a perfect spotlight for everyone on the Skiff to see his perfected cane fighting in sharp clear focus. He shifted his weight slightly back and brought his cane in an overhead arc that ended up with him smashing it down with the extra force of his hips twisting forward, cutting a charging Volcra’s head in half, splitting it two, from the crown down to the beast's chest. The searing heat actually cauterised as it cut, preventing any wave of black blood from bathing the combatants and deck. 

His cane of light was more effective than any other weapon to date in killing these beasts of the Fold. Cutting down any Volcra that happened to get too close, for the first time pieces and bits of the monsters went scattering across the deck opposed to bits of human. 

But it wasn’t just the Sun Summoner. The other two managed to pull their weight in the battle as well. The three worked in perfect harmony with each other. The girl somehow managing to keep track of the battle chaos, alerting her comrades to the Volcra’s movements while a throwing blade would appear in her hand and then be embedded in the white of a Volcra’s useless eye when the Sun Summoner wasn’t fast enough. The Durast had metal bullets sweeping towards him then flowing through his pearly guns hitting flying Volcra. Every. Single. Time. 

This wasn’t Fedyor’s first encounter with Volcra in the fold. And the previous time they had only survived because the best sharpshooter in the First Army was aboard and he’d managed to hit enough of the creatures they could still charge through and out of the fold. But even then, he only managed to land one hit out of four or five on the beasts. 

At the beginning of the fight, the screams of the Volcra only served to attract more of the vial creatures. But now that they realized this light hurt them, they were quickly retreating into the darkness. 

But that didn’t stop one last desperate Volcra from rising from the deck where a leg and half a wing had been shorn from its body. It managed an uncoordinated flight and tackled the girl about her hips. 

The Sun Summoner went ballistic. His own version of an inhuman scream rent through the air as light blinded everyone and the leathery flapping wings of the Volcra quickly scattered into the Fold as they finally realised this was not a fight they were able to win. 

The stunned silence was only broken by the Skiffs Captain. “What are we waiting for! Get this thing moving! NOW!” He barked when people didn’t respond fast enough. 

A glance to Ivan at his left had all the warning bells ringing in his head. He had that look of excitement on his face that just screamed he was calculating all the wondrous possibilities that were now available to him if he could only figure out how to harness them. 

Chapter Text

I’ve been wanting to sketch the scene of Kaz blasting a Volcra in the face with a sunbeam since I wrote it. 

I needed a change of pace tonight, so this is what I did. 

I also want to draw a Sankt Kaz card…

and if I’m doing Sankt Kaz, I’ll have to eventually do the whole Murder with Sankta Inej and Sankt Jesper…

Chapter Text

THE DARKLING 

The Darkling sat waiting under a tree while his horse rested and grazed nearby. He’d received Ivan’s latest update when they had reached Kribirsk. It was a week's ride from there to the Little Palace so he had to work fast to make sure his plan succeeded. 

The Darkling was determined to make a good first impression on the Sun Summoner. He would be the hero-ing dark knight who swooped in at just the right moment and saved the day. Earning the Sun Summoners trust and devotion before they even established a working relationship at the Little Palace. 

It was a simple set up. He knew where each Drüskelle camp was in Ravka at all times. They followed every rumor. It was too easy, and thankfully quick, to whisper about a special Grisha heading to the Little Palace that the King had hired from Ketterdam within their earshot. And now the whole Drüskelle team, with a few extra reinforcements, were waiting to ambush them a half mile down the road from where he sat only two days from Os Alta.

Ivan and Fedyor would put up a good fight, but they would be outnumbered. And the young Summoner would no doubt be in a panic. Separated from his friends, that was a bit of good fortune in that one of the trio was wounded in the fight in the Fold and both of the Sun Summoner’s companions got left behind.  It helped the Darkling’s cause for the boy to be alone. Overwhelmed. Caught in the middle of a fight for his life in an unfamiliar foreign nation. Yes. This plan was coming together perfectly. 

A flock of birds took off in a panic as gunfire erupted down the road. 

Ah, perfect. Right on schedule. 

Lazily the Darkling stood and stretched. This was to be his big debut. How he would enamour the Sun Summoner to himself.

He gave them fifteen minutes then mounted his black steed and headed towards the sounds of battle. 

~☀️~☀️~

“What kind of shoddy defenses do you people have that actually allow an entire band of Drüskelle hunters into the middle of a country that’s supposed to be a safe haven for Grisha!” An annoyed unfamiliar gravelly voice shouted in Kerch through the trees as the Darkling neared.

That. That wasn’t the cries of a terrified youth in need of saving. 

There was a sickening crunch of bone shattering from the force of a very heavy implement and then Fedyor’s amused voice sounded from the trees. “I’m sorry, but did you hear something Ivan?”

“Why, no Fedyor, I did not. It’s so hard to pick up on anything that’s not Ravkan over the mewling of these Fjerdians.” Was the response made while a Drüskelle war cry was suddenly cut off in the tell tale manner of a Heartrender suddenly stopping another person’s blood in their throat.

That was Ivan. Ivan was bantering.  Ivan never bantered. The Darkling slipped from his horse and wrapped himself in shadows. He needed to see what was going on before rushing in. Because this battle sounded like it was going in his Grisha’s favor.  And yes. Ivan and Fedyor were his best. But they were still only two against a dozen or more. They shouldn’t have time for bantering . 

Some very creative Kerch swearing followed and the Darkling stopped to listen as it slowly switched to heavily accented Ravkan. “I should allow these idiots to murder you both!” And then sunlight shone across the battlefield as another Drüskelle Fjerdian cried out in pain, shouting about his eyes.

Slipping among the last row of trees that lined this small clearing the Darkling got his first glimpse of his Sun Summoner. Standing tall amongst the bloodshed that was every battlefield. Light quickly receding from his outstretched hand. A very impressive scowl directed towards his Grisha escorts instead of those actively trying to kill him.  

“This fight would be over by now if you hadn’t left the rest of my team behind!”

“Your girlfriend was injured, you were unconscious and it was going to be impossible to leave if we had waited much longer because of the light show you put on in the Fold.” 

“She’s not my girlfriend. AND YOU TOLD ME TO USE MY LAMP SKILLS!” A Drüskelle charged the seemingly distracted Sun Summoner who just wheeled around, using the momentum to use the cane that he was just leaning on for support across the attackers jaw.  The Darkling heard the snapping of bones all the way at his hiding place. That cane had to have been Fabricator made, because the force in which the boy had connected would have broken any other walking stick. 

“Have to admit, I wouldn’t mind having that Durast around right now.”

The Darkling’s eyes bulged. Ivan wanted a Durast in a fight?! He had mentioned a Durast being useful against the Volcra in the Fold, but the Darkling had thought it to be a hastily written mistake.  He worked very hard on making sure the Materialki seem the weakest order. 

“Yeah, it was a shame the rest of your Murder had to be left behind in Kirbirsk.” Fedyor lamented as he flung his hands out stopping two Drüskelle as they brought loaded rifles to aim on the boy. 

“They’re my Crows.” The boy flung a ball of light into one of the stopped Drüskelle’s face, burning the nose and eyes. “Not Murder.” A knife came out of nowhere to imbed in the other Drüskelles chest. Several inches from anywhere that would do any actual harm. 

“Three crows make a murder.” Fedyor twisted his hands and the stabbed Drüskelle fell dead. “Your aim with knives needs work. You should get your girlfriend to help you with that.”

“I taught her.” Wow. The gravel in the boys growl really added a nice intimidation factor. That wasn’t ideal for a hero of Ravka. Nor was the look he was sporting. Short black hair, dark eyes, pale skin dressed in black from head to foot. With one black glove. That was odd. All of it needed to change. He was Ravka’s saviour in black, not this young thing.

The Sun Summoner stood leaning heavily on his cane, panting. But the Darkling wasn’t sure if it was from exertion or anger, and he wasn’t going to assist in the fight unless he would truly be the one to save the Sun Summoner’s life. Right now the remaining Drüskelle were re-evaluating their situation. Nine of their brethren laid on the ground either dead or severely wounded. The four still standing were calculating which of the three Grisha to take out because it was clear now they couldn’t kill all of them. 

“So the student out mastered the teacher!” Fedyor actually threw his hands up in celebration before whipping around with Ivan to take on two of the remaining Drüskelle. One who clutched his chest as his heart stopped beating. The other spasmed and dropped, eyes and ears leaking blood as vessels were burst in his head. “Is that why she’s not your girlfriend? She got better at something than you?”

The Sun Summoner focused sunlight around his ungloved hand then picked up his cane like a sword and the light reformed around it making it seem like he was holding a Sun Sword.  A Sol Klinok.  Oh the Apparat was going to be impossible to handle after he saw this. The Darkling hadn’t even met the Sun Summoner yet, and the boy was already sabatoshing all his carefully laid plans.

“No.” It was more gravel than word. And if looks could kill, well Fedyor would have been dead several minutes ago. Not just now. 

The remaining two Drüskelle finally decided they were not going to better serve their brothers by joining them in death and took off towards the trees. 

“You’re not going to let them live are you?” The Sun Summoner asked, demanded.

“No. I am not.” Ivan took off after them and the Darkling faded away with the shadows he commanded. This would not do. He had much re-evaluating to do about how to handle his Sun Summoner, and not much time in which to do so. 

Chapter Text

MATEO (Inej’s Uncle)

Mateo was caring for the horses as the troupe set up camp for the night. checking their hooves. brushing them down. feeding them. They still had another two to three day’s travel via caravan to get to their next stop, Kribirsk. And a caravan was only as strong as its weakest horse. 

Shouting from the west of their circle caught his attention. patting the last horse on the rump he slowly made his way over to see what the fuss was about. There was a First Army messenger jumping from his own fairly well cared for steed. Mateo was too distracted by his visual inspection of the soldier's horse to pay attention to what the boy was saying. But as eyes turned to him he realized he needed to quickly shift his focus. 

“Da?” Mateo spoke in Ravkan. 

“You are Mircia Ghafa?”

“Net, his brother.”

“Please see that your brother receives this then.” And with that the soldier was placing a letter of impeccable quality with an unadorned wax seal in his hands. “It is from his daughter, Inej Ghafa.”  

“Inej?” Mateo swayed on his feet and hastily tore into the letter. Halfway through he was off running to the other side of the camp yelling for his brother and sister by marriage, “Mircia!  Oana!” 

~☀️~☀️~

“INEJ! INEJ!” Mateo almost had to cover his ears from the volume of his brother's shouts.  They had ridden the whole night through to get to Kribirsk ahead of the caravan. Oana was also desperate to see her missing daughter, but it was safer for her to continue traveling with the troupe.  But everyone agreed Mircia must leave at once by horseback. Without the caravan, it was only a half day's ride to Kribirsk. 

And there was no way Mateo was going to let his little brother do this alone. So the pair of them had taken off right away. 

“Papa?” Both men turned as one at the quiet voice and Saints be Praised, there was their little Inej who had been stolen from them just over two years ago. To Mateo it had looked like she had been in an argument with the lanky dark skinned fellow sat across from her in their out of the way nook they found in this King’s Army outpost. 

Grinning from ear to ear he watched as his little brother and niece embraced with the force of a thousand thunderclaps. He made sure to sneak a glance at the boy she was with and relaxed as he saw the fond happy smile lighting up his face. Good. Then their argument was not at each other. Mateo had mourned the loss of his niece for too long. He would do anything now that she was back to protect her from all dangers. 

“Inej.” Mateo said fondly and was rewarded with his own fierce hug. Though she did not hug as hard with her right arm as she did with her left. With his hands on her small shoulders he stepped back to look her in the eyes. “You’re injured?” He inquired. 

“A little.” She shrugged and blushed. 

“Oh. My. Saints!” The boy exclaimed behind her. “You’re as bad as Kaz!  A little. Psh!  Inej! That Volcra practically gutted you!” 

“JES!” Inej wheeled on the boy, slapping a hand over his mouth. She gave him a pointed look then tilted her head towards them. Mateo knew they had to be a ghastly sight to behold, he had felt all the blood drain from his head at the thought of their little sky walking ptica suffering at the hands of a Volcra. The Saints truly did watch out for their voljina .

“Err, umm. But as you can see, heh, Inej is going to make a err full recovery and umm I’m going to go checkwithZoya about gettingtothe Little Palace.” And with that the boy was off. Leaving two very shell shocked Ghafa’s in his wake. 

~☀️~☀️~

It was later in the day when Mateo met back up with his brother and niece. He felt he should give them some alone time. Plus, he wanted to investigate the Fold crossing his little niece had been a part of. 

The word around camp was, Mateo couldn’t describe it. It was fantastical. A miracle. Hope he never thought could exist blossomed in his chest. Rumors of an actual Living Saint. 

A Saint who had saved their darling bird. Their voljina   ptica , Inej. 

Mateo ached to hear about this boy who could summon the sun and brought lost daughters back to their families in their own poetic Suli language. 

“I see many rivers flowing from eyes, I hope the sun shines warmly upon them.” Mateo greeted his brother and niece in Suli. While he had hoped they’d been crying tears of joy, it was clear by the long faces, they were not. 

“My voljina zheji has been catching me up on what ill fates had befallen her.” Mateo’s heart clinched in sympathetic pain for what his brother must have been going through. “They are not happy tales.”

“At least we know the ending is good and has truly been Blessed by the Saints.” Mateo winked at his family.

His brother huffed a wet laugh. “Yes. The Saints have truly shown us favor.” And he hugged his daughter to him. “We must find the ones who protected her and find the means in which to repay them.”

Mateo paused, surely Inej had talked about the Sun Saint to her father? The Jes she had chastised earlier had mentioned a Kaz… that wasn’t a name he had ever heard before. There couldn't have been two Kaz’s on the Skiff that their Inej had been on. Could there?

“Oh papa, I have kept many Saints with me over the past year.” Her smile was wistful, and it made her old uncle’s heart soar. 

“And I want to hear about Sankt Kaz first.”

The happy moment was ruined by the dark skinned boy choking on the meal he had been quietly eating in the background. Close enough to be there and support Inej, but far enough away to give father and daughter some privacy. 

“Sankt who ujak ?” Inej enquired of her uncle. Her voice cracking in disbelief. 

“Sankt Kaz?” Mateo was now questioning the information he had gathered from the soldiers. Especially as the boy in the back seemed unable to hold himself up from laughing so hard. 

“Ummm” Inej paled but the boy in the back just plowed forward. 

“Oh, my… SAINT! GaHahahaha! Sankt KAZ! Oh! That is the funniest thing I’ve ever heard in my life!  Kaz Brekker, a Saint?”  The boy actually fell from the bench he had been sitting on. 

“JESPER!” And the blush that formed on her cheeks was clear to spot from how pale the conversation had left her.

“But… seriously… Kaz.  OUR Kaz. A SAINT?! Have you ever heard anything more ridiculous in your life?!”

“So… this Kaz cannot summon the sun?”

“Well, no. I mean yes. He actually can do that.” The boy Jesper wiped tears of mirth from his eyes and breathed deeply to regain some composure. But it was clear he was one wrong word away from breaking down into hysterics again. 

“And did he or didn’t he ensure you all were able to survive the Volcra attack?”

“Hey! Inej and I helped him with that!”

Mateo raised an eyebrow at the lad. The soldiers did say that there was a trio at the end who managed to successfully fight the Volcra. The tall lanky Zemeni did fit the description of the uncanny sharpshooter that never missed. Nor aimed if he was to believe the rumors. It was just hard imagining their little Inej fighting as the soldiers described, silent and deadly with a throwing blade. “So you would’ve made it across without him?”

“Ugh,” Jesper groaned, nearly smacking his head on the table in front of him. “If it wasn’t for his ‘Sunnieyness’,” and the boy cracked a grin like he just told the funniest joke, “we wouldn’t have gone in at all. We’d be back in Ketterdam.” Jesper huffed. “No Grisha. No damndable Fold crossing. I can’t believe you Ravkan’s do that on a regular basis!”

“Needs must.” Mircia mumbled at the animated lad while giving his big brother the eyebrow. Indicating he would like to know now just what was going on. So Mateo retold what he had overheard from his walk in the camp. 

INEJ

Jesper and herself had been furiously whispering about what they were going to do about the Grisha separating them from Kaz. She had grown to like Fedyor and was feeling betrayed that he just left them behind as he did. 

True, she was injured pretty badly. But Ashlinka was a healer, she could have healed her while they traveled if it was truly that important to get to the Little Palace immediately. Although, she was also painfully aware that they had no obligations to take her any further. She was surprised they didn’t just leave her at Os Kervo. Her contract with them, well, Kaz’s contract with them stated that they just had to bring her to Ravka and help her locate her family. That requirement was met when they dispatched the letters back at Ravka’s main sea port several days ago. 

Also, she was from West Ravka, her crossing the Fold actually didn’t make any sense. She just, couldn’t abandon Kaz. It didn’t feel right. He had aided her in navigating and surviving Ketterdam when she had found herself in a bad contract. She felt obligated to try and return the favor. 

But, Jesper. He had no family here. He was Grisha! He was supposed to go to the Little Palace!  True, she was grateful for his presence, but she’d rather him be with Kaz. He tried to go with Kaz, but Ivan had ended up leaving in the middle of the night.  It was clear someone wanted Kaz alone, and she didn’t like that she/they couldn’t prevent it. That Kaz had been kept unconscious so that He couldn’t stop it either. 

But then her Papa and Ujak were there. And Inej couldn’t remember a time where she had been this happy. They had awoken a part of her she thought had died at the Menagerie. 

But then Uncle Mateo was telling the stories he had heard in the camp of their crossing. And her inner turmoils billowed and clashed inside her as she once again couldn’t find the right footholds to even begin grasping and sorting through everything she knew.  Or thought she knew. 

Jesper wasn’t Ravkan, he didn’t understand what it meant to everyone here that a Sun Summoner had shown up. For generations people here tried to hold onto hope that a Living Sun Saint would appear and destroy the Shadow Fold. 

She tried to explain it to him, but it didn’t stop Jesper from going around the camp shouting “Kaz is NOT a Saint! Spend one hour in his company! You’d understand!” at people when they really started getting caught up in the prospect of a Living Sankt. 

And Jesper was right. 

But Jesper was also wrong. 

A Saint didn’t have to be nice or likeable or morally upstanding. They just had to possess a unique ability, and use that power to better the world around them. 

For all his faults, Kaz still managed to make the world around him better. People who had nothing suddenly had a place to belong and knew no matter what he said, he’d always have their backs. 

Until they tried to betray him. 

So, as long as the Second Army general didn’t do anything to screw Kaz over with the indenture contract, Kaz would find a way to destroy the Shadow Fold. 

Because finding a way to do the impossible, that was what Kaz excelled at.

Chapter Text

THE DARKLING 

While he waited for Ivan to arrive and make his report, the Darkling sat at his desk studying a copy of the Kerch Sun Summoner contract. Wondering how he could improve upon it. He had to hand it to the Kerch, they knew how to enslave people while making it tasteful for the squeamish. And oftentimes, leaving the enslaved grateful for the servitude.

It was a beautiful system. Something he had slowly been attempting to implement here in Ravka. The King and Queen had been very receptive to Genya. But getting them to expand upon that has been met with great resistance. 

Hopefully once they saw how well the Kerch Sun Summoner’s contract worked, they’d be interested in reopening negotiations to implement a similar system here. If not, well, he would just wait them out. Time was on his side. 

Ivan had ended up doing the right thing in hiring a local Ghezen priest to aid in negotiating and writing the contract. There was a lot of legalese involved and it had to be perfect. It had always been his plan, once found, to bind the Sun Summoner to himself somehow. Unless he got fortunate enough to find a Sun Summoner that shared his vision to rule and share in the best future of Ravka. But, considering his own mother didn’t fully support his vision, he spent less time on that thought and many more nights wondering how to use Grisha science to bind another Grisha to himself. He had ideas, and pages ripped from secret journals about the theories of using magical amplifiers to transfer or combine abilities. 

Yet here, the Kerch already had a perfect, non magical solution. 

The Darkling’s only true issue with it was the clause that required the annual renewal. This Per Haskell, being the lowly gang boss that he was, would no doubt not keep to his current set rates he had established for the boy. Haskell would realize the perfect extortion tool that it was and exploit it. And regrettably, he couldn’t use his prefered method of dealing with extortionists. 

But to every problem, there was usually multiple solutions. He reread the very thick contract again. Simplified, it read this: The Dregs Boss, Per Haskell, agreed to loan out his lieutenant, Kaz Brekker, for a sum of 50,000 Kruge for one year to aid the Ravkan people in the destruction of the Fold. At the end of which, whether the year was up OR the Fold destroyed, the contract could be re-negotiated by all parties (the Owner of the debt, the Indentured and in this case, the Loaner) and renewed. Once the Fold had been destroyed, then the boy was to be granted a bonus payout to help see him home and pay off his indenture to the Dregs. 

Ugh. Brekker. What kind of name was that? How did he come by it? He get in trouble as a young lad and just gave the authorities whatever name his eyes landed on first?  If that was the case, why stick with it?  

Brekker was a piece of farming equipment. It wasn’t even a family name, the family that started the equipment business were the Von Routhaulands. Brekk was apparently the sound one of their first successful machines made and everyone started calling it the Brekker. So when the family redesigned the machine, that’s just what they chose to officially name it. 

The Darkling wondered, since Brekker couldn’t be the boy’s legal name, would it somehow break the agreement if he gave the boy a more fitting last name. One that spoke of his new station as a Sun Summoner. A Hero to Ravka. 

As he sat pondering what sorts of surnames would fit best, a knock sounded on his door. He was going to be extremely displeased if it was anyone other than Ivan. 

It was Ivan. His second looked ragged, which after the eventful trip across Ravka, that was to be expected. The Darkling offered him a drink and a seat. Anyone else he’d have left standing, knowing that as soon as they sat down they’d pass out from exhaustion. But not Ivan. There were reasons why he was his second. 

The Darkling sat forward at his desk, leaning his elbows on the top and folding his hands to rest his chin upon them. “Tell me everything.”

KAZ

So this was the famous Little Palace. Kaz wasn’t impressed. It was just as gaudy as he expected it to be. Big rooms. Tall ceilings. Wall art including more than a few DeKappels he itched to inspect and fancy decor everywhere. This much lavishness was disgusting. And Kaz thought the Mercher’s big houses and fancy uncomfortable furniture was bad. This place was so much worse.  

Everywhere the paint and wallpaper was fresh and not a speck of dirt anywhere. The floors were so polished Kaz could see his reflection in them. Well with the exception for where he had tread. After two and a half weeks of hard travel that included two skirmishes; to say Kaz was filthy would be an understatement.  He still wore the same suit he had on when he attended the secret Grisha examination.  Once a perfect black it was now grey with road dust and sported several blood stains. At least this time none of the blood was his. 

The Heartrenders wasted no time in ushering him into the Palace. They passed by many halls and startled Grisha milling about in their color coordinated clicks. Fedyor was always a foot away. Watching his hands. Reminding him time and time again to not touch anything. Which correlated to, do not steal anything. 

They had found a few wallets on him while he was unconscious as they exited the Fold. When he woke up in the new carriage some time later, he’d gotten a long ass lecture about not stealing while in Ravka. He was going to be amongst important company and they couldn’t have their Sun Summoner picking the pockets of Ravka’s elite. He hadn’t paid much attention to them at the time because neither Inej or Jesper were with him in the coach. 

He hadn’t panicked then. He didn’t! Nor was he panicking over their absence now while he waited for Ivan to finish up whatever business he was attending to behind the large ornate dark mahogany doors he went through what had to be several bells ago. Fedyor still sat with him in the large round room with a golden domed ceiling.  It was some sort of meeting room. A small table at its head in front of the dark doors. Then longer tables arched in a circle around the space. There looked to be three distinct portions, must be for the three different Grisha orders. 

Kaz could think of a lot of reasons to keep the orders separated. Most of the reasons lead to dominance and control without it looking as such. Or suppression. Which piqued Kaz’s interest. 

At least identifying some of the puzzles that was the Little Palace and the Second Army was something to keep himself busy as he waited for his audience with the Darkling. 

Kaz knew this game. Keep your target waiting, let their mind wonder about all the bad things that were going to happen to them once you invited them in for the business meeting you called them for. Keep them tired and dirty. It was about establishing power dominance. Make them feel like they were the dirt beneath your feet. This Darkling was clearly proving the point that he was in charge here. Even being their fabled Sun Summoner, he had no control here. 

Kaz already knew that. He knew exactly what he signed. They needn't have bothered with this much grandstanding. He just wanted a chance to clean up and get fresh clothes. Although he dreaded what they were going to give him to change into. Thoughts of Ivan and all that Barrel flash came to the forefront of his mind and he shuddered. 

“I keep telling you, your friends are fine. They’ll probably be here in a couple days.” 

Kaz glared at the Heartrender, “I wasn't thinking about them.”

Which for once, that was true. Although now that the jerk mentioned them Kaz was intensely feeling the lack of their presence. 

He kept trying to remind himself he didn’t need his Crows. He just hadn’t realized how much he’d gotten used to seeing them every day back at the Slat. Plus they’d been living on top of each other for weeks since they left Ketterdam. But, he knew they wouldn’t be around once he got to Ravka’s capital. Once his indenture started for real. 

Which was fine. He knew how to survive on his own. 

It was better this way. They weren’t indentured. They shouldn’t be trapped. 

Jesper was finally away from the gambling halls that had destroyed his chances at being a successful scholar.  He was finally owning up to his Grisha abilities and going to learn how to harness them better. He could finally stop lying to his dad back home, perhaps rebuild that relationship that had been on a steady decline.  

Inej. They got her out of Ketterdam. Kaz actually managed to get her free from her debts and even home. Letters had been dispatched in West Ravka once they docked at Os Kervo. Kaz still didn’t know what happened after he passed out in the Fold. Last he knew an injured Volcra tackled her. He heard her scream of surprise and pain and his world went white. He woke up half a day later, bundled up in a spare red Kefta, in a different carriage with only the Heartrenders inside and the two guards still driving. 

The red Kefta was easy to abandon. Everything else, not so much. 

So, Inej had been hurt. The Heartrenders kept telling him it wasn’t bad. That Ashlinka had stayed behind to heal her and Jesper chose to stay with her while more letters went out to more Suli caravans in East Ravka to find Inej’s family. 

Inej was going to rejoin her family. Be happy once again. 

That knowledge didn’t make the ache that was in his chest go away. 

It also didn’t add up the other facts. Jesper was heading here to the Little Palace as well. While Kaz was glad Inej wasn’t alone, he wasn’t convinced Jesper had sayed of his own volition. 

Nor did he believe the Heartrender’s didn’t keep him unconscious on purpose. He had way too many demons that woke him too regularly. There was no way he was out on his own for a half a day or longer. 

He needed a distraction. He resisted the urge to check all of his little hidden pockets. He had a lot more items on his person other than those few wallets. Things he didn’t want the Grisha finding. He really needed a moment of privacy. He was so sick of constantly being sat on by Corporalniki. 

Glancing over at Fedyor, Kaz had the feeling that wasn’t going to be changing anytime soon. He ran a gloved hand over his face and through his matted hair. He was already exhausted by this place and he’d just gotten here. 

Chapter Text

THE DARKLING 

There were times the Darkling wished he was a Heartrender, just so that he could feel the fear of those forced to be in his presence. Now being one of those rare times. The boy was good. Several hours left waiting after a long hard journey and the only visible tells of his unease was a stiffness to his posture and the way his gloved hand fidgeted on the cane’s crow headed figure. 

To the inexperienced, they would contribute all of that to the bad leg. Which in and of itself was very interesting. In a world where Grisha healers could fix almost any physical ailment, the boy chose to keep the injury. He’d taken a physical disability that would break most any other person’s spirit and used it as a shield to lower his enemies' perceptions of him to give him an edge in confrontations. The Darkling itched to know how much of the Dirtyhands reputation was factual, and what was made up to act as the leg did, a subterfuge. Stories created to be a shield in a world where reputations were everything. 

In any other circumstance, the Darkling would encourage the boy’s harsh and ruthless behaviors he’d had to develop to survive the world's roughest gang infested area. The swindling and backstabbing and thieving were skill sets he wished he had more of at his disposal. And the boy seemed to have the intelligence and the drive to succeed he rarely found in others.  

But right now the Darkling needed to establish his control. To forge an obedient Sun Summoner. One who would carry out his commands without question. Follow him through the darkness and then shine light on a better world for all Grisha everywhere. But only the parts that bowed to him.

He smiled in the darkness shrouding him at his desk. Letting his Corporalniki settle into their spots throughout his war room. Time to test how far this phobia of touching went. 

KAZ

Kaz found his fingers twitching out their secret code warnings without his conscious thought. Two taps on crow’s eyes: watch guards at the exchange. Single slow tap on the front beak and each side: one guard forward, one left, one right. Repeat in quick succession to indicate they’re all dangerous. Thumb swiping up and down the back: only exit is the way in from the back. Twisting the cane back and forth: the best way to handle this situation is for me to talk our way out of it. 

Correction, His way. Singular. He was painfully aware of how alone he was right now. This was the signal that had brought his awareness to what he was doing subconsciously. Signalling to the rest of his crows the situation. They weren’t here. Kaz stopped and squared his shoulders. He didn’t need them. 

He didn’t. 

The Darkling had apparently taken that as the signal to step away from the desk he was posturing at and move forward into the meager light the few windows in the room provided. 

“So,” a velvety voice carried throughout the room. “This is my Sun Summoner.” Kaz had to suppress the shudder that wanted to ripple through his body at that declaration. He detested the idea of people belonging to other people, now that it was him, he exceptionally hated it. But, regrettably, that didn’t stop it from being the truth, so he let the comment slide. “I did expect you to be much less… dark.”

Kaz adopted an air of nonchalance and shrugged. He was aware of his looks. Black hair, dark shadowed eyes, all sharp angles dressed in black. He felt his dangerous aura wrap in place and let the battle scars and bloodstains on his suit shine as beacons of his natural personality. He had killed many people, to some he’d done worse. He let that confidence settle and looked the Darkling directly in the eye. It didn’t matter if he could summon sunlight, he was still the Bastard of the Barrel. It was time to get to work. 

“I’m here for a job. So let’s discuss business.” He removed a glove, and poured that hum that was now everywhere throughout his body into a condensed mass in his palm. A perfect little star lit up the room, chasing the shadows to the far corners. 

Did the shadows here actually scream? If Kaz had any sort of imagination, he’d have blamed the sound that had nothing to do with his ears and everything to do with the hum under his skin, on it. But there were more pressing issues to deal with. He shelved that sensation for later evaluation as he doused the light. 

Kaz chose to keep the glove off for now. The Darkling had a hungry look in his eyes that he didn’t care for and Kaz wanted to be sure he could summon his light blade if, when the Darkling overstepped his boundaries.  

Unfortunately, this situation wasn’t unfamiliar to him. Many in the Barrel gave him this same exact look when they thought they held the upper hand. Or rich merchants who once again got it in their heads that the Barrel needed cleaning up and Kas was just some dumb crippled kid who couldn’t possibly pose a threat. With the exception of Pekka Rollins, he managed to prove them all wrong. And he was going to get to Pekka eventually. 

Once he manoeuvred himself out of this mess Haskell got him into. 

FEDYOR 

Fedyor just wanted the shadows to wrap around himself and disappear. This was a dangerous room to be in and he just wanted to get cleaned up, eat some hot food and sleep. Preferably in that order. But at this point. He wasn’t feeling all that picky about it. 

Because of course the kid was choosing to go toe to toe with the Darkling himself. In his own office, or turf as the gangsters would probably say. The kid had to know he looked like a domestic house cat kitten, hissing and spitting at a lion who just had a whole gazelle for dinner.  A collared house kitten. Well, more of a feral kitten. Being collared for the first time. Yeah. This analogy was rambling, proof he desperately needed real sleep. 

Fedyor tried to make eye contact with Ivan, but he was busy being the perfect second in command officer.  All he wanted to know was how long he could expect this meeting to go.  After a month of being away from the rigidity of the Second Army, and several weeks dealing with the Murder teens, it had felt to Fedyor that Ivan was possibly loosing up a bit. 

Apparently that idea was nothing more than a pipe dream. His eyes strayed to Sergei a small distance behind the Darkling’s desk. No help on determining this meeting’s length from him either. He was too caught up in the wonder of seeing someone actually manage to summon the sun. 

After a few weeks of trying to prevent the kid from robbing everyone (including himself!) blind, Fedyor was all out of admiration for the boy’s Grisha ability. Shiny light, sure pretty. Pretty good at distracting people’s focus so that they forget the boy has two hands. He had a cane for Saints sake! He shouldn’t be so efficient at picking pockets!

“The ‘business’ seems pretty straightforward and simple to me. I ‘hired’ you from your current boss. You work for me. I want you somewhere, you’re there. I want you to do something, you do it.” 

“I was ‘hired’ to aid in destroying the Fold. So let’s discuss that.”

“The Fold isn’t going anywhere. We have plenty of time to get to that later. Weeks. Months.” There was a pause as some unnameable expression lit up the Darkling’s face. Fedyor had the distinct feeling of being on the outside of a private joke as the Darkling grinned, “Years.”

“I don’t have years.” The kid ground out. 

“Oh really? What could you possibly have going on back in the gutters of Ketterdam that you need to get back to?” At the boy’s silence the Darkling kept going. “Here you won’t have to fight for survival. You have access to an actual palace in which to live, food whenever you want it.”

All of that sounded way better to Fedyor. Having seen the streets the kid came from, he was baffled at why the kid was in such an eager state to get back. Especially since his girlfriend and best friend came here with him. 

“There’s business there I need to take care of.”

“I’m sure it can wait.” The Darkling was using his seductive voice and had slowly started making his way over to the kid.  Fedyor shot Ivan a worried glance. Surely he warned the Darkling about the kid’s touch phobia.  Right?  Because the Darkling had the tendency to get a bit, handsy if he thought it would help him to get what he wanted. “There’s nothing more…”

Whatever the Darkling was going to say was sharply cut off by a small blade of light that appeared in front of the hand the Darkling was about to use to touch the boy. 

“Well now, that’s a neat trick. But can it actually do any damage?”

“I’m assuming this is Grisha steel?”

Saints be damned!  Fedyor knew to keep his eyes on the other hand! He was prepared to use his Heartrender abilities to keep the kid from doing something stupid. Like lifting the Darkling’s knife right off his person. But he missed it, and now had to watch powerless from the sidelines as Kaz used his little dagger of sunlight to actually fucking cut the blade from the handle.  It was Grisha steel. It shouldn’t have been that easy to sever.  

“It cuts well enough.” The boy smirked. Kid, don’t smirk at the Darkling.  “I advise against touching me with any appendage you’re not willing to part with.”

Oh kid, do not threaten the Darkling. Why did he fail to have this conversation with the boy before while they spent the last several hours sitting bored outside in the dining hall? 

Several emotions flitted across the Darkling’s face before he spoke in a low and menacing voice. “Alright. Hand them over.”  

KAZ

The Darkling’s fury, Kaz expected. But he wasn’t clear about the ‘them’ he was referring to. 

“Hand what over? I haven’t taken anything else.” 

“Yet.” Damn, the Darkling picked up on that and finished the unspoken end of his sentence. “Now, hand over your gloves.”

“What?” Kaz hated how weak and young he sounded.

“The gloves.” The Darkling held his hand out expantly. And when it was clear Kaz had no intentions to remove them, the Darkling added impatiently, “Now.”

“No.”

“You don’t get to tell me no, or anyone else I assign over you. While the Fold exists, I decide everything in your life.” And the Darkling wiggled his fingers expantly. When there was still no movement on Kaz’s part the Darkling took a half step forward into his personal space. It took every ounce of willpower to not take a step back from him. “You will do as I say, or Per Haskell and I will rework the contract without you for failure of subservience.”  

Fuck. Because damn the man, he could. Kaz had been betting on them not knowing indenture rules since they were Ravkan. But it was sounding like the Darkling had done his research. 

“I can’t.” He managed to growl out. Again wanting to kick himself for failing to hide the tremor with his natural gravelly voice. 

“Oh, you very much can.” The Darkling actually fucking purred. “As you demonstrated, they impair your ability to summon.” The Darkling leaned in as if to whisper, but Kaz was sure everyone in the room could hear. “Also you’ve proven a nasty little habit of taking things that are not yours. Which has a wonderfully simple solution. You’re not going to steal off people when you can’t touch them. So, hand. them. over. ”

Kaz really wanted to melt that smirk off the Darkling’s face, but purposely maiming your Master had severe and dire consequences he would not live through. You were lucky if the priests of Ghezen simply hanged you from the Church of Barter. 

Instead Kaz settled on forcefully removing his gloves and throwing them at the Darkling’s chest. The gentle impact they made and soft plops as they slid into the Darkling’s waiting hand did not satisfy the rage he felt in his soul. 

And with that, the Darkling dismissed him completely.  “Sergei, would you please show the Sun Summoner to his new quarters? Ivan, Fedyor, you both have earned some time off.” 

Chapter Text

KAZ

Kaz gripped his anger like a lifeline helping to keep his head above the waves while the loss of his gloves acted as an anchor determined to drown him. He kept trying to ball his hands into fists, which just kept opening the dam designed to keep the waters at bay. Kaz settled on one hand gripping his cane and the other the inside of his jacket pocket as he followed yet another Corporalnik throughout the Little Palace. 

“Welcome to your new home.” The Corporalnik announced as if this was some sort of good, life improving advancement instead of the gaudy prison it was. “Aside from the Darkling’s suite, these are the best rooms in the Little Palace! Large bed, luxurious bathing room, wonderful reading nook..”

“Reading.” Through sheer determination Kaz locked onto the first thing that might be able to help him. Clearing his throat more to dislodge the water's effect muddling his mind than forcing his words to come out in Ravkan opposed to Kerch, he continued. “Is there a library I can visit? I need to learn all I can about the Shadow Fold.” 

“Uh, of course, but wouldn’t you like to get cleaned up and rest a bit…”

“No!”  Fuck, he wasn’t in charge here. He needed to stop interrupting and demanding Noes before he got himself into deeper trouble. “Actually, getting cleaned up a bit first would be preferable.” There. The way the Corporalnik’s posture relaxed proved Kaz managed to say the right thing this time. 

“Of course. I’ll let you clean up and I can be back in an hour?” The end of his statement turned into a question as he looked to Kaz for confirmation, as if that was going to be enough time. As if he could get near water right now to clean up anyway. It took longer than it should have for Kaz to convert the Ravkan time system into the corresponding number of bells he was used to. 

He just merely nodded his assent and released the breath he hadn’t been aware he was holding. 

Two bells later, a Ravkan hour, and nothing happened. Kaz waited a full bell more before his frustration won out and he went to the main door. He twirled his lock pick from his sleeve for several moments in his hand before he just tried the door handle without picking it first. 

Surprisingly, it was already unlocked. The pick disappeared back up his sleeve.

Unsurprisingly, there were now two Corporalniki stationed outside his accommodations. The Sergei from before and a curvy female. 

Kaz tried to soften his scowl towards them but considering how much the man flinched, Kaz wasn’t successful in his attempt to be less intimidating. “It’s been longer than an hour.” 

“My apologies Sun Summoner, but ah, the Darkling, he ah, denied your request to visit the library tonight.”

Kaz narrowed his eyes, mind starting to whorl into high gear. The Darkling denied him from going to a library? Why wouldn’t the man want him starting immediately in learning about the Shadow Fold? Was this just another stunt to make sure Kaz knew his place here? His gut felt that wasn’t the case in this instance. The Darkling had been quick to not discuss the business of the fold at their meeting. But that had felt like a play for power. Was it simply too late? All the libraries in the University District closed after afternoon bells. The sun was setting here and even then, there hadn’t been much activity in the halls indicating people must have been settling in for the night.  Or was this just an unused portion of the palace?

Kaz needed information. Information he wasn’t going to be able to get standing in a hall. He didn’t possess the stealth or strength to slip past the Corporalniki through the main doors. But, this set of rooms had a lot of windows. Shutting the guards back off outside Kaz quickly scoped each window out. They all opened and had a solid ledge he’d be able to use. But, the stonework around the windows was too fine for him to scale. He never had Inej’s affinity for climbing, and with his bad leg he really needed an aid of some sort in order to climb. And climb he needed because even though he was only on the second floor, the first floor was twice the height of anything he was used to. 

The window in the bathroom however had a drain pipe within arms reach. He shimmied out to it for testing. Yes. There was space behind the pipe and the wall for his fingers. Going down would be easy. Getting back up however. He believed he could leverage himself well enough to make it back up. It’d be uncomfortable, but most things with his leg now were. It didn’t stop him in Ketterdam. He wasn’t about to let it stop him here. 

Under the cover of darkness Kaz started making his way around the outside of the Little Palace. There had to be a library on the ground floor. He kept to the shadows and methodically went to every window looking for the tell tale shelves of books. He eventually found what he was looking for. The windows were locked from the inside. He had the tools on him to shimmy them open, but he didn’t feel like leaving behind the damage it would’ve caused. Not when there was a terrace a few feet over with a door containing a nice pickable lock. 

THE DARKLING 

His Shadows woke him. More specifically, the tremor in them that he’d felt when the Sun Summoner called forth his power in his war room woke him. But the Sun Summoner should be in his suite under guard cowering and rethinking his position in life and adjusting his demeanor approperialy. Not his personal office book nook. 

Slipping a robe over his nightclothes the Darkling ghosted out of his bedchamber to investigate the disturbance he felt. Only to be completely flummoxed by the sight of the boy with his fingertip lit up like a small pin torch, perusing his personal collection of books. 

“How did you get in here?” he had been in too deep a sleep to be anything more than genuinely baffled at this hour of night. 

The teen made for a comical sight as he jumped and raised his cane from the Darkling’s unexpected appearance. The book he’d been glaring at fell forgotten at his feet. “Door.” Was the one word startled reply.

The Darkling’s eyes went to the door out to the small landing that up until this point he had always considered merely decorative. “That door doesn’t work.”

“You’re welcome Sir.”

“Pardon?” He wasn’t sure if he was questioning what he had thanked the boy for or the sudden use of an honorific title coming from the headstrong brat. 

“I’ve just revealed a major lapse in your security. You now know to fix it.”  

The Darkling was awake enough now to scrutinize the boy. The Sun Summoner was putting on a good front, but he saw the carefully measured breaths and absolute stillness for what it was. Terror. 

Good. He casually went and lit the lamps around them then tried the terrace door. It opened easily and silently. When he had first moved in, the handle hadn’t budged. Which led to his impression of it being decorative. 

“As l much as I was looking forward to your company again, several hours later uninvited in my private chambers was not it.”

“So go back to bed and pretend I wasn’t here.” Dark brown eyes darted around the room, no doubt looking for other avenues for escape. A “Sir” address was tacked on to the end as the boy’s eyes landed his own grey orbs. 

“Oh no. It’s not going to work that way.” The Darkling purred as he settled his back against the doorframe after flipping the now obvious latch to relock said door to the outside. There were reasons why he requested no outside doors to his quarters. This being chief among them. “You're going to tell me what you’re looking for.”

There was a sigh and aborted motion of running his hand through his hair. “I’m looking for books or anything else that could tell me more about the Shadow Fold.”

The Darkling raised an eyebrow. So Sergei’s request from the Sun Summoner had been in earnest. “And you felt the best place to find these books would be in my own personal collection because?”

“I wasn’t aware this was your private library.” Funny thing was, the Darkling believed the growled response. The kid hadn’t even been at the Little Palace for eight hours yet. The kid was bright enough he could’ve probably made his way from his chambers to the Darkling’s from memory. But he clearly came from outside, not in. Which meant he slipped his guards by exiting through a window. Considering the leg, the Darkling was impressed. It also settled an internal debate he’d fallen asleep to. 

He had been debating if he should force a healer upon the boy to have that limp fixed. But, if the kid was this proficient at sneaking out and around on one leg, what kind of menace would he be with two? 

Unless the Tsar directly demanded it, the Darkling fully intended to let the Sun Summoner keep his prefered handicap. Which clearly wasn’t enough of an impediment as it should be. 

KAZ

The Darkling was way too calm about all of this. Kaz meanwhile was starting to feel the sweat collect on his brow. He hadn’t twitched since that first initial jump at being caught. He had to play this just right or he could kiss his future negotiating powers in the contract’s dealings goodbye forever. 

“I am sorry for having disturbed your privacy Sir.” Kaz layered on all the respectful addresses he could stomach. Men in power always liked the verbal stroking to their stations. “I was just looking for books that might help me with my task of ridding Ravka of the Fold.” But how useful to have found your private quarters instead. 

“I clearly remember stating there would be time for that latter.”

“Why wait? I’m invested in starting sooner and wouldn’t the people of Ravka want this prioritized?” 

“The people of Ravka do not always know what is best for them.”

That brought Kaz up short. He had seen the Shadow Fold up close and personal. He’d encountered the nightmares that lived within it. It was kind of refreshing to have a physical demon he could smash in with his cane opposed to the intangible ones that plagued his mind. There was no way that blight across Ravka was useful. Not even to the Darkling, who had clearly invested every resource within his power to find a means with which to destroy it. 

Unless. Not to destroy? It was a Shadow. The Darkling’s signature power. Kaz felt his eyes go round. “You don’t want it destroyed, do you.” He whispered. 

“Don’t be foolish. Of course I want it dismantled.”

Dismantled. Taken to pieces. Pieces that could be more easily moved?  Could it be weaponized?  Just what exactly had Haskell gotten him into. Surely Kaz was reading too much into this. But he also heard the unspoken ‘eventually’ at the end of the Darkling’s last statement that he hadn’t said. 

Kaz’s mind found its traction. There had been a spark of hope that lit every fool Ravkan’s eye when they realized he was a Sun Summoner. There were excited whispers everywhere behind his back about what it would be like to have the Shadow Fold gone. A previously unobtainable fantasy suddenly made possible.  Even Inej had given him that doe eyed hopeful look, and she knew what kind of monster he was. 

But not the Darkling. His eyes had sparked, but with the hungry promises of more power at his command. At first Kaz had thought it was the power he had over himself via the indenture contract. Which would lead to further glory once the Shadow Fold was eradicated. But now, doubt was starting to creep in. Because what did that mean for him if the Darkling didn’t intend for him to destroy the Fold? 

As he stood scheming, a cold hand cupped the side of his face and a thumb brushed his cheekbone bringing Kaz’s thoughts back to the reminder he wasn’t alone in the room. He jerked back so hard he nearly toppled the bookcase behind him. Stars flashed in his vision and he clung tightly to the pain blossoming at the base of his skull where it hit the sharp edge of the bookshelf. Because he couldn’t afford to drown in his phobia right now. 

Oh, wait. The stars were him. His power reflexively sparking from his raised hands as he attempted to make a physical barrier between himself and the Darkling’s touch. Some distant part of his brain was grateful that Jesper wasn’t here to see this, otherwise he’d never hear the end of what kind of possibilities there could be for on demand fireworks. 

“You shouldn’t worry yourself over the when’s of destroying the Fold. Just know that day will come.” 

Sure that day. How many years from now?  Kaz noticed the playful glint in his eyes during the meeting when he spoke of years. At the time he thought the man was just trying to rile him up. Now he was thinking he was serious. 

The Darkling made to step in Kaz’s personal space again, but Kaz was ready for it and strengthened the sparks into a more solid shield. The Darkling was not pleased, but he should be grateful Kaz wasn’t forming a blade to take out an eye. Or his life. 

Grey eyes narrowed. “Just what is it you feel at human touch?”

“You’ll never know.”

“Oh.” And the superior mischievous glint was back in the Darkling’s eyes. “I’ll know eventually. The two of us have all the time in the world together.” 

Kaz’s brain ground to a halt again. He had the gut feeling his concept of time was vastly different from the Darkling’s. 

Chapter Text

GENYA 

Genya wasn’t running, there was no running in the Palaces. But she was keeping a brisk enough pace that the servants behind her burdened with everything needed to make the new Sun Summoner presentable to their royal majesties were struggling to keep up. 

She didn’t care. The Queen had woken her ridiculously early to fix some blemish she absolutely couldn’t wait two more hours to have tailored when she was typically scheduled to spruce her up for the day's court affairs.  No doubt the Queen was trying to summon her yet again this morning to fix her up a third time since learning this afternoon’s court session was going to be meeting with the new Grisha from Ketterdam, an actual Sun Summoner!  

The news was starting to spread like wildfire through the servants and court alike. The Darkling had casually mentioned during his daily breakfast report to the King that last night a new Grisha from Kerch had decided to join them at the Little Palace to aid in the dismantling of the Fold.  

Oh, she would have loved to have been a fly on the wall for that news break. Servants there had been giddy over how the King had choked on his stuffed roll. Genya just wished he would’ve choked on a bigger bite. With more permanent effects. 

The Darkling had found her right after his briefing, with explicit instructions on what he expected her to tend to on the Kerch boy. It was no small list. And she only had just enough time with which to get it all done, if she was fast. Which she hated Tailoring under time constraints, especially on someone new. 

The Darkling had a highly amused grin as he talked about the Kerch Etherealik. The boy apparently had an abrasive personality due to growing up on Ketterdam’s streets. But there was an odd glint in his eyes when he offhandedly commented about the boy not liking to be touched. Which just left a cold feeling of dread in the pit of her stomach.  She was intimately aware of the Darkling’s tendencies to downplay things in order to trap people into situations they would later regret. This was a trap. But was it for her or the Kerch boy?

There was a pair of Corporalniki guards stationed in the hall.  That didn’t answer her question on whom the Darkling’s trap was set for. 

She took a moment and breathed, straightening her cream colored Kefta before knocking on the lavish guest suite double doors. She flicked her hair as she waited for the Sun Summoner to answer. 

Behind her the servants made a loud ruckus as they dropped their heavy packages and panted, attempting to regain their breaths. 

Annoyance started to grow, Genya knocked again louder. Was he possibly still asleep? She had no idea what kind of sleep schedule a kid from the streets would have. 

When there was still no answer, she started pounding on the door. 

She eventually let up and a broken “go away” could faintly be heard through the thick wood. 

“No can do!” She called back in her brisk, but hopefully still polite voice and went to open the doors. Only to find they were locked. She turned the key and went to try again when Sergei cleared his throat to gain her attention. When he had it, he pointed up the door. Frustrated, she looked up only to be taken aback by the ornate deadbolt that most certainly wasn’t there the last time she came by. Confused, she shot him a look of disbelief to which he only sheepishly shrugged. 

That cold pit in her stomach grew.

Steeling herself for whatever she was about to walk into, she unlatched the deadbolt and entered the suite. Only to freeze in her tracks as she took in the state of the room. She couldn’t help it as her jaw went slack and she just stood there. 

Murmurs of the servants behind her brought her focus back to the audience behind her. But instead of letting them in to get started, she slammed the doors shut in their faces. This did not need to be gossiped about all over Ravka. To say the room was in shambles would have been a kindness. 

It was utterly destroyed. 

The large canopy bed was a mass of down feathers and ripped curtains. Lamps and statuettes laid scattered and broken. Paintings hung askew and broken in their ornate frames. Oddly enough, the few actual DeKappel oils themselves were unharmed, just the frames. Sections of the wallpaper and paints were blistered and peeling. And every bit of color the room had was faded to pale imitations of their original bright hues, as if they had sat outside in noonday sun for months on end. 

Genya ran a finger over a blistered patch of varnish over the wood of the doorframe. It was definitely caused by exposure to sun heat.  She turned her focus to find the source of the destruction and a mop of unruly short black hair caught her attention from the other side of the bed frame. Slowly she made her way around it and found the Kerch boy sitting awkwardly on the floor. His back was against the wall, head buried in his arms that he had curled around one knee he had bent up to support himself. 

“Well. Do you feel better now?” Genya found her exasperated voice cutting through the stillness while taking in the destruction that was once their finest room in the Little Palace.

“No.” Was the rasping gravel reply. Dark eyes emerged to give her an even darker look. “Who are you and what are you doing here?” 

Genya found her heart going out to him against her will. His broken voice sounded like he had spent the night crying. She hadn’t gotten his story yet, but it was clear it wasn’t his choice to be here. The additional lock on the outside of the door spoke volumes. Suddenly, the state of the room made much more sense. She empathized with him in the desire to destroy everything around you when the Darkling’s plans left you with nothing. 

Genya remembered the state of her bedroom the first night after the King, well. Yeah. 

Fortunately, for her, her unique talents did not leave quite the swath of destruction.  This… She wasn’t going to be able to fix this before the Darkling arrived. Best she could do now for the boy was have him ready for when the Darkling came sauntering in. 

“You’re lucky the King and most everyone you meet from now on will know Kerch.” She said instead, purposely ignoring what he had clearly done to the room.  She had to get the… she looked at him again, calling him boy didn’t seem to fit anymore. Now that she could see his face he actually looked to be more around her age than that of a true kid.  

KAZ

Ugh. Kaz had picked up on the fact that he switched back to Kerch when he was upset or stressed. It was a tell he was going to have to fix. Soon. But for now, he needed to get his head back in order. Apparently, he had actual fucking royalty to meet because the woman who now stood before him just kept right on talking. 

“I’m Genya Safin, I’m here to get you ready to meet the King.”

“No.”

“Regrettably, when it comes to the King, 'No’ is not an option.”

“Fine. Nyt!” Kaz growled in Ravkan. 

“Even worse response. Disgustingly, No in any language doesn’t exist for royalty.” Kaz locked eyes with her again, she had personal experience with that then.  And it hadn’t gone well for her. 

“I am not fit company to be in Royalty’s presence.” Kaz really just wanted to be left alone. 

“Not currently, no. That’s why I’m here, to fix you up. Now come on, get up. Sitting there sulking isn’t going to help get you through this ordeal.”

“I’m not talking about appearances.” He gritted out through clenched teeth.  

“Well, lucky you, appearances are all that matter in court.”

That gave Kaz pause and he fixed her with a shrewd calculating look. 

“Come on. Up.” And she offered him a hand this time.  A bare hand.

Kaz couldn’t help it, he flinched. He couldn’t even look at bare flesh right now. Not after having his gloves taken and personal space constantly invaded by the Darkling. Who had threatened to force Per Haskell into giving him a free year of servitude every time Kaz used his Sun Summoning against said Darkling’s person. 

Apparently giving Kaz three free passes was the Darkling’s concept of benevolence. Two of which had already been used. 

If the Darkling had any ounce of respect for a man’s personal space, he wouldn’t have had to concern himself with getting skewered by a blade of light. As it was, by the time the Darkling had finally escorted him back to this room, his sun powers were crackling along his skin from his efforts to not lash out at the Darkling. 

Thankfully, Genya Immediately stepped away upon his pathetic physical response. Holding her hands up in the universal sign of I am not a threat. “Look. I understand you’re having a rough time right now.” She spoke slowly. “But the Darkling is coming to escort you to this afternoon’s court meeting that is probably going to be more crowded than usual. We need to get you ready for meeting the Tsar.” 

Kaz buried his head back into his elbow and forced himself to breathe. He had to get himself under control. The lady was trying to be nice about it, but her clipped words indicated she was clearly holding back her true anger.  

She didn’t have time for this, and neither did he. 

Slowly Kaz dug his cane out from the mess that was wedged between the small space that was him and the bed. Levering himself upright took much longer than it should have. Just how long had he sat in that spot?  

Her frustrations finally surfaced. “No one told me you were injured! Now I’m going to have to go get a Healer which we don’t have time for.”

“No!” She had barely finished speaking before he was stepping forward. To do what, he didn’t know. 

Genya raised a perfect eyebrow at him. Now that he was actually looking, Kaz was thrown by just how physically perfect she was. There were those women who ran the pleasure houses that indulged in vanity. But for most in the Barrel, it was a luxury that couldn’t exist. Lack of proper food and the constant stress of life made sure things like skin, hair and teeth were things that just, never did well. Nor did anyone have the time to care. 

“It’s fine.” He got back to the conversation at hand. 

“You’re limping.”

He wasn’t going to dignify that with a response. 

“People, especially Grisha, don’t limp.”

At her continued glare he caved. “It makes people think I’m weaker than I am.”

“You’re the Sun Summoner. No one here is going to mistake you as weak.” As to emphasize the point she waived around the room. Oof, he really did manage to do a number on the room last night. After the Darkling had personally escorted him back in, this time locking the doors (Which made no sense. They both knew he left out a window.) Kaz’s power needed to be released. The room suffered terribly for it. 

Hopefully this wouldn’t give the Darkling anymore ammunition to add to his indenture… shit. 

Well, there was nothing he could do about it now except focus on this new situation at hand. He squared his shoulders and looked the lady in the eye.  “As you said earlier, it’s all about appearances.”

That made her pause and give him her own calculating look.  

Chapter Text

GENYA 

“Fine. Whatever. You’re the one who has to walk on it.”  She didn’t have time to waste on it. But she was going to have to make time in establishing some kind of rapport with him. Her gut had been right, the Darkling saying the Sun Summoner didn’t like to be touched was a trap. Apparently for both of them. The way he reacted to a simple two second hand up, like her hand was made of vipers instead of fingers, had her more than a little concerned.  

“Alright. Are you going to give me a name or do I get to make something up for you.” 

There was a tired sigh and a motion like he was going to rub his eyes with his free hand before he froze it inches from his face. With a slightly green tint to his skin he forced his hand down and grated out, “Brekker. Kaz Brekker.”

“Would you prefer to be called Mr Brekker or Kaz?” Brekker was horrible, but Kaz was actually a cute name. 

“As if I have a choice.” He spat in that broken gravelly voice of his. Seeing him better composed she was starting to wonder if that was his natural voice opposed to her earlier assessment that he’d been crying last night. 

She softened her voice and attitude. “Between us, you do.” She didn’t appreciate choices being taken away from her. She wasn’t going to take this one away from him.  Although, as she did so, she mentally cringed, replaying the Darkling’s earlier request/order in her head: ‘Gain his trust. Get him to open up to you. I’ve managed to separate him from his friends for now. He’s going to be looking for allies and you’re going to be a pretty face who’s there when he needs someone.’  At least with his aversion to touch she wasn’t going to have to worry about unwanted advances.

“Mr Brekker.” Then a broken “please.”

Oh look! Manners! Being gentler got her something! She smiled. It was actually fairly genuine. “Mr Brekker then.  Here's what needs to happen in the next two hours. You bathed. Hair scrubbed and styled. I’m going to do some Tailoring. Then we’re going to put you in new clothes and probably burn that current ensemble you’re wearing. I have a small army of servants outside, I’m willing to put them to work cleaning the room opposed to you if you promise to be quick in the bath.”

“Please don’t.” 

“Don’t what?” She had listed many things. None of which was really negotiable. 

“Burn my suit.” Was that a flush on those sharp pale cheekbones?  “It’s the only thing I have left and I’d rather have it cleaned and returned to me.”

Again she found herself pausing in surprise. “You traveled here from Ketterdam with nothing but the clothes on your back?!”  

“Ivan was in a hurry to make the tides.” 

“That…” she couldn’t finish her thought. Because that was so Ivan! “And he didn’t offer you anything else to change into?!”

There was a long pause. “He did.”  

“Let me guess, it wasn’t fit for a pig to waddle in was it.”

“Not in the slightest.” The venom in which he spoke almost made her giggle. 

“Alright. If you give me those clothes now, I’ll make sure they get sent to laundry and mending instead of the incinerator.”

No, he hadn’t flushed before. But he was now. 

She rolled her eyes at him as he started unbuttoning his top coat. “Not here! The bathroom is through that door. Go, strip in the privacy of the bath, put on a robe then toss out the suit!” She shooed him with her hands towards the bathroom. Once he was inside she shouted “And be quick in there! We don’t have time to waste dilly dallying!”

KAZ

He heard Genya’s laugh through the door as he made a quick tactical retreat through it. Kas was intimately familiar with living nightmares, this one by far just kept getting worse. A quick glance at the bathing tub confirmed it. 

Kaz avoided all things religion just out of sheer spite. But at this particular moment, he contemplated thanking one, or all, of Inej’s bloody Saints. That tub was long enough for Jesper to fit in, and wide enough for the fatest merchant. Genya had left the servants outside. It was perhaps the first bit of luck he’d had in this accursed place. 

Because if a stranger even thought of grappling him and shoving him into that tub when it was filled with water there would only be one outcome. Their death. And dead servants were not the kind of leverage he wanted to hand over to the Darkling. It was bad enough that he’d got caugh sneaking in the Darkling’s own chambers, but then lost control and trashed the stupid fucking room last night as well. 

Kaz grabbed the nearest towel to put over his face so he’d have a barrier in which to press the heels of his hands over his eyes. Leaning against the closed door Kaz just breathed. The Darkling had him off balance. Mindlessly reacting instead of making calculated decisions.  This needed to change. Now. Or he was going to end up trapped in an indenture that he wouldn’t be able to complete or finagle his way out of. It was clear the Darkling was already laying the brickwork for making it permanent. Kaz couldn’t let it happen. 

Kaz thought of all the horrible atrocities he’d committed over the years. It was quite the extensive list. But even he had a line he didn’t cross. He never owned anyone. Sure there were those in debt to him, but he had always made it clear to everyone that they could still make their own choices. And he’d honor them. Inej refused to kill. Fine. He gave zero fucks about that. She didn’t have to kill to be the best spider. Rotty chose the Dregs because Kaz agreed he’d never have to hurt a woman or girl. Old geezer nonsense, but Kaz wasn’t going to judge him less for it. 

People deserved to be able to make their own choices and live by them. 

So how come this had become his punishment for his chosen life of vileness? Indentured to a man intent to use it as the license to slavery it was intended to be. 

Kaz wanted to scream. 

The shouting ended up coming from the other side of the door. Genya pounding on the door under his head to get him moving again. “Your suit’s window for making it to the laundry is rapidly closing!” 

Kaz growled. Quickly he went through every hidden pocket. And with each secreted away item that was removed, a bit more of his armor fell away. His three sets of lock picks, a small curved blade, a file, a Shu multi tool, a lock he enjoyed fiddling with, a tight coil of thin wire, some round ball bearings, a couple straight blades, a mirror, some chalk, Per Haskell’s Dregs ring, his own personal watch, the remaining pouches of Jurda Parem, a few bells, a watch he lifted off a passenger on the skiff, and a different cat pin Fedyor had on him. What was with that guy and gaudy cat jewellery? 

He put his stash of items on a chair while covering himself with the towel just long enough to shove the probably ruined suit out the door. There. They might as well burn it now. 

He ignored Genya’s forced cheerful “Thank you!” and set to work figuring out the bath. The running water would cover him as he hid his things. Thankfully he knew where to stash everything already from having cased the room the night prior. Drawers were pulled out and he wedged items on the underneath sides, a tile next to a drain was loose enough he could used the multi tool to remove it and some of the grout behind it to make a small hidden space, an air vent towards the ceiling was also easy to remove and stash things in. There were picture frames with space behind them where more of his items went. It wasn’t perfect, but it would hopefully keep everything hidden until he could come back later. 

He froze as his attention was returned to the bath. He really wanted to be clean. But there was no way he was submerging himself in water. Not right now with the waters of his panic still pulsing around his ankles. Instead he pulled over a chair next to the tub and sat to start scrubbing beside it. This at least made it a bit more bearable for his mind and leg.  

He normally wouldn’t bother with getting every last speck of dirt, but he knew if he didn’t emerge from this room spotless, Genya would set the servants upon him for a second bath. That would end badly for everyone involved. 

GENYA

Kaz emerged from the washroom just as Genya was about to pound on the door a second time. He scowled at her clearly uncomfortable in nothing but a robe. A robe that was much too big on his lanky frame. She scowled back, this suite was stocked with multiple fits and sizes, surely there was a better fitting robe in there he could have grabbed. 

“Please tell me there is something more I can put on for the tailoring.” 

“Just a moment. I need to see what all needs to be done.” She looked him up and down, frowning. Now that he was clean and out of all those layers of soiled clothes she could really start evaluating the work she’d need to do. Or prioritize in his case. “You didn’t have enough to eat in your pre pubescent and puberty years did you.” For all of the tough attitude and mean sharp edges, there was a frailty there, a thinness to him that indicated malnutrition. In later childhood, not early interestingly enough. Also layers of scars she should remove in addition to the Darkling’s request, see order, to ‘brighten’ him up. 

“What?” He was clearly thrown by her statement. “Why does that matter? Just size whatever you tailor to my person.”

Size Tailoring?  Oh! He wasn’t familiar with that Grisha ability. This wasn’t going to be pleasant, she needed to touch in order to Tailor. 

“Ivan was by.” In any other circumstance, any other person, she would have enjoyed the sour pained expression she got at that statement. She gestured to the bed, freshly tidied and made to look as perfect as a small army of servants could manage in an hour. They did quite a good job with the room, sadly it wasn’t enough to hide the clear destruction Kaz did. Without an army of Durasts, there was no fixing the peeled walls and paints. No fixing of the numerous broken knickknacks and artwork. No restoring the colors to their original vibrant hues. 

“He brought quite the collection of truly atrocious clothing that my eyes may never recover from.”

“Please don’t make me wear any of that. I can meet the King in this bathrobe.”

Chapter Text

GENYA 

Genya couldn’t stop the unbecoming giggles that burst from her lips. Kaz’s delivery was wonderful dry humor and the shocked expressions on all the other servants faces was priceless!  Oh she was going to treasure the mental image of the Kerch Sun Summoner meeting the King and Queen of Ravka in nothing but an oversized bathrobe until her dying day. 

At his flat look she broke out in giggles again. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry!” She apologised.

He managed a look that conveyed how much he didn’t believe her. 

“Alright!” She threw up her hands. “Fine! I’m NOT sorry!” 

Oh that smirk was downright devilish. No wonder the Darkling had tasked her with lighting up his features. He probably didn’t want the competition. 

“Let me fix the atrocities on the bed first, then I’ll Tailor you as requested.”

“I don't recall making any such request.”

“You didn’t. The Darkling however, did.”

And there went the easy banter between them. Thankfully, she was an expert at skirting uncomfortable conversation topics.  “Tailoring items is not really in my area of expertise, but I can manage long enough for an afternoon meeting.” She picked up a long sleeve fitted blouse. The cut was good, but Saints! Whoever thought that chartreuse, orange and hot pink went together needed to be roasted by an Inferni! “Are designers color blind in Ketterdam?”

“If they are, so is everyone else in the Barrel.” Genya approved of his disdain for truly atrocious color combinations. 

“Hn.” She took two fingers and blended some hot pink into the chartreuse. It just made a hot mess so she instead focused on the orange, bleeding it out throughout the garment to make it a solid light yellow orangish color. 

“You’re a Durast?”

“No. Not exactly. Durasts specialise with inorganic materials. I however work best with living tissue: skin, hair, eyes.”  She kept her attention on the garments on the bed. Her goal was to get him to relax. However these clothes were stressing her out instead. Teal, gold and red plaid pants with hints of indigo. If the aim was to wear every color under the sun at the same time, they were succeeding in this Barrel place.  Although how visitors left with their eyes still intact was a mystery. 

As the silence stretched, she side eyed him. Brown eyes so dark they were almost black bore into her. Genya could practically see the gears of his mind putting all the pieces together. 

Visibly uneasy, he asked “what all did the Darkling want done to me exactly?”

She turned to face him. He was braced like a soldier preparing himself to receive a report he wasn’t going to like. It was almost intermediating. Standing tall, shoulders squared, feet set shoulder width apart, both hands braced on top of his cane to hold his weight as he slightly leaned forward on it. The over large bathrobe, sleeves draped over the cane hiding his hands, is what diminished the scariness.  

“A lot actually.”  She thought about trying to console him. Tell him she’d only do what he approved. But, she knew the Darkling was coming soon. And if he didn’t like what he saw, then he would be the one instructing her what to do and then neither of them would have any control over the decisions. So she laid out everything the Darkling had requested. “Remove your scars. Remove the dark circles under your eyes. Lighten your hair and eye colors. Bronze your skin a bit. Fill out your cheekbones some to give you a younger appearance. In short. He wants a youthful Sun Summoner who looks like they’ve been kissed by the sun.”

KAZ

Try as he might, Kaz couldn’t fully suppress the shutter that tore through him. He had worked long and hard in building his current look. A man, not a boy, who was weather hardened and looked meaner than the worst punishment he’d ever had to deal out. 

And now the Darkling was just going to take it all away. 

As if she could read his mind she blurted out, “What I do isn’t permanent.”

That pulled him back from the black pit of despair he’d been constantly hovering over since his last encounter with the Darkling. 

“Well, the scar removal is. But, Unless I actively keep touching up the other modifications, they fade over the course of a few days.”

That, made her sound more like a Healer. He hadn’t even known it was possible for Grisha to cross the different Orders. Was that common? He had considered himself pretty well informed on Grisha back home. But considering how many questions the Little Palace was raising and the fact that he turned out to be a fucking Grisha, Kaz hated to admit that he didn’t know as much as he thought he did on this particular subject. 

Well, the best way to get information was from the people who lived here. “So the cream Kefta’s are for Grisha who don’t fit into a particular Order?” Also, his brain worked better when it was processing more than one thing at a time. The more he had to think about, the larger the mental dam he could build to keep the floods of panic from making their way in. In the foreground, understanding Grisha's abilities better. In the background, how this Tailoring might work to his benefit if people in Ravka didn’t know his true appearance. If the Darkling crossed a line that would make Kaz consider enduring the wrath of the Ghezen Priests who govern Kerch Indenture Laws by, not abandoning his contract per se. But definitely take some out of the box liberties with it that they would certainly frown upon. Also, there was the benefit of possibly luring the Darkling into a false sense of superiority. 

But, he just said something that offended her. Rewinding their conversation, it had been about the color of her Kefta. He looked around the room, eyeing all the servants who were shamelessly eavesdropping. They were also dressed in the same cream colors. Shit. He hadn’t meant to offend her, the first Grisha he came across in this accused place that seemed like they could be a possibile ally. 

“Everyone. Out.” Her self discipline was impressive,  she didn’t react in the typical way an offended person would. She just got straight back to business. The stiffness of her posture was the only giveaway that anything was wrong. And she may be dressed in servants colors, but she still commanded respect. 

As the other servants scurried out of the room, Genya grabbed an armed chair that was part of a vanity and rotated it so it faced the room. “You,” she pointed to him. “sit.” 

Instincts demanded that Kaz bristle and in fact, not sit. But he couldn’t afford to have every Grisha in this place an enemy. Plus his leg was aching from all the travel and stress this place was putting on him. Also, he was intrigued by the revelation that he wasn’t the only servant Grisha here in Ravka’s capital.  

So, he sat. “For what little it’s worth, I wasn’t trying to offend.”

She sighed, most of the tension leaving her body. “I’m aware.” Then she smirked “and technically, you aren’t wrong.”  

He quirked an eyebrow to that. He seldom was. And that was information he could possibly do something with. Grisha who didn’t fit the predetermined moulds got shoved into servitude then? In a country that prided itself on its fair treatment of all people, Grisha or not? Kaz could only come up with one name of who that benefited. 

The biggest question that left Kaz with was: was the Darkling truly as powerful as rumored, or did he only have that claim because he successfully managed to keep everyone else below him?

Genya grabbed a large case and pulled up another chair to sit directly across from him. Kaz gripped the arms of his chair until his knuckles were white as she sat down, her knees almost brushing his. Frowning, she spoke, “this makes you uneasy.”

He wasn’t going to /couldn’t/ respond to that. 

Genya sighed. “Tell me about your touch phobia, specifically how we can work around it. I have to touch in order to Tailor. And I doubt either of us can risk the Darkling’s displeasure when he strolls in and nothing he requested is done.”

Damnit. She wasn’t wrong. But, this was too much. To physically change the way he looked? To endure her hands over his skin? A tide washed over him and he fought to stay conscious. “Do you have gloves?”

GENYA

Gloves? She wasn’t sure what he was going to say. But gloves were definitely not on her list. “No.” She frowned. “And I’m not sure I’d be able to work with them on either.” She leaned back in her chair. Trying to give him the illusion of space even though she wasn’t going to move her legs. Like this, she had him effectively pinned without having to get physically involved. 

“Have you ever talked with anyone about this fear?”

All she got was a head shake in the negative. Not surprising. He looked a few wrong words away from a panic attack. In addition to the fact that young men tended to be more prickly about opening up about any possible weaknesses. She could only imagine how much worse it’d be for a kid growing up on some very unforgiving streets. 

“When did it start?”

“Why does that matter?” She wished she had something that might soothe his throat. His response sounded physically painful. 

“It helps me understand it a bit. If I can understand it I may be able to help you through it. Fear is supposed to be a good thing. Keeps us out of dangerous situations. Keep us alive. But this isn’t healthy.”

She almost missed his snort. “I’m not telling you shit about it.”

“What if we did a trade of secrets?”

Genya made sure to keep the smirk off her face. That got his interest. But would he take the bait? 

“You wear servant colors.” And now it was her turn to cringe even though this had been her idea. Because of course he was going to start there. “Was it by your choice? And the illusion of choice doesn’t count!”

Of course someone from Ketterdam would understand the concept of a choice being merely an illusion. “It was not.”  And wow. It was freeing to be able to admit that out loud! And then because she wanted similar information from him, she continued. “I was five when I was taken from my parents. And eight when the Darkling ’gifted’ me to the Queen.”

It was an interesting duality of body language Mr Brekker gave off after that. His face took on a distant look, as he contemplated her answer, while his adams apple bobbed trying to vocalise a response. Eventually the word nine was grated out. She decided to give him a moment longer and eventually she was rewarded with a full sentence. 

“I was nine, when it happened and could no longer stand human touch.” 

“How have you managed to cope?” 

“Gloves. And lasting physical damage to anyone who tried to touch me.”

And Genya was ever so glad she hadn’t sent the servants in to bathe him. “Are you going to let me touch you? Or am I going to have to put you to sleep to Tailor you?”

“You can put me to sleep.”

Wait. What? “I was kidding!”

“Well, I’m not.” At her continued incredulous staring he continued. “Just, don’t make me look younger than I actually am. And don’t do anything you can’t undo!”

Chapter Text

GENYA

Seventeen. Here Genya thought Brekker was closer to her age, twenty/twenty oneish. But no. He was seventeen. That stupid age where you’re not an adult, but not a child anymore either. Although apparently old enough to die for your country. Seventeen was the drafting age in Ravka. 

Well. At least she was going to be able to fulfill both of their requests. Kaz shouldn’t look much younger than his true age. And the Darkling gets a more youthful Sun Summoner. It was a win-win situation that felt like those who weren’t the Darkling still managed to somehow lose. 

She thought she did a good balance between what the Darkling desired while making as minimal of an impact on Kaz’s natural features. With him asleep she was able to work faster, even though it made her slightly anxious not being able to get real time feedback. She was going to have to remember this trick and use it on the Queen. Or better yet, now that she knew she could utilize this Heartrender ability, she could use it on the King... 

A giddiness burst from her. She had actually managed it! She had never thought about trying to render someone unconscious before now. It was a Heartrender ability and she was something of a cross between Healer and Durast. But, it worked! Her future engagements with the Tsar suddenly felt a lot less impuissance.  

Gently, she touched Kaz’s pulse point on his wrist, sending a burst of her own energy through his veins. Oof, this wasn’t as easy as Heartrender’s made it look.  She stepped back quickly to avoid any potential flailing as Mr Brekker came to. “Welcome back, Sleeping Beauty!” She chirped then buried him under the much more eye friendly Barrel Flash. “You best get changed. I’ve no idea when the Darkling may arrive and it’s always better to have pants on.”

She got a brief flash of a grimace amongst the sleep addled glaring before he sighed and stood up. There was a shuffling of garments, without any care to preserve their fresh pressing she noted, and then he was using his cane to haul himself up out of the chair. Only to have the cane slip out from under him as he caught his reflection in the mirror. “Mr Brekker!” Instincts had her taking a step forward to attempt to catch him before she remembered with his phobia it would cause more harm than good and watched somewhat helplessly as he crashed on the floor. 

She wasn’t sure what to expect, she got a wide range of reactions to her Tailoring. but he looked like he’d seen a ghost. Which was new. “Are you okay?” She blurted before thinking, then changed tacks. “No wait, stupid question. Better question, is there anything I can do?” Silence. She needed to snap him out of whatever headspace he was stuck in. “Or do I get to stand here and look pretty? That’s another special talent of mine.”

“How.  How did…” 

Thank you Zoya. Vanity, it did work well in getting people’s attention to shift. “Lots of chocolate. Some sunflowers. Rendered fat from the kitchens. Bit of actual gold leaf.” 

“I look like…”

“Like?” She prompted when it was clear he wasn’t going to continue on his own.  Although, she didn’t like where this was going. “I managed to make you look like someone you know?” 

He cringed.  “Knew.  My…” and he paused to clean the emotions out of his throat. “brother perhaps. If he’d gotten the chance to live to be near sixteen…”

“Brother?” And she sympathized with his cringe. It was never easy dealing with the death of a sibling, especially if they never made it to adulthood.  “Younger?” She guessed. Saints, incorrectly going by the shake of his head. 

“Older” was the whisper. And that was unexpected.  Kaz was seventeen, and if the brother never made it out of his early teens then that told her how young Kaz had been when he’d lost him. She wondered if his brother’s death was related to his haphephobia. The timing fit. 

“Here.” And she tossed him a pair of gloves she’d managed to acquire while he was out. He looked at her with something almost akin to wonder. At his stunned silence she continued with a nonchalant shrug. “You mentioned they help, although Saints only know why you don’t currently have any if they do.” Oh he didn’t even try to suppress that shutter. 

“The Darkling took them.”

That.  She gave him a shrewd look as she crossed her arms. If this got her into trouble with the Darkling she was never going to do anything nice for him again. “Alright.  I’ll bite. Why.” 

Genya watched as he slipped on the gloves. They weren’t a very good fit, nor fashionable, they were simple white servants gloves they used for checking dust. But fit they did, and the change was immediate. He went from a fragile waif of a boy to a solid self confident man. 

He started gathering himself up off the floor. Scowling at the clothes strewn about as he answered. “The Darkling was getting into my personal space and left his knife wide open.”

Genya thought back to their conversation, about violence being another coping method. She also brought up an image of the Darkling. Leaning against the bedpost she didn’t let up on her glare. “I’ve never seen the Darkling carry a knife.”

That brought a smirk to Mr Brekker’s face. “It’s there. Tucked into his sash. Or well. It was. Although I imagine it’s back, he’s got a literal army of Materialiki. I’m sure it’s been fixed by now.” He glanced her way. At her raised eyebrow he got irate. “Fine! I swiped it from its hidden spot while the Darkling tried to play his mind games on me and then cut it in half with my sun blade to make my point! I needed to send the message for him to stay out of my personal space!”

“So you thought stealing from the General in charge was a good idea?” Saints. She was torn between laughing and being mortified. So she stayed impassive. 

“Not one of my more well thought out plans.”

“You little thief.” And she couldn’t help it. She shook her index finger at him like he had stolen a cookie from the kitchens as opposed to the very real danger of lifting a personal item off one of the most dangerous men in Ravka, if not the world. “That explains why he ordered your suit to have no pockets then.”

“What.” Ha! She managed to get a double take from him as he started checking all of his clothes. “Son of a bitch!”

Okay, that did it. She laughed. “If you can ensure I don’t get on the Darkling’s bad side for having given you those, I’ll let you keep them.” 

And just like that, the gloves vanished. Genya had no idea where he even managed to stash them. He was still only in a bathrobe!  But she was glad this was a skill he seemed to be good at. 

“Also. You never steal from me, and if you manage to swipe anything from the Tsar, I wanna hear about it first.”

Oh, that answering grin promised mayhem . “The deal’s the deal.” Was his cryptic reply. 

The Grand Palace just got a lot more interesting.

THE DARKLING 

The Darkling was happy. There was a genuine bounce in his steps that he wasn’t sure if he ever possessed. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d been this pleased by how well events were unfolding to work in his favor. Chiefly, he had finally found a Sun Summoner. He had theorized one should exist, and his mother in her own cryptic ways said she’d known one in her early youth.  But that was longer than even he could envision, and he’s been around for a long, long time. 

While it was true that this Sun Summoner was by no means perfect, the potential was there. And the boy was turning out to be immense fun to torment. Poke one could say, and he chuckled at his own pun. 

When he reached the Sun Summoner's quarters he didn’t bother knocking. He just silently entered. The room wasn’t the mess he had been expecting. Sergei had reported this morning that there was much screaming and breaking of items after he had escorted the boy back to his room. Genya must have had the servants clean up. The room was conspicuously lacking in ornamental flair and every surface was obviously sun damaged. Which was fascinating, the amount of power that had to be channeled to get such an even and extensive level of damage so quickly.  He would need to keep riling the boy up. It might be more effective than any amplifier he could ever gift him. 

“Why can’t you just turn it all black?” The boy stood glaring into a full length mirror, either at himself or what he was being forced to wear. It was hard to discern from this angle. 

But, most surprisingly, Genya had done it. The Darkling was positive the boy was going to resist and he’d be walking in to see Genya bleeding from some wound the boy caused. Or dead servants scattered throughout the suite. Dirtyhands had quite the reputation.  It’s why he had made sure to schedule several hours as a buffer before the actual meeting with the Tsar’s court.  To personally deal with the boys, abrasiveness.  

Instead he was left re-evaluating Genya’s usefulness. She had somehow managed to tame the feral street urchin. He would need to corner Genya later to learn how she managed to touch the boy and not create a vicious beast or leave the kid a whimpering mess on the floor. 

“Because black is my color.” He grinned at their combined startled responses and was ready for the hate that radiated from the boy’s thankfully no longer black eyes. They were now a nice warm chestnut with hints of gold flecking. A nod to the sun without looking anything like the distinctive Shu irises. 

“I’m your indenture. Ergo, I should wear black.” The Darkling had to hand it to the Sun Summoner, he had guts. There were few that had the gumption to look him in the eye and make their own demands. Normally it pissed him off, but not in this instance. 

Genya really proved herself a master of her craft. Now that he was seeing the boy from the front, The Sun Summoner looked perfect. Rich dark brown hair with the tips bleached blond as if kissed by the sun. Skin warmed as if the boy worked in the sun all day as opposed to whatever dark street business he concocted at night. She had also managed to put some baby fat back into those sharp cheekbones and the smattering of freckles across the nose was a nice addition to the overall younger appearance. 

The only issue was that he’d been looking forward to watching how the boy reacted to her Tailoring touches from a distance. He supposed he could order superfluous changes just to vex the boy and observe the outcome. But, first introductions to the royal family were in a few hours and this more domesticated Sun Summoner was needed for that. 

“Perhaps. Eventually. But for now we need to present to the Tsar the colorful gutter rat we rescued from the crooked streets of Ketterdam.”

“I don't recall needing to be rescued.”

“Of course not, you’re much too young to see it now. You’ll be thanking me when you’re older however.”

“I very much doubt that.”

The Darkling shrugged as he made his way over to the once lavish armchair that sat by the main doors. The boy could keep his delusions. It didn’t change facts. As he settled into the faded plush cushions he steepled his fingers to rest his chin upon them. Not even bothering to hide his blatant head to toe back to head critical observation of the boy. He drank in Genya’s work in crafting this new Sun Summoner for Ravka. He mostly liked what he saw. 

“I can’t wait to see you in a proper Kefta.”  The latest Barrel fashion that Ivan had presented to him was beyond gaudy, and he lived and worked in actual palaces! Gaudy was a staple of life here. This tamed version Genya must have Tailored was at least letting his eyeballs stay in his head and not run away screaming. It was a simple suite. Plain dark cream shirt and plaid pants in various yellow and red ochers. There was a mahogany overcoat but the waistcoat was what completed the Ketterdam Sun Summoner look. It was a bright gold color that really emphasised the sun kissed features Genya did on the boy himself. 

“Will it at least be black?”

“Of course not. You’re a Summoner, it’ll be blue.”

“You’re also a Summoner.”

“I am the General. The Black General. I dress appropriately for my station.”

KAZ

Oh, how Kaz wanted to argue about his station being his servant, not one of the common Grisha soldiers. But his pride wouldn’t allow it. He’d fought so long and so hard to be his own self made man that he couldn’t humble himself to belonging to another human. Let alone this General. His arguments for the color black died on his lips. 

And of course the Darkling saw this victory for what it was and gloated over it. 

“Now. Let's discuss your name.” And Kaz did not like that glint in his grey eyes. “Brekker is not a family name on any continent, and Kaz must be short for something.  So, let’s hear it. What did your parents really name you?”

“Kaz Brekker.” Because there was no way he was ever giving his full birth name to anyone. That boy died with his brother, Jordan Johannus Rietveld. “My mother is Ketterdam and father the harbor. You’re just going to have to deal with it.”

“No. It’s clear you’ve moulded yourself into this Dirtyhands, Kaz Brekker persona. Which may have worked for you on the streets of Ketterdam and aided your rise in power within its gangs.  But you are no longer there. You are here. Living in the lap of luxury, surrounded by the elite of Ravka and soon to be a hero of its people. An actual Living Saint. So don’t give me this Brekker is my real name drivel. Either give me the name your real parents blessed you with upon your birth or I’ll craft a new persona for you that befits your new life here.”

“What did you have in mind.” Because damnit! As much as he hated it, the Darkling was right. Dirtyhands, Kaz Brekker didn’t belong here. And this was the kind of gossip that flowed faster than liquor. A living Saint? Fuck. Everything he did here was going to make its way back to the streets of the Barrel. He couldn’t afford to ruin his life’s work, all the bricks he’d managed to pave in his revenge against Pekka Rollins, just because he turned out to be a fucking Grisha. 

The flash of victory that overtook the Darkling’s face had Kaz itching to smash his cane into it. The Darkling uncrossed his legs to lean forward in that stupid chair to be the dramatic fuck Kaz was discovering him to be as he gave his elegant one word reply.  

“Morningstar.”

Chapter Text

KAZ

“Morningstar.” Kaz reiterated in a flat voice. 

“Yes, Kaz Morningstar.” The Darkling was way too pleased with himself.  Kaz vowed to one day cure him of his self importance. “I had contemplated using Lightbringer.  Kaz Lightbringer, It also has a lovely ring to it. You will be shining the light over the Ravkan people after all. But Morningstar sounds more surnamish and the image of you being the Star in this Dawning new age of Ravka’s future is quite intoxicating don’t you think?”

No. Kaz did not think that. But right now he didn’t give two shits about what name he got/used. As long as it wasn’t his birth name, nor connected to Brekker in any way, it didn’t really matter much.  “Morningstar is fine.” Kaz gritted out. He really wanted to snark back asking what else the Darkling wanted to change while he was at it. But fearful of the answer, Kaz kept his mouth shut. 

Although, what else was left for him to lose? He’d so far lost his job, his crows, his freedom, he now looked like a bizarre impersonation of his dead brother, and his chosen name was now gone. He would need to complete this Fold task fast or else he might forget who he is/was altogether. 

“Excellent!” And the Darkling actually fucking popped up out of the chair like one of the younger Dregs members being promised treats of chocolate and waffles. “Now!” He rubbed his hands together in eager anticipation. “To discuss rules and proper etiquette for engaging with royalty.”

GENYA

Genya had slowly managed to make herself fade into the background furniture on the other side of the room. She initially hung around in order to make any Tailoring changes the Darkling deemed important. But he seemed pleased with her work and was completely focused on, well now she was back to being unsure of what to call the Sun Summoner. Mr Brekker would only get them into trouble now. But she doubted he’d want to be called Mr Morningstar no matter how quickly he just agreed to it. 

Still. The Sun Summoner had the Darkling’s complete and undivided attention. She knew the best thing would be for her to slip out the door now and go attend to the multitude of other things on her plate, but she thrived on gossip. And this was the kind of news that never happened around here and she was in the prime position to be one of the few, if only, eyewitnesses to the drama as it was unfolding. She was going to become one of the most popular people in both palaces! 

Which had her distracted enough that she missed where the Darkling had procured that impressive stack of paperwork he just dropped onto the vanity top. “Your contract has a clause in it that the Master has the rights to make addendums as needed to guarantee Indenture compliance and productivity.”

What? 

“Since you have been Leased to me, my second made sure that I would have the flexibility I needed in order to flesh out the rules once you got here and I had the time to judge your character and skills.” 

Genya’s breath caught in her throat. It was one thing to make assumptions about the Sun Summoner being dragged here against his will. Quite another to hear he was, for all intents and purposes, enslaved to the Darkling. No wonder he hadn’t put up a real fight this morning to the extensive list of demands the Darkling had put upon her! nor fought over the new name! Saints! There weren't words for this.

“Although your behavior in the past 24 hours has given me many causes to create addendums without needing to utilize all of Ivan’s foresight and extra negotiating.”

“Oh well, sorry to have put your second through all that needless extra work.”

Now the Darkling had an opulent but still well made dagger in his hands as he observed the cheeky Sun Summoner. Saints, he sure did know how to make trouble for himself!  He must have realised it the same time she did because a short gruff “Sir” was added. 

The Darkling, for better or for worse, seemed amused and tapped the documents with the pointy end of the blade. If she hadn’t been stunned stupid at what was just revealed before her, she would have rolled her eyes at the Darkling’s pun. She got it, he was making his point. Idly she wondered if that was the same knife the Sun Summoner admitted to stealing. And oh, now that she had flushed his skin with some color, it had room to pale giving away his unease that was still there even though his attitude stayed strong.  

“There will be no sneaking about past curfew. Which for you, we will be enacting one.”

“You know how to make a foreigner feel so welcomed.”

“There will be no stealing.”

“You shan’t catch me stealing without your permission then Sir.”

The Darkling looked as if he wanted to say something more to that, but didn’t. He just carried on.  “No violence. Especially No killing. That may be common in the back streets of Ketterdam, but this is Os Alta and the royal court. If we need to add courses on etiquette, we will.”

“It’ll be a refreshing change to not have to constantly wash blood out of my clothes, Sir.”

Genya couldn’t help the small choked sound that came from her throat. Thankfully the two men were so engrossed with each other they hadn’t noticed. The Sun Summoner was joking… right?

The Darkling narrowed his eyes. “There will be etiquette classes.”

The Sun Summoner frowned at that, but thankfully didn’t quip anything back. He probably sensed the same trap that she did in the Darkling’s tone. There was a significant pause that created a tension Genya was sure she could’ve physically cut if she had a knife.  

Thankfully, the moment ended and the Darkling continued. “Using your sun summoning outside of the training fields will be limited to flashy showmanship displays only. This” he gestured around the room, “and cutting things” here he twirled his knife through his fingers, “with blades of light will no longer be tolerated.”

Huh, the Sun Summoner could look abashed if he wanted. “The room was an accident. I didn’t know, I don’t know” and oh, that looked painful for him to admit. “everything I can do yet. I can guarantee to not cut things, but if I reflexively react uncontrolled I don’t know what this power is going to do precisely.”

The Darkling stepped forward just to the edge of his personal space. Leaning down he looked the Sun Summoner in the eye “Well then, I expect you to try really, really hard and not lose control, at all.” 

Oh that gave her goosebumps, and not the friendly kind either. While the Sun Summoner swallowed. 

“Aye Sir.”

“Also no weapons permitted in the Grand Palace.” And with that the Darkling, well he attempted to swipe the crow headed cane, but white knuckled fingers had too good a grasp on it. However, all it took from the Darkling was a brush of his fingers across the Sun Summoner's knuckles, and he jerked away as if burned. The beautiful cane stayed in the Darkling’s hands. 

“I need that.” The Sun Summoner growled, desire to grab it back warring with his haphephobia instincts.

“I’ve received reports on this cane, it’s not merely for support. You will not be permitted to take it anywhere near people, especially royalty, until you can prove yourself trustworthy.” The Darkling crossed back to the doors and quickly conversed with a Corporalnik in the hall. The Sun Summoner’s eyes quickly found hers and she shrugged helplessly.  There was nothing she could do.

When the Darkling returned he had a much simpler wooden cane in his hands which he offered over. When the Sun Summoner didn’t immediately take it, the Darkling spoke, “If you’d prefer for the leg to be healed I can arrange for that instead.”

“Fine.” Was the raspy response as he tore the new walking stick from the Darkling’s outstretched hand. At least it was perfectly sized. “Anything else.” A beat, then “Sir.”

The Darkling’s answering grin was all teeth. “There’s no need to keep your contract secret, but keep it the business deal that it is.” The Darkling straightened and tidied up the cuffs of his sleeves. “Also, this is high class society, please keep your gang deeds and dealings to yourself. We don’t need fainting aristocrats to deal with.”

Oh, was it terrible of her that Genya did want fainting aristocrats? Specifically her majesty the Tsaritsa. (Queen)

THE APPARAT

The Apparat was busying himself in the library. He was a flutter of nerves, waiting on when that Godless Black General would reveal a Saints be praised Sun Summoner his Grisha had apparently uncovered across the True Sea.  He had never thought he’d get to live to see the day when an actual Living Saint graced them with their presence. Where he’d be the one blessed to herold and lead the Living Saints followers.  It was an honor and a divine task he’d been preparing for his entire life. 

A scuffling drew him from his thoughts. He could have sworn he was the only one here. Very few were privileged enough to enter the library inside the Grand Palace. 

“Who goes there?”

“I’m just researching, don’t mind me.” Came the rough accented reply. Turning the corner the Apparat stopped dead in his tracks. He hadn’t been expecting a boy combing through the shelves. The child had to be lost. 

“Something I can help you find?”  There was a calculating look in those eyes that seemed out of place in a face so young. 

“Actually, yes. I’m looking for information on the Shadow Fold.” A beat and a wince later. “Preferably in Kerch.”

“You’re not Ravkan.” He didn’t appreciate the roll of the youths' eyes. 

“Kerch.”

“What’s a Kerch child doing in the royal libraries?” The boy bristled at the child descriptor. 

“I was hired for a job.”

It was the age wasn’t it. Something about teenage males that made them extra stubborn and obtuse. “What business could a Kerch child have with the Shadow Fold?”

“I’m going to destroy it.”  

That was said with such venom and conviction the Apparat instinctively took a step back. Leaving him stumbling for words.  “You were hired to destroy the fold?! That’s an impossible task!” 

“Well, lucky for you Ravkan’s, I’ve made a living of doing the impossible.”

Chapter Text

DARKLING

The Darkling slowed his steps as he overheard the annoying fool, the Tsar’s personal Apparat, conversing with his Sun Summoner. The Apparat had never been subtle in his beliefs about a living Saint being delivered to Ravka in their hour of need. A Sun Summoner of all things. Which was exactly why he chose this library.  To orchestrate a chance meeting between these two. Knowing how much this religious zealot coveted a Sun Summoner, the Darkling made it a priority to overhear what the fool would do once finally confronted with one. 

“What business could a Kerch child have with the Shadow Fold?” Saints. The Apparat was dense. How the man ever managed to get into the Tsar’s inner circle was a mystery. 

The Apparat was desperate for a living Saint. No matter what the Darkling did, the fool never realized he’d been dealing with a perfect candidate to exalt into Saintdom. The Darkling was unique amongst the Etherealnki. He’d also managed to unite Grisha from all over into an organized army for Ravka. A feat no other ever accomplished before. Yet the Apparat had only laughed in his face the one time he’d mentioned to the Tsar’s spiritual adviser that he should be considered a living saint. 

“I’m going to destroy it.”  Ohhhh, the conviction in his Sun Summoner’s voice was marvellous. He was looking forward to when he moulded that passion to align and carry out his own personal goals. Ravka, no, the world was theirs for the taking. The boy just needed to broaden his ambitions to encompass more than just the backwater streets of Ketterdam. 

“You were hired to destroy the fold?! That’s an impossible task!” 

The Darkling almost snorted. The idiot hadn’t figured it out yet that the boy was the Sun Summoner he’d been waiting his lifetime for. He leaned on a pillar that was next to the bookcase he was eavesdropping behind. He was enjoying listening in as the idiot bumbled his way through this first interaction. 

“Well, lucky for you Ravkan’s, I’ve made a living of doing the impossible.”  

That actually gave the Darkling pause. At the time, he hadn’t thought much of Ivan’s report on Dirtyhands, the boy who did whatever was needed to complete a job. Who often took on extreme jobs not because he needed to, per se, but because they were simply declared impossible. 

Hearing that glint of determination in his Sun Summoner's voice at that statement, the Darkling actually believed this boy would find a way to destroy his creation. 

Even though the Shadow Fold wasn’t perfect, it’s potential as the greatest Grisha weapon ever crafted was there.  The trick would be to convince the boy that it could be perfected and it would better serve the world as the usable weapon it was intended for. Surely the boy had ambitions that a controllable Shadow Fold would solve. 

But, if not then there was always bringing the boy fully to heel so orders were blindly obeyed.  Which would be fun in the short term. Especially now that he knew the spitfire that resided in his Sun Summoner. But long term, and knowing his lifespan and that he expected the same from his Sun Summoner, the Darkling had to think long term. A broken puppet would not be enjoyable by his side once the rest of the world was conquered. 

The Sun Summoner had a bright wit. No point in permanently dimming it if he didn’t need to. 

The boy let a few small sparks dangle off his fingertips and predictably the Apparat’s eyes shone with that religious fever.  ‘Time to mitigate damage control’ the Darkling pepped himself up before stepping out from his shadowed hiding spot. 

“And lucky for you Mr Morningstar, you will have assistance in the Fold’s destruction.” And as much as the Darkling wanted to preen at the twin startled responses, he kept to his air or nonchalant business. “But for now you have a Tsar and his court to impress with your Sun Summoning.  Come, it’s best to not keep his majesty waiting.”

The Apparat didn’t want to make him, the Darkling, a Saint.  Fine. He would show him the error of his ways and taunt the fool by dangling the Sun Summoner in front of him.  His chosen Saint, always just out of the Apparat’s reach by the short leash he, the Darkling, already possessed on the boy.  

The Darkling did let smirk take over his face after he abruptly turned and set a brisk pace out of the library. That bewildered look of shock on the annoying fool's face was worth his time. He couldn’t wait for the knowledge to set in the Apparat’s dense skull that he wasn’t going to get his long awaited Sun Summoner to martyr into his faith. 

It was also satisfying hearing his Sun Summoner labor to keep up with him.

“Did you find what you were looking for?” He asked, already knowing the answer.  While he didn’t actually need an excuse to spend private time with the Sun Summoner, he wanted one just for appearances. After all, he wasn’t supposed to be playing favorites. But he needed the private time with his indenture. They had things they would need to discuss behind closed doors. 

“No.” Was the gruff clipped reply. 

He slowed a bit to better fit the boy's gait. “No?” He beamed brightly at the boy's glare. 

The boy just turned his glare to the hall and it took all the Darkling had to not burst out into laughter. Fine. He didn’t need to admit what the Darkling already knew, the boy couldn’t read Ravkan yet. That was fine. They had nothing but time and besides, the boy wasn’t ready yet to be let in on his future plans. 

Chapter Text

VASILY

Vasily sat and sipped at his drink the servant just brought him. Mother had given him that flat disapproving stare a few moments ago when he downed his third whiskey, or was it his fifth?  It didn’t matter. He needed something to help get him through the dullness that was his father’s afternoon court. He normally skipped these functions, they were nothing more than a show for the common peasants to feel like their king cared about their mundane issues. As if they actually mattered. 

No. What actually mattered was the mare breeding season that was coming up and his stacks of stallion lineages sprawled across his desk. He only had this one chance at pairing the right horses to produce himself the perfect racing colt. 

Scoffing to himself he finished his nearly full drink in one gulp because he couldn’t go punch the real source of his irritation, the Darkling. Of all the times for him to finally find a Sun Summoner, it had to be this week. He couldn’t have waited five more days. At least then his runners would have been dispatched and he’d be able to devote all of his attention to whatever chaos the Second Army managed to conjure up this time. 

If the whole palace hadn’t been abuzz with the prospect of seeing what actual sun powers would look like, he wouldn’t be here. He really didn’t care. One Grisha trick was no different from another.  But he had his image to consider. Plus, following up on a myth that rumors said could destroy that blasted Fold was potentially worth his time. 

Correction, anything that helped him get fresh horse blood to East Ravka was worth his time. Too many breeders wouldn’t risk the crossing.  The cursed Volcra didn’t even go after livestock. Vasily couldn’t understand their reasonings for not bringing their horses over. 

Another servant, or it could have been the same one, came by with a fresh whiskey. Vasily looked up to his mother. She looked back with her blank court stare so she wasn’t truly upset with him. Still, Vasily declined his stronger, more preferred liquor and chose the court appropriate fruity wine. Mother sent him a brief smile. Not that he needed her approval. He quirked his lips back all the same. 

Praise be to the Saints that he didn’t have to actually drink it, because at that moment the Darkling swooped in through the open doors motioning for another to enter the room as well. Saints, Vasily wished he could get away with glaring at the Darkling like the young man who hobbled in after him. 

Wait. Hobbled?

Vasily decided he had to be drunk, because Grisha couldn’t be physically impaired. They were annoyingly perfect in all matters of looks and physical perfection. But the person with a truly horrindence taste in fashion that walked in with the Darkling was clearly using a cane.  “What manner of farce is this?” The words were echoing around the room before Vasily’s brain registered that he spoke. 

“A piss poor one. Your bloody writers need lessons from the Komedie Brute.”

Vasily felt his eyes bulge at this foreigners brash retort.  How Dare he speak to Royalty like that. In moments he was on his feet, about to challenge the young man to a duel, but his father spoke first.

“Darkling.” With one word the Tsar was able to convey an acknowledgment, a permission, and a threat. Vasily sat proudly in his chair. The blood of this power, this man, this king: coursed through his veins. He was a Lantsov.

“Moi Tsar,” good, the Darkling should sound flustered. “I present to you Kaz Morningstar the Sun Summoner.”

At which point the sour-faced cripple held out the hand that wasn’t gripping the plain cane for support and held it palm up. Vasily found himself leaning forward as a pinpoint of light flared above that outstretched palm where it steadily increased in brightness until suddenly Vasily was forced to avert his eyes or go permanently sun blind. 

GENERAL PENSKY 

The General of West Ravka was engaged in a heated debate with the Tsar’s nobel consultants. They were bloody idealistic fools who were actually giddy as school children at the mere promise of a Sun Summoner. As if one could actually exist. And even if they did, they’d Just be another Grisha who no doubt considered themselves above laws and regular people. Too perfect to consort with any but their own kind. 

The Darkling was the worst of the lot. But as the so decided General of the Second Army, General Pensky had the misfortune of dealing with the Grisha more than anyone else. With, perhaps with the exception of the Tsar himself. 

An unnatural stillness made the hairs on the back of his neck come to attention and Pensky turned to the main doors. His battle instincts alerting him to oncoming danger, which here in court meant that the Darkling was about to make a dramatic entrance into the room. Sure enough, within moments the Darkling was striding into the Tsar’s audience chamber as if he owned the place.  Which normally would aggravate the General, but before that default emotion could take root, curiosity took over. The Darkling was shadowed by a boy dressed in, if a bit toned down, but still the garrish garments of the inhabitants of the underside of Ketterdam. But it wasn’t the clothes that piqued the General’s, and everyone else in the court going by the whispers around him, interest. The boy limped to such a degree that he was dependent upon and actually using a cane. 

He couldn’t be a Grisha, thought Pensky, let alone the even more prestigious Sun Summoner. Grisha were Saints blessed, they didn’t possess deformities. Yet the Darkling had no one else accompanying him. 

“What manner of farce is this?” Trust the crown prince to cut straight through the horse shit and get directly to the point. 

“A piss poor one. Your bloody writers need lessons from the Komedie Brute.”  

Pensky nearly spit his drink.  The boy had a mouth that matched his clothing. That was not language he was accustomed to hearing in the Tsar’s circles. 

“Darkling.” And judging by that tone, the Tsar didn’t care much for it. 

“Moi Tsar, I present to you Kaz Morningstar the Sun Summoner.”

The Darkling made a show of stepping aside to give his latest Grisha pet the spotlight. But Pensky caught the tight, threatening squeeze on the shoulder before he moved. Was this dissent amongst the Second Army ranks? Or just with his Sun Summoner? Pensky looked at the foreigner again, this time past the bad leg. What he saw was a youth who was close to, if not of, enlistment age. 17 really was much too young, but sadly out of his control. But that didn’t stop the aristocrats nor the Darkling from throwing them on the front lines. Pensky tried to give the kids tossed into the First Army a year, if not two, before seeing any actual combat. But fighting off two other nations in addition to the natural hazards of the Fold, many good soldiers were lost. Desertion was also becoming an issue. Especially since Prince Nikolai left to go study in Ketterdam. Pensky had liked the younger prince, he was good for the troops. He was what this country needed. But finally several years ago the aristocratic breeding reared its ugly head and he abandoned the people for his own personal social gains. 

General Pensky’s thoughts were halted by the impossibility bright light Mr Morningstar summoned in his outstretched palm. It was inconceivable. It was a miniature sun. It was a miracle. 

A Saints miracle to those pios, or desperate, enough to exalt a living Saint. 

If he, along with everyone else, didn’t have sun spots lingering in their visions, Pensky would have been looking around the room searching for any external science trickery. But no. It was clear it came from within the Kerch boy. His skin, especially his left hand, had a faint afterglow and specks of starlight glittered as he shook his hand in an apparent attempt to completely dispel the light. As painful as it had been, even Pensky had to admit it was beautiful. 

Excited whispers of “Saints be praised” and “Sun Summoner” started building momentum in the large audience hall only to be hushed by the boisterous laughter coming from the Tsar.  

“Ha! That was marvelous! Well done! Thank you so much for coming to aid Ravka!”

“As if it was my choice.” The Sun Summoner bit out in a gravelly mutter. 

“What Mr Morningstar means,” the Darkling quickly cut in, “is that his employer is sympathetic to our great nation’s plight and was delighted to discover they had the means to aid us.”

“And what the Darkling means, is offer my boss enough money and he’d sell his own mother,” and anything else the Sun Summoner would have said was cut off as the Darkling laid a hand on his shoulder. The boy went unnaturally still and Pensky was trained enough to see the weighted lean behind the Darklings benign gesture. 

General Pensky had also spent enough time in Ketterdam to figure out what was going on here. The boy was indentured. The Darkling must have bought him. Add in the knowledge that the Darkling has been trying for years to adopt and install a form of the Kerch indenturtude here in Ravka, and the tension between the two became clear. The Darkling was asserting himself as the boy’s new master. 

Pensky was not okay with this. 

Neither was the Taar, going by the thunderous look crossing his face.  He was also piecing together most, if not all, the unspoken facts as well. “Well Mr Morningstar, the Saints are truly with you.” Now why would that make the Sun Summoner cringe? “Slavery is not permitted within my kingdom, and that does include whatever disgraceful flowery indenture verbage the Kerch use to justify enslaving one human to another. From here on out,” and King Alexander the Third, Ruler of the Double Eagle Throne, stood and spread his arms wide, “you are a citizen of Ravka!  Our laws now protect you and you will be provided whatever needs to set up a new life here in our borders.”

The crowd of the court, all drawn in by their King's magnetic aura, burst into applause at the Tsar’s proclamation. But Pensky’s eyes never left the Sun Summoner, who looked as if he’d just been force fed a dozen sour lemons.  Which was baffling. The boy should be overjoyed to be free to become his own man. Unless he’s spent his whole life enslaved and didn’t understand the concept of making his own choices? 

The Darkling dug a thumb into the back of the Sun Summoner's shoulder and whispered something quick in his ear. The glare the boy shot the Darkling argued against the theory of him being accustomed to others controlling his life. But Pensky supposed it could just be from the Darkling not being Kerch and being forced to obey a foreigner on foreign soil. Which, how this was a thing, especially after the Tsar’s proclamation Pensky was desperate to know. 

There was an array of emotions that passed behind the Sun Summoner's eyes even though his face remained stoic. Eventually the boy unclenched his posture enough to bow his head and utter “Spasibo Tsar Sir” in that rough voice of his. Which, as far as thank you’s went, Pensky had heard worse. Addressed to him, not the King.  Then before the silence could become uncomfortable, the Darkling was talking about the Sun Summoner spending three weeks on the roads and seas getting here and needing to get settled within the Little Palace and rest so that his Grisha knowledge could be assessed this week. Education and training would be implemented as needed depending upon the results and once the Sun Summoner was ready, then meetings could be scheduled to start discussions about the Fold.

The shock on the Sun Summoner’s face was probably the first genuine emotion Pensky witnessed. And the First Army General found himself agreeing with Mr Morningstar about why the wait? Just start with the issue of the Fold and tailor the education to fill whatever gaps there may be to get the damn thing destroyed. 

The Darkling ignored his Sun Summoner and effectively diverted the court’s attention by announcing that whenever the Tsar was ready to hold a formal welcome event for the Sun Summoner, they would always make time for his majesty and social events. 

Which blast the Grisha, he knew how to perfectly distract the nobility and court. Everyone was suddenly abuzz with the prospect of a formal ball and few even noticed when the Darkling exited with the Sun Summoner in tow. 

As much as General Pensky strided to avoid the Second Army drama and internal affairs, he suddenly felt the need to make an exception.  Soon.  Just to ensure Ravka laws were being applied to all, Grisha or not. Irregardless of how long they’ve been in the country. 

Chapter Text

KAZ

Kaz was practically vibrating from anger. All he could see was red. It was as if he was in that scene at the Komedie Brute where Mr Crimson was so enraged that they dropped long flowing red silks all over the stage and audience.  It was sudden, even when you knew it was coming. It was blinding. It was suffocating. It was an accurate depiction of pure, unbridled rage. Kaz got that now. He really wished he didn’t. 

The only thing that kept him moving, that kept him grounded, was the Darkling’s gloved fingers digging painfully into his shoulder. The Darkling was talking, and Kaz knew he should be listening. But he just couldn’t.  The King, Kaz had expected. The pomp and frivolity and naivety. The foreign ruler could detest Kerch traditions all he wanted, he still didn’t have any authority to just dismiss a legitimately signed contract. Kaz didn’t want to be a resident of Ravka. No. That wasn’t what he signed up for. 

Do the job. Get paid. Go home. 

But the Darkling. Other than taking immense pleasure in grating on Kaz’s last nerve, he couldn’t figure the Grisha out. What motivated him? What was his end game? From the start, Kaz was led to believe it was the job. The destruction of the Fold. But every Interaction he’s had with the Darkling in the past five full sets of bells contradicted that.  Or it could be six sets at this point, a full day. It wasn’t like they had a proper time bell ringing every 30 candles here as they did all over Ketterdam.  

Still, the perfect opportunity to start working on the Fold’s destruction was blue-balled by the person who hired him for the damn job! 

The grip left his shoulder and a door clicked behind him.  Suddenly Kaz was left standing inside the gaudy room that through a series of misfortune events was now his.  All Kaz was capable of in this moment was to just stand and breathe. Renewed anger coursed through him because of fucking course the Darkling had made sure the room was restored during his absence.  Every sun bleached surface was back to its vibrant hue. Every broiled inch of hardwood, re-lacquered back to its original mirrored shine. Every broken knick knack and piece of wall art restored to its pre-purchased glory. 

The urge to scream until he was hoarse ( again ) and just let his powers loose ( again ) and destroy everything ( again ) rippled just under his skin. But he kept it in check. He signed that contract. There were rules to follow. At least he now knew what most of them were. He hoped anyway. Fucking Darkling, for not being a Kerch native, he sure knew how to set traps for unsuspecting indentures to keep them under contract. 

Kaz’s eyes went wide. 

The Darkling was doing everything to keep him under contract. Why? What other use for a Sun Summoner would the Darkling have? Or was he just power hungry enough that he wanted to keep every Grisha born under his sway?

After a few moments it became clear that the Darkling was going to leave him alone so Kaz fished out those white gloves Genya managed to procure for him. As the stiff cotton cloth encased his fingertips, muscles up his spine and across his shoulders eased and he could finally breathe normally. 

The Darkling was proving to be more minacious than Pekka Rollins. This wasn’t a complication Kaz needed right now.  Both men managed to destroy his life. But the Darkling somehow managed to push all his buttons, leaving him off kilter and losing every verbal match they’ve managed to engage in so far. 

Rollins was still his personal enemy number one, what he did to Jordie still required retribution.  But Rollins was just like every other Barrel boss. Kaz knew him. Kaz could predict him. Kaz knew the road he had to pave in order to bring Rollins down. Brick by brick he was making it happen. 

Well, before this Grisha fiasco happened he was. 

But the Darkling. Kaz knew nothing about him. Oh he knew he was a powerful Grisha and managed to create a Grisha army for the crown of Ravka. But where was he from? What about a family? What possessions did he covet? What were his retirement dreams?

For the first time in years, Kaz stood alone wrapped in uncertainty and loneliness without any direction or plans for his future.

Kaz didn’t know how long he stood there, long enough for his bad leg to lock up. But that wasn’t a useful gauge, it could have been as little as one bell (30 minutes) or eight bells (four hours). But a knock from the other side of the door brought him back from whatever mental place his brain decided to go. 

“Kaz?” Genya’s voice came through the door. She sounded tentative. “I brought you supper.”

“I sincerely hope you brought alcohol with that. I need to be drunk.”

“And you’re sure about that?”

“I need to blow off some steam and can’t do any of my prefered methods. I can’t plan a heist. I can’t go pick a fight with a rival gang. I can’t go to the floor of the Crow Club to find a cheating rat to toss out into the streets. So yes. I need to get drunk.”

Genya stood clicking her tongue evaluating him. “Fine.” She quickly crossed the room to set a silver covered tray on the vanity.  “Sit and eat that. I’ll go see if I can find us anything better than kvas to drink.”

“Us?”

“What kind of friend would I be if I let you drink alone?”

“We’re not friends.”

“Yet.” She winked at him. “And get that leg propped up! It’s paining me and it’s attached to your person!” She called back before vanishing out the double doors that was the sole conventional entrance/exit. 

Sighing Kaz ran a gloved hand through his hair. He didn’t want any semblance of a friend. However, Genya had free access to both palaces. And as a servant, she’d have access to most all of the information he needed. Having her as a drinking partner tonight could prove to be highly beneficial. 

Chapter Text

JESPER  

Jesper just stood back and enjoyed this moment of pure happiness as Inej ran into her mother’s arms. When her father and uncle mentioned the family was coming to greet her, he hadn’t expected the whole troupe of Suli to show up only two days later! Guess the rumors were true that each Suli tribe were traveling family units. 

Well, Jesper tried to stand back. He hadn’t anticipated how welcoming the Suli would be to an outsider. Guess helping to bring one of their own back from the dead bypassed any social walls they normally kept to. It wasn’t long before he had Suli mothers hugging him without warning and men grasping his hands in both of theirs and squeezing with a force that borderline crushed. 

Which, it was a good thing Kaz wasn’t here for this onslaught of happiness. Jesper would really have hated to see Inej forced to watch as Kaz maimed anyone who attempted to touch him. 

And Jes always just assumed Inej was way short.  But looking down at the tear stains weeping Suli women left on his abdomen, he realized abnormally short was a Suli thing. Not just an Inej thing. Because he certainly was not freakishly tall. He needed every inch of his height to contain every last awesome ounce of his persona. Thank you very much. 

He also learned Inej got her unnatural stealthiness from her Suli heritage as well. Because one minute there was just a mass of people hugging and crying. A semicircle of horses and carriages. The next thing he knew he was in the middle of the biggest party feast he’d ever laid eyes on! 

There were tables laden with such a variety of roasted meats and fancy baked sweets. Bright silks fluttered everywhere. There was even a stage now! With a full band in instant full swing! Like… HOW? The food alone should’ve taken days to make. They’d tried to decorate the Slat like this once. Everyone got so tangled up in trying to get the ribbons up, that after six bells (3 hrs) every went fuck it and most of them just ended up strewn across the floor. 

But hell. Jesper wasn’t going to complain, because PARTY! He snatched a colorful Suli silk scarf and flowered hat and dove right in with Inej’s people celebrating life and one of three of his most favorite peoples in the world. 

Two days later he sat amongst a small pile of exhausted Suli, finishing off the last of the food and drink. At this point it was only crumbs and dregs, but it was all so good even these small bits couldn’t be left to waste. 

Slowly his awareness turned to the conversation between Inej’s uncle and mother. 

“I wonder how soon the Sun Summoner will remove the Fold.”

Jesper pointed at the gaint fucking wall of darkness that was the fold. “That thing is impossible for any one person to remove.”

“Why?” Inquired Inej’s uncle. “All it took was one Grisha to make it.” 

Inej gave him one of her small fond lopsided smiles. “And think about it Jes. Who do we know that has always taken it as a personal affront and time after time proved the impossible, possible. Especially whenever some mercher was stupid enough to brag about it being impossible?”

Jesper shook his finger at Inej, she was starting to encourage this Saint Kaz nonsense. These nice people didn’t need their hopes buoyed by depending on a ruthless Kruge absorbed thief. “There is a world of difference between some Merchers safe and, and That!” He waved again at the giant, light sucking Fold that was right there! It was massive! How the fuck were these people so accepting of its pressance? Jesper had been here for almost five days now, and it still caught him off guard and made him want to piss his pants whenever he saw it. Which was All The Time! Because it was fucking massive! Even Hoede’s shit guards could hit it without aiming. 

“Still, Kaz has an affinity for doing the impossible.”

“That” he swung his arms so wide that he tipped over a stack of clean dishes and almost lost his balance. “That, goes beyond impossible.” Jesper groused. These people had too much faith.  He once had admired Inej’s commitment to her beliefs, but now surrounded by openly weeping and praying Suli, it was too much. “And besides, Kaz doesn’t do anything unless it directly benefits him. Or makes those with power look like incompetent asshats. But even then, he benefits financially.”

He wasn’t prepared for the sad eyes she directed at him. She’d been so happy. “He’s now under indenture.”

Yes. Jesper hadn’t forgotten that. Not really. Okay, maybe it had slipped his mind. But only in this brief instance of good things finally happening to someone he cared about! Besides, why was she bringing that up? It was a shit contract. Most all contracts were impossible to pay off. Kaz had the unfortunate addition of needing to…

Jesper’s thoughts came grinding to a halt. Kaz’s freedom hinged on destroying the fold. When stuck between a rock and a hard place Kaz always managed to weasel his way out and get the job done. 

He’d only known Kaz for a couple years. But still, he’d subconsciously accepted that no matter the odds, Kaz would always manage the impossible. Jesper just stared at the menacing black void that went as far as his eyes could see and whispered. “The bastard is going to do it. Isn’t he.”

Inej gently leaned against his side. “Yes.” She whispered back. “I can’t imagine anyone else succeeding.”

Jesper huffed at her optimism in Kaz. She always did seem to see something different than the rest of them. “Still, he shouldn’t have to do it alone.”

“Well, you’ll be there.” She nodded away from the Fold to the edge of the First and Second Army’s camp. “looks like you’re finally heading to the Little Palace.” And sure enough, there was Zoya, tapping a perfect little foot impatiently waiting on him to notice her. 

“You should be coming too. Kaz needs you as much as he needs me.” If not moreso, Jesper finished mentally looking down at her quiet face. 

Inej glanced solemnly back to where the caravan bustled with the mundane day to day chores of a community that always lived its life on the road. “I don’t see how I could even be a part of the Grisha community at the Little Palace.” She turned and fixed him with a dagger sharp glaze. “Find him and stick close to him. Be my replacement as the shadow guarding his back.”

“I’m better at being the bright and loud distraction by his side, but I’ll do my best.” Jesper winked and placed a soft kiss on the top of her hair before standing and joining Zoya with the rest of the Grisha squadron heading back to the Little Palace. 

Hold on boss. I’m coming. 

Chapter Text

KAZ

“Good morning Sunshine!”

Kaz groaned as the room exploded with light. It was too early and he was too hungover for whatever shit was happening now. “Fuck off” he managed to mumble before rolling over and hiding his face in the pillow.

“No can do. Come on, get up. Drink this. Got to get you ready for your first official day at the Little Palace! Breakfast. Training with Baghra. Grish studies if the hag doesn’t keep you all morning. Lunch. More Grisha studies. Training with Botkin, you’ll probably enjoy that at least, he encourages us to punch each other in the face. Supper. Then I believe it’s Ravkan education. Language, reading, writing, history. You’re going to be so busy you’re going to forget all those potential heists and gang bosses waiting back in Ketterdam.”

Kaz snorted into his pillow. “I highly doubt that.”

“Come on! There are gifts waiting for you!”

“I have no interest in gifts.”

“Who doesn’t like gifts?!”

Kaz wasn’t one to repeat himself. Especially when ignoring people was the preferable option anyway.

“I hope this morning's grumpiness is from the dregs of the alcohol. It would be ironic if our Sun Summoner was not a morning person.”

Kaz cracked open a crusty eye to glare at Genya then at the window she opened. The sun wasn’t even cresting the horizon yet. Just how early was it? And How was she so put together and perky this early in the morning? She drank as much, if not more, than he had last night.

“Because I drank one of those.” And she pointed to a dark thick liquid that she brought in for him and placed on the nightstand next to the bed.

Kaz leveled Genya with his best, I’m-the-fucking-one-in-charge-around-here-so-stop-bullshitting-me glares. Which was intensified by the skull splitting pain, early hour, and annoyance at himself for speaking that thought aloud. How much did he drink if he was turning as loosely lipped as Jesper?

Genya caved instantly, shrugging unapologetically she explained. “I have mostly Corporalnik training. I can’t do much of anything for serious injuries. But I can fix my own hangover. I’d offer to fix yours but figured you’d rather drink the sludge.”

Groaning into his pillow Kaz forced himself into a sitting position. Because yes. Questionable sludge was much preferable to more hands touching his skin. Rough cotton scrubbed away the sleep particles from his eyes and pushed his hair out of his face.

A somber tone was in Genya’s voice as she nearly whispered, “you’ll need to hide those soon, the Darkling is coming to inspect you before integrating you into the Little Palace.”

“Doesn’t he have anything better to do with his time than piss me off?”

“One would think so!” And the quiet somberness was gone. “but as the only Sun Summoner in existence, that the world has been waiting generations for, you get his undivided attention.” She ended by what Kaz assumed would have been a nose tweak if she hadn’t done it from six feet away, then bounced away to do whatever.

Kaz took a tentative sip from the cup. It wasn’t horrible. But it wasn’t good either. However, even that small amount felt like it helped ease the pounding behind his eyes, so he went ahead and drank the rest.

Suddenly Genya was leaning into his field of vision leaning around the bedpost. “Besides, how much did they spend on getting you here?”

“I’m not revealing any numbers to you. I’m trying to get the Darkling to ease off me, not piss him off further.”

“Oh you can tell me! I can keep a secret!”

Right. Sure she could. Kaz had been right about her being a wealth of palace knowledge. But she already knew too much about him. And the woman loved to gossip. No way he was revealing more than he had to to her.

“Like how Vasily can’t sleep at night unless he has his plush horse pillow that’s so old it’s missing an eye and a quarter of its fur?”

Genya rolled her eyes as she started opening clothes boxes at the end of the bed. “Is it really a secret if everyone in the Palace knows about it?”

“It is if no one tells people outside the palace about it.” Kaz said in deadly seriousness.

“Pah!” As was becoming her habit, she waved off his tone. “Well, you're the Sun Summoner, you’re amongst the palace crowd.”

Yeah, sure he was. “And the Queen’s baking? Why would she even want to bake pies and breads when she has pastry chefs?”

“Because she is a woman of the people.” Genya clutched her hands in front of her bosom and flung them back out again in a mockery of a person giving their heart to the world. “She's just like any other woman and bakes treats for her husband and sons!”

“But as soon as she leaves the cook takes whatever the Queen put together immediately out of the oven, trashes it, and replaces it with something they made behind her back.” Kaz leveled Genya with a flat look and spoke in an even flatter tone. “Then they let the Queen believe she made the finished product.”

“Yep. It’s safer for everyone that way.” Genya leaned in close to whisper in a conspiratorial way, even though they were alone in the room. “She always gets the sugar and salt mixed up.”

“Why doesn’t the kitchen staff just switch the salt and sugar containers then?”

Genya laughed a bright musical sound that the pounding behind his left eye didn’t like, then exclaimed, “THEY DID! She STILL used the wrong quantities of each! Here, new clothes, they should be your size.”

Kaz groaned into his gloved hands. The Ravkan royal family was a mess. No wonder the country was dysfunctional. As annoying as the Merchant Council could be, at least they were competent at keeping the country thriving. Ketterdam built itself as a hub for all commerce in the world to congregate at and to this day no other city could even compete.

He was brought out of his musings by clothing hitting him in the face. “Get dressed! I doubt the Kefta will be to your liking, even though it’s gorgeous, but at least the undergarments should be close to your preferred style.”

She wasn’t wrong about that. The cuts were different, poofier than he preferred. but still. Plain white shirt. Plain dark pants. He could tolerate this. “Isn’t there a dress shoe option?” Kaz frowned at the knee length boots.

“Nope. Got to protect those lower legs. Unless you want a floor length Kefta, but trust me, they’re a pain to fight in.” Kaz immediately went on edge at the wicked grin that spread across Genya’s face. “Speaking of which, time for the final piece! Ta Da!” And she spun around a bright blue and gold Kefta.

Not faux gold. actual fucking gold thread. It had that sparkling shine only real gold possessed. Kaz hated it immediately. He did not do sparkles. That was why he kept Jesper around.

Kaz’s heart started racing. No amount of mental logicing was calming it either. Kaz knew he was Grisha now. His breathing picked up in pace. He was a part of Ravka’s Second Army, even if he was here in an unconventional manner. His breathing started to become more and more shallow. But somehow, seeing one of those Kefta’s specifically tailored for him just made it final. At the first feel of cold sweat upon his brow Kaz spun around to brace himself against the wall and forced himself to breath.

Through the haze he could make out Genya’s concerned voice. “Kaz? What do you need?”

“To have my life before Grisha powers back.”

“Okay. What do you need that’s actually within my abilities to do for you?”

Finally a deep breath came to Kaz. Genya’s no nonsense, direct vocalization of what he needed was pulling him from the panic. Forcing his brain into working on solutions as opposed to the problems.

“Can you dull the shine?”

“Dull the shine?” She repeated, confused by what to her was a non sequitur. Kaz waved at the Kefta still in her hands and saw the moment it clicked. “Oh!” She glanced nervously at the door. Finding it closed and them still alone in the room she quickly ran her fingers across the gold embroidery. The brightly polished gold morphed into a duller antique aged gold. It was still prominent against the bright blue cloth, but was significantly more tolerable.

Maybe Kaz should start praying to and thanking the Saints. The Darkling hadn’t seen his little meltdown over sparkly clothes.

But it was like just thinking of the Darkling somehow managed to summon the man.

Chapter Text

KAZ

For the first time since Kaz arrived at the Little Palace, he was prepared and waiting for the Darkling. The door handle moved as Genya was fussing over him in the stupid Kefta and instantly the gloves were off, stashed up the sleeves of this new monstrosity he was forced into. 

Kaz really wanted to hate everything about this Kefta, but the accursed thing was actually quite comfortable. He could do without the gold embroidery. Would prefer it in black. And without the fur.  But the cut felt good and it had great potential for concealing items on his person. He briefly wondered if he’d be able to convince Genya to procure him some extra fabric, needle and thread. Probably not without having to explain what it was for. And there was no way he was telling her it was for concealing lock picks, other tools, and holding whatever items he’d happen to lift. Not when he was supposed to be giving up that habit. 

The Darkling entered, and Kaz couldn’t suppress the smirk as he watched the man look around the room in disappointment. The bastard was probably expecting another destroyed room. Just so he could level that third strike against Kaz’s record so that he’d be justified in rewriting his indenture contract, most likely writing Kaz’s voice out of the renewal process. As if the General actually needed reasons to justify his tweaking of the contract. But Kaz wasn’t about to educate the man. 

Genya did that servant fade to the background skill while the Darkling quickly recovered and strode into the room. Stopping in front of Kaz, just out of cane striking distance. 

“Well, well, well. At last you look like a proper Grisha now! Clothing really does make the man.” The Darkling grinned at him.  Not just any grin, it was one of those grinns people who knew they were attractive had and utilized to get other people to do what they wanted.  

If he was trying to charm Kaz, he was failing badly. Jesper had the same ability, and was far better with it than the Darkling. And Kaz had been ignoring Jesper for years. Kaz just leveled the Darkling with a pinched glare and waited. Eventually the Darkling abandoned his attempts to charm him and just stood there inspecting him. 

The longer the Darkling stood there, hand propped to rest in front of his face, finger tapping his upper lip, the more self conscious Kaz became. Enough so that he risked a glance into the mirror he’d steadfastly been avoiding since Genya’s tailoring of his person. This time Kaz knew which face was going to be there and managed to suppress the icy chill that went down his spine as he took in the sun kissed curls and warmer coloured eyes. It really was like Jordie was standing there in a brightly colored Kefta. The only sign it wasn’t the ghost of his long dead brother was that it was Kaz’s familiar scowl etched into the face. 

Still, Kaz couldn’t figure out what the Darkling was contemplating so he growled, “What?”  The answering grin set off Kaz’s warning bells. 

“Smile.” 

“Pardon?!” 

“You need to smile.” And as if to prove his point, back came that insufferable grin the Darkling seemed to perpetually wear. 

“No.”

The Darkling quirked an eyebrow. 

“Sir.” Kaz gritted out, then added. “I do not smile.”

“You do now. You’re not some crime lord wannabe lurking in the dank streets of Ketterdam anymore. You are the Sun Summoner, hero of Ravka.” The Darkling clapped his hands and the doors flung open to admit clean cut servants in gray wheeling a tray laden with multiple silver covered dishes and carrying a small round table with a pair of plush dining chairs. The last servant snapped a perfect white tablecloth and within moments a classy table for two was laid and waiting. The Darkling had ignored the activity, keeping his focus on Kaz. Once they left, and regrettably Genya went with them, he went right back to the conversation.

“The people need to be eased and find warmth in the comfort of your presence. A good smile is essential to this new you. So,” and the Darkling rubbed his gloved hands together in excited anticipation, smiling even further. “Let’s see it.”

Kaz stared at the Darkling in abject horror. “You cannot be serious.”

The Darkling sighed the sigh of rich nobles forced to deal with obtuse peasants, even rolling his eyes up to the ceiling, before fixing Kaz with cold hard glare that promised he will do as he’s told or suffer the consequences. “You’ve not had breakfast yet. Let’s eat and see if this morning's grumpiness goes away.”

Oh if Kaz could kill with a glare his life would be so much easier. And as immune as Kaz was to the Darkling’s flirting, so too was the Darkling to Kaz’s scowling. Which was irritating when Kaz was the person being ignored. 

The sweet smell of rich earthy coffee brought Kaz back to the breakfast laid out and the rumble in his guts convinced him that this argument will go better with food in his system. He’d been offered food several times since arriving. Until now, he’d just been too upset to eat. Even now he doubted he’d be able to eat much, but this was the first scent of coffee he’d had since leaving Ketterdam and Kaz desperately missed the beverage. Hopefully, if he could just ignore the Darkling hard enough, the man would stay quiet for him to enjoy a cup. 

He was three sips in before the Darkling ruined it.

“See, This is where you should be smiling a soft happy smile of bliss and contentment.”

Kaz opened his eyes to see the Darkling waving a pickled piece of fish at him before dropping it onto a buttered slice of what Kaz assumed was a dark rye bread then taking a hearty bite. It was disgusting, surely this was not what Ravkan’s ate for breakfast on a daily basis. It had to be some form of torture the Darkling seemed to bask in.

“Your followers would be swooning at your feet.”

“That is not what I signed up for.”

“No?”

“No Sir.” Kaz repeated with more determination, the natural gravel in his voice giving his words an extra layer of steadfast conviction. “I’m here to…”

“It’s moi soverenyi.”

Kaz fought to keep his anger in check. But between the hangover and the Darkling’s irritating personality, it was a losing battle. “What?” He grated out through clenched teeth. Because had anyone other than Per Haskell cut him off like that, they wouldn’t have been able to speak for a week.

“We do not use sir here in Ravka for those who have earned a higher respect. My appropriate title you should be using instead is moi soverenyi.”

Kaz gripped the table before he ended up breaking the delicate cup in his hands.  After the third deep breath he was finally able to start again. “Moi Soverenyi, I’m here to destroy the Fold. That’s it. Ravka wants that blight gone and through some poor cosmic joke, I happen to have the power to do that. So, I will. But that’s it. I will go home after the job is completed.”

Kaz hated many things, but the Darkling’s nonchalant attitude at his declaration really made him want to destroy the smug man’s entire empire.  

“We shall see about that.”

The destruction of Pekka Rollins and his criminal organization was going to have to wait. 

Chapter Text

Sharing some more art for this fic. Because Kaz, is ~finally~ in a proper Kefta! I had to sketch it. 

My apologies to those of you expecting the next written chapter 😅 but it is 2/3’s written. I just took this evening to mostly finish this sketch 🤷🏼

Thank you all! I’ll be back soon with written story! 🥰

Chapter Text

DARKLING 

The Darkling sat munching on his traditional Ravkan breakfast. It was one thing that hadn’t changed over the course of his life and for the first time in a long time, he felt genuinely happy. Because across from him, after all this time, sat his Sun Summoner. Which thanks to the inborn Kerch indentured faith system, he had a complaint Sun Summoner beholden to him in ways he never dreamed possible. This breakfast was the perfect marriage of his old and future lives.  Things really were progressing perfectly. 

Sure, his Sun Summoner was volatile, but that made this interesting. Compliant yet angry was an intoxicating combination. Plus, the Darkling felt confident that he’d be able to overcome any surprises the boy may come up with.  There really wasn’t much he hadn’t seen or been through already. Also the boy had incredible self control, considering his age. The Darkling has been pushing his Sun Summoners buttons, testing his limits since he’d arrived. Many of which brought about surprising and spectacular results. If nothing else, it’s been entertaining.  Which is why he kept pushing. And it’s been a long time (400 years give n take a couple decades) since anything new (the concept of the Fold) had managed to catch his interest and bring excitement into his long and tedious life.  The Darkling was looking forward to the day when the Sun Summoner realized the unlimited power they would be able to wield together and that this was his home now. 

As they finished up their breakfast, during which his Sun Summoner's scowl only managed to deepen, He found himself now genuinely curious as to what the boy would look like with a smile lighting up his face. Genya really had surpassed his expectations, the Sun Summoner was gorgeous in that innocent, country farm boy kind of way. Well, he would be at any rate if he would just learn to smile. 

~⚫️~⬛️~▪️〰▪️~⬛️~⚫️~

The Darkling kept the walk from the Sun Summoner's quarters to Baghra’s hut brief and quiet. No meandering. No conversations to ruffle the boy’s feathers further. Baghra was not one to be kept waiting, and breakfast had taken longer than he’d anticipated. He had opened the door down to her hut, shoved the Sun Summoner in and locked the door shut behind him. Let the Sun Summoner deal with her temper. 

Knowing how stubborn they both were, the Darkling was fairly certain little to no actual training would happen today. Which was fine by him. With luck they’d be at each other’s throats for the full year. He needed the time. He had a contract that needed to expire so he could negotiate for a more permanent agreement. Although, as long as they kept the complete destruction of the Shadow Fold as the primary release qualifier, he had nothing to worry about. 

By the time the Darkling had made it back to his office, Genya was already there waiting for him. Excellent. He was interested in her report on his Sun Summoner.

“Moi soverenyi.” Genya bowed and the Darkling mentality congratulated himself again on finding and molding her into this perfect creation she’d become. Every inch of her, he sculpted. Her personality he honed. Her skills he specialized. And best of all, she was loyal only to him. 

The Darkling sat himself at his desk and nodded back. “Miss Safin.” He acknowledged, signaling his permission for her to begin. 

She gracefully sat across from him then started. “I don't have as much to report as I’d like. The Sun Summoner is very guarded about sharing anything about himself. If I hadn’t been witness to his various breakdowns I wouldn’t know as much as I do.  

“As I’m sure you’re already aware of, the haphephobia is severe.  Just the prospect of having to touch another person’s skin can, and has, set off reactions. Most he seems to control by just completely shutting down and keeping his distance. Although he’s admitted that he’s accustomed to using violence to keep people away.  He seems to manage it by wearing gloves. I don’t know yet what the cause behind it is. All I’ve managed to gleem is that it presented when he was nine.  My educated guess is something traumatic happened to him and his brother at that age. I do know for a fact he had an older brother who didn’t live long enough to reach young adulthood. He’s spoken of no other family to me, nor has he asked to write to anyone. 

“Last night I chose to drink with him in hopes of learning more.” At his raised eyebrow she shrugged. “Liquor loosens most peoples tongues. I asked him why he hasn’t asked to write anyone from back home. If nothing else, to let them know he arrived safely. He said there was no one that would care.

“You had mentioned that he traveled most of the way here with two others. So I asked about writing them. His response was, ‘they’re better off without me.’” Genya’s face took on a brief frown of displeasure. 

The Darkling also frowned at that. Because Ivan’s reports made it clear the Suli girl meant something to the Sun Summoner. And he had started plans yesterday to have the Ravkan bureaucracy drop the enlistment age to 16. At least for the Suli. As a trial of course. They were always complaining about not having enough troops. He wanted the girl under his control as a fail safe to keep his Sun Summoner in line. It would be a win-win for all of them.  

The noble class weren’t ready to send their 16 year old children off to fight yet, but they would be willing to sacrifice the Suli’s children.  If Ravka wasn’t engaged in constant warfare from two different fronts, there would be much more focus on driving the undesirable Suli from Ravka permanently. 

But, there was a more pressing question that’s been at the forefront of his mind the past 24 hours.  And he took this break in her report to ask, “with the Sun Summoner so averse to touch, how did you manage to Tailor him?”

Genya cringed, and if he hadn’t been so confident of her loyalty, he might have taken it as a warning sign.  

“I umm, knocked him out.” At the Darkling’s stunned expression she hurried on. “He gave me his permission to do so!  He really hates you, there was a lot of cursing you out last night. But whatever you want, he’ll acquiesce to.” Genya bowed her head and he grinned a sharp smile that was all teeth. The Sun Summoner might be half wild and feral but the confirmation that his will was obeyed even when he wasn’t present just made his day. Even if his desires would cause his Sun Summoner great discomfort. But still, “how?” To his knowledge, she didn’t possess the Heartrender ability of slowing another’s heart enough to knock a person out. 

An embarrassed flush filled her cheeks before she straightened her posture and announced, “we used a rag with chloroform.” 

The Darkling couldn’t help it. He burst out laughing. It was such a simple solution, he loved it. It also settled the nagging concerns at the back of his mind about Genya possibly becoming too powerful. He wasn’t sure what he’d do if she started developing internal Corporalnik abilities in addition to her external control.  

Genya was unique in being able to dabble in two different Grisha studies. He couldn’t afford her to suddenly out power himself. Which was why he sent her to the main Palace at eight, dividing her focus so she couldn’t fully complete her studies. It also had the added benefit of ostracizing her from the rest of the Little Palace. But it seemed as if the seed of worry that grew when she mentioned knocking out the Sun Summoner was for naught. He continued on with his questioning. 

“If the Sun Summoner truly has no one back in Ketterdam, then why is he so anxious to return?”  Because if the boy would be willing to stay, create a new life here, join his Grisha ranks of his own volition, he’d nullify the contract. A piece of paper didn’t mean that much to him. But as long as it meant something to his Sun Summoner, that’s all that mattered. 

“It doesn’t make any sense to me either. When I could even get him to talk about his old home it was all street fights and stealing for survival. It doesn’t sound like a place anyone would choose if they had any other option available. But apparently there’s a gang boss there named Pekka Rollins? All the Sun Summoner said before clamming up was ‘I have to do to Pekka Rollins what he had done to me.’” The Darkling itched to know more, but by the downturn of Genya’s mouth, he knew she also craved to know the full story. So he let it go. Because when Genya wanted to know something, she always managed to find it out. And what Genya knew, he knew. 

“So, during this drunken sharing of information last night.” The Darkling purred and Genya flushed. They both knew this was unprofessional and unorthodox. But, as long as she kept his secrets, which in all honesty he rarely told her anything about himself. He was willing to let last night’s drunken escapade slide. “What did you tell the Sun Summoner about me?”

“Only what is commonly known. You’re native to Ravka and created the Second Army 42 years ago. You’ve been our General since the beginning.”

Good. He thanked her for her report and her loyalty and dismissed her to continue with her daily duties. 

~⚫️~⬛️~▪️〰▪️~⬛️~⚫️~

At the war council meeting later that morning, the Darkling proposed dropping the Suli enlistment age. It passed with only one dissenting vote. And they agreed that all the new 16 year old Suli recruits would report here, at Os Alta. In a few days he’d make sure to send Ivan to hand pick him a certain new Suli otkazat’sya for his personal guard. 

Chapter Text

KAZ

Kaz let out a string of curses under his breath as he stumbled down the first few steps of this black pit that was supposed to be a Grisha training spot. The Darkling had just shoved him in and when Kaz spun around to give him a piece of his mind the coward was gone. The old worn door was slammed in his face and the soft click of a lock sliding into place was all that was there.  Kaz was getting very irritated by that man thinking a simple lock on the outside of a door would actually keep him anywhere. “Mother fucking pig whore of a bastard pidgeon.” Kaz shouted, hoping the asshole still heard him, consequences be damned. 

“I hope you don’t kiss your mother with that mouth.” A craggy old voice of a woman floated up out of the darkness of the pit. 

Scowling Kaz lit up his left hand and peered down the steps that lead to what he presumed to be this Baghra’s Grisha training space. Just what his aching leg didn’t need right now, uneven earthen steps. Interestingly enough, there was a railing. Not that it did a cripple holding a cane in one hand and a light in the other any good. But still, railings were typically more for decorative flair than practicality. Yet this one seemed put here solely for function. Interesting.

A cackle echoed up as he tried increasing the brightness to see the end of this hellish descent. Regrettably there was enough of a curve in this staircase that he couldn’t make out the bottom. 

“HA! So the Sun Summoner does actually summon the sun! There may be hope for you yet boy.” And the distinct sound of a cane being driven into the ground caught his attention. So he wasn’t the only Grisha to be physically impaired? That actually explained the lack of insistence on fixing his leg. 

“That is if you ever get your ass down here and stop lurking at the top of my stairs.” The impatience gave the unknown woman at the bottom of the stairs an extra layer of roughness. Kaz resisted the urge to toss his little sun ball and let it explode down into the darkness to silence the irritating and completely unnecessary commentary. 

At least the urge gave him the inspiration he needed to better navigate the treacherous steps. Centering his frazzled center of calm, he focused on the small ball of sun and forced it away from his hand. It was a strange sensation. It was like hot stringy taffy. Or rubbery bubble gum. The sun ball was stubbornly attached to his palm. But this Grisha power was just another puzzle or lock, and Kaz has yet to find one of those he couldn’t beat. So he focused that invisible tackiness into itself and forced it to float higher over his head. Freeing up his left hand for the banister while his right gripped the inadequate wooden cane. He needed to figure out how to go back to his other vices, soon. Because alcohol was a terrible solution to destressing. 

The light miraculously bobbed along with him as he slowly descended the wide and shallow packed earth steps. It was a strangely comforting presence as he reached the bottom and took in the fairly spacious, yet somehow still cramped space at the bottom. There was one quarter-ish of the round sub ground hut that was open, but the rest was clearly lived in by a hoarder. Kaz couldn’t even begin to name all the various kitchen gizmos strewn everywhere intermixed with sewing apparatus and other things. There was a massive roaring fireplace that was producing heat so intense Kaz’s clothes were already drenched beneath his Kefta which was no longer comforting, just merely an extra layer of fabric that absorbed and held the heat close to his person. 

And amongst all the junk stood a wrinkled old woman leaning on a gnarled piece of wood who somehow managed to look even older than her voice indicated. The tone of her craggy voice mirrored his own anger. Her posture and face radiated irritation at having her space being intruded upon. The only give away that she was actually impressed underneath all that disdain was the arch of her eyebrows. They had shot up once she spied the mini star following him like an overgrown firefly.  Kaz wasn’t physically controlling it. But, it was still clearly under his control. And he could read from those eyebrows that she was intrigued and curious despite the sour poker face. 

However, Kaz was still fighting the hangover, pissed at the Darkling and so physically uncomfortable in this stifling heat that he didn’t even celebrate internationally at having this small edge over her.  He just returned her glare right back at her waiting for this supposed Grisha lesson. 

“Well boy. Let’s hear it.” She began without any attempt of civility. “Get it out of your system now. I won’t deal with it after today.”

That caught Kaz off guard enough that he broke his glare and blinked at the old woman. Because, what? “Deal with what?”

“Your tragic childhood.”

Kaz stood speechless. Who did this old crone think she was? What games was she trying to play? How close was she to the Darkling? Because that asshole sure as shit had been trying to learn about his touch phobia and she starts off with this? And apparently he’d taken too long to respond because the old crone just marched up into his personal space and continued harassing him. 

“Every young person comes in here sobbing and moaning about how they can’t do nothing I demand because life has treated them unfairly. Or something happened to em. Or the cruelty of life makes them unable. And bla bla bla. So spit it out now and let’s get past it so we can focus on work.”

Furious Kaz drew himself up to his full height. He may have only been slightly taller than average, but that gave him almost a head of height over her and he knew how to exude the aura of command. “I’m not sobbing. Nor am I telling you shit. Life is full of horrible truths and I’ve survived it all by becoming more horrible than it. So if you’re not going to teach me then I’ll do what I always do and figure it out as I go.”

Kaz turned to leave but ended up stumbling as the old crone tripped up his good leg.  He hadn’t been expecting a physical attack and the burst of white hot anger that surged from the contact caused him to lose focus on his light.  As it winked out of existence, so did the last shreds of his patience.  Seriously. Fuck this place. Let the Fold have Ravka, they deserved it. Kaz whirled on her but before he could bring his weak cane down on her a scythe of darkness cut what was left of the ambient light and shaved a good two inches off the end. 

Shocked, Kaz retreated a step back to reevaluate the old woman before him. She was a Shadow Summoner! Kaz was under the impression that the Darkling was the only Shadow Summoner in existence. Not for the first time, Kaz was lamenting the loss of his spider. He needed information. He was never going to figure a way out of this contract operating blind and continuously in the dark. Considering his opponent, that statement was literal in addition to figurative.

“You’re different boy.”  She had finally dropped the scowl to fix him with an appraising look before grunting and spitting on the floor. “Figures. I should’ve realized all the Grisha with proper sense would know better than to come here of their own volition. Only the weak flock together after all.” She paused her rant to fix Kaz with a downright wicked grin and despite the heat, he felt his blood run cold. She raised her cane to point at him and Kaz prepared for another attack, but she just cackled gleefully. “The Darkling needs to enslave more against their will. I think I've just found a rough diamond amongst all this miserable clay.  Right then. Show me what you can do, Sun Summoner.”

For once, Kaz hesitated. His adrenaline was still pumping from their unfinished altercation, was it really over as fast as it started? He didn’t trust this place. He didn’t trust this old woman. And uncharacteristically, he didn’t trust himself. More specifically, his powers. Kaz found himself nervously glancing around the room cataloging each breakable item. The earthen walls should be able to take whatever sun damage he’d produce. But he shouldn’t give the Darkling anymore contracting power than he already had.

“I’m waiting boy.”

Kaz fixed her with a glare. “I’m trying to calculate how much power I can use without damaging anything here.”

“Don’t worry your pretty little head about my junk.” And she just randomly swatted a hanging metal something or other with her cane. Carelessly denting it as she sent it flying. “I doubt that you’ll be able to produce any lasting damage with your little lights anyway.”

Kaz feels his powers ripple at her insulting tone.  His skin has been itching all morning. She wants to see what he can do. Fine. This is training, the Darkling already stated this should be the only time for him to use his abilities. Time to show this old crone what he could do. 

Kaz took a deep breath and closed his eyes.

Chapter Text

BAGHRA 

Oh, this boy was prickly! She liked him.  Of course, she’ll take that admission to her grave. But now she understood the Darkling’s fascination yet frustration with the boy. It was the attitude. The teenage I'm an adult now and know everything mixed with the I’m also bigger and badder than anyone else in the room. Part of that was the age. Every 16, 17 whatever, year olds brains were wired that way. Her son in particular, who maddeningly had yet to grow out of that mindset. 

But a lot of that attitude could also be attributed to childhood trauma. Even without the briefing from the Darkling about the boy’s haphephobia developing around age nine, it was clear from the Sun Summoner’s face and demeanor that he’d seen the worst of humanity and came out victorious.  And oh, how the Darkling wanted to know. It was curious. This boy was the first Grisha Baghra could recall that the Darkling was interested in their pre Little Palace life. He actually had the audacity to demand her to get the boy's story during this lesson. That wasn’t what her lessons were for and the Darkling had plenty of other boot licking lackeys who would surely be better at it than herself. 

Well. She had asked the Sun Summoner anyway. Baghra was actually glad she had, the boys answer was pure entertainment. More terrible than it indeed.  In a few years, perhaps a decade, this boy might have what it takes to pull the Darkling off his high horse. 

Baghra hoped she’d live long enough to see it. 

Baghra snapped out of her lack of focus as she felt the energies shift in the air as the Sun Summoner started glowing. Survival instincts had her weaving her shadows around her head to protect her sight as the boy’s skin glowed as bright as the sun. Only to continue increasing her shadows into a wall before her as solar flares began arching off the boy. 

Baghra couldn’t help herself. She started cackling in delight. The power he was wielding was incredible!  It was power she hadn’t felt in decades. Especially without an amplifier, unless the boy himself was one? It was something to look into.  However, she’d yet to meet a living amplifier who could boost their own power. Normally they could only boost others via touch. Unless the boy had managed to kill a living amplifier and kept a token from the body? 

An arc brushed against her shadow shield and sparks flew as the opposing forces caused an explosive reaction. Baghra whooped and danced with joy. HA! There’d be time to delve into how the boy got this much power later. For now she lived in the moment. Lived to experience the force of a new Grisha manifestation. Oh this was so much better than standing on a mountain top dancing in thundersnow. She hadn’t felt this alive in the past century. 

But Baghra hadn’t lived this long by being careless. She felt the instant the boy stopped summoning and pulled his power around him. She was dropping to the floor and covering herself in her own power right as the Sun Summoner threw his arms wide and unleashed all that energy in her tiny hut. She couldn’t see anything, the light was too intense, even through tightly shut eyes all she could see was gold. Even through her shadows she could feel the heat blistering everything above her and heard the earth rattle as it struggled to absorb the blast. She’d never felt so alive. 

Slowly the sunspots faded and she could see the darkness behind her eyelids. Baghra continued to just lay there, listening to the Sun Summoner recover as well. He took a shaky breath while he no doubt took in the destruction he’d caused. It was obvious when he spotted her prone form.  His breath caught in his throat, only to suddenly rush out in a raspy muttering “Damnit, I don’t have the resources to deal with a dead body here.”

Ha! This boy was funny! Baghra lay wheezing on the dirt floor, her lungs fighting to figure out how to laugh. It’d been so long since she’d found anything funny enough to giggle over. She rolled over and sat up to fix the boy with her patented mischievous crooked grin. It always managed to unnerve all her students, and what’s the point in teaching if you can’t traumatise the brats. Baghra didn’t think she’d actually scare the Sun Summoner, but he did steady his defensive stance. Which was just the smart thing to do! The boy really had a good head on his shoulders. 

“And again!” She demanded. 

The way the Sun Summoner’s eyes bulged was worth it. “You’re crazy. This place can’t withstand another,” and here the boy flailed around trying to find the right words to describe the massive amount of damage before just settling on “whatever I did!”

Chuckling, Baghra took in the damage more carefully.  It was more than just a standard few foot wide Cut the Darkling had perfected. This cut the boy did was almost a complete circle. Supports and every item was sliced clean through at waist height, and the walls were cut into by several inches. But it was more damage than those clean cuts. What items survived the cut ended up warped and blistered from the intense heat. It was a wonder that her hovel hadn’t collapsed yet. 

Needless to say, She loved it. 

Turning her gaze back on the Sun Summoner she made her own educated guess on what damage he’d be able to pull off after having used so much of himself in this intense pulse of energy. Her place would survive it. 

“Ha! As if you can do that much damage a second time!”

Oh young people and their egos were the best. Correction, crushing their egos was the best. Baghra’s grin was all teeth as the Sun Summoner stopped looking at her like she was insane and just leveled her with angry determination. 

As she predicted, the Sun Summoner's second release of power only did a quarter of the damage the first blast produced. And the boy endeared himself to her as he realized that was insufficient and immediately did another attempt without her prompting him. 

Baghra was impressed that the third attack was just as powerful as the second.  It should have been a quarter or half weaker still from the previous attempt, not equal. But the boy didn’t know this and was clearly ready to put himself into an early grave living up to a standard even she wouldn’t expect from a first lesson.  She wacked his hands with her cane before he could attempt a fourth try. 

She’d only known him for a few minutes, but the fact that the boy didn’t retaliate at her attack spoke volumes about his level of exhaustion. 

“I don’t understand what’s going on.” He muttered as he tried to summon one of his little sun lights over a palm. It flickered unsteadily from over exerting his Grisha skill. 

“Congratulations, you’re still human.” She told the boy as she stood up and dusted herself off.  As his attention snapped to her she continued. “Our abilities aren’t infinite. Just like you eventually have to stop running because your muscles cramp up. Or you fall asleep because your brain can’t keep thinking. So too with Grisha abilities, the body gives out when you push them too far. But. Just like a muscle or mental skill, you can build up your Grisha stamina.  Grisha abilities are just like any other skill. They take time and practice to develop. And depending on the Grisha’s commitment, they either merely get good at it or become a master of their craft. Too many cheat and rely upon amplifiers.”

“What are those?”

Now it was her turn to be caught off guard. “How do you not know about amplifiers?”

“I only just learned that I am Grisha two weeks ago. In Ketterdam Grisha are just pricey indentures, using their abilities for the whims of the merchants or bosses who can afford them. Increasing their skills or power wouldn’t do them a lick of good.” He stopped his ranting to apparently chew on a new train of thought. It was polite of him to think his thoughts aloud so she’d be able to know what was going on in that thick head of his. “Inej said the Grisha tester was an amplifier. She was able to hone in on my latent ability and pull it forth. So Grisha who lack the strength or are too lazy or impatient to do the work just find another Grisha who’s able to pull forth extra power from them? How does that even work? Do they just walk hand in hand everywhere? That seems too impractical to be useful.”

Impractical indeed. Baghra picked up on his revulsion to the idea of just holding hands. And she let it slide. Instead opting to pick her way through what was left of her collection. On the other side of the room, back by the fireplace were a few stools that were still weight bearing. She pulled them out and waited while the Sun Summoner got the hint to come over and sit down. Then she proceeded to educate him on what most Grisha knew of living human amplifiers, he’d pretty much just figured them out. And nature’s animal amplifiers. She was pleased to see a flash of disgust contort his features before his face resumed its natural resting scowl as she talked of the hunt and kill then embedding the animals power bone into the skin of the Grisha who made the kill. Good. She despised students who felt that all the answers to their success depended upon finding just the right amplifier. 

There was more, of course there was more. But the Sun Summoner wasn’t ready for that yet. But if he continued to prove himself as smart as he acted, she’d be telling him soon. And it’d be the key to dismantling the Shadow Fold. 

Chapter Text

GENYA

Genya tried not to fidget outside of Baghra’s hut as she waited for the Sun Summoner to finish his first Grisha lesson. She really did. But it was already an hour past the scheduled end and she had, she wouldn’t call servicing the queen better, but there were many other things she needed to do with the limited number of hours available in her day. However, Genya was not going to go down there. Nope. She had a pretty good grasp on both their characters and she wasn’t about to deal with a dead body, or Saints forbid two.  The gossip mill was already producing whispers of strange tremors emitting from Baghra’s hut. She really didn’t want to discover what may have caused them. 

Alright, that was a lie. She loved being in the know and at the center of palace dramas and having the answers to what the palace was currently gossiping about. But as badly as she wanted to know, there was still some information that was more trouble than it was worth. Such as being the one to discover Baghra had just killed the most important Grisha to have graced Ravka’s borders in the past century.  There wasn’t any proof that the old hag had yet to kill a belligerent student, but no one here would find it surprising if she had. However, there was no way Genya was going to be the one to inform the Darkling that his crazy instructor had killed his precious Sun Summoner. 

But as dreadful as that news may be, it actually could possibly be worse if instead the Sun Summoner had killed Baghra.  There was something between The Darkling and Baghra that no one dared to voice out loud. Something that was far safer not knowing.  So everyone let Baghra’s abusive behaviors slide. Because if you didn’t, then the Darkling subtly made your life a living hell. So there was no way she would ever be the one to inform the Darkling that his Sun Summoner somehow managed to kill his prized instructor. Genya would rather flee to Fjerda!  

Although no other Grisha wouldn’t mourn the old woman’s death. It would probably become an unofficial holiday amongst the Grisha of Ravka.

At least she hoped one of them had killed the other. Because may the Saints look out for the safety of Ravka if by some miracle those two happened to get along with each other.

Genya had just made up her mind to go check in at the Palace real quick, only to quickly rush back as the door to Baghra’s finally flew open. And there before her eyes was not just the Sun Summoner, but the old hag herself. Genya stood speechless as she stared open mouthed at the sight of Baghra standing in direct sunlight. It was joked that she’d spontaneously combust if sunlight ever touched her skin. But there she was, out of her hole and leaning on the Sun Summoner in the open doorway. 

No wait. As Genya came to the realization that the hag was supporting Kaz, she suddenly found her arms full of weakly protesting Sun Summoner.  While she frantically readjusted to support the Sun Summoner with as little touching as possible, Baghra barked orders. “Get this boy to some food!  What’s wrong with the Darkling, doesn’t he know that he needs to feed his guests!” 

“I ate this morning, you old goat.” Kaz tried for scathing, however exhaustion had drained his characteristic venom. He was also trying to support himself with a cane that was now clearly too short for him. Which only further piqued Genya’s curiosity. First lessons with Baghra were always memorable. It seemed the Sun Summoner was no exception to Baghra’s ruthless teaching methods. Although, no other student had ever received a personal escort to the door. 

“Clearly not enough, Sun Summoner. Eat more, perhaps then you’ll get further in your lessons before your body gives out on you.” And with that final proclamation Baghra slammed the door shut in their faces.  Genya took a moment to gauge how much physical support the Sun Summoner actually needed as he blinked and adjusted to being back out in the daylight. The answer was too much. Even for someone without touch aversion. 

Genya sighed, and quietly wondered how this had become her life. She shifted so she wouldn’t drop Kaz and started fishing through her pockets for the meal bars made of nuts, honey, grains and dried fruits the kitchen would make for the busy staff who couldn’t always sit for a meal. Since she discovered them, it had become her practice to stuff her pockets with them whenever she could. “Here, eat.” 

It actually took a moment for the haze to clear from Kaz’s eyes to recognize that the lump of mass in her hand was food. But once she took a bite and then handed it back, he was quick to snatch it and devour it. Which was enough fuel for his body to stop its tremors and allow him to stand by his own power. 

And oh look, woops, the quick meal bars had stuck to the spare dust inspection gloves she kept on her person. Such a shame that she wasn’t about to get her hands all sticky disentangling the mess before handing the desperately needed food to the Sun Summoner because Baghra was a sadistic git. Damn Baghra and her horrible teaching method of pushing the student until they break.  It was a minor miracle that the Darkling had enough Grisha to even form a Second Army. 

“I’m not sure I want to know what happened.” A tired eye roll indicated how little Kaz believed that statement. Fine. So She thrived on good gossip. She still had a sense of propriety however. “Fine. Keep to your silent and mysterious ways. Let’s go get you a real meal.” Then she watched as the Sun Summoner went to put his weight on the cane only to nearly faceplant as it was clearly too short for him. “How is” Genya paused, she knew how much he had fought for his crow headed cane and didn’t want to call this plain wooden one his. “How is it that that cane is now several inches too short for you?”

She really ought to have expected the indignant silence. But then a thrill went through her at the prospect of having a reason to seek out David sooner rather than later today. “Alright. Let's get it fixed then get you to the dining hall for a proper meal.”

Chapter Text

KAZ

Kaz knew hunger. He’d experienced it in many forms throughout his life. From the simple growing pains when he was young on the farm, those were merely fleeting moments thanks to his mother’s ability to make the best meals out of the simplest ingredients. To the starvation he experienced on the streets of Ketterdam back when Jordie lost everything they had, which the plague had only made worse. He also knew the sudden onslaught of hunger that came after remembering food was a thing when he was suddenly pulled out of a full day, if not days worth of working/scheming without any breaks. Inej finally gave in to his work habits and kept refilling a jar of nuts smartly tucked under his desk within easy reach. 

Inej…

But still, Kaz had made it a point to train his body that food wasn’t something that could be relied upon. Something that it should just get used to not having, therefore not bother him with pains or weakness. That his mind needed to stay sharp.

But this hunger was unlike any he had felt before. It wasn’t the familiar clawing in his guts. His whole body was screaming agony everywhere from his toenails to each hair on his scalp. His prized brain that he meticulously trained to keep functioning no matter what was happening to the rest of his body was sluggish. Oddly enough, the sun seemed to be helping. But only it was only as much help as a shot of fresh water would give to a dehydrated man stranded on a dinghy in the middle of the ocean. 

Genya however was turning into an invaluable ally. Not only did she have food on her person, but she once again managed to slip him a pair of gloves. Yes they were sticky. But he could work with sticky. He’d dealt with worse back on the streets of the Barrel.

“You’re not hearing a word of what I’m saying are you.” Kaz stumbled to a halt. When had he started moving? Where in the grounds was he? Kaz mentality once again cursed this Grishaness. Or maybe not so mentally going by the bemused look Genya was giving him. Not that he cared, but some of Jesper’s quirks were suddenly becoming understandable. 

“I was saying, your first lesson going longer than scheduled actually works in your favor. Baghra kept you late enough that most everyone is at lunch already, which will be more crowded than usual because everyone is anxious to meet you. Including even the fabricators in all likelihood. So their labs will probably be empty, except for a select few. I’m sure David will still be there working. It’s one of the things that makes him the best Durast we have. We’ll get that,” here she paused, which Kaz barely noticed due to the buzzing inside his head at the mention of every Grisha in this accursed place crowding him to watch him eat.  Even worse, trying to be friends with him. “Stick fixed and then by the time we get to the dining hall most of the leeches will be pulled away by their duties/classes.” 

Yes. Genya was a true ally. She’d only met him a day and a half ago and already understood and better yet, respected his needs. What was the Darkling thinking!? Putting him in with the rest of the Grisha. He wasn’t some lost outcast looking for a home. He didn’t mingle with his own people back at the Slat, he sure as shit had no intentions to mingle here.  

Oh right. The man is just determined to make his life as miserable as possible. That was alright. Kaz already had ideas on how to deal with him. It was a shame he was under a time constraint, there wasn’t time to take the Darkling apart brick by brick. But that just meant he could resort to quick n dirty methods. He just needed more information. And a team. 

~☀️~☀️~☀️~☀️~

The Fabricator’s had their own separate building away from the Little Palace. If every joint in his body wasn’t rebelling against him, Kaz would have had to admit it would have been a pleasant walk. At least his mind was clear enough that he was able to puzzle out various possibilities. Why were the Materialki kept so far from the Little Palace? Was it some sort of power play? Keep their most powerful Grisha so far removed from the rest so that they didn’t rise up to cause a ruckus? 

And while his brain was working again, his brain to mouth filter was still impaired because Genya suddenly snickered and answered, “It’s just because they tend to frequently destroy their spaces. Even more spectacularly than what you managed.”

Kaz felt his face flush at both, speaking his musings out loud and the reminder of how he’d lost control of himself that first night. Which just made Genya laugh harder. His life was much simpler and more easily managed when he could just beat those that offended him. Or better yet, apply the best leverage there was, blackmail. But for that he needed time. And he wasn’t sure he had the time to learn how this place operated. It had taken him years to manoeuvre himself into the right position to be effective in the Barrel. 

As Genya predicted, the building seemed deserted as she led him through the long straight hallways. After the lavishness he’d been subjected to, the plainness was refreshing. Though it was still nicer than most anything found in Ketterdam. Kaz almost ran into Genya when she suddenly stopped to dust herself off, straighten her outfit and play with her hair. And then just as suddenly she was marching through a door like she owned the place. 

It was a large room with rows of workbenches buried under scraps and parts and projects Kaz couldn’t make heads or tails of. The place was silent except for slight tinkering noises coming from a larger workbench back by the windows which Genya had already made it to that particular desk by the time Kaz had finished his quick survey. 

“Hello David.” Genya spoke in a gentle yet mischievous voice as she leaned over the desk. 

A much less dignified squawk answered her as a messy head of brown hair emerged from the clutter to blink owlishly at the sudden appearance of other humans.  “Mm…Miss Sa…Safon.” He fidgeted with the glasses that had slipped down his nose then turned to Kaz. “M…Mr…” and his stuttering trailed off as he realized he didn’t know him. But his eyes went wide as he took in the bright blue and gold monstrosity he was forced to wear. This David character didn’t know who Kaz was but the Kefta told him what he was. After gaping like a fish out of water he finally whispered “Sun Summoner.” 

“Right,” Genya went and laced her arm with David’s and pulled him out from behind the desk. “David, this is Mr Kaz Morningstar. Kaz, this is Mr David Kostyk.”

“It… It’s an honor to mm.. meet you.” And David acted as if he was going to move forward to shake his hand. Genya may have had a good hold on his arm, but the glare Kaz sent him is what really made David stop in his tracks. 

“Right. Just fix this.” Kaz demanded and tossed the worthless piece of wood over to the Durast.  Genya caught it, giving him her own glare, but Kaz didn’t care. He turned his focus to finding a chair and something that he’d be able to prop his bad leg up on.  

Genya quickly distracted David by talking shop and asking about the projects he was working on. Kaz had a feeling that Genya was interested in spending as much time here as she could. Which if it meant that there would be less people in this communal dining hall he was expected to make an appearance at, then Kaz was quite content to let her waste all the time she wanted. Meanwhile, there was a desk full of fabricator made items just laying out in the open for him to inspect. (See help himself too.) There were some tools ideal for lock picking and he idly wondered if they were fabricated to constantly stay sharp and never break.  Thanks to the accursed Darkling, he wasn’t able to take much. Although the lack of pockets wasn’t really the hindrance everyone here seemed to think it was. 

Kaz kept an ear on the conversation next to him. But it was mostly discussions about metals and alloys and melting points. Which, while interesting, was not what he cared about at this moment. He was more interested in seeing what other items might be useful to collect. But he was exhausted and in pain and actually still hungry. 

He had just found a stash of candies in yet another unlocked drawer when the Durast decided to build up the courage to speak to him again. “Mr. Mm…Morningstar,” and Kaz sincerely hoped he didn’t physically cringe at the new surname. “M..My apologies for not ha..having your new cane r… ready for you yet.” And he handed Kaz back the crap wood stick, once again sized correctly to his person. 

And Kaz knew he should really be trying to curb his Barrell habits, but he still dropped his voice to growl out “My what?” 

“Y… your new cane? Tha…That you requested?”

And Kaz could feel Dirtyhands coming out even further. “I think you mean that the Darkling requested on my behalf.”

“Ah… w..well, it was I..Ivan who brought the order to me… b..but he could have said something about the Darkling mentioning you needing a more appropriate w..walking aid.” Here David curled in on himself to make himself as small as possible then squeaked out a timid, “y..yes?” Then at Kaz’s continued glower of tell-me-everything-now-if-you-value-your-life, David was quick to rush on. “B..But I’ll have your new cane with all the requested adjustments ready by Friday for your coming out fete!  It’s actually quite the engineering challenge! I’ve been up all night trying to figure out how to make it work. What materials to blend to achieve the desired results. To make a cane that supports weight when pressed down on for walking use, but that will absorb damage when swung. I…I’m not sure why you wouldn’t want to be able to defend yourself w… with it…. B.. but…”

Kaz held up a hand to stop the stuttering.  “Oh I know why.” Because the Darkling was a massive dick went unsaid. 

“Oh…” and David looked lost.

“David, why don’t you show Kaz your sketches?” Genya stepped between the two and gave Kaz a pointed look, “that way everyone will be happy with the finished product.”

“R…Right! Here!”

Chapter Text

FEDYOR  

The Sun Summoner was going to be the death of him. The kid had already effectively murdered any hope he’d ever have at free time again. Quiet enjoyable meals were forever lost. Fedyor had no idea why they were throwing the boy directly into the intense social atmosphere that was the Little Palace. They knew the boy was volatile. They had to know every Grisha was going to want to latch onto the kid, especially the Summoners. Bunch of clingy, needy, boot lickers that they were.  With his hapliphobia and knock out, ask questions maybe habits, the boy was going to end up murdering someone before the day was over. Fedyor was sure of it. Even if by some miracle everyone lived through today, every meal the Sun Summoner was at, Fedyor was going to be on pins and needles waiting for that one wrong bump and disaster. 

Not to mention living with Ivan was becoming stressful. The Sun Summoner always managed to rile Ivan up. Like now. Ivan was livid. The boy was supposed to be at the dining hall over an hour ago. Knowing of the Sun Summoner's history, that ment Ivan and himself were now the boy’s full time guardians. Although somehow Genya had also managed to become a part of the Sun Summoner handler group. Which was baffling, but at least Fedyor had an idea of where to look first for the missing Sun Summoner. 

“What Fete?” He heard said missing Sun Summoner growl through clenched teeth if Fedyor was recalling that tone of voice correctly.  

“Your Fete. You knew a proper, formal event was going to be held for you. The royals must introduce you to the people and let them celebrate your arrival to Ravka.” And yep. Just as expected, give Genya any free time and any semblance of a reason and she’d be lurking around the Materialki labs. Her crush on the Durast David was embarrassing. But at least it made his search for the Sun Summoner easy. At least, for today. He paused beside the corner of the building. They were heading in his direction, he might as well wait for them. See if he could learn anything.

“I just went before the Tsar and court yesterday!”

Fedyor watched Genya’s shadow wave a dismissive hand towards the other shadow that was lagging behind.  “That was just an afternoon assembly. An informal affair.” She stopped abruptly and pointed at Kaz, “Now an official grand party must be held.”  

“Sounds like a pointless waste of time. I’m not going.”

“Now now. You cannot deprive the nobility of their only reason for living! They must find reasons to gather for parties because what else are they to do with themselves?” 

“Work.”

She laughed, a bright happy sound. Fedyor was shocked by the sound. She always came off as so no nonsense and business only that he’d never even imagined she could laugh. “That IS their definition of work! There’s pretty much some sort of fete at the Grand Palace every few weeks. But if there isn’t a party there then one of the local nobles will be holding some sort of event.” The Sun Summoner stopped just inside Fedyor’s field of vision and even though he knew the Darkling had plans for Genya to Tailor him, he somehow didn’t think he’d look so different. If it hadn’t been for the angry expression and limp, he’d have thought this was a different person. The kid actually had enough color in his cheeks that he paled at Genya’s response. Which, if he wasn’t so well acquainted with the boy, he would have found it adorable on anyone else. 

“Don’t worry, most Grisha aren’t invited to them. But as the Sun Summoner, you’ll be the exception.” And she winked at the Sun Summoner. Fedyor also wasn’t aware that Genya enjoyed taunting death.  Yet here he was getting ready to save her life from poking a murderous Sun Summoner.

“Absolutely Not.” He growled and Fedyor could see how he managed to rise up so quickly at such a young age to lead a bunch of young gang members. 

She sighed, giving up on toying with him. “Sadly, you may not get that choice.” One did not need to be a Heartrender to feel the Sun Summoner's blood rushing anger.  Genya held up her hands placatingly. “But you’ll only need to be there in person for the brief beginning. There will be a doppelganger made for you. You’ll show up at the beginning, dazzle them with some fancy lights, then you’ll be snuck out and someone tailored and dressed in your Kefta will finish the party for you.” 

There was a long beat of silence, “That actually works?”

She shrugged, “In theory. Of course, it’d help your double out if you could curb the murderess aura.”  Fedyor somehow managed to suppress his snort. 

“Or they can just learn that I don’t give two shits about Ravka’s upper class and petty social engagements. Hell, Ravka in general! And leave me the fuck alone.”

“Yeah, That’s not going to happen.” and they both jumped at Fedyor’s, to them, sudden appearance. Not his fault they were so engrossed with their conversation they didn’t see him standing right next to them. “Seriously kid. Is it your sole mission in this life to piss off everyone you meet?”

“He hasn’t managed to piss me off yet.”

Fedyor just blinked at Genya. “How?” He pointed at her. “You are lying. And you,” Fedyor ignored her snickers and pointed to the boy who almost looked like he wanted to be amused, “are not where you’re supposed to be. Ivan is in a fit.”  

“Well he can take his complaints to Baghra. The Hag kept him late and broke Kaz’s cane. I wasn’t about to make him finish his day without it so I asked David to fix it.”

“I have a hard time believing that it took David several hours to fix a simple wooden cane.”

“That’s because it didn’t.” And she looked offended on the Durast’s behalf.  “It was only a matter of minutes.”

“Uh huh. Wasn’t his session with Baghra scheduled at 7:30 am?”

“It was.”

Fedyor felt his eyes wanting to bulge. “You mean to tell me she kept him for five hours?!”

“That she did.” 

Fedyor kept looking between the two of them. Waiting for one of them to crack. Because it just wasn’t possible. He’d never known the Hag to let anyone stay past their allotted hour. Normally she just anticipated the first failure and kicked Grisha out as soon as she could. 

They just stood there staring back at him, heart rates unchanging. Well. Damn. 

“Are we going to eat soon or not.”

Fedyor raised an eyebrow at the boy. He traveled with the kid for weeks. It was never the Sun Summoner who requested food and he never actually saw him eat. But sure enough, thanks to him having tuned into their bodies, he could feel the kid’s stomach trying to rumble. Right. Time to go. “Follow me, Sun Summoner.” Fedyor bowed to indicate the boy should join him. Interestingly enough, the kid looked first to Genya. At her motion for him to join Fedyor the kid sighed the sigh of the long suffering, which a kid age shouldn’t be able to pull off, and they were off. 

On the way to the dining hall, Fedyor couldn’t help himself. He asked the Sun Summoner, “So… What did you manage to steal from her?”

Chapter Text

KAZ

“Fine, keep silent. I’ll find out what you took eventually.”  The grown man actually pouted.

No you won’t, Kaz thought to himself.  He just focused on putting one foot in front of the other and tried to ignore the annoying Heartrender as well as every joint in his body screaming at him to stop and eat. Needless to say, Kaz didn’t have the energy to deal with Fedyor. And even less desire to admit that for once, he actually hadn’t taken anything. Reputations were everything after all. That is, if the Heartrender was referring to Baghra or Genya as the ‘she’ in his question. Now, if it had been a she who worked at that Fabricatior desk, well.  Whatever. Kaz had no doubt it’d be easy for them to replace everything he helped himself to. 

Eventually the Heartrender led him back to the hallways that they had first come through. Even though it was, what, only two evenings ago, it felt like weeks since it happened. Where that bastard Ivan had told the Darkling his most closely kept secret.

The Heartrender Fedyor sighed. “If I were to remind you to not steal from the unsuspecting masses, would that make you more or less inclined to rob them blind?”

“More. So let’s remove all temptations and have me eat in my room.”

“Ha! Nice try. But apparently you’re to mingle with your peers.” Kaz must have let his emotions show on his face again because the annoying twat continued on. “Oh come on! Don’t be like that. Here’s your chance to make new friends!”

“Yes, suitable friends.” And they both jumped as Ivan interjected with his unwanted opinion. 

“I don't need friends.” Kaz growled. And he didn’t damnit. 

“Uh huh. Sure.” Fedyor said. “What about Inej and Jesper?”

Kaz ignored the pain in his heart. “They weren’t friends, merely business associates.” And this conversation was over. He could smell the food coming from behind the door and he was too hungry to deal with whatever power trip his Heartrender guards wanted to pull on him. So he shoved his way past them and entered the dining hall. 

Leaving Ivan sputtering and Fedyor muttering, “I doubt they think that.”

HARSHAW

Harshaw was bored. He’d finished eating forever ago, but he kept some food on his plate to poke at for appearances. He didn’t like hanging out in the dining hall. Too many people ignoring him. Too loud against his ears, made it hard to listen. Nothing to set aflame. But Oncat said he had to stay today. So he stayed. The Sun Summoner was going to need him. Him!  Part of a real specialized team.  Part of a real gang! It wasn’t going to have many Grisha. Well, eventually.  But still, it will hopefully be better than Grisha only teams. Gisha only teams had to play by the rules. Rules were constricting. Harshaw needed to be free. Fire needed to be free.

But for now he dealt with the loudness. Although. It wasn’t loud at this moment. In fact everyone was looking towards the door. Some were quietly whispering. Oh! Harshaw turned and Yes! It was the Sun Summoner. Although, he didn’t look right.  He was supposed to be like the dark birds. He also looked a few moments from passing out. Harshaw was sure that if Oncat was here, she’d say his energy looked completely drained. 

Oh great. Ivan was here too. And of course he was telling the Sun Summoner what to do. Ivan told everyone what to do. It wasn’t nice. Don’t engage with the Sun Summoner. Of course not! No one is to touch the Sun Summoner. Oncat knows. Do people listen to Oncat? No. Do they listen to Ivan? Yes. It just wasn’t fair. 

Harshaw turned back to his plate. 

Oh! Now Ivan was telling the Sun Summoner to sit with his own kind. As if his kind were here at all. But that had all his fellow Summoners perking up and inviting the Sun Summoner to sit with them. Or pulling out chairs for him. Patting spots next to them. As sad as it was, Harshaw was starting to feel nervous. He was by himself. Like way by himself. Because others didn’t like sitting next to him. But he needed the Sun Summoner to sit next to him so he could join the Birdy Gang. But people didn’t sit next to him when there were other spots. And right now, there were lots of spots. Harshaw just sat, like he had been doing, picking at the few remains of food on his plate. He had to trust Oncat, she knew everything. And today might just not be the day. Or it might be dinner instead of lunch. Oncat just knew things, not times. 

The room went quiet again as the chair one over from him moved and someone actually sat in it. Harshaw sneaked a peek and it was him! The Sun Summoner! Today was going to be the day! This was going to be the meal! But can’t acknowledge him. Harshaw had to keep to himself. Let the Sun Summoner eat. Let the Sun Summoner speak first. A person does not engage with the birdy leader. The bird boss has to engage with you. 

It didn’t take long for a serving boy to appear with the special covered tray.  Of course the Sun Summoner was getting a special meal. Only the best for the leader. And, oh.  They really are announcing how important the Sun Summoner is. Which, honestly, is ridiculous. Everyone Knows. Even Harshaw knew before Oncat told him!  This special silver covered tray and fancy taste tester was just obtuse. Not to mention, was going to piss off the Sun Summoner. 

And oh look! The Sun Summoner nearly took off the taste tester’s hand with a fork. Ha! Harshaw called it! Oh how he wished he could help that poor little servant by burning those soiled pants for him. But for now. Time to let the boss eat and wait for him to acknowledge him. 

It didn’t take long before the plate was empty. But Harshaw could tell that the Sun Summoner was still hungry. So he slid over a basket of rolls. He had a large stash of cheese in his pocket for Oncat and he wondered if she’d be terribly upset if he gave her cheese to the Sun Summoner. 

He ended up pulling out half of it and scooting over a chair to place the dairy peace offering on the Sun Summoner’s plate. To which he was rewarded by the Sun Bird Boss speaking to him!

“What do you think you are doing?”

“I’m joining your bird club.” Harshaw whispered conspiratorially.  

Choking on something Harshaw couldn’t see, the Sun Summoner exclaimed too loudly. “My what?!”

Harshaw frowned, did he get it wrong? “You’re birdie clan? Oncat said you’ll need more loyal black birds to help complete your task. And that you’re worth befriending. I never argue with Oncat.” He leaned in to whisper, “She has claws.”

Wrong toned honey colored brown eyes stared at him in bewilderment. “Black birds… you mean Crows?” He said the last word with a high level of incredulousness. 

“Yes!  Mean but smart black birds. You’re their leader. You get things done. You also say who’s in and who’s out. I really want to be in. Oncat says you're going to need me. Although, I understand you’re waiting on your two missing wings.” Oh no, the Sun Summoner’s eyes had been calculating, but now they were lost. It was Harshaw. Words were hard. They just didn’t convey what he thought they did.  “Wings. People! A murder?” Harshaw shook his head. Sometimes the words didn’t make sense to him either. “They’re on their way. Once they return you’ll be able to complete business. With your new crows. Like me.” Harshaw beamed. 

Which is when Eskil, the big Fjerdian, joined them. “Is Harshaw bothering you Sun Summoner?”

There was a long pause as the Sun Summoner studied Harshaw and calculated. Again, wrong gloves on clever, nimble fingers were tapping an unknown code on the table top. They stilled as he admitted, “No.” 

Harshaw beamed. He. Was. IN! 

And the Sun Summoner hadn’t touched the cheese. If he didn’t eat it, then Harshaw could still give it all to Oncat! Which was when Ivan came over blabbing about schedules and lateness and hauled the Sun Summoner away. 

Oncat was going to be so pleased. 

Chapter Text

KAZ

Kaz sat staring at the lanky bright haired Kaelish man who had just put lint covered cheese onto his plate. Because What?  Yes, he’d eaten worse in his life. Yes, he somehow still felt hungry even though he ate more at this meal than he typically did in a day.  But the worst of the hunger had been curbed by this point. Enough so that he wasn’t immediately devouring the offered cheese. Because just who was this guy who actually respected personal space in a land where everyone else seemed determined to violate his?

But addressing the guy was the key to unlocking the man’s brain to mouth lock because after that first question, he wouldn’t shut up.  Thanks to Jesper, Kaz was used to individuals word vomiting all over the place. But this man said things he should have no knowledge of. Leading a ‘Birdie Club’?! The Darkling wasn’t exactly hiding the fact that he’d been in a gang. But he had thought he was keeping it on the down low. Only for those in positions of authority. Certainly not divulging information on which gang nor that he was second in command. Plus, no one had ever referred to the Dregs as a Birdie Gang. Per Haskell would have had a stroke. That would be entertaining to watch the old geezer’s reaction actually, Kaz logged that away to use on the old man when he returned. 

Also, very few, only those who lived in the Barrel and weren’t a member of any of the gangs in fact, refered to him and his seconds as The Murder. And weirder yet, the guy didn’t seem to even know what he was talking about!  But he was right. This Oncat was right. So who was this Oncat character that they were somehow privy to his secrets?  Knowing everything about him and more it seemed like. And how did they manage to relay it to this guy while no one else received the notice? 

What more did they know?  

Everyone else here so far have been instant on Kaz joining their Grisha. Or automatically assuming he was a full member of their ranks now and that his life before this simply ceased to exist. While vexing, may end up to work in Kaz’s favor.  So what was up with this guy whispering about joining his gang?  His gang was currently broken up. Although, this guy seemed certain Inej and Jesper would be returning to his side. Which, how?  Okay, Jesper was Grisha, and on his way here in theory.  But it was clear by this rooms set up that the Grisha of the three different orders did not intermingle. Were actively encouraged to keep themselves segregated in fact. Kaz was also certain the Darkling would be doing everything in his power to keep Jesper away from him. He wouldn’t be surprised if Jesper met an unfortunate fate at the hands of Drüskelle who seemed to be everywhere in this country. 

And while Kaz would be quite content if everyone here would stay away from him. He was going to need a team, allies, to help him destroy the Fold. He prided himself on being able to make the impossible, possible. But he only managed that by collecting the unique. Crows liked to collect shiny things. Kaz collected people with special skills that were useful to him.  

They were usually always the outcasts, those declared unfit for normal society for whatever reason. and they were always among the best. Which this guy, who’s fiery red hair was competing with the red fire motif of his Kefta, was clearly an outcast. It was why Kaz chose to sit here. He didn’t need any of the boot licking Grisha pigeons who immediately attempted to be his best friend or any of the girls with only sex on their brains near him. If everyone here was avoiding this individual, then perhaps they’d stay the fuck away from him as well. Also, he was the only person in this entire massive, visually pristine room not looking at him. So it was an easy choice to sit here. 

Even as off his game as he felt, Kaz’s intuition was right. With the exception of the damned food tester, he had been left alone to eat. Seriously, how was the security so absolutely shot here in Ravka if his food that was just made for him could come to him poisoned?  He, mostly, trusted the food back at the Slat where more often than not people wanted him dead. He was in a fucking palace where everyone had been waiting generations for someone who could shine sunlight up their collective asses. So the thought that anyone here would seriously go out of their way to poison him was asinine.  

So, someone told this Inferni, but no one else, to leave Kaz the fuck alone.  Respect his personal space. Don’t speak unless spoken to.  That he was going to regain and lead a personal gang while keeping his hard earned crow motif.  Who was this Oncat that they were so discredited that they didn’t attend communal meals and everyone but this guy apparently ignored? But, even without this Oncat, this Inferni still somehow knew he was still hungry and could read him. Most Barrel bosses and rich or anyone with power only wanted underlings who would suck up to them. Kaz wasn’t one of those, he preferred people who could actually read him. Those were the ones he brought into his inner circle when they proved their loyalty.  

So Kaz kept studying this Inferni now next to him. Weighing the possibilities. Brain busy working all the angles, pro’s and con’s.  Trying to unlock the puzzle that this man was so he could read them back. 

“Is Harshaw bothering you Sun Summoner?”  Kaz jolted from his musings and looked at the big Fjerdian in a Squaller Kefta that had just approached him then looked back at the so named Harshaw. He’d gone back to poke at the crumbs on his own plate. The outcast were usually the best people, the most useful, the most well informed. The most unconventional to be sure. But then again, so was he. 

“No.” Kaz is more surprised that he actually answered than by the honesty of his answer.  

The big blond was also shocked at his answer.  “Well, the miracles will never cease.  Hi, I’m Eskil.” And the man stuck out a hand presumably for Kaz to shake.  Instead Kaz glared at it. But before he could say anything, Ivan was there pulling his chair out angrily muttering about schedules and getting him to his next class. 

~☀️~☀️~☀️~☀️~

APPARAT

The Apparat sat in his corner of the chapel library pouring over his vast influx of books he’d quickly pilfered from other sections, even other lesser libraries he hadn’t visited in decades. He had to branch out though and now his normally pristine space dedicated to the Saints was littered with every book he could find on Ravkan history, Royal history, etiquette and customs not to mention, every language learning book from the beginner to the more advanced court speech. 

He wasn’t one to volunteer his services when the Darkling called. He was not Grisha. He owed no allegiance to that Saintless man. But for this one instance, for the Sun Summoner, an actual Living Saint, he was destined to be the boy’s spiritual guide. If he had to disguise that purpose behind teaching the Sun Summoner Ravkan history and etiquette, well that was all right. Because after all, Ravkan culture was founded upon the Saints. Yaromir Lantsov, the first Tsar of Ravka, made sure of that.  And he, the current Tsar’s personal Apparat, was really the only one qualified for this momentous task. 

But still. Where did he begin? There was just so much for an outsider who’d never bothered to look at their culture to learn. The Apparat’s hands reverently picked up a small red leather bound book inlaid with gold embossing. It was in pristine condition and his most valued possession. The Istorii Sankt’ya .  The Lives of the Saints. There weren’t many books done with this care and quality of production. 

“Sit.” The sharp command voiced by one of the Darkling’s prized Heartrender dogs alerted the Apparat that his student was finally here. He checked the time, when had it gotten so late? Of course these Saintless Grisha wouldn’t prioritize this most important aspect of the boy’s education. 

“This is an odd place for combat training. Also, hard to fight when sitting.” The Apparat had to compose himself upon hearing the raspy response of the boy. An actual Living Saint! The Apparat was lightheaded and felt an embarrassing boyish flush creep up his face. 

“You’re eventually going to learn you don’t need to fight every minute you are here.”

The Apparat stood and took several deep breaths. He had to be collected and not act like some peasant fanboying in the presence of royalty.  

“In the past week I’ve been attacked by Volcra monsters, Drüskelle hunters, the old crone who’s supposed to be my Grisha instructor and apparently threatened with food poisoning. Please, enlighten me again on how this place is safe from threats.” There was a tense beat of silence where only the Heartrender’s forced breathing and the slight scuffle of chairs could be heard. “Besides, Genya informed me of my schedule today, after lunch there was to be combat training. What is this supposed to be?”

The Apparat gingerly looked around the corner.  Sure enough it was that dog Ivan with his Sankt.  Impressive, he didn’t know Heartrender’s could turn as red as their Kefta’s. 

“The schedule has been changed.” Ivan ground out through clenched teeth and pointed at the boy sitting with his bad leg propped up on a neighboring chair.  “You already know how to fight, and your reflexes, as you just demonstrated at lunch, are already well honed. No. What you need is Ravkan history, language, art and culture studies. Primarily culture.” Here the Darkling’s dog leaned over the desk to yell in the Sun Summoners face. “So you’ll refrain from attacking servants for just doing their jobs.”

Their Living Sankt had nerves of steel to remain so casually composed in the face of such powerful hostility. The boy scoffed. “Knowing Ravkan table manners is not going to aid me in destroying the Fold.”

The Apparat swallowed his gulp quietly, there was nothing he could do for the boy right now as he was.  When a Heartrender looked at you like that, it usually ended up being fatal to the recipient. “You are IN Ravka. For better or worse you’re now a cultural icon OF Ravka. The Tsar HAS declared you a citizen. You need to behave as one.”

“Oh hell no. NO! I am NOT a citizen of this accursed country. I. Am. Kerch.”

The Apparat frowned.  Ravka, he , needed the Living Saint to claim loyalty to their great country. The miracles just kept coming, the Apparat found himself agreeing with a Heartrender dog. He squared his shoulders. This was his destiny, time to step forward and claim it. 

“Like it or not, you are now and forever linked to Ravka and a part of our Nation.” They both jumped as the Apparat walked into their view. “The people here have been waiting generations for an individual who could combat the darkness and destroy the Shadow Fold that plagues our country.  The Sun Summoner is linked to Ravka regardless of actual nation of origin. The people here are going to be looking towards the Sun Summoner, you, as a beacon of hope.  Your job is not just destroying the Fold, but to bolster the spirits of these people. Show them the light in the darkness. Make the Bright Lands a place here on Earth and Lead them to It in this life so that they don’t need the release of death to bathe in its glory.”

“That, is not part of my contract.” 

Chapter Text

JESPER 

This was insane. This was everything his pa spent his life ensuring would never happen to Jesper. This was exactly why he’d always painstakingly hid his zowa.  Why whenever he even saw a hint of a Kefta he about faced and went in an opposite direction.  Because he wasn’t about to become a pawn for some foreign nation's king and foreign nation’s war that he didn’t give two shits about and they’d care less about him. Besides, their Grisha may get to parade their Grishaness off in front of the world, but it didn’t actually get them any better treatment from the people. Everyday people Jesper liked. 

But he couldn’t abandon the Boss. 

Kaz would vehemently deny caring, but he would never leave Jesper behind. No matter what screw up he inevitably caused. Jesper had begun to lose count of all the times he’d managed to get himself roped into bad bets, or deals, or situations and it was always Kaz who’d come for him. So you better believe that when the time finally, unbelievably came where Kaz was the one trapped by a bad deal, Jesper was going to be there for him.  Although he was doing a craptacular job of being there for him considering he’d lost his boss almost a week ago. Five? Six days now?  Time was hard to track, and the monontousess of the carriage wasn’t helping. 

Jesper was sure if their situations had been reversed, Kaz would have had him out of this bad deal before they even landed on Ravkan soil. Yet here Jesper was bouncing around in yet another carriage filled with stupidity pretty Grisha he couldn’t instantly charm to help make the time go faster. 

Jesper was sure it was because he didn’t actually want to charm them. Because he was damn fine himself, thank you very much. Physical perfection must have just been a Grisha thing. Although the boss, while easy on the eyes for sure, wasn’t physical perfection. So maybe not a Grisha thing? 

“Would you stop fidgeting.”

“I’m not fidgeting.” He was totally fidgeting, he knew that. And going by Zoya’s hundredth eye roll, she knew it too but finally seemed able to let the matter drop.  But dammit. There were just too many things to think about and no space in here to think them. Like how to get Kaz out of that contract. And who has taken Jesper’s place in helping Kaz dispose of the dead bodies? And how to get Inej back.  Because the three of them were a set, they needed to be together. And what were they going to do when they got back to the Barrel?  Grisha weren’t captains or lieutenants.  Did Haskell tell everyone after they left? And he’d heard Ravkan food was terrible. Their drink even worse. And apparently Fabricators didn’t see active combat. Which fine, that would make his Pa happy, but Jesper lived for the fight. He didn’t do well with enclosed spaces. It’s why he failed Uni. And oh man. He hadn’t written his Pa in weeks. If he didn’t write to him soon then Pa would head to the University to look for him. But how would he explain the Ravkan postmark? Did bribes work the same way here as they did in Ketterdam?

“Oh finally, we’re here. I don’t know how much more of this Durast I can take.”

“Hey.” Jesper’s wit failed him as he realized that he’d been so caught up in his own thoughts that he hadn’t even noticed they’d been driving through a city. Wowa, wait what? He’d always thought the term Little Palace was because the Grisha headquarters were, well, little. But this place was a freaking Palace!  In the full capital P version of the word! Jesper blinked in awe as he exited the carriage, because damn. How was he supposed to find Kaz in that? 

“Alright Durast. Your people are that way.” Jesper’s head followed Zoya’s outstretched arm and looked down the well manicured walkway that lead away from the not so little, Little Palace and into a stupidly nice wooded area. And just why was there a forest in the middle of a city? “Just keep straight until you get to the lake” there was a whole lake inside a whole forest inside a city here?! “Then hang a right and it’ll take you to the Materialki labs. Try not to blow the place up on your first day.” And she had started walking away into the not so little, Little Palace before she’d even finish her last biting comment. 

Jesper spun around. Because this was a city he was in right? Ravka’s capital? That’s where everyone kept saying the Little Palace that turned out to be not so little resided. Sure enough beyond the trees were the unmistakable rooftops crammed together indicating a large city was indeed out there. Spinning again to look down the long road behind the carriage there were large impressive gates which just beyond was indeed more city. Though it looked nicer than the roofs past the forest. Spinning to take in another direction Jesper had to stop and pick his jaw up off the ground. Because sitting on a slight hill sat, unmistakably the real Palace where Ravka’s royalty no doubt resided.  And okay. Sure. Compared to that, this was a Littler Palace. But there was no way he was ever going to call this place ‘Little Palace’ ever again. Not now that he’d seen it. 

Mind spinning Jesper picked up his bag, Inej’s very large family insisted he should have it along with a few essentials, and headed toward those Materialki Labs Zoya said he should head towards. It was slow going because every few steps his brain yelled at him that he needed to go find Kaz NOW. But right now, he needed to blend in and find a map. Gather intel. And find some waffles. 

• ~ ~ • ~ ~ •

There were no waffles. 

Even worse. That girl was here. Leoni.  The one that his Ma lost her life over. That destroyed his life. Although, he got Kaz and Inej out of it, so his life wasn’t too destroyed. But following them had landed him here. Which was the absolute worst. And he’d only been here a handful of hours. He had to get to Kaz fast, his boss had to be in worse hell than he was. 

“Okay. This has been fun ya’ll. Not really. But I need to find my old boss Brekker. Know where I can find him?”  Jesper had inadvertently caused a commotion when he entered the building that really felt like it was in the middle of nowhere, which considering they were in the middle of a city was fucking impressive. And where for the past week he’d been getting nothing but contempt and cold shoulders from all the Grisha he encountered, to suddenly be greeted with smiles and let me help you friendliness was throwing Jesper off balance. 

“Who?” One of the individuals in this somehow massive group who’d instantly surrounded him and all decided to be his helpful welcoming wagon committee inquiried. 

“Brekker, Kaz Brekker.” Jesper clarified, only to be met with confused stares. “Seriously?! The Sun Summoner!”  Which, he already told them all he came here with the Sun Summoner. That probably explained why practically everyone here seemed interested in the new guy. Although, he was also naturally charming. 

“See. Told ya he didn’t actually know the Sun Summoner.” A guy in the back voiced to another.  

Which, Rude much?  Sure, Jesper was a huge fan of embellishing, but never about who he did and did not know. “Yes I do!”

“Then how come you don’t know his name?”

That derailed Jesper’s brain again. Because. What? “I just told you his name…”

“His name is Morningstar.” A girl he hadn’t got the name of yet told him. Then turned to another girl and started talking to her. “I actually passed by him at dinner the other day.  He’s so cute!”

What the actual fuck was going on around here.  Because Kaz was really only attractive to those with a type, a bad boy who’s done a lot of bad in the world.  Cute was not a descriptor for that. “So he changed his name…” Which now that Jesper thought about it, that actually seemed like a Kaz thing to do. Separate his gang self from this new Grisha self.  Whatever. It didn’t hugely matter. “Where can I find him?”

“You don’t.” And this was family wrecker Leoni.  “Summoner’s don’t fraternize with Materialki.” She had a calculating look on her face that Jesper didn’t like nor trust. 

“There’s the Sun Summoner Fete tomorrow night.” The girl from before helpfully supplied. “Everyone is invited! Even all the Materialki!” Which um, yes. The definition of everyone would include everyone. Unless Jesper was missing something. 

“He doesn’t have a proper Kefta, there’s no way he’s going to be allowed to go.” The annoying guy in the back scoffed.  

Jesper was ace at ignoring annoying people. “Well that seems an easy fix, where do I get a Kefta?”

They all looked at each other and giggled. “You’re a Materilki, you got to make it.” And that somehow signaled the end of the new guy mobbing and most of the crowd dispersed. 

Ghezen’s balls. He couldn’t catch a break. Perhaps this whole job was doomed to failure. 

“Hey, follow me. I’ll give you a tour of the place and help get you fitted for a Kefta. It really is good to see you again. I never got to properly say thank you to your Pa and you. Your Ma saved my life, and I’ve been striving to pay forward her kindness and spread her goodness and keep her memory alive throughout the world.”

Jesper blinked back tears he hadn’t realized formed. Because that was all that Ma wanted. To be the good in the world that she wanted the world to be. All these years Jesper had thought all that goodness had died with his Ma. But to meet the girl now, to see her earnestness and that wistful smile that so often graced his Ma’s face when she dreamed of spreading kindness and acceptance to everyone. His Ma was somehow living on through Leoni. 

Perhaps this job wasn’t doomed to failure.  

Chapter Text

DARKLING

The Darkling sat grinning in a shadowed corner of the Sun Summoner’s room. So, the boy managed to survive a full day as a Grisha in the Little Palace without spilling blood. The Darkling wasn’t sure yet if that was progress on the boy’s part or a setback on his plans in making the Kerch indenture contract a more permanent arrangement. As he hoped, the servant he assigned to be the Sun Summoner’s official tester at lunch, sent for pomp and circumstance of course, had not gone over well. Which, the Darkling had anticipated his Sun Summoner’s response, but not the full extent of the tester’s. That servant had actually shat himself and didn’t stop running once he’d made it out of the hall. Nor once he was back in the safety of the kitchens. He’d kept running right off the palace grounds and almost right out of the city. His Oprichniki hadn’t caught up to the servant until he had reached Os Alta’s border. Which the Darkling felt was a complete overreaction on the servants part. The Sun Summoner hadn’t even stabbed him. Merely embedded a fork through the wooden table an inch from his hand.

Thankfully, the servant had been silenced before any unsavory rumors about his Sun Summoner could be spread. His Grisha however seemed to be responding well to the outburst. Many were even further Intrigued with the mystery around the Sun Summoner, or amused with the display.

Oh it was a shame he needed the Sun Summoner to be likable and friendly. The Darkling liked those who claimed power through force and didn’t hold back. Although, he really only needed the boy to be congenial with the Otkazat’sya and genuinely civil with himself. Which, the Darkling felt would be possible if only he could get the boy interested in the power and dominance he could offer him. The boy had clearly been politicking and working his way into power in the gutters of Ketterdam’s underbelly. But now the kid had real power. He could do so much better than just some lowly gang lieutenant.

Finally, the boy arrived. The limp was more pronounced. There was actual exhaustion in his posture now. An audible groan was heard as the boy rested all his weight on the closed door behind him and raised a shaky hand (gloved, interesting) to rub at his eyes before moving up to move the hair from his face. The heel dug into his forehead, obviously fighting off some sort of headache. Interestingly enough, his Sun Summoner hadn’t looked anywhere near this wrung out after the hard push and intense journey from Ketterdam. Perhaps it was the combination of the hard journey in addition to the full day of education in a new place without the chance to rest and adjust.

The Darkling couldn’t contain his shark's grin as he realized he’d managed to catch his Sun Summoner clearly violating one of his rules. But instead he led with, “You’re Grisha now, there’s no need to continue suffering with that leg.”

The boy froze, but otherwise the Darkling didn’t get the reaction he’d hoped for. “Of course you’re here to annoy me. Can’t just let me get some sleep.” Was spoken through a sigh of resignation. Before the boy focused his attention towards the Darkling. “What do you want now.” It only took the Darkling raising his eyebrow before his Sun Summoner winced and tacked on “Sir.”

“What kind of master would I be if I didn’t check in on my loyal indenture after his first full day in my humble abode?” The boy didn’t have the energy to hide his true feelings and the Darkling was able to clearly read his Sun Summoner’s irritation and embarrassment. To take advantage of this situation the Darkling bluntly asked, “Where’d you get the gloves?”

The boy quickly looked at his covered fingers and cursed kut, fuck in his native Kerch, before answering his question. “They were lying out in the open. I figured since no one else was using them I would.”

The boy was good. There was no hesitation and the delivery was perfectly smooth. If it wasn’t for the fact that he’d never witnessed a servant being so careless as to leave gloves lying about in his considerable lifetime, he would’ve taken the boy’s word for truth. The Darkling continued to sit and stare at the boy, waiting for him to break and reveal who’d actually given him the gloves.

Seconds turned to minutes. The Sun Summoner continued to support himself on the door. The boy finally broke eye contact to look for the nearest chair and just as he managed to leverage his weight onto his own feet and take his first step towards the bed the Darkling interrupted. “Ah, where do you think you’re going?”

“It’s been a long day, I’m going to sit down.”

“I haven’t given you permission to sit now have I.”

Those gloves may have just been simple linen, but they still creaked from the force of the boy's grip on that simple wooden cane. “No, sir.”

This is why the Darkling was here. He had to break the boy. Establish dominance. He watched the boy waiver before putting his free hand (still gloved) back on the door for support. “Who gave you the gloves.” He rephrased his original question, letting his irritation seep through.

His Sun Summoner sighed in defeat and leaned back into the door to support his weight again. “No one sir. I stole these. I can’t tell you who from.”

The Darkling frowned. The boy couldn’t or wouldn’t? Odds were he actually couldn’t, he’d not been here long enough to learn who was who around here. Every face probably blended into the next and the servant's garments were way more subtle in their class definitions than his Grisha’s Kefta’s were.

The Darkling rose and strode over to the boy, hand held out palm up, gesturing for the gloves as he had done when the boy first got here only yesterday. “Was I unclear about the rules on stealing?”

The Sun Summoner cringed, proof the boy was too tired to effectively hide his feelings from his face. “No Sir. But, I'd be better use to you if you’d allow me to keep them.”

The Darkling didn’t need his Sun Summoner to be more useful. Yet. He needed submission and loyalty first.

“I’m not going to permit my Sun Summoner to be seen wearing servant gloves. It’s unbecoming.” The Darkling looked on amused as he watched various expressions flit across the Sun Summoner’s face. It was obvious the boy was searching for a counter argument. Some sort of logic that would allow him to keep the absurd pieces of hideous cloth. It ended with a grunt in defeat and the boy dropping the gloves into his outstretched hand.

“Good boy.” And the Darkling wanted to laugh at the ugly response his Sun Summoner gave him at that scant bit of praise. “For now your punishment is merely going to be the continued demanding work pace for getting you caught up to the level a Grisha is supposed to be at at your age.” He leaned in. “And you’ll be doing it without gloves.”

The Darkling indulged himself and listened outside the Sun Summoner’s doors after exiting. He was rewarded by a faint delightful growl and angry stomping fading away. He grinned and wondered what state he’d find the Sun Summoner’s suite in in the morning.

KAZ

The following morning the Darkling was once again in this room they locked him into. Kaz refused to consider it his room. He hated everything about this place. He wasn’t about to start getting comfortable here. This was a temporary job. Nothing more.

At least he’d been so exhausted by the end of the day yesterday he’d actually managed to get most of a full nights rest. After the Darkling left, Kaz had ended up face first on the bed screaming into one of the ridiculously plush pillows that adorned the outlandishly large bed. Seriously, it was larger than most of the rooms in the Slat.

But thanks to the damn Darkling, Kaz just couldn’t fall right to sleep. His brain just kept replaying the desaster of that last interaction. He’d forgotten he was wearing the gloves. He’d shown weakness. He’d not been able to keep up mentally and banter back. It was yet another micro battle the Darkling managed to win. Although he’d managed not to incriminate Genya. But it was only by the grace of physical and mental exhaustion that Kaz hadn’t destroyed the fucking room again. But oh, he really really wanted too. Consequences be damned.

Although now that he’d gotten some rest and was actually eating the disgusting fish and bread that was apparently a staple Ravkan breakfast Kaz was feeling minutely better. But as horrendous as this Ravkan breakfast was, the forced company was infantly worse. Kaz was going to enjoy killing the man across from him. He had a perfect weapon up his sleeve, well it was currently hidden behind some loose tiles in the washroom. But still. There was no way the Darkling would see it coming.

“I need you to smile. What do we have to do to get you smiling?”

It was a quicker death than the Darkling deserved, but Kaz envisioned the Darkling’s eyes rolling back into his head as he convulsed uncontrollably on the floor with foam gurgling from his mouth and nostrils. Kaz smiled.

The Darkling glared at him. “No. That won’t do. You need to charm the Tsar and royal court. Not make them shit their silk underwear. You’ve got until the end of the week to figure it out.”

“Or what Sir? You’ll prevent me from going? Oh no, how terrible.”

The Darkling narrowed his black eyes even further. But calmly finished his last bite then casually wiped his lips with the embroidered linen napkin that had been in his lap. As he stood to start his day with whatever business he had he fixed Kaz in place with a cold hard glare. “Oh, you’re going. It’s your party, you don’t have a choice in that matter. What you do have a choice in is about how you great everyone who attends. You can either smile nicely at them, or you can shake each of their hands. Your soft uncallaused fingers in their stinky sweaty palms.”

The Darkling flashed Kaz what most people would consider a casual smile, made charming by flash of perfect teeth, and left.

Kaz sat frozen, focusing on keeping the breakfast he just consumed down even though all his body wanted to do was to curl over and upchuck everything he’d eaten and quite possibly everything he would eat in the near future.

The Saints damn Darkling would get his comeuppance. Kaz would insure it.

Chapter Text

KAZ

Kaz sighed and just laid his throbbing head down on the volumes of worthless books piled haphazardly across the large table he sat at in this pompous library set deep within this accursed country. This man, this Apparat who apparently only ever went by his title claiming him to be the administrator of this fanatical Ravkan Saint religion, was wasting his time. From day one at the beginning of this week that felt like a month ago, all this man droned on about were his bloody Saints. Kaz did not need four days worth of endless lectures about Saints from Ravka. Five minutes would have sufficed. 

Scratch that. Five minutes would still have been too long.  

The worst part was, the creepy old man who smelled of mildew and rotting paper had so far only talked about three of his precious Saints.  The stupid red book the man first shoved into his hands day one contained detailed illustrations of thirteen supposed Saints. And those were only the Saints that hailed from Ravka. There were untold others from every other country. Kaz’s year would be up and this man wouldn’t even be through half of them at this rate. 

Kaz had his suspicions before, but was now convinced that the Darkling didn’t actually want the Fold destroyed. Or at least, not have it destroyed before he could bind Kaz to himself in a more permanent fashion to keep him here forever.  Which No. Kaz was determined to not let the Darkling succeed.  However, assigning this incompetent walking tomb to be his Ravkan tutor was nothing but pure sabotage. Kaz needed to be learning what passed for written Ravkanso so he could do his own research. How this Small Science he now had access to worked with the physical world so he could understand what he was reading. Although, Baghra was excelling at pushing him and strengthening his powers, Kaz still felt like she was hinting at more.  He just didn’t have the background, the ingrained culture, the theological studies to pick up on or understand what she was trying to tell him. And she wasn’t a woman who just gave out information. No. She made you earn it. Which Kaz respected and was willing to do. But the Darkling… to phase it like many of the Dregs would, was cock blocking him. 

The Darkling had personal business goals he was keeping close to his chest. The man clearly needed Kaz, more accurately, a Sun Summoner to complete them somehow. But Kaz wasn’t an equal business partner in this mysterious Darkling agenda.  That required a level of trust they just didn’t have. Probably would never have judging by the way the asshole enjoyed the power trip of holding his indenture over him. Of essentially owning him.  Infuriatingly the man knew how to push his buttons. Kaz was tired of constantly reacting, but he couldn’t seem to make any headway in stopping it. Kaz would bet his shares in the Crow Club on the Darkling waiting until Kaz’s indenture became a permanent binding contract before the man enacted this mysterious plan that required his Sun Summoning abilities. Which so far, as much as it galled Kaz to admit, the Darkling was close to succeeding on forcing a new meeting with Haskell to renegotiate the contract. 

Which if that happened, his input during renewal could be taken away from him. They could change it from a yearly renewal to five, ten, or if the Darkling hadn’t been joking, 100 year contract. They could remove his loophole to end the contract early with the destruction of the Fold.  Which would keep Kaz from Ketterdam permanently. Which then Kaz would never get Jordie’s revenge. Kaz Could Not Let Happen.  

“Am I boring you Sun Summoner?”

YES, Kaz wanted to scream as the Apparat interrupted his scheming. Instead Kaz opted to work on smiling. He needed to to play along, submitting just enough to keep the Darkling happy. To keep his current contract in place. To have any chance in going home. If it helped to discover what the Darkling’s end goals were, even better. At least then he could decide whether to either actually aid the Darkling or sabotage him. At this point he was leaning towards sabotage just out of spite. As Kaz raised his head he curled his lips and revealed his top teeth, head tilted and eyes crinkling in the way Mercher’s would smile at him on the rare occasions they would design to hold a meeting with an individual they considered a mere willful child playing adult. It wasn’t mean per se, but definitely condescending.  The Apparat didn’t immediately cringe or crap his pants upon seeing Kaz’s teeth so that was a good smile, right?  

“Oh No.” Kaz spoke with false cheer.  “I love hearing about Grisha who died violent horrible deaths decades ago only so their murders could exalt them into Gods instead of anything I was actually assigned to learn, like proper social etiquette when engaging with actual fucking royality at their stupid party they’re throwing for me tomorrow night!”

“Well,” and the Apparat just stood there fidgeting, nervously he continued, “for starters, try stop referring to them as fucking royalty…” 

Kaz dropped the sarcastic grin to glower at the Apparat.  No shit. 

“My job is to educate you on Ravka’s history and culture. Both of which are founded upon the Saints who…”

“Your job” Kaz interrupted, “is to instruct me on stupid table maners and how I’m to address your fucking royals, sorry beloved Tsar and Tsaritsa so that I can hopefully get on with my real job of destroying the Shadow Fold.”

The Apparat stood there a moment longer studying him then finally sat at the table across from Kaz.  “You’re right. We shouldn’t be focusing on past Saints right now.” 

Kaz sat up a bit straighter because finally, he was going to get some useful information from this pigeon. 

“Were you born in Ketterdam?”

Kaz paused in shifting his bad leg in order to sit up better. Because, what?  “What does that matter?”

“In order to serve you better, I need to know more about you.”

“I fail to see how this information is at all relevant to Ravkan royal parties.”

“Will you please just humor me?”

“No.”

“No? Are you native to Kerch at all?”

“Of course I am!” 

“Are you sure? Do you know who your parents were?”

Kaz sat and focused on breathing, because he was about to lunge across this table and strangle this old fool. His past was his. Not this religious peon’s. And his parents were good, honest hardworking folks.

“I aint telling you shit about me.”

“I need to know.”

“The fuck you do.”

“There’s no way your parents were good people if this is how you react to polite conversation.”

Kaz had enough. He made to stand up, because if he had to endure any more of this fool then the old man was going to end up dead. Which, Kaz couldn’t kill the Apparat, that would be giving the Darkling the leverage he needed to cut Kaz out of his current contact and permanently bound in a new one he’d have no say in.  But before Kaz could move far, the Apparat was speaking again.

“If you can’t have a civil conversation with me here, then you’re going to really upset the nobles at the Fete tomorrow night. Which is what you want to avoid isn’t it?”

Kaz swallowed his anger and gingerly sat back down. Because blast the man. He was right. Well, almost right. Kaz didn’t care if he upset the damn nobles. It was the Darkling who cared, and if the man who owned his indenture cared, then Kaz had to at least pretend to care as well.  Kaz still didn’t regret signing the damn thing. Especially now. The Darkling was a man who was accustomed to taking what he wanted when he wanted. At least by signing the way he had, he’d left himself a way out. Of sorts. Fuck this was a mess. 

“So let’s try this civil small talk again shall we?”

But Kaz was accustomed to messes and was good at getting himself out of them. At least with this one he managed to free Inej. “Fine.” Kaz croaked at the Apparat. 

The Apparat shifted his posture, squaring his shoulders and tilting his head back so he looked down his nose at Kaz. Briefly Kaz wondered if Ravka had any mood mellowing drugs and if Genya would be able to sneak him any. Because damn, it was going to be hard to not to start slugging these people to demand their respect as he had to do back in the Barrell.

“Oh Sun Summoner, tis an honor to meet you.” Kaz did not sigh and succumb to the urge to lay his aching head back down onto the table. “We’re all dying to know, were you born in Ketterdam?” 

Kaz would be happy to assist them all in dying.  But right now he had to rework his backstory on the fly to accommodate the delicate sensibilities of the nobility here in Ravka.  “Yes.”  And apparently that one word answer wasn’t going to be enough going by the Apparat’s raised eyebrow. Fuck it. He could give information without giving any actual information.  “But it was not kind and not an appropriate conversation to have here.”

The blasted Apparat was practically drooling, what was wrong with the man. 

THE APPARAT

Not kind. Oh how perfect!  He ached to know all the sordid details.  As congenial as the boy had been these past few days, there was something wild and hurt and deeply guarded within. The boy had a haunted past. One that was befitting of a Saint.  This Sun Summoner was a true Living Saint! It HAD happened in his lifetime!  The power the Saints have bestowed upon him. To get to be the one to lead the masses.  He was going to be more powerful than the Tsar! 

He just needed to unlock the history of the boy so he could start constructing his sermons to the people. The Apparat ignored the slick dampness that was his sweat soaked under robes and sent prayers of thanks to the Saints that his woolen outer robes did not betray his body’s nerves and excitement.  He asked the Sun Summoner question after question. He had been concerned he’d managed to drive the boy away at the beginning, but quick thinking and the grace of the Saints had the boy sitting down again and answering his questions.  But the boy was good. Giving information without saying any details.  Or just flat out lying. There was no way the Sun Summoner took young orphans off the streets and gave them food and shelter. It didn’t seem like work he’d do. Though it was Saintly.  

Prying the truth out of the Sun Summoner was going to be a long challenge.  But it was a challenge he was looking forward to. He had all the time he could need with the boy. This week was just the first of many. 

And it’d force him to give the information out nice and slowly to the masses. Keep them hanging onto him for more. Already the people were flocking to Os Alta.  After the Fete he had plans to start going to the people and start preaching of their new Sankt Kaz, the Sun Summoner.  Sankt of… he thought back to his first run in with the boy.  Sankt of impossible tasks?  He had said something about making a career out of doing the impossible.  And no Saint had yet to claim that title. And it was good. People everywhere loved to have hope in the impossible. Put their faith in the impossible. 

The boy was certainly impossible to deal with. 

In a last ditch effort to get the boy's story the Apparat stood and yelled. “Look. If you don’t tell me the truth of your past, then I’ll be forced to make one up, and it will be dark and horrid befitting of a Saint!”

The Sun Summoner glared at him coldly, then slowly stood up. Never breaking eye contact he leaned in to whisper.  “Go ahead. I’m sure whatever you make up will pale in comparison to the actual truth.” And the boy turned and started walking away. 

The Apparat stood there panting in his anger. Just what had this boy lived through that THAT was his response?! And how, oh HOW did he go about finding the truth?

Chapter Text

FEDYOR

Fedyor wouldn’t admit it aloud, but he was worried about the Sun Summoner. The Darkling, therefore Ivan had their reasons behind why they were treating the boy as they were. But, it… he couldn’t put his finger on why, but it just didn’t feel right to him. The boy clearly had a traumatized childhood. You didn’t get that kind of phobia, hapaphilia, without some sort of severe trauma. Or prolonged negative experiences. Or Saints forbid, both. The Sun Summoner, Kaz, needed compassion and positive support. Although that fact was often hard to remember when the boy was constantly stealing your most precious items and gruffing out cutting remarks.

Even though Fedyor had been against throwing the Sun Summoner, Kaz, into full Grisha social life on that first day. Since then the boy, Kaz (Fedyor needed to start thinking of the kid by his name) had been completely removed. Fedyor hadn’t seen him in days. According to Ivan the… Kaz was being restricted to lessons with Baghra and the Apparat of all people. And for whatever reason, he’d been pulled from Sun Summoner guard duties. As far as Fedyor knew, even Genya had been pulled from checking in on him. Which was probably why Fedyor was aimlessly wandering this hallway of the main library. The boy, Kaz, wasn't scheduled to be done for another hour and there were many other things Fedyor had to do, but his gut wouldn’t leave him alone.

Probably because it was a lesson with the damn Apparat of all people. The so-called spiritual adviser to the Tsar would be the last person he’d assign to the Sun Summoner for cultural and language lessons. Grisha needed to teach Grisha. Even if the subject wasn’t about the Small Science. Speaking of which, Kaz needed lessons about the Small Science just as badly as he needed to learn to read Ravkan. And the only Ravkan history he needed was about the Shadow Fold. Something wasn’t right, but he couldn’t fathom what.

Fedyor couldn’t help but notice the lack of Heartrender guard either. Sure, they were referred to as an escort. But Fedyor knew their real purpose, even if they didn’t. They were to keep Kaz from causing trouble. Not keep trouble from him. But as he walked the hall, there was no one out here but himself. Which made Fedyor wonder if the… Kaz wasn’t actually having his lesson here today. Tomorrow night was the Fete after all. His escorts knew they were not to let the boy have any moment unwatched. Which Fedyor felt was a bit much. But for right now it was working in his favor, this way there’d be no report back to Ivan of his idle worrying.

The Darkling should trust the boy more in Fedyor’s opinion. Kaz had willingly signed the contract and agreed to stay until the Fold was destroyed. The boy was Kerch through and through. They honored their word and religiously followed agreements, especially when they were written down and signed by their own hand.

Suddenly the doors to the library opened and there was the Sun Summoner literally growling under his breath. Fedyor was once again left with the impression of a ruffled kitten trying to act bigger and meaner than it actually was. “Lesson over?” He casually asked, smirking.

“It is now.”

“Seems you have a bit of free time on your hands then and it’s a beautiful day, care for a walk around the lake?”

Kaz blinked up at him, and Fedyor could see that too intelligent mind calculating a hundred different motives and possibilities behind his simple request. It saddened Fedyor to think that the boy, Kaz, probably hadn’t even considered he made the offer simply because he cared and was worried. After a quick moment, Kaz straightened his posture and forced his lips into a smile. It was awful and made his stomach churn because he knew about the Darkling’s orders and found it disgusting. “That’s terrible. Please, don’t. Smiling is not necessary between us.” And Kaz hid it well, but Fedyor was a Heartrender. He felt Kaz’s heart rate relax even though his outward appearance didn’t betray his inner feelings.

They made it to the lake uninterrupted and Fedyor took advantage of one of the many unused benches to sit at. Kaz’s limp seemed to be doing better, so at least he was getting rest Fedyor quietly observed. He still asked, “How are you doing?”

“Fine.”

Fedyor raised an eyebrow. He didn’t need his Heartrender abilities to know that that was a lie. Fedyor sat there a moment, trying to figure out how to get Kaz to open up when he started speaking on his own.

“I just have a lot to catch up on, it’s a completely different business here and there’s,” he paused to carefully word his response, “a lot of interruptions and complications I hadn’t anticipated on when I took the job.”

Fedyor huffed out a laugh. That was a very diplomatic, and Kerch, way of saying he was completely in over his head here.

“Well Jesper arrived today.” Fedyor offered the good news to hopefully spark a bit of hope and pointed off to the direction of the Materialki housing. “It should help having a friend around again.”

“Summoner’s don’t socialize with Materialki.” Or maybe he just depressed the boy further.

“Well Corporalnik don’t typically socialize with Summoners. But much like the Darkling,” and once again it was only because of his Heartrender abilities that Fedyor even noticed the boy’s negative response to the Darkling. Like the professional that he was, Fedyor ignored it and kept right on going. “You’re going to find you get to be an exception with who you get to hang out with around here.”

“Right.” Was Kaz’s sarcastic reply and Fedyor wanted to kick himself for forgetting the current round of isolation punishment.

KAZ

He’d never admit it, but sitting outside in a lush garden in the shade of a giant oak tree by a lake was refreshing. It gave him a moment to uncharacteristically relax. And surprisingly, the Heartrender wasn’t being completely obnoxious company. It let Kaz’s mind let go of the multitude of constant bombardments of well, everything here, and let him focus on only the current problem and think. The Darkling.

Kaz was willing to play along, submitting to a point, to try and discover what the Darkling’s end goals were. But not at the cost of his eventual freedom. Which seemed to be the Darkling’s end goal. So right now Kaz needed to earn back some socializing rights. Fuck the Darkling lurking in his personal space and then having a fit over the gloves. But mostly, Kaz was angry at himself over that. He should’ve known the Darkling would be there, yet he still forgot. And now he was limited to interacting with only three people and it was hampering any progress he hoped to make in destroying the Fold before the year was up.

Kaz needed to regain some socializing rights. So he could go find Harshaw and demand a meeting with that Oncat character. And now, Jesper was here. That surprised him. Jesper went to great lengths to hide his Zowa. Not that it ever came up much, but the couple times it did, Jesper verbally eviscerated Ravka’s Second Army. Jesper wasn’t the type to verbally bad mouth anything. So for him to actually come here… Kaz wasn’t sure what that said about Jesper. Kaz knew he wasn’t friend material, he didn’t want friends anyway. People died and left him, so it was just best to be alone. But also with the way the Darkling had been ostracizing him from making potential allies here, Kaz had been sure the Darkling wouldn’t allow his Lieutenant from the Dregs access to the Little Palace. He’d been anticipating news of another Drüskelle attack.

Kaz sighed and looked up at the sun filtering through the leaves. He just needed a damn translation book and all the other books that would contain information about the Shadow Fold and he would figure out on his own how to dismantle the damn thing. And if he learned he couldn’t dismantle it on his own, then he’d be able to build the team he’d need for the job. It wasn’t a physical lock with gears and levers that he was used to. But the Fold was still done by a man’s hands. It was still a physical thing. A puzzle to solve. A puzzle Kaz was sure he could rework and unlock if he could just get his hands on any of the pieces.

Right now if felt like he’d been asked to deal two card ante at a high roller table but was given a set of dice to do the job with. It was maddening.

The Heartrender ended up pulling him out of his spiraling misery. “Well, we should be getting back. I hear you finally realized the importance of eating regular healthy meals!”

Kaz groaned, because yes. Ever since that first day, he made himself eat every meal presented to him. No matter the company. No matter what was on the plate. Although he wanted to argue against how healthy it actually was. Or maybe healthy equated to boring and tasteless. Kaz had never thought much about the food in Ketterdam. It was just something he needed every now and then in order to keep his body going. But he now found himself missing it.

The walk back was silent until they got back to the door. Kaz wondered where all the other Heartrender guards were. It was uncharacteristic for there to only be one. But perhaps Fedyor was high enough on the ladder he didn’t need a partner.

“There may or may not be a little present from me inside hidden under your mattress.” He whispered while unlocking the doors. Kaz just quirked an eyebrow at him because this was unexpected. The Heartrender was a very, by the rules kind and believer in the establishment kind of guy. If he had really left something for Kaz hidden in the room then he was consciously breaking the Darkling’s rules. Kaz hadn’t pegged him for a man who’d do that.

“Also, pro tip about smiling.” Fedyor leaned in grinning and winked. “Think of Inej before you do.”

Kaz couldn’t help it, he stared flabbergasted at the Heartrender. “How the fuck is that going to help?”

“Trust me. Pretend it’s her, finally returned and standing in front of you. Then smile.”

Kaz was so dumbfounded he didn’t even register Fedyor looking inside the rooms then physically shoving him in. As the locks clicked shut he dimly heard the Heartrender cheerfully holler out “Have a great night!” Then proceeded to walk away whistling.

Kaz stood blinking at the door. Because what?

Chapter Text

KAZ

Kaz was left alone again in, fuck it. Fine. They were his rooms. As much as he was loath to admit it, he was going to be here a while.  His day had started out the same, breakfast with the Darkling.  It was creepy how the man would devour his food then seemed content to sit and watch him eat. And every damn day it was the same pickled herring on dry toast. So disgusting. Still, Kaz managed a smile only to desperately wish to take it back after seeing how the Darkling beamed at him. He did NOT think of Inej, that was stupid advice and he wondered what possessed the Heartrender to even think to mention it.  Only, he kinda did because the asshole put the idea in his brain. 

But Fedyor did surprise him by actually being useful yesterday evening.  True to his word, he had indeed left gifts for Kaz in the room.  Kaz upgraded him from loyal Darkling muscle to possible useful pigeon. The Heartrender was clearly a pigeon here inside the Little Palace, the only reason he was even in the Darkling’s inner circle was most likely due to his obvious personal connection to Ivan. But even pigeons had their uses. Kaz suspected that if push came to shove, Fedyor would choose the Darkling over himself.  But still, the gifts he found under his mattress, they were the first useful things he has received here. Beginner books on the Small Science, Fedyor’s own books from childhood going by the blocky unsure handwriting scribbled in the front.  A dictionary, Kerch to Ravkan even. Meaning the Heartrender got it from outside the palace grounds because Kaz had only seen Ravkan to Kerch, among all the other languages, in the libraries he’d been allowed to visit. At least now he could stop scheming on how to steal the library's copy.  The Darkling was just waiting for Kaz to make any and every transgression against the laws of this place.  And of course the asshole was in the habit of telling him the rule after Kaz had broken it. 

The last item was a pair of truly hideous mittens.  Mittens!  Kaz wouldn’t be able to use his skills while wearing them, but they’d at least cover the sensitive skin of his hands. If he dared to wear them. They were bulky and hideous and the Darkling hadn’t lifted his no gloves rule. Although, mittens were not gloves were they. Hideousness aside, Kaz didn’t dare risk exploiting that loophole.  It could be the thing that got his voice written out of his own contract.  It’d risk outing Fedyor, who could yet be more useful.  Because everyone would have to know the mittens could only come from him.  Kaz couldn’t imagine anyone else here that would be caught dead in kitten mittens. They even had dangley yarn whiskers…

Kaz sat on the bed with the Kerch to Ravkan dictionary and the first Small Science textbook.  He had spent the majority of last night mentally cataloging and memorizing it. Considering he had training with Baghra this morning, he probably shouldn't have pushed himself to go through the whole book in one night. But he finally had Grisha source material to study and a dictionary to translate it and with such little time to bring down the Fold, he couldn’t squander his time sleeping. Also, books were a lot harder to secret away than the small collection of items he had on his person when he got here. Paranoia had him triple checking all his hidey holes last night after he realized Fedyor had been in here hiding his own set of valuables. Kaz didn’t really have anything of true value, or at least they were items Kaz could  easily replace. Except for that new Jurda drug. It was deadly and Kaz couldn’t take any chances of anyone here getting their hands on it. 

When he murdered someone, he liked it to be intentional thank you very much. 

Kaz really wanted to hide the drug packets on his person. Even if the clothes he was given had had pockets, Kaz still wouldn’t put anything of value in them. He’d yet to get his hands on any extra material and sewing supplies to recreate his hidden pockets in this accursed Kefta.  Ideally he’d sew the drugs into the lining of a jacket so they wouldn’t be in danger of getting washed.  But he couldn’t ask Genya or anyone else here for the items. He couldn’t tip anyone off that he had secret things nor that he’d be carrying them on his person. 

If the Heartrender was right though and Jesper was here. Then if he could just make contact with him, he’d have someone he could rely upon to get him things in secret. Jesper wasn’t spider material, but he was great with lists and at procuring items.  Especially since there wouldn’t be any gambling halls to distract him. He’d hopefully have more freedoms than Kaz did too. Much more information could be obtained by Jesper just walking anywhere and striking up a conversation with anyone. He was charming enough he could get away with talking about anything.  Here he didn’t need to be a traditional spider to get information.  The issue was making contact and then figuring out ways they would be able to meet in secret. Although being a Durast, Jesper shouldn’t have any issues now with scaling the wall nor with the locks on his windows. 

Kaz rolled his shoulders and rubbed his tired eyes. His mind was losing its focus. Training with Baghra was going well. Kaz enjoyed working with her although he wished they had more space to work in. There was only so much he was going to be able to do inside a small underground hut with his sun powers.  And while he wasn’t nearly as drained like he’d been after that first day.  After a night of no sleep it was close.  He sighed and refocused his eyes back on the book. It really was a science, contrary to what he’d always assumed. Grisha didn’t so much as create the element/thing they manipulated, they just happened to be born more in sync with a particular aspect of the world around them and could interact with it physically. So if he was managing summoning the sun in Baghra’s dank cellar hut, what would he be able to manage under the full noonday sun?  Annoyingly, he doubted the Darkling would ever ever let him try it. 

His eyes unfocused again.  He really should just take a quarter or half bell nap. He was supposed to be resting anyway to prepare for the stupid party tonight.  It’s why he was here instead of being forced to listen to the Apparat drone on again about all the poor suckers who ended up cursed and killed as some stupid saint. Kaz was aware the dusty old man had designs to make him some sort of saint. Which was laughable. He was a theiving murderous bastard of the Barrell. He was no saint. 

Inej was the saint. 

His thoughts were just spiraling worse.  Nap it was.

Kaz had just let his eyes close when Genya came bursting into the room like the loud dramatic individual she was and Kaz cursed under his breath and quickly covered all the books on his bead with the duvet.  Hopefully he had been fast enough and she wouldn’t notice the illegal books. 

“What are you doing?” 

Was she really as outraged as she sounded?  He was actually voluntarily resting as he was told to do!  Why was she outraged now? Kaz actually hadn’t seen her for days. He’d forgotten just how loud she was. “Resting.” Was his one word response as he carefully got out of the bed before she could come over and yank the covers off. 

“Saints!” She swore. “Alright, here in Ravka resting for an important Fete doesn’t actually mean sleep resting! Especially not in your day cloths! It means you are freshening up and preparing for the Fete!  Have you bathed at all? You’ve done nothing with your hair. And those clothes! You can’t wear those! Even if you hadn’t slept in them! Where’s your party Kefta?” 

This woman needed to chill the fuck out. “Relax woman. The stupid Kefta is right there all neat and tidy.” And Kaz points to the offending piece of clothing draped over the foot of the bed railing. “It’ll cover any wrinkles the clothes on my person may have suffered.” 

Genya nearly fainted, or at least pretended to at his blatant lack of proper Ravkan social etiquette. “Saints! Are we ever going to manage to gentrify the heathen that you are?” Just as fast as she came in she exited and Kaz quickly properly hid Fedyor’s contraband back under the mattress. He had no intentions of changing his heathen ways, thank you very much. 

As Kaz turned back around Genya was back with another posy of servants.  He quickly moved back to the wall to avoid the two that went straight for the bed to make quick work of remaking it. Which was the signal for the rest of the line of servants after them to gently lay out a freshly pressed new piece of garment they each carried in. The new boots that were set on the floor beside the bed were so shiny Kaz thought he’d actually be able to see his reflection in them. How did they even manage to get that kind of shine on leather?

The last servant had a large garment bag they hung off the post of the bed. He couldn’t stop his face contorting into disgust as the bag was removed and a new Kefta hung there. He thought the first Kefta they forced him into was bad. That thing was truly atrocious. There were jewels sewn into it. The damn thing actually sparkled. Sparkles!  Oh hell no.  He managed to grunt out, “The other Kefta is fine.” 

“What Kefta?” Genya innocently asked picking up the Kefta he’d been wearing all week and shoving into the hands of one of the retreating servants. “I don’t see any other Kefta for you to wear.” 

Kaz stood there fuming, the nerve of this woman! He forced himself to count to ten, because he had to keep his anger in check. But oh. How he yearned to punch her, he didn’t have any qualms about hitting girls like so many of his male Barrell compatriots did. 

“I am here for a job!  I’m not some doll for dressing up and parading around in public!” Kaz shouted, refusing to look at the offending garment. Although he could see evidence of its presence glittering off every surface in the room. 

Genya didn't bat an eye at his outburst. “What do you think all my Tayloring was? We’re all here to just make the Tsar look good. When royalty is surrounded by pretty things then they get to kid themselves and think that they are pretty also.”

Kaz growled. But before he could form a retort back a timid voice came from the doorway.  “I t..take it now is a bad t..time?” They both looked towards the door at the same time to see David’s huddled form standing there. 

“David!” Genya recovered first. And Kaz was willing to bet the cheerfulness in her voice for once wasn’t faked. “It’s never a bad time for your genius! Come in, come in!”

“Every moment here is bad.” Kaz groused from his spot still against the back wall. 

Genya had the nerve to roll her eyes at him!  “Ignore him, he just woke up too early from his beauty rest.”

Kaz sputtered “Beauty rest?!” Before he really rounded on her to yell in her face. “I had just closed my eyes before you barged in! You think I lack manners? At least I know you’re supposed to knock before entering another's personal space!” 

She ignored him. Of course she ignored him. He didn’t have the power here to install proper respect into anybody. “So what lovely gift have you brought for our lovely cranky Sun Summoner David?”

Kaz was going to murder that woman. 

DAVID

David swallowed nervously, Genya was incredible. Though he’d never be able to tell her so. The Sun Summoner wasn’t just cranky, he was terrifying. And here she was fearlessly taunting him. Seeing the Sun Summoner now, trembling out of frustration, fingers white knuckled and set to use his cane as a battering stick with murder in his eyes...  The Darkling’s specialized request made a lot more sense now. 

But he couldn’t in good conscience leave the Sun Summoner physically defenseless.  After Genya brought the Sun Summoner into his labs way back at the beginning of the week, he went ahead to incorporate a little something extra off of what rumors were circulating around the Little Palace. It all was something new. A real challenge. It pushed his Durast abilities to new extremes and David had loved every moment of this past week figuring it out. 

Eventually, encouraged by the patience and support Genya was giving him, David managed to unwrap the cane he had made for the Sun Summoner and presented it. 

It was David’s finest work if he did say so himself. It was a simple design but the bright gold coating made it a truly eye-catching piece. David originally was going to have an orb of sunstone as its topper, but after meeting…

David’s thoughts came to an abrupt halt as the Sun Summoner reverently whispered, “It has a crow…”

David was momentarily speechless. “Oh ye… yeah,” he managed to stutter.  “A..a new D…Durast suggested it yesterday. H.. he kept going on about how he knew you and that you’d…” David stopped his pathetic attempts at conversations that didn’t deal with formulas and materials when Genya patted his hand to give her the cane which she then handed over to the Sun Summoner. 

Who actually petted the crow head handle where the sunstones had been redesigned as eyes while whispering “Jesper.” 

David was shocked. Which, hindsight, he shouldn’t have been shocked. He listened when the new guy suggested the topper. Enough to incorporate the aesthetic design change this morning. But, still, it was an incredible coincidence. Not many in the labs actually believed the new guy, choosing rather to assume he was just playing on the opportunity to make the claims of knowing the Sun Summoner because no one would be able to verify it. With him being the first Grisha after the Sun Summoner’s arrival, why wouldn’t he claim to know the Sun Summoner. “So h..he really is a friend of yours?”  

At the way the Sun Summoner cringed, David was doubting that friend was the right word to use, but what other word would be?

“We work, well worked together.” The Sun Summoner croaked out in that rough voice of his. 

All David could do was stare wide eyed. After a long and uncomfortable pause Genya was the first to speak up. “So, David.” Why did she always stretch his name out like that? It made him feel, not uncomfortable, but uncomfortable at the same time. “Tell us about it, I know you don’t just make ordinary objects.”

And Oh! Yes. This he could talk about. Fabrication was Everything. 

“It’s an engineering masterpiece. My most complicated and multifunctional tool to date! When the Darkling approached me with the project, I actually didn’t think it’d be possible. But then I recalled reading about a sap from rubberwood trees in the southern colonies of Eames Chin where its base structures were extremely bendy and curvy and when infused into another material made it bendy and curvy.  In this case it’s copper. The Darkling wanted you to have a gold cane, but when I got my next idea I changed the base metal… well I’ll get to that. 

“So, after stretching and bending the copper’s base structures and infusing them with the rubberwood sap particles I got a metal stick that bends when it strikes anything! Go ahead! Hit the bedpost!”

Dubiously the Sun Summoner looked at the cane and then looked at the bedpost, shrugged then walked over to hit the bedpost with much more force than David expected. Which again, explained why the Darkling wanted the Sun Summoner to have a walking aid that the boy wouldn’t be able to use as a bludgeoning tool. The kid had a strong swing. If this cane wasn’t made to bend around an impact point, which it performed beautifully under this stress test, then David was sure either the cane or the bedpost would’ve broken just now. 

Instead the Sun Summoner looked at the cane as if it personally offended him. Then leaned his weight on it again as he had done when he used it to walk over to the bed. “How does it manage to support my weight?”

David knew he was bouncing on his toes, but he couldn’t help it. It was rare for anyone but a fellow Materialk to be curious about the how’s or why’s behind their masterpieces functionalities. He almost shouted, “I specialized the bending!” Then after the dark flat stare he received, David calmed himself before continuing on.  “I worked the bending in every direction but one.  Top to bottom there’s no curving.  So when any bit of pressure is applied to the top it effectively locks all the squiggly parts in place so the cane can’t bend!

“Here, keep your weight on it please.” David requested of the Sun Summoner as he went up to him, once he was close enough he kicked the cane. As designed, it was solid and didn’t buckle on the boy. 

“David, that’s amazing! I can’t believe you figured this out in a week!” Genya’s eyes were bright as she looked at him while the Sun Summoner walked and tested the new cane out. David flinched when he witnessed the Sun Summoner actually strike his own arm. Because yes, it did bend at the impact point. But it still stung. David knew this from his own personal experience. 

“I know. Normally I can manufacture a specialized request in a day, if not two.” And why was Genya now giving him that flat disappointed look? What did he say wrong? “But that’s why I enjoyed this so much!” David didn’t know why, but he wanted Genya to be as excited as he was.  “It wasn’t easy! I had to consult books I haven’t read in years. And for the first time in years I had to really push my abilities past their comfort zone and grow as a Durast!  I’ve never felt more alive! 

“Also, that’s not the cane’s only functionality.”

Both pairs of eyes locked onto his. Normally he’d cower under any attention, but this was about fabrication, he stood taller. “So I kept hearing about you wrapping light around your old cane, and it got me wondering how I could make an object that would more efficiently use your Sun powers to hold a steady intense beam of light for you. Which is why I changed the base material to copper. Copper holds energy like that. Then I got to thinking about what else works well with sunlight. And it hit me! Zircon! It’s the only substance out there that bi-refracts light! Meaning it reflects all light that goes through it twice instead of once. So I embedded gold Zircon particles into the outer layer of the bottom staff portion of the cane. Which should equate to only needing a fraction of the effort of before to get the same results! Zircon comes in a few other colors: reddish brown, blue, green or gray. But gold seemed the best fit for you.” David stopped. Because though the boy was the Sun Summoner, gold didn’t actually seem to be his color. “For this anyway.” He amended. “Oh! And the crow’s eyes are sunstones. You should be able to fill those up briefly with your sun power and it should stay powered by itself until you pull the sun back out of it!”

David quickly stood back, because this was an aspect he couldn’t test in his lab. He had no idea how the cane was going to react to the Sun Summoner pouring his power into it. This was pure guesswork and theory. And he was itching to see how it worked!

With wide eyes the Sun Summoner blinked at him then looked towards the closed bedroom door. “It’s just us Kaz.” Genya spoke softly to the boy.  “Put a small amount of light into it for David because he needs you to test this part of his design.” 

David froze, when had he started bouncing again? But the look Genya leveled at him made even his brain stop thinking about particles and formulas to focus on what she was going to say, because she was silently telling him that he needed to pay attention and understand what she was going to say next. “No one here is going to snitch on you for using a small bit of sunlight to test your new cane’s functionality.” Then she was rushing around the room to close the heavy drapes.  

All David could do was blink at her in confusion. Because why couldn’t the Sun Summoner summon light in his own rooms? Or anywhere for that matter? He needed to practice summoning if he was going to use his powers to destroy the fold… But then the room lit up, and David’s attention went from Genya to zero in on the Sun Summoner.

It was magnificent. Standing in the middle of the room, feet braced shoulder width apart, cane held up before him, stood the Sun Summoner with a physical sword of light. David could hear it physically humming as the energy in it reacted to his specially chosen materials, bouncing and reflecting and boosting itself.  Keeping it powered on. David’s inner twelve year old bounced up and down in glee (or was he actually physically bouncing again?) at the swooshing noises that came out of it as the Sun Summoner experimentally waived and cut it through the air. “Oh oh oh!  See what happens when you slice at something!!!” And before David even registered that he moved, he was holding out the stick the boy had been using before. 

It was less than a second, David didn’t even feel any resistance as the sun sword cut through the wooden stick leaving singed edges where it had cut through. David poked at the end of the piece he was still holding, it wasn’t even warm to the touch when the boy caught his attention. 

The Sun Summoner grinned, it was even a more pleased than intimidating grin, and said, “I like it.”

Chapter Text

DARKLING

The Darkling couldn’t have wiped the smile off his face if he wanted to. It’d been a good week and he was off to play with his new favorite toy and dangle it in front of the rest of Ravka. Things were coming together better than he ever hoped for. Pieces he needed to fall in place were lining up splendidly. Designs he had on this kingdom were finally becoming a reality. Dreams he had for all Grisha were soon to become a reality.

He’d just turned the corner to head towards his Sun Summoner’s rooms when the doors burst open down the hall and Genya’s exasperated voice echoed out of them, “Just where do you think you’re going!”

The Darkling stopped to witness this new bit of active drama his Sun Summoner had brought to the Little Palace. The raspy voice that followed seconds later did not disappoint. “To find the servant who took my blasted blue Kefta! I am NOT WEARING THAT!” And sure enough, out marched his very bristly Sun Summoner sans any Kefta, but with a shiny new cane. Which meant he’d missed David. Which was unfortunate, it was one of the reasons why he was here this early. Otherwise he’d be working in his office still, there were… issues with his new Oprichnik that was coming. Or more specifically, where to assign her. He didn’t care about the fools in the first army with their antiquated notions of boot camp and waiting a year for active duty. Having reviewed Ivan’s reports again, it seemed as if the girl had already basically been in the front lines for a while now. She’d do just fine in his ranks.

“If I had a Kruge for every time I’ve heard you say that this past week I’d be a rich woman!”

“Well that is your fault for not brokering that contract sooner!”

It was hard to not chuckle at the children's antics.

Miss Safin’s answering growl of frustration was amusing. But what really lit up the smile on his face was his Sun Summoner angrily stalking off, his limp and cane punctuating his anger. In the wrong direction.

“The servants would’ve taken it that way.” The Darkling announced, more purred, and pointed down the hall he just came from. His Sun Summoner’s reaction, as always, was pure gold. The boy quickly spun to face him, several emotions fighting to make their way across his features. Regrettably, the boy’s face didn’t pale as much as he expected. Which told the Darkling Genya hadn’t yet done her touch up work on the boy yet. Which was perfect, he wasn’t too late then. David he didn’t mind missing. Watching how his Sun Summoner reacted and tolerated Genya’s touch as she worked, this was what he really wanted.

The silence in the hall was shattered as Genya came storming out of the rooms with a ferocity he wasn’t aware she possessed. “You little brat! If you think… oh, moi soverenyi!” She quickly bowed as she noticed him leisurely coming down the hall.

“Miss Safin.” He greeted her, nodding his head in appropriate acknowledgement. “So what garment is our Sun Summoner now refusing to wear?”

They both cringed, interesting. “His party Kefta.”

The Darkling quirked an eyebrow at the pair before him, an amused chuckle lurking at the back of his throat. Only to be snuffed as his hand reacted before his brain could register the movement. The boy had straightened up and squared his shoulders then moved to march right past him. The Darkling unaccustomed to subordinates leaving his presence without his approval had shot out his hand to grip the boy at the base of his neck. The Darkling at least had the foresight to start wearing gloves when he was dealing with the boy. The Darkling was aware he was a tactical creature when permitted to be, and while he may not have the boy’s explicit permission, he did have written rights over his Sun Summoner. So the Darkling took a page out of the boy's book, so to speak, and had a pair of black gloves made to wear. It ended up serving two purposes. First he wasn’t going to accendently render the boy a tramatized useless mass of vomiting flesh. Secondly, he got to rub the master/servant relationship in the boy’s face. The look of fiery jealousy each time the boy caught sight of them was intoxicating.

But right now, the Sun Summoner’s reflexes had him whipping around, cane first. There was more of a sting than the Darkling cared for, but otherwise it was entertaining to watch a seemingly solid gold stick bend around his arm like thick leather cloth before snapping back to its straight form. So David had done it. That strike would’ve broken his forearm otherwise.

“Schijten.” The boy swore under his breath wide eyed before the Darkling ended up gripping the Sun Summoner’s neck hard enough that he elicited a grunt of pain. Bending slightly to reach his Sun Summoner’s ear he whispered threateningly, “you hit me,” before shoving him forward back into his rooms. It was only because he was close enough to hear the boy that he saw the nervous swallow. The Darkling was intrigued at how much sensation was lost when wearing gloves. No wonder the boy took to wearing them with his condition.

“Unhand me.” The boy finally managed to gravel out as Genya quietly closed the doors behind them all and the Darkling drank in the terror that was being contained by seething rage.

The Darkling said nothing nor loosened his grip until after he angled the Sun Summoner’s desk chair towards the center of the room and shoved him down into it by the neck. The boy stiffened as the Darkling bent down so that his lips were a hair’s breadth away from his ear. “You steal from me. You resist following my orders. Then you hit me.” The Darkling relaxed his grip just enough to start rubbing a mock circle of comfort on the boy’s neck with his thumb. “Why should I?”

The boy was smart. He kept his mouth shut and let the Darkling have the cane when he gently tugged at it. As eye-catching as it was, it was still very basic. Strictly utilitarian, except for the bird headed handle. The Darkling frowned at that. “Seems as if there really isn’t anything David cannot accomplish. However, why the bird?” He would’ve preferred nothing of the boy’s old walking aid to have been incorporated, but this may yet suffice. Be a reminder of his old life that he could no longer have. Hopefully it would annoy the boy more than it will himself. The good thing was, if the Darkling ended up hating it, he had the power to have it changed.

At the lack of response he tightened his grip on the boy’s windpipe forcing him to gasp and spit out, “I don’t know! I didn’t tell him to do it!”

To which Genya suddenly spoke up “David mentioned a new Durast this week that talked of the Sun Summoner having a crow headed cane and he decided to incorporate it.”

Oh right. The Darkling had forgotten about him, the other member of the Sun Summoner’s entourage. The Darkling’s personal campaign to keep Materilki at the bottom of Grisha hierarchy had been going well. All other Grisha looked down on them, and they seemed content to stay on the bottom themselves. However, Ivan had gotten a glimpse of just how useful their abilities could be. Thankfully he was a good enough subordinate that he was keeping that revelation between themselves. Time would tell if the new Durast would be content to fall in line or not. There were ways to deal with disobedient Grisha who couldn’t/wouldn’t conform.

The Sun Summoner coughed painfully as the Darkling released his grip, shifting his hand so that he could play with the locks of now straight hair that had lost their sun bleached looks at the base of the boy’s head. The boy didn’t relax at all, if anything his white knuckled grip on the chair only got tighter.

“Miss Safin, I believe now is the perfect time for you to finish your work here and get on with your duties for the Queen.” The Darkling had thought the boy was stiff before, but he completely froze now as Genya bustled about gathering her supplies. While she busied herself, the Darkling ran gloved fingers as tenderly as he could over the forming bruises on his Sun Summoner’s neck. He knew he had been rough with the boy, but he hadn’t thought it was enough to form marks so quickly. So his Sun Summoner had a higher tolerance for pain, yet it was gentle touches that brought forth more dramatic reactions from the boy. That should have been expected knowing where and what kind of life the boy came from. Perhaps it was time for him to change what tactics he’d been using on the boy.

“Okay, I’m ready, you can let go of him now.” Genya announced as she settled in on a stool across from the Sun Summoner.

Settling both hands on the Sun Summoner’s shoulders the Darkling answered, “No. He’s proving violent today. I’ll just stay here and make sure he behaves himself.” And then the Darkling indulged himself in massaging the boy’s shoulders. The twitching of tense muscles as they fought to not move could still be felt through the white silk shirt and thin leather gloves. He probably shouldn’t get this much of a thrill in tormenting the boy so. But he did.

Genya was fast. The Darkling hadn’t cared for the flash of a non verbal sorry he caught her sending to the Sun Summoner, but he chose to let it slide. Her skills and fingers were speedy now that they've done this work once before and she barely had to touch the boy at all. The Sun Summoner barely flinched, focusing instead on breathing and keeping back whatever demons must have been clawing in his mind at having multiple hands on his person at once.

The Darkling stepped away from the Sun Summoner as Genya announced that she was finished and she backed away as if scolded. The boy breathed as if his head had just been pulled out of a barrel of water. After a week of the Apparat’s netteling, the Darkling was sure the religious fool would have managed to pry the story of the boy’s past out of him. But no. Which was fine, the Darkling enjoyed seeing others denied their pathetic wants. Logic argued for the boy to have been used sexually against his will, that was the culprit behind the other reported cases of this condition that had come to the Little Pallace. But somehow that didn’t seem to fit. Or considering how much more he reacted to gentle touches, maybe it did?

The Darkling reminded himself once again, he had time. Nothing but time. He’d manage to get the boy to tell him eventually. Shifting focus, the Darkling turned to look at the Kefta he had ordered for his Sun Summoner’s grand coming out Fete and promptly cringed. Alright. So it was a bit much. He had requested it to be gold, he wanted the Sun Summoner to really stand out to prove his elevated status, but didn’t want him in black as that would give people the idea that he was equal in hierarchy to the Darkling. The boy wasn’t. Would never be.

But this was a bit much. The fabric itself was a deep rich gold, which would bring out the golden highlights Genya had worked into the boy’s complexion. But the Fabrication team had gone overboard with embellishing the Sun motif with actual gems instead of metallic thread. However it would do well at keeping everyone’s focus on the Kefta instead of the person in it, which would serve them well later.

“Well, it’s time. Put on your Kefta, you shouldn’t be too late for your own Fete.”

“Please,” the Darkling cringed along with the Sun Summoner at the sound of his voice. He’d gotten used to that torn up gravellyness, but that just sounded like the boy was speaking through sharp blades instead of vocal chords. “Sir.” He tried again after a small coughing fit. “Do not make me wear that monstrosity.”

The Darkling looked from the Sun Summoner to the offending Kefta then back at the boy who was trying to tenderly massage his own throat using his silk shirt as a barrier. He sighed and fished his flask from inside his own Kefta and handed it to the boy. Genya could only hide the bruises, she couldn’t actually heal the damage underneath. “It’s whiskey.” He told him at the dubious look the boy was giving the container then smiled as the boy downed the flask in one go. That resulted in a much healthier coughing fit at least.

“Tell you what,” the Darkling began, opting to try bargaining with his Sun Summoner for a change. “You wear it and manage to pretend you're somewhat happy about being there tonight and I’ll let you wear these along with it.” And he pulled out a pair of dark yellow gloves he had made for the boy. Couldn’t have the rest of Ravka discovering the boy’s weakness after all.

The Sun Summoner moved to take the gloves but he snatched them back “ah ah ah” he admonished. “Kefta first, then gloves.”

The Darkling smiled at the dark look his Sun Summoner shot him then grinned in triumph as the boy slowly started for the golden Kefta. Only to notice the fresh underclothes still laid out on the bed. There was that healthy flush that showed off all those freckles.

“I’ll just be a minute.” He muttered while grabbing up all the clothes and rushing off to the bathroom.

KAZ

It was a good thing none of the clothes they provided had anyplace reliable for him to stash anything away in. He was too tempted to poison one of the Darkling’s drinks tonight and the only thing he had was the Jurda Parem toxin that killed much too quickly. Although the Darkling did deserve how violently and painfully it killed. It just wasn’t the right time to kill him yet. Or was it? No. Kaz was still operating in the dark here. He needed information and unfortunately, he felt the only man who knew what was really happening around here was the Darkling himself. Although, Baghra seemed to know more than she said.

“Schijten.” Kaz cursed again, a bit more vehemently. Hitting the Darkling was a fatal mistake. One he should have known better than to make. It all happened without him consciously thinking. He was so focused on chasing down that servant, that when he felt the brush of fingertips against his neck his survival instincts kicked in and then the next then he realized the stupid cane was snapping back into place leaving the offending arm unbroken. The Darkling’s arm. Fuck. Of course the Darkling was livid. Kaz had let him manhangle him afterwards in hopes to appease him enough that he wouldn’t use this as the opportunity it was to write him completely out of the contract renegotiation process. Knowing Haskell, Kaz couldn’t rely on the man to do an even remotely adequate job of it. Kaz would no doubt be permanently screwed. This current contract was bad enough, but at least it had a contract nullification clause and an actually short indenture term. If you counted the yearly renewal clause as a term.

Those would both be written out if Kaz wasn’t there to guide Haskell. Nothing for it now, he had to bring down the Fold before the years end. No big deal. He could do this. He just needed the right team. To build the right team however, he needed to know what he was dealing with. As much as he hated the idea of this party, it might be useful. Everyone was going to be there. Talking about him, yes. But also about the Fold. If he could get them talking about when it was created, maybe it’d give him some insight into how to bring it down.

Kaz stopped his pacing to breathe. It made his neck hurt, but at least the pain helped ground him. He quickly wiped off the sweat and dressed avoiding the mirrors. He couldn’t look at Jordie’s reflection right now. He had other things to focus on and zero time for the resulting mental breakdown it’d cause. Especially after having been pinned between two looming bodies and fighting the cold tides that nearly drowned him.

When he reentered the main room the Darkling was lounging in one of the plush chairs flipping through some papers. Of course, his contract. Kaz grit his teeth and refused to show the Darkling that the man was getting to him. The gold gloves the Darkling had offered moments ago were sitting on his crossed knee taunting him even further. Kaz took another deep breath and went to the golden monstrosity that was supposed to be his new Kefta. Kaz wasn’t a religious person, but right now he was considering sending a silent prayer to all of Inej’s Saints to beg that he’d only be forced into this thing for this one event. He unceremoniously put it on then held out his hand in silent demand of the gloves.

The Darkling of course just quirked one of his insufferable eyebrows at him and said, “The Kefta is only one half of the deal.”

Kaz stifled his growl, rolled his shoulders to get into a new character and envisioned the Darkling writhing on the floor, pink foam bubbling from his lips that would be locked in a silent scream of agony. Smiling a smile that he knew probably didn’t reach his eyes he replied, “Come now. You don’t really want to be the reason we’re late to my own party now do you? Sir.” At least he remembered the sir before the Darkling could speak.

It took every ounce of willpower Kaz had to not use his cane on the Darkling again. The way that man’s face lit up was revolting. At least he didn’t have to look at it long as the Darkling made good on his end of the bargain by putting the gloves into his outstretched hand.

Kaz had been sneak wearing gloves for most of the week. But to be able to wear them in front of the Darkling. It was just the last bit of armor he needed to fully feel like himself in front of the man. Suddenly this whole evening felt a lot more attainable.

Chapter Text

JESPER

Oh look! Jesper was no longer being shunned by his fellow Materilki! That dude David had returned from delivering that new cane to Kaz and gushed about how the Sun Summoner fussed over the crow head. While Jesper had a hard time imagining the boss fussing over anything that wasn’t Kruge, at least it got Jesper some respect around this place and they helped him with a Kefta and got him into the big party. 

Did he say big?  He meant massive. Although massive wasn’t the right term for how monstrously huge this whole affair was either. It was still kinda mind blowing that he, Jesper, was in a honest to Saints actual fucking palace.  It was totally a western nation thing. Had to be. Novyi Zem didn’t have palaces.  Kerch sure as shit didn’t. And how was he supposed to act around actual royalty?  Although that panic had subsided, because with the massive amount of people here, Jesper was pretty sure he wouldn’t be running into any of Ravka’s royal elite.  Shit, even with Kaz being the freaking Sun Summoner, Jesper wasn’t sure if he was going to be able to spot him through the throngs of people in attendance. Seriously. Was every citizen of Ravka actually here?  

No. Unless they were Grisha in their stupidity color coordinated Kefta’s, Jesper didn’t see any Suli present. He’d only left Inej what, five days ago, but he missed her. Especially now. And he couldn’t even begin to wrap his head around how much Kaz must be missing her. He’d been without her for twice as long as Jesper!  Actually, that was a lie. Jesper knew exactly what the boss was doing without her, them. Pretending like nothing matters but money and the job. Which jobs were just a means to acquire more money. Either way, it was a load of bullshit and Jesper was looking forward to the day when he’d be able to call Kaz out on it. If he could only find him. Seriously, how hard was it to find a dude in a freaking gold Kefta? He’d actually spit out the crap food he had been eating at lunch when he heard the Durast’s down the table gushing about their work and wondering how much the Sun Summoner was going to love it. Jesper didn’t have the heart to tell them that Kaz was only happy with crappy old merchant banker suits. Or Comedy Brute costumes. 

Jesper tried to listen in on all the conversations that were happening around him. He really was. He just felt naked without his babies.  This was the first time he’d ever been parted from them. Which was just stupid since most all the Grisha here could kill a man faster than he could shoot someone. Actually, no. Jesper was certain he could shoot someone as fast as a Heartrender could stop a heart. But that wasn’t the point. He should have been allowed his guns. But Jesper had to stop thinking about them. He knew Kaz would want to know everything being said here. It was just a lot, okay? And most of it was boring! Jesper didn’t care what dress her royal majesty was wearing. Apparently it was yellow and accented with sunflowers or some shit for the occasion. Or what horse won what race. Although there apparently was a way to bet money on that… Saints but Jesper wouldn’t mind a good card game right about now. 

Or people were saying things that were just not true. Like Kaz being a cutie. Which, Cute? Naaa. Kaz had his attributes, and could pass for dangerously handsome on his good days. There were a fair share of the Dregs who harbored crushes on the guy after all. But that was more for the power he offered.  Not his looks, and people around here were gushing about freckles?! The boss was too pale for freckles! Or maybe they were hidden under all those weird scars? Crap. Now he needed to find the boss to check for himself. How could he miss freckles? And where the fuck was Kaz? This whole thing was supposed to be for him. Leave it to Kaz to ghost his own fucking Royal party. 

But people here were also lamenting on the fact that some Prince Nikolai hadn’t made it back from the University of Ketterdam in time to attend the Fete. Which, Say what?! Sure the Uni was a big place and he may not have been there much.  But Jesper was sure he’d remember if a freaking Prince of Ravka was attending. That was the kind of thing that was talked about everywhere.  Right?  Maybe he had been more absent than he’d thought…

Then there was some creepy old dude in faded brown robes which really stuck out considering everyone else here was dressed to the nines.  Jesper really wished he had his old wardrobe from the Slat. He could then really wow these hoity-toity fancy people with some real fashion sense. But instead he was dressed like every other Durast.  Which was actually kinda helpful in avoiding smelly old robe dude actually. Except for when it wasn’t. 

His fellow Materilki just had to brag about him and how he traveled over with the Sun Summoner and that they were friends before the Little Palace. And even though that was like true, it still somehow didn’t sit right with Jesper. Because why couldn’t they still be friends here? Now? And while it was nice having the respect of his colleagues, it just meant that it drew everybody’s attention.  Everyone wanted to hear about the Sun Summoner. His life back in Ketterdam. Creepy old dude who also clearly didn’t bathe before import functions at one point managed to pin him in a corner and demanded Jesper tell him the Sun Summoner’s tragic and haunted backstory. Which. What?  Sure, there was something fundamentally off with the boss. Admittedly, Jesper tended to miss a lot of things, but even he picked up on the fact that the boss didn’t let his skin touch anyone. Ever. But it was just a Kaz thing. Surely. Not indicative to some tragic backstory.  Right?  Oh man, was Jesper being a bad friend in not recognizing Kaz’s trauma and not helping him? 

Although the shit that man was coming up with for what possibilities Kaz could have suffered through… Jesper was going to have nightmares tonight, he just knew it. Sure, mother’s all the time tried to kill their Grisha children. That was just a sad state of affairs in this world where no one really attempted to understand that Grisha were still people. But to say Kaz’s mom tried to drown him in the harbor only for Kaz to turn around and obliterate her with sunlight? That was just…No. Kaz had no idea he was Grisha until that day in Little Ravka’s underground before they left Ketterdam. The boss was good at keeping shit close to the vest, but he’d have never fallen for the Grisha’s testing trap if he’d known what he was. 

But then there was a story of how Kaz’s parents sold him into the gangs to have his Grishaness beat out of him?  That was absurd! Although, Kaz did go to great lengths to never mention his parentage… But if this had actually happened then how did Kaz manage to rise up and be the youngest Lieutenant any gang has ever had? No gang would allow a Sun Summoning Grisha in their ranks. Grisha drew too much of the wrong sort of attention. Plus, see Jesper’s counter argument above. 

Then there was a question if Kaz’s pa was a bodyman and took him to work at too young of an age and that to escape all the dead bodies Kaz ran away to the gangs instead. THAT would make Jesper shiver every time he thought of it because, ewww, dead bodies were just. Ewww! Okay! Blea. Although it could possibly explain Kaz’s seemingly fineness around dead bodies.  Nope! Not going to think about that anymore. 

You know what. There were some seemingly cool people as well. Okay, so the First Army general was actually more clueless.  But not in a deliberately mean way, just a ‘I only believe that my culture is how the world should operate’ kind of way.  And he was thinking of Kaz the person’s best interests not Kaz the Sun Summoner’s usefulness.  Which bonus points, he seemed to be the only other person around who was remembering Kaz was a person first, Sun Summoner second.  

So, it went like this: this man in the fanciest First Army uniform sporting an obscene amount of medals and insignia with an actual fucking name tag reading “PENSKY” came up behind Jesper as he braved trying to find Kaz amongst the noble side of the party…. The stupid nobles did NOT like that. Not until he mentioned he was looking for his friend he traveled here with. You know, the actual Sun Summoner.  Which was like having the perfect hand and everyone would part out of your way like the Council of Tide’s would part the harbor. Or it was like having a master key that would open any lock.  Yeah.  That was a better analogy.

So the nobles started crowding Jesper. But that General dude got him efficiently out of the mob. Then once they were in a quiet spot he asked probably the most sensible question Jesper had heard this evening.  “Just how Kerch is the Sun Summoner?”

“Oh he’s as Kerch as Kerch can get.” 

“So he’s not going to understand the Tsar’s pardon at all is he.”

“Like, a verbal pardon?” At the man’s nod Jesper laughed.  “Saints no!  I was there. Kaz, himself, signed a written contract for services. There’s no power on Earth that can break that. Least of all some foreigner, king or no king just saying aloud it’s nullified.”

The General grunted and made a face before turning pensive. “Was he under any duress to sign?”

Jesper blew a long raspberry at that while he got his thoughts in order and tried to word this so his boss didn’t come out sounding like a victim. “A lot less duress than most who get themselves roped into an indenture.” He wasn’t going to mention how most foreigners in Kerch had no clue about what was really happening when they signed the stupid contracts.  Or were flat out tricked into it. 

The General gave him a sour look, but Jesper was sure it was aimed at the Kerch with their insane indenture practices and not himself. At least, he hoped he wasn’t the target of that face. “So how do we actually go about getting him out of this contract?”

Wouldn’t that be nice! “Ooof. I mean, we can’t.” Jesper was right about the other look not being aimed at himself. THIS angry glare was however. Jesper immediately put his hands up in the universal placating manner of don’t hurt me I’m not at fault and rushed on. “You would need to buy him out of his contract. But the contract he signed is… different. Unique. It’s not just one person you have to buy out. Technically it’s three. The Darkling, Kaz’s boss back in the Barrell Per Haskell and Kaz himself.”

That threw the General guy for a loop. “I wasn’t aware that those indentured could have any ownership in their contracts.”

Jesper chuckled, because it was classic Kaz, “Kaz is good at manipulating situations to his benefit.”

“And what about accomplishing things deemed impossible?”

“Ha! That’s the fastest way to get Kaz to do anything!” Jesper nudged the General with his elbow. “Even better than Kruge! Just tell him something is impossible to accomplish and he will go out and make sure to prove it to everybody that it is!”  

It was at this point that their conversation was cut short. Everything had gone pitch black, then suddenly honest to Saints real stars rose up from a figure in the center of the room. It was beautiful and enchanting watching the twinkling stars rise up into the domed ceiling and glitter around the obnoxious chandelier that hung there. Kaz was always proud of his street magic skills, but this was something else. Even the Grisha who studied these kinds of skills stood transfixed at the beauty of this display of power. Until the moment the individual stars all coalesced into one giant star, a sun with arcs of light flaring all around it and those quick on the uptake of where the Sun Summoner was going with this quickly adverted their eyes so they wouldn’t be permanently blinded, then BAM! The sun exploded and all the natural lights came back.  

Leave it to Kaz to know how to wow a crowd and physically rob them of something at the same time. In this case, their sight. Jesper sure as shit was still blinking spots out of his eyes, and he half knew it was coming. But the crowd here was already cheering and in moments they’d probably also be doing what Jesper was, trying to make his way to Kaz. So Jesper used his height to his advantage and pushed forward to the front of the ring that was around the two individuals. Jesper ignored the figure that was in black, though there was that part of his brain that expected the black figure to be Kaz. Jesper knew better. He knew Kaz was for some Saints forsaken reason dressed in gold. 

Habit had him searching out the bosses hands first, which it was a good thing he was because Kaz was signalling Jesper to stay back and keep guard. Don’t engage. Okay. Sure. Oh, Right. Yeah, right here in the middle of every person in Ravka was a horrible spot to reconnect with his boss and start scheming about what actions they were going to be taking now that they were back together again.  Jesper backed back towards the Grisha side of the party, but he still caught the boss signalling “I’ll find you when safe.”  Yep. Time to chill and go back to mingling.

It was hours later before a familiar voice he hadn’t heard in weeks rasped behind him, “How’s Inej?”  Which. Of course that would be the first thing the jerk would say to him. He looked towards the sky and sighed a silent prayer for the strength and patience required to deal with the boss. 

“Oh, Hi Jesper!” If the boss wasn’t going to say it, Jesper was going to say it for him.  “So happy to see you here safe. You’re the best second a guy could ever ask for. Following me as you did across the world took great dedication and courage. How have I survived without you?” At this point Jesper was clutching his hands to his chest and he slowly turned to look at the boss. “She’s… holy shit!”  And Jesper’s thoughts came to a grinding halt as he took in the person who had actually come up behind him. “KAZ???”  At the rough grunt of confirmation Jesper blinked.  Because the person standing in front of him was the right height with a proper annoyed pinched expression.  But that was it. This person had no visible scars anywhere, he looked like he’d never missed a meal along with a healthy complexion that sure enough, there were freckles!  Oh, this boy was a cutie!  That’s when Jesper noticed Kaz was in a servant’s getup carrying an actual tray of hors d’oeuvres.  How? “What did they do to you!” At Kaz’s continual glare Jesper’s brain started hiccuping into working again. OMG.  “Right Inej… no seriously. what did they do to you!” Jesper hissed as he moved further away from the crowd with Kaz subtlety leading him by his elbow. 

“It’s not safe to talk here,” and Kaz handed him something that really didn’t look appetizing at all on a small piece of paper. “Here’s where they’re keeping me. You’re going to have to find your own way in. See you at two rat bells.” And with that he was gone again leaving Jesper with a million questions and no real answers. As usual. 

Chapter Text

INEJ

Inej sat on the hilltop overlooking the caravan's camping spot. They’d pulled out of Kribirsk the morning after Jesper left with the Grisha. She wasn’t prepared for how large of a hole in her heart his leaving was going to cause. She’d barely been with the Dregs for a year, and that entire time she wanted nothing more than to be here back with her family. The Suli routine was achingly familiar and vastly different at the same time. It was everything she remembered as a child. Everything she longed for after being abducted. The tents. The animals. The food. The people, her family. They were still working the same tasks in the same ways. Inej had spent so many countless nights wishing to be in this very spot. Safe. Back with her family. She craved a return to this tedious monotonous lifestyle. Her spirit had felt severed when she was ripped away from them with little to no hope of return. Yet. Here she was. Everything she’d always wanted for soo long. But like her old shoes her mother had saved for her. This place no longer fit. There was something missing.

Someone missing.

And Inej just wanted to scream until she was hoarse. Because if she had thought a month ago that she’d miss not having Kaz Brekker in her life, she’d have attempted to slap some sense into herself. Kaz was the product of a corrupt city in a Saintless county. He was ruthless to the point of casual cruelty. He took whatever he wanted whenever he wanted. While she was grateful he’d managed to get her out of the Menagerie, the Dregs were just a different flavor of suffering. It tried to strip away everything she was just as the Menagerie tried to do. And even now, reflecting back she couldn’t be certain if Kaz had been pushing her to give up on who she used to be, or had been trying to help her keep herself.

Yes. He pushed her constantly out of her comfort zone, made her tougher when she didn’t want to be. But he also took no for an answer, and defended her choice from the older gang members who wanted to force her to do things that she just couldn’t and still consider herself Suli.

“A ruble for your thoughts moi voljina ptica.”

“Oh, Ujak.” And Inej hugged her beloved uncle fiercely once he sat next to her. She hadn’t intended to cry, but a tear managed to escape as he laid a heavy arm over her shoulders to hug her back, and then the dam was broken and all her conflicted feelings flooded out of her. “What is wrong with me? I now have everything I wanted for so long, yet… I’m not happy. Am I cursed to never be happy again?”

“Oh no my voljina Inej.” And Mateo nearly cracked her ribs at the hug he gave her before letting go and squaring her shoulders so she had to look at his face. A rough calloused thumb tenderly stroking rouge tears off her cheeks. “You have been chosen by the Saints! You have a destiny that extends far beyond our miniature Suli encampment. And you will find happiness once you’ve completed your role the Saints have bestowed upon you.”

“Ujak, the Saints have taken my friends and left me behind.”

“Net. The Saints are merely answering your mother’s and your father’s and my own and the rest of our families prayers for your safe return. They have given you back to us so that we may see the beautiful and strong woman you have become. To let us know you are safe. And to let us know your path has joined that of a true Living Saint. You shall see. Somehow you are destined to aid the Sun Summoner in the destruction of the Shadow Fold. They took you and put you on his path for a reason. The Saints will see you back with the Sun Summoner when the time is right.”

Inej could only smile at her uncle's kindness and optimism. But she couldn’t see how the Saints could ever get her back into Kaz’s life now that he’d gone to the Little Palace. Only Grisha went there.

• ~🗡 ~ • ~ 🔪 ~ •

It was almost a week later when the King's reapers came. The First Army’s enlistment officers with their list of all the Suli who were scheduled to turn 17 soon. Inej held hands with all the weeping mothers whose hearts were breaking. It wasn’t right, but there was nothing they could do to stop it. The draft came for them all. It happened every few months, and the punishment was severe to any troupe when one of them tried to dodge the King's draft.

It was odd. Inej could see her mother was sad, yet could feel her mother’s happiness because she was still only 16 and wouldn’t be conscripted today. There were only three of age currently in the troupe. And they stood tall and walked forward as their names were called. But the officer didn’t stop at three. The fourth name was of a cousin born only a few months before herself. Suddenly her mother’s comforting grip turned to crushing iron and Inej’s breath caught in her lungs as the officer read “Ghafa, Inej.”

It was a long moment before Inej realized the roaring that was drowning out her thoughts was external. Everyone was in an uproar around her because the reapers had called all the 16 year olds as well as those who were 17.

“The age of draft is 17!”

“You cannot take two years of our babies!”

“We just got our little Inej back! You cannot take her now!”

That last voice had been a combination of her mama and papa. But Inej’s focus was drawn to the row of olive clad soldiers who stepped up with their rifles in hand. At the end of which was a pair of grey clad Oprichniki. What were they doing here?

Above the complaints of her peoples the enlistment officer was shouting. “The enlistment age has been dropped to sixteen for all Suli.”

“Only us Suli?”

“That is not fair!”

“Oh sure, send only our babies to fight and die!”

Inej’s eyes locked with one of the Oprichnik and they nodded to her. Inej squared her shoulders and stepped out from the mass of her people. Only to be stopped short by an iron grip on her arm.

“Inej, voljina ptica” her father pleaded, “what are you doing?”

Inej looked around to the faces of her family, finally settling on her uncle. He also seemed to realize what was happening and took his brother's hand and rested his other upon her mama’s shoulder. She gave him a faint smile as she said, “wise Ujak, I see now the path you said the Saints would lay for me.”

Her mama released her suddenly to use both hands to try and hide her gasp. Inej took this opportunity to give her mama and papa the hugs she was denied the last time the Saints manoeuvred her into the Sun Summoner’s path. Then marched forward to join the line of the three drafted 17 year olds.

A silence fell over both troupes and slowly her fellow 16 year old cousins joined her.

Confused, the enlistment office just stared for a moment before coming back to his senses. “Right. New recruits, you have one hour to pack only the essentials for your new careers in His Majesty's First Army. The clock is ticking. Move!”

Inej was the first to move. She may not have worn her black leather spider outfit since she’d returned to her family, but she hadn’t been able to throw it away either. She went straight to the bottom of her trunk and was dressed in an instant. It was like how her coming home should have felt like. Confident. Sure. Right. She kissed every bladed Saint as she sent them her thanks while securing them to her person.

Her Suli family bowed to her as she marched back up the hill to the waiting First Army troops. All of whom were staring at her with eyes as wide as saucers. They’d never seen anyone dressed as she was currently dressed. Especially not any Suli. All her cousins returned in their bright silks and shaws with only a small rucksack carried on their shoulders. But Inej was in all dark, skin tight clothing. Knives strapped to practically every inch of her person, a small pouch attached to her hip.

She was the Wraith once more.

The two Oprichniki silently communicated with each other via eye contact. Inej read their silent approval of her.

She was the Sun Summoner’s Wraith.

The closest Oprichnik smirked at her. She smirked back.

I’m coming Kaz.

• ~🗡 ~ • ~ 🔪 ~ •

Inej had never been to the capital Os Alta before, her family decided that crossing the Fold wasn’t worth the risk when she was young. They all had taken that risk however after she’d been abducted. Her heart swelled with love for them. They had tried to look for her. Unfortunately they had crossed the UnSea instead of attempting the TrueSea. Inej knew now it was because the Saints had plans for her. It didn’t fix what had happened, nor did it make it easier to reconcile with. But she was able to make better peace with it, she supposed.

Inej looked upon the capital now with her two silent escorts. It was as described by other Suli troupes, yet very much different at the same time. The tall spires with their brightly colored bulbous domes were everywhere, the grandest of them all sat on top of a hill towards the middle of the city. There the pointed rounded roof domes were coated in what appeared to be shining gold acted as a beacon even from the distance here at the treeline.

But the farmland that was reported to be between the city and the forests was slowly disappearing beneath a massive influx of pilgrims. In Ketterdam Inej had become accustomed to people of all nationalities living together. She never thought she’d witness it in Ravka. Yet it was trying to happen here. It was strange to see Suli and Ravkan farmers setting up temporary housing together out here in the fields surrounding the city. There were all sorts of tents and wagons and people and on top of all that, were prayer banners to the sun. Inej stood dumbfounded.

The Oprichniki who traveled with her also stopped to stare, but more at her. She shook her head. The entire trip they hadn’t said a word to her, so she didn’t say words to them. Inej was silence, it didn’t bother her at the lack of chatter for the past week. But this was something else. Even if she wanted to, she couldn’t actually voice the thoughts swirling in her head. In seeing all these people here for the Sun Summoner it’d feel blasphemous for her to say aloud how much she knew Kaz would hate all of this. He’d be swinging his cane if he was here. Busting their heads and these pious people would just kneel before him thanking him for the blessing he was bestowing upon them never realizing he was just commenting mass murder. What were the Saints thinking? Making Kaz the Sun Summoner? Although, as long as he once again accomplished the impossible and destroyed the Shadow Fold Inej supposed that’s all that mattered.

The lead Oprichnik motioned to her and she silently followed. They didn’t go through the main gates however. Instead they traveled around the city to a grain silo at one of the farms around the back of the city wall. There was a trap door hidden underneath and this was the path that led them inside to what Inej could only presume was inside the city. They never returned to the surface so she had no idea where they actually were.

It was like an underground castle. There were so many hallways and doors to so many rooms. All Inej could hear was Kaz’s voice in her head lecturing her on how she better be able to reverse her steps so she could get out the way she got in. And how the best spiders always had an escape plan and knew where everyone was at all times. So she focused on building a mental map, although plotting possible emergency escape exits and hiding spots was impossible when she didn’t even know where she was at or heading to.

Their long narrow hallway eventually opened up to what looked to be a guard room where two Oprichniki sat on duty. They silently checked some papers and raised an eyebrow in her direction. The Oprichnik who always took the lead of her pair did some obvious wording with his hands then produced a small folded piece of paper. All Inej was able to discern was the wax seal of the Darkling before they were heading past the guard station and moving into a series of hallways with doors every ten feet. There were small windows just large enough to look in and they were all bedrooms of some sort. A pair of bunk beds along the walls on either side of the doors. At first all the rooms were empty, but soon enough the rooms looked to be occupied. Many left their doors wide open so Inej was able to see better the four large storage trunks built in on either side of the bunk beds and the seemingly nice warm grey bedding.

No one stopped their progress as they continued past. No one spoke to them either. Not even friendly hello’s. As much as Inej was silence, even this was beginning to creep her out. Eventually they came upon a closed door and her Oprichnik knocked. It opened and they entered. Inside was another pair of Oprichniki in what started out as a standard 10x10x10 room, but there were no beds, just rows of cabinets and in the middle back was a plain desk where the Oprichnik who hadn’t opened the door sat waiting for them. However, there was no back wall to this room. It just opened up into a very spacious room behind the seated Oprichnik.

The seated Oprichnik came out from behind the deck to make a slow circle around her, clearly looking her over. What he was looking for, Inej had no idea, but she stood as tall as her 5’3” frame would let her while the Oprichnik made his silent evaluation. Up close she could see the faint differences in his grey uniform, the decorative stitching around the neck and sleeves of his coat were twice as wide as the other Oprichniki here. So Inej had to assume this one must have been the Oprichnik in charge when the Darkling was away leading his Grisha.

There was a brief moment of the same paper again and hand talking then her two escorts bowed to the leader, turned and exited. The leader then motioned to one of the chairs in front of his desk as he went back to his position when she had entered. As he got settled, it gave Inej a moment to look past his desk to the room that was beyond. The ceiling was several feet higher and there was a beautifully ornate black lacquered desk and chair in the middle with another table behind it along the back wall covered in leather books and folders. Definitely a well used workspace, but who would the Darkling allow to work behind him like that? The walls were covered with ornate tapestries that Inej couldn’t even begin to comprehend the stories behind, although they seemed to be about Shadow Summoners and all kinds of maps of the world. Which is what really caught her eye. The Ravka map didn't have the Shadow Fold. Both the whole world and Ravka only maps had pins in them with colored twine running in haphazard lines over their tops. In the middle of where the Shadow Fold should have been, there was a cluster of pins creating some sort of geometric patterned star in the middle. There was black yarn overlapping some of the red and Inej had no idea what she was looking at.

“Can you speak?” The lead Oprichnik startled her, shifting her focus from the maps back to him.

The question seemed odd to Inej at first, but after realizing she’d hadn’t said a word since leaving her family she supposed it was a valid question. “Yes?”

The man didn’t look impressed but continued on. “The ranks of the Oprichniki are only opened to a select few that manage to impress the Darkling'' and he held up the Darkling’s waxed paper so that she could see it was actually a formal invitation to join his Oprichniki instead of enlisting in the First Army. Hope started blooming in her chest, but he kept on talking. “And even fewer make it through the rigorous training. We have a strict code of silence. If it’s found you cannot adhere to it, then measures are taken to ensure that you will adhere to it.”

Here he pointed back to the door where his other half stood at the door facing them. He opened his mouth and Inej was proud of herself for having kept a cool composure while the man displayed that his entire tongue had been removed. “However most undergo the removal to prove their loyalty to the Darkling.” Inej turned back to face the leader visually unphased, her time with the Menagerie and Kaz in the Dregs successfully hardening her to such displays of mutilation. However if he had any Heartrender abilities at all, Inej was sure he’d feel her wildly beating heart.

The leader finally showed a spark of approval. “Normally this is where we take you down the hall and rigorously test and train you before fitting you for a uniform and presenting you to the Darkling for his evaluation.” Inej’s ears perked up, exceptions were being made for her? Of course they were, she was connected to Kaz. “But for now.” And here he did more hand words with his left hand that ended with him pointing towards the door. She may not have understood the silent words, but the intent was clear. She was dismissed. Silently she stood and left.

(She never looked behind her so she didn’t see the shocked expression on the leader's face. If it hadn’t been for his partner opening the door, he was certain he wouldn’t have known the girl had left. Well, well, well. Perhaps she was much more than a bargaining tool against the Sun Summoner.)

Outside in the hall were her original two Oprichniki. They motioned for her to follow them again, so she did. Several rooms later they entered the largest closet she’d ever witnessed. It was filled with nothing but the simple grey uniforms of the Oprichniki. Here she was sized, again by a pair of Oprichniki, and before she could think much about it her arms were laden with two pants, shirts, underclothes along with a jacket, hat and boots. Then they were going back the way they’d originally came from and she was being shown into one of the dormitory quads. Two of the beds were uninhabited so she made her way over and placed her items on the far back unclaimed trunk. As she took in the fact that the other two inhabitants were the first female Oprichniki she’d ever noticed, a slip of paper was being handed to her. It simply read “change quick. When the Darkling summons we go.”

She wasn’t left to wait long. She had just laid on the top bunk to try and process everything that was happening when a hand was knocking on their doorframe. They had marched double time this time, just shy of running, and in moments she was back in the main office room standing before the imposing figure of the Darkling himself. He smiled at her and the juxtaposition of his charming smile and dangerous aura set her on alert.

“Welcome Lady Ghafa! I’m so excited you have chosen to come work for us in the Second Army instead of needlessly throwing away your skills and your life with the First Army. Please, sit.

“I’m going to cut straight to the heart. I need people I can rely upon who are good at acquiring information and being seen only when needed. I hear you’re good at that.” At her nod he continued on. “And eventually the Sun Summoner is going to need his own personal guard to act as a human shield and take any stray hits that he might not see coming. Are you up for that task? That ultimate sacrifice?”

“I am.” For Kaz she was. The Darkling would need to earn her loyalty first.

Chapter Text

Nikolai stood still yet observant along the aft rail of the quarter deck on his ship, the Volkvolny. His eyes scanned the waters and docks looking for any hazards that may threaten their docking, while his ears kept him apprised of the organized chaos that was the normally off-duty members of the crew scurrying about on deck and in holds pulling and prepping the dock lines and fenders while the on-duty crew continued manning the sails. Ketterdam’s fifth harbor wasn’t his preferred landing place, but Sturmhond’s and Volkvolny’s reputations came first. Besides, the harbor had improved greatly in the past year. He remembered the last time they docked being dicey even with the aid of Tidemakers due to the submerged rotting wood hazards scattered about. But this time his eyes weren’t finding those underwater hazards and it must have been dredged recently because their keel wasn’t scraping on the bottom anymore. Nikolai didn’t care much for the gangs that not so secretly ran most of Ketterdam, but he was feeling it was time to casually meet this Dirtyhands character. He couldn’t name the Dregs boss, but he knew of Dirtyhands, Kaz Brekker. If it wasn’t for their intelligent and creative vision in restoring this fifth harbor as well as they had, Nikolai wouldn’t have known the Dregs gang even existed. And the fact they were smart enough to go the extra mile in maintaining and paying competent dockworkers, it spoke volumes. Actions spoke louder than words, and Nikolai was more inclined to believe the stories of Dirtyhands was more rumor than facts.  No man who went to these efforts could be as cold hearted and as ruthless as they said he was.  

That was, IF Nikolai could actually get a free moment to go confirm his theories.  Or not. It wasn’t the plain nondescript Dregs workers at the docks today. It was bright gold and orange clad men who were clearly hired for their muscle opposed for their knowledge. Which was a shame, it probably meant that whichever gang was now in charge would probably stop investing into the upkeep of the docks and in a few years they’d be unusable again. They didn’t have time to stay, otherwise he’d probably make an effort to check to see if Dirtyhands Crow Club was also under new management. These gangs were next to impossible to keep up with, especially for people who didn’t live here. Which is why Nikolai didn’t waste his time in trying.

“DOUCE FORE AND MAIN SAILS! MAN HEADSAILS AND MIZZEN SHEETS!” Nikolai watched as the sailors who were in the holds popped out while repeating acting Sturmhond’s orders and rushed to the lines to carry them out.

Nikolai had to bite his tongue so that he wouldn’t accidentally start shouting Sturmhond’s commands. It was normally his job, Sturmhond was his alter ego designed to survive the rough life on the seas as a privateer after all. But he and his officers discussed it the night before, they didn’t have the time to waste. So in order for him to be able to get away from the ship sooner he was dressed in his First Mate Privyet’s plain garb with a worn fisherman’s hat pulled low to try and disguise the fact that he wasn’t actually Privyet. While Privyet was standing besides the helmsman in Sturmhond’s purposefully garish teal frock coat and shiny tricorn hat barking docking orders to the crew. While this clothing trick wouldn’t work without Tamar’s Tailoring, at the same time, it made it possible for Tamar’s efforts to actually work. The brighter, louder, more iconic Sturmhond’s outfit was, then less work/acting the people actually wearing the outfit needed to pull off Sturmhond. Because when everyone is too busy either looking at, or trying to not look at, the obnoxiously bright eye assaulting garb. It was laughably easy to constantly change the man in the clothes without changing Sturmhond.

But Nikolai wasn’t laughing. The last couple ships they’d managed to overcome brought troubling news. Actually, it was looking really dire. If their information hadn’t led them to Ketterdam, Nikolai would’ve risked skipping another check in with his double attending the University on his behalf and kept hunting Shu and Fyordian vessels.

The last Shu vessel they captured was hunting a runaway chemist named Bo Yul-Bayur. Rumors said he was trying to seek asylum in Ketterdam with their Merchant Council. The Shu they captured wouldn’t, or perhaps couldn’t tell them which merchant. But they were able to learn he had a new formula for a Grisha specific drug. Some sort of enhancer was his people's best guess. But that was all they had. Rumors for it were proving hard to gather on the sea. Hence coming to Ketterdam. They could hopefully find and talk to those more directly involved and Nikolai was hoping he might have received some useful correspondence from Ravka that would be waiting with his stand-in at the University. He was beyond ready to rectify the issue of operating on too many questions and not enough facts.

“FENDERS OUT! READY DOCKING LINES!” Sailors hurried along the rail shoving fenders by the board while those on the docking lines did a final hand coil of the attached heavies and carefully balanced the lines between both their hands in preparation to throw on command. His other two officers Toyla and Tamar Yul-Bataar, a pair of Shu Twins he’d rescued a few years ago, nodded to him as they stood by the gangway amidships, readying to secure it as soon as the ship was docked.

The other vessel they’d captured on their way over was a Fjerdan Drüskelle hunting ship. Full of Grisha as they expected when they overtook her. What made it troubling was the fact that it was full of Grisha who’d already been tried in the Ice Court and instead of being executed there, the Fjerdians apparently had made a deal with the Shu to ship their Grisha scheduled for execution to Shu Han for their deaths. Which was what made everything horrible. Because If Fjerda and Shu Han were allying with each other then things were about to go very wrong for Ravka, and if Nikolai had a chance to sever that alliance before it could take root then he was determined to do so. It all came back to this mysterious Shu drug.

“DOUCE HEADSAILS AND MIZZEN! ARTYOM SLOW THE BOW!” Nikolai forced his brain from their downward spiral into their current problems, his country’s potentially fatal problems, and focused on joining his two officers amidships. As Artyom, their Tidemaker, took control of the waters under the Volkvolny, she became unnaturally still and the crew collectively held their breaths waiting for the captain's orders.

It wasn’t long before acting Sturmhond was shouting for the dock lines to be sent ashore and the seammen manning them were quickly and expertly tossing their heaving lines to the dockman who inexpertly caught them and much too slowly pulled the heavy docklines from the ship to the shore. Wood creaked and screamed everywhere as the stress of the Volkvolny forcefully stopped against the hopefully still immovable dock.

Both ship and dock held and within minutes Nikolai, Tamar and Toyla were off disappearing into the city the dock led to. Once they were to their small flat in Little Ravka Toyla was tossing Nikolai a bag with a change of clothes while Tamar set to work Tailoring his features back to what he was born with. They both were Heartrenders, but only Tamar seemed to have the talent for changing physical attributes.

“Right. So far, so good team.” Nikolai grinned at his two officers. The twins, as always, were unimpressed with his little pep talks and he tried to not be offended as Tamar rolled her eyes and silently communicated her annoyance with her much larger brother. They couldn’t be of just Shu heritage, Shu didn’t typically get that large.

“Are you sure you want us to head to the Merchants' home without you once Nikita.” Nikolai cut Tamar off by holding up a warning finger to her and making little ‘ah ah ah’ noises. “Fine. Prince Nikolai at Ketterdam University reveals which…”

“If we’re lucky.” Toyla mumbled under his breath, but it was still loud enough to interrupt Tamar who sent her patented annoyed glare towards her brother.

Tamar raised her voice, “to which Mercher was receiving the Shu shipment? And that’s IF your double even knows anything about it.” Tamar finished throwing up her hands while refixing her glare of disapproval at his person. Nikolai was fairly certain he really hadn’t done anything to warrant it.

“It happened in Ketterdam! Of course he’ll know!” Nikolai was a born placater. He knew how to tell people the words they needed to hear. They still weren’t impressed. Saints! What did it take to impress those of Shu heritage? So one time his double Nikita hadn’t known the person they needed to find. Actually, so what if it happened more than once? The man had two full time jobs, maybe three. It couldn’t be easy pretending to be a prince of a foreign realm and maintaining perfect grade marks on top of that. Besides, how was one man supposed to know everybody in this place? Ketterdam was ridiculously large and sprawling; it was just flat out impossible. “And yes, I think you two can be much more successful without me. You’re Shu, you can go in impersonating angry Shu officials threatening repercussions, or perhaps allies to this Bo Yul-Bayur. Anything that will get this Councilman to tell us about what this drug is and what exactly it does and why they’re so Saints set on keeping it secret! Besides, I’ve been postponing this trip for a while now… I’m going to have a lot of mail to go through…”

Within the hour they were at their safe house on the University grounds and the boys waited while Tamar hunted down Nikita. Nikolai had just finished sorting through his hidden mail and was reading through his mother’s correspondence first when Tamar got back stating Nikita should only be a few minutes behind her. Nikolai was staring wide eyed at his mothers last missive when a familiar hand was suddenly pounding him on the back before crushing him in a hug.

Sure enough, Nikita was there crushing Nikolai’s biceps while his bright laughter filled the room. “About time you got here! I still can’t believe you decided to skip the last scheduled rendezvous!” He let go to stand in Nikolai’s face with a serious expression. “Forcing me to write to your mother. That might just be the greatest risk you’ve taken to date moi soverenyi!” And Nikita was laughing again and Nikolai wanted to join in the laughter, but there was still just too much trouble on his mind.

“It’s a wonder they manage to pull this off.” Nikolai heard one of the twins whispering. Granted, aside from build and hair color, he and Nikita didn’t actually look that much alike, but thanks to there being a literal ocean and the Shadow Fold between Os Alta and Ketterdam no one here realised that Nikita wasn’t actually the real Prince Nikolai. Plus Nikita had grown up with him in the Grand Palace, he knew all the words and people and places. It wasn’t that hard to believe this ruse was working.

“My friend, I’m afraid we don’t have time for pleasantries, please do you know of a Merchant Counsilman who should have received a special delivery from Shu Han?”

“Do I know of?” Nikita blinked at them with wide eyes. “A better question is, Who in Ketterdam DOESN’T know of Councilman Hoede’s stolen Shu shipment!”

“It was stolen?”

“Oh yes! In theory at any rate.”

“How do you mean, in theory?”

“Well, the Council has never mentioned as to what was taken! There’s rumors floating around it was drugs. But no new drugs have hit the streets. Add in the knowledge that the Merchant Council has been threatening prosecution against the Barrell gangs for years, waiting for the right wrong move by them to justify kicking them all out of town. Well, why wouldn’t they make this theft up? Plus, no one’s been able to find Dirtyhands.”

Nikolai blinked at the non sequitur. “What does he have to do with this?”

“Well, he’s known for stealing high profile items from high profile men for no other reason because he can. Anyone else would make sure to fence the goods eventually to get the profits, but this wouldn’t be Dirtyhands first time at taking something then burying it, effectively losing out on a small fortune. In theory. Not like the boy leaves any evidence behind to tie him to the crimes.”

“Boy?”

“Oh yeah, he’s only like, sixteen if you believe the people on the streets. Eighteen or nineteen if you believe the Stadwatch.” Nikita leaned in to whisper conspiratorially even though it was just them in this soundproofed room. “I’m inclined to believe the Stadwatch raised his age in order to save some face. What law organization wants to publicly admit a young teenager is running circles around them. Eh?”

Nikolai rubbed his temples, this conversation was quickly getting off track. “Alright. I’m going to tell you the facts as I know them, then I need you to confirm what’s right, what’s wrong and what’s a maybe.” At Nikita’s nod he began.

Chapter Text

NIKOLAI  

Nikolai rubbed his temples, this conversation was quickly getting off track.  “Alright. I’m going to tell you the facts as I know them, then I need you to confirm what’s right, what’s wrong and what’s a maybe.”  At Nikita’s nod he began. “Have you heard anything about a Bo Yul-Bayur?”

“No. Who’s that?”

“A Shu scientist who’s apparently created a new Grisha drug.”

“Like I mentioned earlier, there’s been no new drugs here.”

Nikolai leaned back frowning. The rumors had been so prominent on the seas, it was hard to imagine there was nothing here in Ketterdam, the center of practically all trade and commerce which included rumors and information. Unless he’d somehow gotten lucky in his privateering and discovered it early? Or very unlucky and was chasing a red herring.  Time to keep poking.  “Any Grisha going missing?”

Nikita shook his head. “The only ones who would have been reported would be those indentured, and they’re pricey enough that only those with money or influence or both can afford them.”

Nikolai hummed. Then they were too risky to take if the Shu were collecting Grisha as he suspected. “Any rumors of a Shu and Fyordian alliance?” 

Nikita’s eyes practically bulged out of his head. “What! No! Moi Sovereignty, please tell me you are jesting.”

“I wish I was dear friend.” Nikolai leaned forward to rub his temples. Thankfully he didn’t need to follow societal protocols with his best friend while in this secret room. But then he remembered another wild rumor.  “What do you know of the Shu debt repayment?”

“That was insane! It’s gotten lost with everything else happening at the same time. Which should tell you how crazy everything here has been. But yes. The Shu sailed a ship that was practically made of gold into the harbor and declared themselves debt free from Ketterdam. The Council had several of the professors here inspect and test the cargo. It was as if Fabricators had merely turned a shipful of mudain objects into pure gold. I didn’t think that was something Materilki could do.”

It wasn’t. But it did support the rumors of a Grisha enhancer drug. Nikolai could feel the puzzle starting to take shape, but there were pieces missing that he felt should be in plain sight. 

Nikita caught Nikolai’s attention and spoke.  “I can tell this is an important mystery, let me help. Tell me more of this Shu scientist.”  

“From what I managed to uncover he was seeking asylum here in Ketterdam.”

“The Council does like to offer asylum to foreigners, especially if they know they’ll be profitable. The Council would expect proof of usefulness before accepting them into the country however. Test whatever it is. See it with their own eyes.” Nikita’s eyes lit up at the same time Nikolai was also piecing the information together. “Oh! A Grisha enhancing drug would be worth the Council’s time and efforts. If this is what the thieves stole then this explains their relentless hunt still going on months later and why they’re still all hush hush about what was stolen!”  Nikita paused to breathe and take it all in. “Oh wow.”

Oh wow indeed, Nikolai thought. They’d managed to figure out this portion of the Ketterdam puzzle. However, in typical fashion he was left with even more questions than answers. Who stole the shipment? Did they know what they were stealing? Where’s Bo Yul-Bayur? Something must have happened to him or else he’d have sent new samples to the Council by now, right? Hopefully the twins would be able to uncover some of those questions from Hoede. In the meantime he went back to his stack of letters that had been sitting beside him. 

Glancing over again at his mother’s latest missive. On a whim he asked, “why haven’t you yet mentioned the Sun Summoner being found here in Ketterdam?”

“WHAT?!”  At Nikita’s flabbergasted expression he handed over the letter. Nikita’s jaw looked as if it wanted to fall to the floor. “How am I just now learning about this!”

“Good to know you don’t peruse my mail in my absence.” Nikolai smirked at his childhood friend. 

“Moi Sovereignty!” Nikita sounded offended, but there was a tilt to his lips that indicated he knew he was being teased. “But still. An actual Sun Summoner!  We’ve been praying to the Saints for generations for such a miracle.  And they’re found here? In Ketterdam!” 

Nikolai matched his friend’s grin. He’d been drowning in so much bad news and possible horrible outcomes for his country that this one piece of good news was sweeter than a clean glass of water after weeks spent sun parched in a desert. 

Dazed Nikita mumbled, “even with the cold war happening between the Council and the gangs. Even with one of the oldest Hand of Ghezen legends coming true. I would think a Living Saint emerging from Ketterdam would also be in the headlines and lips of everyone here… why isn’t it?”

TAMAR 

Tamar was liking this situation less and less. They had stayed long enough to get the information about this Councilman Hoede that they’d need to find and hopefully talk to the man under the ruse of being Shu spies wanting what was theirs back. Or at least an update from the Council. Saints this would be easier if they had a better clue as to what was going on. But what was really making her nervous was not having Nikolai within her sights.  Even though he was perfectly safe with Nikita, she still didn’t like it. Reading the posture of her brother's shoulders, she could tell he also wasn’t on board with this decision to split up. 

Or perhaps it was the unexpected party that seemed to be happening in the streets. Tamar wasn’t about to admit that the crowds weren’t helping her anxiety. Over half of them, especially those dressed in the Saints awful Barrel Flash, seemed drunk, and a fair amount of the black suited spectators were radiating indignated anger.  Thankfully they were able to bypass most of the crowds congregating near the Church of Barter. All of the talk seemed to be of some Per Haskell and some Hand of Ghezen blessing nonsense. Which Tamar didn’t think the false Kerch deity blessed their followers, only enslaved them. 

Whatever It was, it was none of their business, so they shoved their way around the outskirts of the spectators of mixed opinions. Many of the commonly dressed Kerch were in awe of their religion, such as it was, being realized and the well dressed doubters grumbling about how it wasn’t fully realized yet. That Ghezen couldn’t possibly bestow enough funds for a measly gang boss to ever fulfill the final blessing.  Especially a gang boss like Per Haskel. No gang, let alone the Dregs were known for sharing anything, let alone Kruge.  

Tamar’s ear twitched at that, she’d thought the Dregs boss was Kaz Brekker. Still, none of this mattered. She picked up her pace and silently communicated with her other half on an altered route to hopefully bypass more of this celebration. 

It worked. Soon they were at the address Nikita had given them and they shed their dark cloaks that were hiding their dark Shu uniforms. Tamar stopped at a shadowed section of wall and made a split second decision. Quirking an eyebrow at Tolya and nodding slightly towards the wall, he quickly caught on to her new plan. They both did a quick scan of the street they were on with both their eyes and their heartrending and silently Tolya leaned forward with his hands threaded together so she could be boosted up to look over the wall. 

“Clear.” Tamar signaled with her left hand and immediately she felt Tolya’s bost to get her over the wall. Within moments her brother was over as well. As one they moved silently through the grounds, quickly putting the couple of guards and dogs they came across to sleep with a simple touch and push of thought.  The mansion wasn’t hard to find and they stopped under an open window where she’d seen people moving within. The Saint’s were with them, they were just in time to eavesdrop on the master of the house.  

“Blast it all. We’ve lost our only opportunity.”

“We can still find those thieves. Get the Jurda Parem back.”

“Hoede stop being an idiot. If we haven’t found them by now, we never are. The thieves and our Jurda Parem samples are long gone and with them was our only chance to confirm Bo Yul-Bayur’s formula worked as advertised.”  Tamar had to strain to hear the speaker mutter under his breath, “I really wanted to test that drug on our Grisha.”

“I still don’t understand why we can’t just get another sample sent to us.”

“Because Bo Yul-Bayur is no longer available!” The sounds of a hand slamming against a table . Then the speaker sniffed and continued on, “I have a lead on where he is. If we can ever get this cold war we inadvertently caused with the gangs over with, then I should be able to hire the right teams to fetch the missing scientist.”

“You’re willing to front that expense? Even without the trials?”

“Yes, we will.” Tamar didn’t have to be able to see to know the master of the house probably blanched three degrees at that proclamation.  “If it’s even as half as powerful as the Shu claimed then it’s going to change everything. The financial markets will be in complete chaos for years if not decades if we fail to secure it first.  That stunt the Shu pulled in paying off their debts already fractured our markets.”  Another pause.  “As annoying as Ghezen’s Hand finally being successfully brokered is, this might actually prove useful in finally ending this conflict with the Barrel. All those barrel rats are too drunk now to care about us and will be eager to make their own fortune.”

A snort. “There’s no way that Per Haskell will be able to keep funding this party for a year and a day. He’ll never be exalted enough to sit on the Council. Besides, he doesn’t even have a legitimate heir to keep the seat.”

“Knowing that, the Church might just exalt him anyway.  They’ve never imagined this kind of flood of attention and money they’d receive by their oldest founding legend coming true. Now that they’ve tasted this success they’re not going to want it to stop. If they do officially recognize Ghezen’s Hand being Brokered they’ll have devoted worshipers for generations to come.” A frustrated huff came from the window right above them. “But, we can’t concern ourselves with the Church's business. I’m going to go start enacting my plans to make sure we come out of these changing times on top. You just make sure no backlash from the Shu finds us.”

“Yes sir, Van Eck sir.”

Tamar shared a mischievous grin with her twin. They waited until they heard the sounds of the front gates and once again Tolya was assisting her with a hand up to the window that was abnormally high from the ground.