Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"Y/N, where on earth are you going with that basket??" I heard the cook holler from the kitchen.

"Nowhere!" I yelled back, quickly heading down the stairs, hearing the hustle of the kitchen fading slowly behind me.

It was getting steadily darker and colder as I continued down the steps. I could hear the skittering of rat feet on the stone and smell moisture as I went lower and lower.

I shifted the basket, hoping I'd packed the contents properly. My fingers absently moved to my arm, tracing the black lines that wove intricately around my wrist like an embedded bracelet.

The mark of a bond.

Finally, I came to a heavy oak door. I could smell the faint stench of decay behind it.

Sighing, I pounded on the door.

It creaked open, hitting the wall with a heavy crash. I stepped inside, wrinkling my nose at the smell, though it almost didn't bother me anymore.

Inside, a very tall, spindly shape stepped away from an operating table, a scalpel in one hand. Ruby eyes glittered from the darkness.

"Hello, quaestor." I managed.

"Good evening, dear." they set down the scalpel. I swallowed at the sight of blood staining their gloves and apron.

Ever since I'd come to the palace to work, the courtiers had immediately gathered me in (well, besides Valerius. But we got along fine eventually). They were my friends at the palace, and I'd liked all of them.

But I'd gotten especially fascinated with Quaestor Valdemar. A fascination whose proof was on my wrist.

Valdemar rolled their eyes at my horrified gaze.

"It isn't a person. Don't look so frightened."

I relaxed slightly as they washed their hands thoroughly and sat down at their desk, where they began to scribble away with a quill.

I squished myself into the same seat, the basket on my lap.

"I'm unable to focus when you're cramming me into the corner of my seat." Valdemar grumbled.

I linked my arm through theirs and held out the basket.

"For you."

They raised an eyebrow and peered inside. Then they began taking out small cloth pouches, glancing inside, and placing them on the desk.

"Deadly nightshade, hemlock, yew, caladium...very good, my clever little one. You do listen to my lectures on poison."

"I told you I do." I pouted.

They pressed a light and very cold kiss on my temple.

"Well done. I'm pleased."

I blushed under the praise.

"Now you may sit quietly beside me while I do my work."

I shrugged and settled down beside them, leaning against their shoulder, letting my legs hang over the edge of the chair. They wrapped an arm around my waist, writing something in a book with the other.

I yawned. It was late in the evening, and I was tired. My eyes started to fall closed as I snuggled deeper into Valdemar's shoulder, letting the basket slip from my grasp.

Then something bit the shell of my ear, and I startled awake with a yelp.

Valdemar was still working, but I didn't miss the smirk tugging at their lips.

"That hurt." I hissed.

"Many apologies, dearest." Valdemar replied.

I wrapped my arms around their waist and rested my chin on their shoulder with a huff.

Unfazed, they continued to write, using their free hand to softly stroke my (H/L) hair.

I smiled, letting my eyes drift shut again.

I woke up on a comfortable sofa.

It took a few moments of bleary realization to notice I was in the sitting room. How did I get here?? A few moments ago I'd been in the dungeon-

I groaned.

Valdemar must have carried me back upstairs. Or dragged me. Which would have certainly raised questions.

I'd told them to leave me down there with  them.

Grumbling, I sat up, deciding I didn't want to make the trudge back down to the dungeon. My fingers closed around my left wrist, and I began to trace the dark band. I'd always kind of wanted to see how it worked.

It glowed red, then gold.

An outburst of swearing met my ears.

"Y/N! You little-"

I couldn't help but grin at the Quaestor, their usual calm, chilly manner completely gone.

Valdemar, fuming, grabbed me by the ear and yanked. I yelped in pain, definitely not smiling anymore.

"The mark is exclusively for emergencies! You are not allowed to use it in any other circumstances!"

I cowered into myself, trying to shake my ear free of their grasp.

"I'm sorry!"

Valdemar glared at me, rubbing the identical mark on their opposite wrist and finally releasing my ear.

"This isn't something you toy around with, Y/N. It's a very serious thing."

I stood up, still feeling very small under Valdemar's agonizingly strict gaze.

"I-I know. I'm sorry. I just wanted to see you."

"You saw me less than an hour ago."

"I-I didn't want to go all the way back to the dungeon."

Valdemar pinched the bridge of their nose, looking exasperated.

I wrapped my arms around their waist and buried my face in their shoulder. I felt them tense up for a moment.

"I'm still angry with you."

"No you're not."

"Yes I am."

"Then leave. Push me off. I'm not stopping you."

Valdemar sighed, rested their chin on my head, and reluctantly returned the hug.

"But we aren't going to the marketplace this evening."

"What?!?"

"I'm firm about this one, Y/N."

"But Val!"

"And I've told you not to call me that."

I looked up.

"But you promised-"

"And so did you! To not touch the mark unless you were In danger!"

I scowled, crossing my arms and retracting from the hug.

"Okay...i guess that's fair."

"So we're in accordance. Now come with me. The dungeon is rather chilly."

Chapter Text

"Shit, Y/N! Be careful!"
"Agh! I'm so sorry!" I paused in my tracks to help gather the spilled fruit in the kitchen. "I'm in a hurry today."
One of the maids glared at me. "You're always in a hurry." she snapped back.
I refused to be fazed by this. Apologizing again, I handed her the rest of the fruit and ran up the stairs, intent on getting to the stables.
I darted down the hall, weaving and bobbing around servants as I hurried. I wasn't late for anything; I really had no reason to run. But it was a lot of fun to do it anyway! Besides, the horses were waiting.
And for the second time that morning, I crashed into someone else.
A string of swearing hit my ears. I was thrown backwards and hit the carpeted floor with a thump.
"What in the Devils name-"
I looked up to see a vaguely familiar face sprawled in front of me, rubbing their head with a black gloved hand.
It took a few moments for the pieces to click. "Quaestor Valdemar?"
Valdemar glared at me, their scarlet eyes burning straight through my soul.
"Watch where you're going."
I stood up and offered a hand. "I'm so sorry!" I apologized, knowing a lot more words were about to spill out of my mouth. "I'm on my way to the stables and Im in a hurry because-"
"Frankly, dear, I don't care." Valdemar dusted themselves off with a distasteful look, ignoring my hand.
I wilted a little.
"Oh. Sorry. Where are you headed, quaestor?"
They didn't seem to appreciate the questions.
"If you must know, I'm heading in the same direction." they gave no more elaboration as to why.
I smiled. "Maybe we can go together! I'll slow down this time."
Valdemar stared at me.
"Alright. I suppose since we are going the same way anyway-"
"Great!"
Valdemar pinched the bridge of their nose as I kept talking, looking like they were holding in their annoyance.

When we finally got to the stables, I instantly went to pet one of my favorite horses while Valdemar stood behind me, silent.
"Do you ride, quaestor?" I asked.
They looked quite fed up with my questions, but answered anyways.
"No. I do not."
"Can I teach you? I haven't had to teach anyone in ages!"
"Absolutely not. I need to get to the forest."
"It'll be faster on horse! Come on, please?" I pleaded.
Valdemar  appeared to think it over.
"Alright. Fine."
"Yay!"
They eyed the horse.
"How do you suggest I get on?"
I used the stirrups to mount the large animal. "It's easy! And you're a good deal taller than me, so it'll be simple!"
Valdemar sighed and slipped one foot into a stirrup, managing to swing their other leg over the horses flank.
"Is that acceptable?"
"Yup! Now all you have to do is hold on!"
"Hold onto- agh!"
I flicked the reins, and the horse took off.
"What do I hold onto??" Valdemar screeched from behind me.
"I don't know! Hold onto me!"
I felt arms wrap around my middle for dear life. Their grip was incredibly strong.
"I do not like this one bit!"
"We're almost there! You can hold on, I don't bite!"
"I do, however!"
I couldn't help but giggle.
The horse skidded to a stop at the edge of the woods. I dismounted and gave him a pat on the nose.
Valdemar was scowling. I offered my hand to them.
They grudgingly took it and clambered off.
"Well, we're at the woods. What do you need from there?"
"Not your help."
That stung a bit. Nevertheless, I shrugged.
"I won't help. I just want to tag along!" I smiled, hopping from one foot to the other.
Valdemar eyed me.
"Can't you ever stay in one place?"
I shrugged again.
"No."
They rolled their eyes. "Come along then. What is your name?"
"Y/N."
"Well. I can't say it's a pleasure to meet you, because I prefer not to lie In these situations."
I giggled, and at the same moment, decided I rather liked the quaestor. Their sharp sarcasm was charming in a way.
The woods were dappled with sunlight. I walked along, soaking in the pleasant energy of the forest.
Valdemar gave me a sideways glance.
"You're strangely quiet."
"There's a lot to listen to. At least right now."
"Hm. Well, we're nearly to where I need to be. If you can keep this up I'd be infinitely grateful."
I laughed out loud.
Finally, Valdemar paused. The woods were quieter now, and definitely darker. The trees were taller and had much thicker foliage than the ones near the edge.
Valdemar kneeled by a rotting tree trunk. I glanced around, deciding not to annoy them while they were working.
I spotted a deep purple flower by some undergrowth. I picked it and carefully studied the petals.
It was beautiful. I glanced around for more.

After a shorter period of time than I thought, Valdemar stood, their gloves smeared with something glowing and red. "I'm finished here- what on earth is that??"
I held out my creation.
"It's a flower crown!"
Valdemar stared.
"A...what?"
"A flower crown! You wear it. On your head. I think It would fit you!"
"Oh, no. Absolutely not."
"Please? I'll wear a matching one."
"Only if you stop pestering me for the way back.
"Deal!"
Valdemar placed the crown on their head, encircling their horns (? I wasn't sure what they were). I beamed.
"It's lovely! And it complements your freckles!" I enthused as we began to walk back. I placed the one I'd made for myself on my head.
"My what?"
"The little dots on your cheeks. They're cute!"
Their cheeks got dark.
"Nonsense. Let's just keep walking, Y/N."
"Right. I promised not to bother you."
The rest of the walk was in decisive silence.

When we got to the edge of the woods, the patient steed was still waiting for us. mounted the horse, and Valdemar did the same with slightly more difficulty. I snapped the reins, but less, so the horse set off at a trot.
Though the horse wasn't moving quickly, Valdemar's arms remained around my waist. I chuckled.
"You don't have to hang on to me. The horses aren't galloping. You won't fall off."
They huffed and didn't answer.
We arrive back at the stables just as the sun set below the treetops. I returned the horse to his proper stable and fed him some sugar cubes for a job well done.
Valdemar fidgeted with the flower crown. I smiled at them.
"Thank you for letting me join you. You're rather good company, even if you snap a lot.
Valdemar's cheeks darkened again, and I realized they were blushing.
"You're welcome. Thank you for the flower crown. It's...rather nice. I suppose.
I giggled as we stepped into the palace.
Almost immediately we ran into the remaining four courtiers.
"Where have you been all day?" Pontifex Vulgora demanded, one hand on their hip.
"Oh, what a lovely crown! Volta likes it!" Procurator Volta squealed, a cookie in each hand.
"How unusual! Where did you get it?" Praetor Vlastomil added, a pale worm peering out from the feather in his cap.
"It's very unlike you to wear such a thing." Consul Valerius sneered, swirling his wine.
Valdemar sighed, pinching the bridge of their nose again, then turned to me.
"I had a nice time with you, Y/N. We shall do it again sometime."
I beamed.
"Really?"
A tiny smile twitched at the corner of their mouth.
"Yes. Have a good evening, my dear."
--------------

Chapter Text

“Y/N, darling, I do enjoy going to these little outings with you, but this-“ Valdemar cast a skeptical gaze at the battered wooden sign. Scrawled in black ink were three words: The Rowdy Raven. “This I am not so sure about.”
I smiled at them, giving them a gentle nudge in the ribs. “It’ll be fun, I promise!” I coaxed, then winced as I heard a loud crash from inside.
Valdemar's expression implied that they didn’t agree, but nevertheless allowed me to lead them inside by the elbow.
Julian, Asra and Portia were at one of the booths inside. Portia had Julian’s ear between her fingers, loudly scolding him for what I assumed had caused the noise from earlier.
“Hi, Asra.” I ignored their squabble as I slid into the seat next to my mentor. Asra smiled, their pale hair glimmering against the dim lights of the bar. “Hello, Y/N. I see you brought the quaestor with you again.”
Valdemar didn’t acknowledge him. Instead, they were watching Julian and Portia's argument with almost scientific fascination.
Asra cleared their throat and chuckled. “Unresponsive as ever. How's palace life treating you?”
I smiled. “Horribly.” I teased them. He laughed, leaning his cheek on his palm.
“In all seriousness, though, it’s going very well. Nadia is so kind to me and she’s given me a lovely room to stay in.”
“I knew she would welcome you.” Asra took a drink from his glass. “How’s your research going?”
“Unsuccessful, so far. But it’s going along.” I nudged Valdemar, who startled. “The quaestor has been awfully helpful. They’ve been so patient and kind with me.”
Asra's surprise was evident. “Is that so?”
“It is.” Valdemar cut into the conversation with a rather unfriendly smile. “Your sweet magician has been quite the learner.”
Asra raised their eyebrow at me, and I flushed.
“I wouldn’t have thought the quaestor to be either of those things.” Julian chuckled from across the table. “Why, when I worked with them during the plague, they-“
“Doctor 069. Out of hiding?” Valdemar interrupted once again, fixing Julian with a sharp look. He faltered immediately.
“Sure. I just came to catch up with Asra and see Pasha for a little while, that’s all.”
They offered a dry laugh that made Julian falter even more. But before they could open their mouth to utter another remark, a man in the corner of the bar began a lively tune with a fiddle.
“Asra! Let’s dance.” Julian shouted, relieved to escape the quaestor’s criticisms. Asra chuckled to himself and allowed Julian to whisk them into the crowd.
I laughed. “Must you be so hard on Julian?”
They sniffed. “Always.”
“Well, do you want to dance then?” I offered.
Valdemar glanced unsurely into the crowd. “I haven’t danced in a very long time, pet. I’m not sure if my skills will serve me.”
“Pet?” I had nearly forgotten Portia was still across from me. She grinned mischievously, leaning over the table. “That’s a cute nickname.”
“Oh, hush.” I giggled, waving a dismissive hand at Portia. Valdemar’s cheeks got several shades darker, making their freckles disappear.
“Are you sure you don’t want to dance, Val?” I asked again.
“Oh, well, I don’t see why not. I suppose I’ll figure it out as we go.”
My face lit up. I looped my arm through theirs and pulled them into the center of the crowd. A few people stumbles out of the way, fear in their eyes. Although I’d convinced them to drop the lab coat and wear a black robe instead, they looked as intimidating as ever. Not to mention their reputation preceded them.
Valdemar eyed a few people, who dropped their gazes the moment they made eye contact.
“Come on, let’s dance!” I tugged on their hands. They chuckled and put their hand on my waist, pulling me closer to them. Almost on cue the fiddler began a new song.
“Alright, darling. If you insist.”

I had lost track of how much time has passed, and how many times we had whirled around the room. I had caught Julian and Asra waltzing around the room a few times, with Asra laughing their bright, clear laugh and Julian grinning so wide I was sure his face would split in half. And though it was hardly their scene, Valdemar seemed to be having a good time too. The stares were getting less common; people had absorbed the quaestor into the crowd like they had done to so many others, and soon they didn’t stand out much at all.
I let out a giggle as they easily dipped me, almost to the floor. The song ended, and they pulled me back into their arms.
“Well, I must admit I'm having quite a lot of fun.” Valdemar laughed. “Especially with such an enchanting little magician as my partner.” They pressed a kiss to the back of my hand with a mischievous little grin.
I scoffed, but batted my eyelashes playfully. “Do tell me more, quaestor.” I teased them.
They chuckled, playing along. “It would be my pleasure. It’s my honor to dance with such a lovely, clever, charming magician such as yourself.”
I giggled. “You flatter me. But of course, I wouldn’t be complete without an attractive, brilliant and witty partner like you.”
Valdemar smiled, and I could have sworn I saw their cheeks darken. “You’re too sweet, darling.”
“I never lie.” I made the motion of crossing my heart. This elicited another laugh.
“Alright, everyone, find a new partner!”
I barely had time to question that before a tall brunette swept me into a dance. Craning my neck, I realized I had lost sight of Valdemar.
Hopefully I’d find them before the end of the night.

Quite a few drinks and dances later I was giggling with a few people I’d managed to start a conversation with, including the tall brunette I’d danced with earlier. Her name was Camilla, and she was very kind. She happily remarked on my outfit and how sweet I seemed to be, and I couldn’t help but absorb the compliments.
“Y/N?”
I turned around to see Valdemar pushing their way through the crowd. When they spotted me, they smiled.
“Val!” I ran over to them, grabbing their hands. “There you are! I’m so sorry I lost track of you. I got lost in the crowd and I couldn’t see you anymore!”
“It’s quite alright, pet.” They wrapped an arm around my waist.
I nodded to Camilla and the others I had been talking to. “This is Camilla. I was dancing with her earlier.”
“How nice, darling.” Valdemar’s voice was disarmingly pleasant, but their mood had flipped like a switch. Their annoyance seemed to permeate the air around me.
“Hello.” Camilla nodded to them, and continued making conversation with me. Valdemar’s arm tightened considerably around my waist, and I unconsciously leaned into them.
“Oh, darling, I forgot to tell you.” Valdemar cut into the conversation. “Asra and Dr. Devorak are back at the table over there. In case you wanted to know.”
“Thanks for keeping track of them, Val.” I gave a little wave to my friends, who waved back, and gave Valdemar a them a quick peck on the cheek. Their smile became slightly more relaxed, but I could still sense their irritation as I kept talking to Camilla and her friends.
At some point in the conversation, the subject shifted to love interests.
“You know, I’ve been so lonely recently.” Camilla lamented. “Decent people are so hard to come by these days. You seem so wonderful, though, Y/N. I really do like you.”
“Oh, thank you very much!” I replied, though the look she gave me through her lashes off put me slightly.
Valdemar's arm clenched tightly around my waist. I could feel their fist balled by my hip.
“Perhaps we should be getting back to the others, pet. I’m sure they’ll be wondering where you’ve gone.” They tugged me slightly backwards.
“I’d like to finish our conversation.” Camilla protested.
“And I’d like more specimens to dissect, but we can’t all have what we desire.” They snapped back.
“Val, take it easy, babe.” I laced my fingers through theirs.
Valdemar was scowling, their intense glare focused entirely on Camilla. I tugged on the edge of their robe, forcing them to bend down and look at me.
Just as I was about to say something else to calm them down, Valdemar grabbed my jaw and kissed me.
I heard several people audibly gasp, one of them probably being Camilla, or Asra from the table. But I barely noticed; I was much too caught up in the moment. They pulled my face even closer to theirs, running their long fingers through my hair. Their free hand clenched possessively on my hip as they pulled me further into their arms.
They broke the kiss. By the time I turned around Camilla was gone, and no one seemed to notice anything out of the ordinary.
That is, except for my friends.
Julian was slack jawed, and Asra looked equally startled. Portia was cackling in her corner of the booth and trying to hide it without much success.
My cheeks burned. “I..uh, I guess I have some explaining to do.”
And for the first time, I witnessed Asra swear.
“Fuck, Y/N, you sure do.”

Chapter Text

I stepped out of the carriage and into barren ground. When my boots hit the dusty walkway, what looked like rodent bones rattled under my feet.
The driver of the carriage paled. “Shall I leave you here?” they asked, their hands shaking a little on the reins.
“Yeah, go ahead. Thank you.” I gave them a small smile.
They didn’t need to be told twice. In a cloud of dust, the carriage vanished around the corner and into the woods, back to the palace.
I headed up the stone walkway, curving around the elegant fountain in the middle. Gravel crunched under my feet as I stepped off the path and off to the side of the huge building.
The only thing that appeared to be alive in the Pale Estate was the white horse in the stables on the west side. It made a small huffing noise when it saw me, tossing its silvery mane.
“Hello, Cyprian.” I murmured, holding out a few cubes of sugar. Cyprian eagerly ate them out of my palm and retreated back into the stables.
When I turned back around to go knock on the door, I nearly jumped out of my skin due to a tall figure that had definitely not been there a moment ago.
Gods, Val, you really have to stop doing that. You’re gonna give me a heart attack!” I scolded them.
“My apologies, dear. Old habits die hard, you know.” Valdemar flashed a smile that would have been unsettling to most, but most certainly not to me. Not anymore. “Enjoying Cyprian’s company?”
“Not more than yours. I was about to go in and look for you.” I replied with a smile in return. “After I have him his sugar cubes.”
“Aren’t you sweet. I assure you he appreciates it.” They lightly took my elbow. “Now, shall we?”
“Mhm.” I followed them through the heavy double doors of the estate and into a dim hallway lit solely by candles.
“I hope making dinner wasn’t too much trouble.” I said quietly.
“Of course not. I can always move aside a few appointments for you, pet.” Valdemar patted my arm. I smiled, moving a little closer to their side.
“Did you make it on the burner in your dungeons like last time?” I asked cheekily.
They scoffed, playfully nudging my side. “How dare you accuse me of such a thing!” they exclaimed. “I’ve learned my lesson.”
I snickered. “In your defense, it was pretty good.” I grinned at the memory. “Dungeon soup. Yum.”
Valdemar laughed. “I had a very busy schedule that day, and I simply had to put something together.” They led me into room on the right side of the hall. “But this time, I promise all the preparations were done in the kitchen.”
“I swear, I’ll bring something next time. I have access to cooking materials, you know.” I promised them.
“I’m sure you will, dear. I’ve already set up dinner, do eat before it gets cold. I’ve heard that it’s less enjoyable that way.” Valdemar shrugged. “Makes very little difference to me, anyhow.”
I looked at my plate. The food did look good; it appeared to be a pasta dish that I definitely didn’t recognize.
I took a bite. It was really good, even though I couldn’t place half the flavors I was tasting.
“This is delicious. What is it?”
Valdemar waved their hand dismissively. “A recipe I found somewhere in the palace. The countess has it often, and I believe that it’s more than worthy for you as well.”
I smiled. “Well, you’ve definitely outdone yourself. It’s amazing.”
They chuckled, taking a forkful from their plate. “Thank you, dearest.”
I kept eating, trying to talk between mouthfuls.
“I cook for myself pretty often. I bake, too.”
Valdemar tilted their head at me.
“Is that so? I must say that I’ve never baked before. Goodness, I never cook unless you pay me a visit.”
I giggled. “I feel special now.” I teased them.
“You are special, darling.” They leaned their chin on their hand with a sharp little smile, surveying me over their still-full plate of food.
My cheeks warmed a little. “Oh, you,” I laughed. “I have an idea. Why don’t I teach you to bake? We can bake something together for dessert!”
Valdemar raised an eyebrow. “Hm. If I have the supplies, then I don’t see why not.”
I beamed.
“Perfect! This is going to be so much fun!”

Chapter Text

It was a long traipse down several flights of stairs to get to the dungeon.
Grumbling, I stumbled down the rather slimy cobblestone steps. Usually, I was more than happy to make the trip down to the dungeon to reach my mentor. But on days like these, I wished Valdemar would let me have a duplicate to the elevator key.
By the time I reached the heavy door, I was thoroughly panting. I pounded on it a few times, wiping my forehead.
It opened on its own. I stepped inside the laboratory, where Quaestor Valdemar was already at work with a cadaver. I decided not to think too hard about where it came from.
“Hello, Quaestor.” I gave them a little wave as I grabbed my usual surgical mask on the way in.
They rolled their scarlet eyes at me. “Y/N, you’ve been working alongside me for years now. I believe it won’t hurt for you to call me by my name now and then.”
“Right. Sorry, Valdemar.” I replied, my cheeks warming up with embarrassment. I was very fortunate that the mask covered most of my face.
They were right, I had been working with them for around seven years now, ever since the countess offered a job opportunity as an assistant to one of her courtiers. It didn’t require much training, and surprisingly enough, no one had taken the position. I had been poor and needed a place to stay. So here I was.
I hardly minded it anymore. Within the first two years I’d grown to like Valdemar. Despite their overall creepy vibe, I enjoyed their intelligent conversation and surprisingly witty banter. I found myself spending more and more time with them, and despite the nasty things I’d heard about them (even if they we’re probably true) a year later I’d truly and unfortunately caught feelings for them.
There were obviously several problems with this. For one thing, I didn’t think that Valdemar was interested in romance. For another, I had the flirting skills of a cabbage and virtually no idea how to make my feelings known, to a normal person or otherwise.
“Are you going to remain there all day, or are you going to assist me, dear?”
My cheeks heated up again, but this time not with embarrassment. “Sorry. Coming.”
They sighed as I came to stand next to you. “What should I do?” I asked.
“Just hand me things when I need them, if you’d be so kind.” I nodded, and continued to watch in silence as Valdemar picked at the corpse's intestines. I knew I probably should start a conversation, but I didn’t know how to do that over a dead body.
They cleared their throat. “Well, dear, I hope you’ve had a pleasant day so far.” Apparently I wasn’t the only one who didn’t like awkward silences.
“Oh, I have.” I was relieved to have conversation. “Portia took me to see the stable this morning. The horses are so beautiful.”
“How delightful.” Valdemar chuckled, digging deeper into the cadaver's abdomen. “I haven’t ridden in so long. I could use a lesson.”
I flushed again. “Yes, riding is so fun. I rode one of the black stallions today. His name was Cinders.” Shit. Why didn’t I offer to teach them?
“That sounds very nice, Y/N.” I could have sworn I heard a smidge of disappointment in their tone.
“How was your day, Valdemar?” I asked, in an effort to keep the conversation going.
“Uneventful so far.” Valdemar extracted what I recognized as the bladder. “I did get a new shipment of tools earlier this afternoon. Could you be a dear and fetch me the scalpel on the counter?”
I did as they asked. They took it from my hands and began splitting the bladder open. “Thank you.”
“You’re welcome.” I kept watching Valdemar work. Their fingers were so quick and agile, never slipping for even a second. Their eyes glinted with excitement like they always did when they were studying or dissecting.
“Can I help you, dear? Or are you just going to keep staring?”
I jumped a little. “Sorry, I was just lost in thought.”
Without even looking at me, they chuckled, continuing to poke at the inside of the bladder. “Goodness, I thought I was stoic until I met you.” They paused their work, placing their scalpel down.
“Why is that, my dear? Why are you so closed off around me?”
Their gaze burned straight through me. I swallowed.
“Well, I feel like the only time I’ll he opened up around you is on your vivisection table.” I made a weak attempt at a joke.
Valdemar laughed. “You are a funny one.” They took me by the elbow. “Come. Let’s sit down for a moment. I can leave the bladder work for later.”
I swallowed again as they let me to their desk, removing their mask in the process. I did the same and pulled up a chair beside them, catching a pleased smile play across their lips. Good sign.
I knew I came off as mostly neutral to the majority of people. And while I probably appeared like that now, I was internally shaking. My fingers drummed on the wood of their desk was the only thing that might have betrayed my nerves.
“Goodness, you’re so tense, little one.” Valdemar laughed, placing their fingers ever so lightly on my hand. “Despite what I’m sure you’ve been told, I have no intention of biting you.”
My face was immediately on fire. The cold of their skin soaked through their gloves and onto my wrist mine.
“Unless, of course, that’s something you enjoy.”
That was definitely suggestive. I wasn’t sure how to respond.
Think, Y/N, think. Flirt back, gods!
Instead, the first stupid thing that came to mind popped out of my mouth.
“Your teeth are pretty sharp, it’d probably hurt.” I squeaked, then immediately kicked myself.
Why would you say that??
Valdemar looked less amused now. “I believe it might.”
I cursed my awkwardness again. And at this moment I realized that the only way I’d ever make any progress was to be direct.
“Valdemar, I like you.” I blurted out.
They startled. My heart dropped into my stomach. Shit.
“Well, I know that, darling.” They chuckled.
“No, I-“ I pinched the bridge of my nose. “I like you. Romantically.” I squeezed my eyes shut, my embarrassment spreading from my already burning cheeks to my ears.
“My goodness, I know that, Y/N.”
My eyes popped open. “What?”
It was their turn to pinch the bridge of their nose. “Surely you didn’t think that I didn’t notice how you make a little noise whenever I even vaguely touch you? Or how much your temperature increases whenever you’re within a few feet of me?”
I buried my face in my hands. “Oh, gods…”
“But I do return your affections. I’ve been trying to hint at that for quite a while now.”
I put head on my arms, even more humiliated. “I know,” my voice was muffled by my arms. “But I didn’t know how to respond. I don’t know how to respond.”
“I think it’s rather endearing.” I could hear Valdemar stifling a laugh. “But oh so very frustrating in the long run.”
“I’m sorry.” I mumbled.
“Don’t be. You apologize far too much, little one.” Valdemar's fingers traced my arm. “I’m just teasing.”
I looked up.
“So…what does this mean for…us?” I asked meekly.
Valdemar smiled a bit, tapping their chin with a finger. “Well, I suppose we could pursue some sort of relationship,” They looked at me. “If you would like.”
I smiled back. “I would like that. A lot.”
They smiled. Took one of my hands in theirs and pressed a cold kiss on it, making the heat that had faded from my cheeks instantly rush back.
“So would I, darling.”

Chapter Text

"This maze is hell.” I mumbled under my breath, tramping around enormous stalks of corn. It was the second annual Vesuvian Fall Festival since it had been made a tradition, and as usual, the infamous maize maze was a prime attraction. Unfortunately for me, it was a prime attraction that Julian had prodded me into, challenging me to a race in order to see who could make it out first.
It was not looking good for me.
I sighed as I turned another corner, and then another. The maze seemed to be endless, with the only noise being that of the crows perched on the cornstalks.
My ears perked up when I heard the sharp clink of glass hitting glass. It seemed to be on the other side of the wall of corn to my left.
I tried to go around it, hoping to find an entrance, but it cut off at dead ends on both sides.
I held still when I heard another noise.
Was that…humming?”
I was too curious to go back now. Gritting my teeth, I summoned some of my magic into my hands. The electric buzz in my palms reached its peak, and I managed to shove aside the cornstalks in my way, allowing me to get to the other side.
Then my foot caught on something, and I fell flat on my face into a clearing.
“Ow!”
I heard the clink of a glass again, but this time it sounded like it had been dropped.
“Well, goodness me.”
I looked up, wiping dust from my face. My eyes widened.
“Quaestor Valdemar?”
The quaestor steepled their fingers, looking at me with mild curiosity.
“My, my, what do we have here?”
I stood up, brushing my clothes off. “I have a better question. Why are you here?” I asked.
They smiled, their pointed teeth glinting in the sun. “I’m looking after the labyrinth, of course. Why are you here, magician?”
I shrugged. “I was racing Dr. Devorak to the end. But as of now, I don’t really know where I am.” I explained, now fully taking in my surroundings. Among the cornstalks, the quaestor appeared to be sitting at a small table for one person, with a teapot and a teacup.
“You’re in the center of the maze.” They informed me. “Having a pleasant stroll this far?”
I detected sarcasm in their tone, but nodded, adjusting the strap of my bag on my shoulder. “A very twisty stroll.”
“Well, surely you’ve come across a few of my little additions by now.” Valdemar grinned. “I took so much delightful in putting them together.”
“Oh, you mean the scarecrows? That was you?” I asked with a laugh. “Yeah, those were genius. I could hear Julian screaming clear across the maze when he got to them. They gave me a bit of a fright myself.”
Valdemar looked more than a little but surprised at first, but chuckled.
“Why, thank you. Why don’t you take a seat?”
A chair that had definitely not been there a moment ago was now on the other side of the small table, along with another teacup.
“Sure. I could use a break.” I sat down. “What type of tea are you having, quaestor?”
“I’m fairly sure it’s hibiscus. Isn’t it a lovely color?” they poured some of the blood-red tea into my cup.
I looked at it for a moment, decided it was indeed tea, and took a sip.
“How do you like the festival so far?” I asked them, tapping my fingers on the side of the cup.
“Hmm. Rather loud, if you ask me. But I do enjoy sitting here, where it’s quiet.” They sighed and took a drink of their own tea. “Though it is so delightful to hear people scream.”
I giggled. “It’s funny to hear Julian scream, at least. I wonder if he’s made it out yet.”
Valdemar sniffed. “I doubt it. Doctor Devorak is rather vapid when it comes to common sense. I can assure you I haven’t seen him yet.”
“Maybe he’s still wandering around where I last heard him, then.” I mused. “If so, then I still have a chance at beating him.”
“Oh, I’m sure there isn’t any rush for you. More tea?” they gestured to my half empty cup.
I held it out for a refill. “I hope you’re not trying to poison me, quaestor.” I joked.
Valdemar poured more tea. “I wouldn’t dream of it. The countess would have my head if one of her precious magicians went missing at my hands.” They replied with a grin.
“Knowing you, quaestor, I’d expect you to get away with it.” I shot back playfully.
“Oh, you’re a flatterer.” Valdemar laughed, leaning their cheek on their gloved palm. “When we met briefly in the salon, I don’t recall you being this amusing.”
“In the salon, I don’t remember you having any interest in talking to me at all.” I replied, draining the rest of my cup's contents.
“Touche. I regret not talking to you, then. You’re quite the conversationalist.” Valdemar poured themself another cup as they spoke.
“Thank you. I didn’t know I’d enjoy talking to you so much, honestly.” I winced a little. “No offense. You just didn’t seem the type to want to talk.”
“None taken. And I am not, usually. But you do intrigue me.” They tapped their fingers on the table, the leather of their gloves squeaking quietly.
Suddenly, I heard my name.
“Y/N! Y/N?”
I recognized Julian’s voice.
“I’m over here!” I called back.
Julian’s shouts got closer and closer, until I heard him round a corner, and bolt straight into the clearing.
“Thank gods, there you are!” he rushed towards me, nearly knocking the little table over as he grabbed my shoulders.
“Remind me never to do this again. I was going in circles over and over again! Not to mention those ridiculous scarecrows!”
Valdemar gave him a poisonous glare. “How dare you. Those took weeks to construct.”
Julian registered the quaestor's presence and yelped, jumping about a foot backwards.
“Quaestor! I apologize, I didn’t see you there!” he stumbled, grabbed my arm, and tugged me out of my chair.
“I suppose you win, Y/N. I’d rather not face the rest of this maze alone, if you don’t mind.” Julian gave me a nervous smile.
I gave Valdemar a questioning glance.
“Oh, run along now, magician. I’m sure the doctor won’t be able to find his way out alone.” They waved a hand. “But do come visit me another time. I enjoyed our little chat.”
“Thank you, quaestor. Me too. Goodbye!”
“Goodbye, dear.” Valdemar took a sip of their tea, and the extra chair vanished.
I headed around the next few corners with Julian clinging to my arm, looking like something was about to pop out at him at any moment. Once we were out of earshot, Julian looked at me inquisitively.
“Well, you’re on good terms with Valdemar. I didn’t know that was even possible.”
I chuckled.
“Just compliment their necromancy and they’re easy enough to get along with.”
Julian shrugged. “Fair enough. Think we could find our way out of here before sundown?”
“Sure. Two heads are better than one.” I grinned at him, nudging his side. “Even vapid ones.”

Chapter Text

It was hot.
I groaned, stripped almost completely naked on my bed. I had the day off from work in the dungeons, which had rather inconvenient timing. The windows were open with the gauzy curtains drawn, allowing for a nonexistent breeze, along with several magical fans I’d conjured up. But very little helped ease the absolutely scorching heat of a Vesuvian summer day.
I rolled into my side. I was sweating from every area imaginable, and all I wanted to do was take a long soak in the ocean. Or the bath. But accessing either one seemed far too much effort.
I heard a knock on my door. “Who is it!” I called, bunching my lightest sheets around me to cover myself.
“It’s me, darling.” I heard Quaestor Valdemar's voice on the other side of the door. I dropped the blankets, relieved.
“Okay. Come in, the door's unlocked.”
It opened, and Valdemar stepped inside. I smiled at them, giving a little wave. They smiles back, instantly noting my lack of clothes, and gave a half chuckle. “What on earth are you doing undressed, pet?”
I looked at them, just now processing that they were still in their ordinary long sleeved lab coat and gloves. As usual, their hair and horns were concealed by bandages, or something of the sort.
“The heat is stifling. How are you not hot?”
Valdemar looked mildly offended. “Do you figure I would wander around the palace half dressed?”
They had a point. I shrugged.
“To answer your question, I am rather warm. But it’s manageable. Vesuvia has been through worse heat spells.”
I wrinkled my nose at the idea of an afternoon hotter than this one, and an idea popped into my head.
“Why don’t you take off your coat, Val?” I suggested.
They startled. “Whyever would I do that?”
“At least take off your gloves. I want to test something.”
Still appearing baffled, they did as told, tossing their gloves to the side. I grabbed their wrist and held their palm to my face. My theory was proven right.
“Your skin is so cold.” I breathed, rubbing my cheek against their fingers.
“I know it is, dear. I don’t know how that pertains to the subject at hand.” They almost pulled their hand away.
“Val, could you do me a favor?” I asked, giving them the sweetest smile I could muster.
They looked at me, already suspicious. Valdemar knew what that smile meant. “What sort of favor?”
“Could you please…take off your coat and things?” I asked hopefully.
They sputtered. “Why on earth-“
“Your skin is cold, right? So if you were to hold me for a while I’d cool down!”
They shook their head. “Absolutely not.” They snapped.
“Please! I’m so hot, and I don’t want to walk down to the beach or draw a bath. Please?”
Valdemar folded much quicker than I expected.
“Fine. But I expect retribution.”
“Awwww, Vallll-“
“How badly do you want this?”
I pouted, but nodded in agreement.
They removed their coat and apron very gingerly, turning their back to me. When they turned around, I witnessed an emotion I’d never seen in them before: Self consciousness.
They looked at me irritably. “Well? Out with whatever is going in in that little brain of yours.”
I looked them up and down. Their skin was the same shade of sage green as their face, with faded freckles all over their chest and shoulders that matched the ones on their cheeks. Their arms were graceful and thin. As for their long legs, there didn’t appear to be anything significant between them, and if I was honest, id prefer for it to stay that way.
“You’re beautiful.”
Valdemar froze, looking at me with a bemused expression.
“Come again?”
I smiled, sitting up to tug on their arm.
“You’re beautiful. Now come here, I’m roasting more by the second.”
Still obviously confused, they obeyed, stretching out beside me. I rubbed my cheek against their collarbone, sighing with relief. I pressed closer into the curve of their ribs, their cool skin a relief against how flushed and hot mine was. My legs wrapped around their waist, hugging them closer to me as I draped my arms over their shoulders.
“This is perfect, Val.”
Valdemar reluctantly chuckled, stroking my hair. “Whatever makes you happy, pet.” I could hear sarcasm in the statement and chose to ignore it as I rested my head on their chest, just under their jaw, and kissed their cold skin.
They startled slightly, giving a tiny jump that was barely noticeable. I smiled teasingly at them. “What?” I gave them another kiss on their collarbone, on their shoulder, on their chest- kissing every part of them I could reach until my lips were thoroughly chilled.
Their cheeks darkened so much that their freckles disappeared. “What are you doing?” they whispered.
“Kissing. Is that okay?” I replied, running a finger along their rib cage. They nodded, resting their chin on the top of my head.
I cupped their face in my hands, looking them dead in the eyes. They met my gaze, a playful smile dancing at the corners of their mouth.
My hands moved from their jaw to their temples, then to their still-concealed horns. I smiled, running my fingers along the rough gauze.
Valdemar pressed their cheek to my shoulder. “My, you are very warm.” They commented rather slyly. Their fingers slid up my neck, onto my cheeks. “Just around here. And-“ they traced their thumb over my bottom lip. “Here as well. Especially so.”
I giggled.
“Can you fix that for me?” I grinned, moving a little closer. They tilted my chin back, a smug little smile on their face.
“Certainly, darling.”
I hummed into the kiss, running my thumb over their eyelid. I felt their eyelashes flutter, and they gripped my jaw harder as they wrapped an arm around my waist. I rolled over so I was on top of them, and their grip on my waist tightened.
“Mmm, pet…” they purred, their lips curling into a smile.
I loved that nickname, and they knew it. My fingers ran over where I knew their freckles were; I'd memorized their face, their presence, their shape around me and in my arms.
A knock on the door startled me and Valdemar both. Reluctantly pulling away, I sat up.
“Who is it?”
“It’s Portia! Milady is wondering if you might know where the quaestor is? The praetor checked the dungeons and milady requests their presence!”
I blushed hard. “You know how they are. I’m sure they’ll turn up sooner or later.”
Portia sighed. “I guess so.” She said, sounding rather defeated. I had to stifle a giggle.
“Good luck though, Portia.”
“Thank you, y/n!” I heard her quick footsteps recede down the hallway. Once they faded completely, I breathed a sigh of relief, resting my head on their chest once again.
Valdemar chuckled. “I would have delighted in seeing Miss Portia's face if she had come in.”
I snorted, nuzzling against the underside of their jaw. “I’m sure you would have. But I wouldn’t want you to get in trouble.”
“Oh, I have larger things to concern myself with.” They replied calmly, their nails scratching my scalp as they combed through my hair with their fingers. “And there’s very little that can be done to discipline me, darling.”
I laughed. “Of course. You wouldn’t want to lose vivisection privileges, though, would you?”
“Mmm, I suppose not. But what the countess doesn’t know won’t hurt her.”
I grinned, giving them a brief peck on the cheek before settling back into their embrace.
“Right as usual.”

Chapter Text

"Why don’t you join me at my meeting today, pet? I’m sure the countess wouldn’t object. After all, I can always depend on my favorite assistant.” Valdemar was perched on my bed, watching me dig through my closet, attempting to find the nicest but most comfortable outfit to change into. I had invited them to my room for lunch (although they very rarely ate) and we had both lost track of time. As a result, Valdemar was late for their meeting with the other courtiers, and the countess as well. I hoped they hadn’t missed anything important.
“Sure. That sounds nice.” I replied, finally settling for boots, a loose shirt and trousers. Id been to several of the quaestor’s meetings to date, but I still enjoyed going to them. I liked being able to at least be in their presence and enjoyed watching them speak with such intelligence. I was proud to have them as my partner, and I wished I could display it more openly.
Valdemar smiled and offered me their arm, interrupting my train of thought.
“Shall we?”
I took it with a giggle. “We shall.”

We were still half a dozen rooms away from the salon when we heard Pontifex Vulgora raging at something unintelligible. Valdemar sighed, pinching the bridge of their nose, and let go of my arm to open the salon door.
“Good afternoon, countess.” They said, pointedly ignoring Vulgora's temper tantrum. I respectfully nodded to the countess and the other courtiers.
“I CANNOT BELIEVE THIS!” Vulgora snarled at Praetor Vlastomil, who was retracting into his coat. “HOW DARE YOU LET YOUR MONSTROSITY NEAR MY ESTATE?!”
Vlastomil scowled. “That is my prize worm, pontifex! I will not allow you to insult my-“
“Pontifex. That’s quite enough.” Countess Nadia cut in. Still fuming, Vulgora dropped into the chair beside Volta, who was blissfully stuffing cookies into her mouth, unaware of their fury.
Vlastomil delicately sat next to Valerius, and I took a seat beside him. Valdemar sat on my other side, next to the countess.
“You brought your assistant with you, Quaestor. How unconventional.” Valerius sneered at me. I bit my tongue to hold back a retort.
“It will benefit you to mind your own business, Consul.” Valdemar replied coolly, leaning their chin on their hand. I stifled a grin.
“I do wonder why you bring Y/N everywhere, however. Nearly every time I see you, you have them not far behind.” Valerius continued. I rolled my eyes. “Surely they have nothing to do with your tardiness?”
Valdemar didn’t even blink in response as they turned their attention to Countess Nadia. “If you’d be so kind, countess, may we commence the meeting?”
Nadia smiled graciously. “We may.”
The meeting began without any more trouble. I had scooted my chair closer to them, and one hand had snaked under the table to trace patterns on my thigh. I sat back, satisfied, and kept listening to what the countess had to say. Something about trade routes for edible exports, which piqued Procurator Volta's interest the most.
I half listened, giving Valdemar a smile. They smiled back with needle sharp teeth.
And gripped a handful of my thigh.
I squeaked, jumping a little.
“Are you quite alright?” Vlastomil asked, looking more irritated than concerned.
I nodded mutely. I could see Valdemar stifling a laugh out of the corner of my eye.
I was not going to let them win this. With a devilish little grin I spread my legs, sliding their hand from my thigh to my abdomen. Their hand retracted immediately.
I smirked at them. They grinned back mockingly and put their hand under the table again. Except this time they went straight for the kill.
I desperately shook my head at them as their fingers lowered, inch by inch, beneath my pants. They stayed above my underwear, and a hair away from a more sensitive area. But they didn't move their hand either.
Obviously I was tense for the moments to come, especially when the countess occasionally asked for my opinion on something or to fact check her words. I appreciated her attempts to include me in the conversation, but every time I tried to talk Valdemar would curl their fingers, sending my voice three octaves up.
Nadia and several of the courtiers were looking at me very strangely. “Are you feeling alright, Y/N?" Nadia asked kindly.
I nodded. “Yes countess. Just the hiccups-eep!” I squirmed as their fingers slid deeper into my pants. “May I use the-eep!- lavatory?”
Frowning, Valdemar pulled their hand back as I stood, gave them a triumphant little look, and headed down the hallway.
As I climbed up the stairs to get to my room, I heard someone speak behind me and instantly froze.
“Oh, pet, you simply can’t run from me that easily.”
I yelped at Valdemar's voice, whipping around to face them. “Val??”
Valdemar laughed. “I’m not through with you yet, darling. But I do love the chase. Go on and run. When I catch you, you’ll get your reward.”
With little hesitation I set off at a sprint, adrenaline pumping through my veins. Though within a few strides they seemed far behind me, I knew better than to be fooled.
Glancing around, I wondered if I could hide somewhere. A few doors down was the entrance to the ballroom. Deciding that was better than nothing, I slipped inside and scanned my options.
Eventually I decided to squeeze between a column and a large planter in the corner. It wasn’t a comfortable spot, but it would have to do for now. Hopefully Valdemar wouldn’t be able to find me here. The ballroom wasn't an area of the palace they were known for navigating well.
I shivered at the thought of whatever reward or punishment they wanted to give me. Valdemar wouldn’t hurt me severely, but they still managed to mix pleasure and pain in a way that had me begging for more.
“Come out, pet…” I jumped at Valdemar’s voice. “Wherever could you be, darling?”
I was not about to reveal myself. I heard their footsteps clicking on the polished floors of the ballroom, and I held my breath.
“Come out, come out, wherever you are…”
I squished myself further into the wall. Despite how much I adored the quaestor’s “rewards” I was also stubborn. I wanted to win this game.
“I’m going to find you. You can’t hide from me, pet, I know you too well for that.”
My legs were falling asleep. I learned my cheek on the cold bronze of the huge planter, trying to breathe as little as possible.
“Do you remember my little game during the meeting? We could play again, darling, and I assure you this time it will be much more satisfactory for both of us.” Their footsteps were getting much too close. They were definitely toying with me. “Just show yourself now, pet.”
It was tempting, and I shivered again at the prospect. But I kept quiet.
“I know you’re in here. I can feel your presence.”
I shifted my leg slightly.
And accidentally knocked my boot into the planter, making a soft clang that echoed much more than it should have.
The footsteps stopped. I froze in place.
“Surely that wasn’t you, was it, pet?”
I winced. I'd been discovered.
“Oh, I think it was. Coming from somewhere over here…”
I decided to make a run for it. Slipping around the column as quietly as possible, I dashed down the hall, not even bothering to hide my footsteps. I couldn’t hear Valdemar, so I wondered for a moment if I'd managed to fool them.
I hadn’t gotten far when something slammed against my back. I was shoved to the wall, cold fingers pinning my wrists to the marble.
“Caught you.” Valdemar hissed in my ear.
I groaned. “Okay. You win.”
“I always do. I can’t have my precious little pet running away from me for too long.” They purred, resting their chin on my shoulder.  “Don’t you agree, darling?”
I whimpered as their sharp teeth grazed my neck, arching my back into them. Valdemar chuckled, pushing me a little closer to the wall.
I tried to squirm around to kiss them. “Aw, Val, let me up!” I whined. My words tapered off when a bare hand slid under my shirt, sharp nails tracing over my abdomen, running along the waistband of my pants.
“Not yet, darling. You haven’t gotten your reward.”

Chapter Text

It was a beautiful day. Gods, a perfect day, even. The sun was out but it wasn't hot, and the nicest breeze wafted through my bedroom window. I slipped out of bed with a yawn, rifling through the closet for my outfit for today.

It was too nice a day to stay inside. And it was too nice a day for anyone else to stay inside either.

I put on my clothes, mulling over the possibilities for today. I could go outside and ride the horses for a while, or find plants in the woods for Asra's spell jars.

Or...

I grinned, another idea coming to mind.

An hour later I was heading confidently into the hallway, a bouquet of forest flowers in my arms. I cradled it in the crook of my elbow as I pulled a few books off the shelves. The bookshelf slid to the side, and I stepped inside.

There was a set of long, winding stairs to the left. Hardly anyone ever wanted to make the trip down there, which effectively discouraged visitors.

Visitors that were not me.

I hummed cheerfully as I started heading down to the dungeons, ignoring the rats that scurried around my ankles.

The heavy door was left ajar. It took all my strength to shove it open and slip inside.

"Morning, quaestor!"

Quaestor Valdemar gave me a mildly irritated glance from their spot at their desk. "Good morning, Y/N. What on earth brings you down here?" the iciness in their tone was not lost on me, but I ignored it. I'd come down here so often that they'd had no choice but to get used to my presence.

"I brought you a present!" I dropped the flowers on the desk, next to where they were writing. "Lovely flowers for a lovely doctor."

Valdemar picked them up, and their cheeks darkened. I adored making them blush, no matter how much they claimed that it was anything else.

"Well. I don't know where I'll put it."

"Anywhere you like. I got em just for you." I hopped on the edge of their desk, ignoring their annoyed sniff.

"I have a proposition for you." I said, crossing my legs.

"And what might that be?" they asked, continuing to write on the piece of parchment.

"I want to take you out."

Their quill skidded to a stop across the paper.

"Beg your pardon, you want to what?"

I laughed. "I want to take you out. On a date of sorts."

They stared at me as if I'd lost my mind.

"Is this some sort of human courtship ritual?"

"Why did you assume it was courtship?" I asked cheekily. Their cheeks darkened so much that their freckles disappeared.

"Oh, never mind that. What do you intend to do with me on this "date"?" they snapped.

I twisted around so we were eye to eye, knocking a few papers off the desk. "It's a beautiful day! Let's go on a walk outside in the gardens. Being locked up in here all the time can't be good for you." I tipped them a playful wink. "Though you're still as lovely as ever."

Valdemar pinched the bridge of their nose. "Goodness, Y/N, you've been flirting with me for months now, and it all leads up to this?"

"Would you want something more extravagant? That can be done, too." I grinned at them. "A nice dinner, maybe? My quarters after?"

"Don't be so vulgar." They sniffed.

"Your wish is my command." I teased them, hopping off the desk. "Are you coming with me or not?"

Sighing, they put their quill down. "I suppose I could take small respite from my work. You're difficult to say no to, anyways." They stood and headed to a closet in the corner. "Let me retrieve my sunhat and I'll be with you in a moment."

And a moment later, we were wandering aimlessly on the grounds, soaking in the sunshine. Well, I was, at least. Valdemar didn't seem too fond of it, as the sunhat shaded their face from any exposure. However, they did seemed to be considerably more relaxed, more so than I'd ever seen them.

"Isn't it a pretty day?" I smiled at them, looping my arm through their elbow. "Not prettier than you, though."

They gave my arm a light swat. "Aren't you charming. But yes, the countess's gardens do look very vibrant this morning."

"That's the spirit!" I giggled. "Maybe we could do something later, then. My treat. Among other things."

"Oh, but wouldn't you prefer to do other things in the dungeons instead? I assure you it'll be much more adventurous."

I froze in surprise. In all the times I'd flirted with the quaestor, I hadn't really been prepared for them to flirt back.

And for once I didn't have a response.

"What's the matter? Cat got your tongue, dear?"

My cheeks warmed, but I shot a playful smile at them. "Never. My tongue can do plenty, though."

They chuckled. "Oh, I'm sure it can. Though I'll gander mine can do much, much more."

I snickered. This was so entertaining.

"Yeah? What sorts of things?" I asked.

"Well, you'd just have to find out for yourself, wouldn't you?" they purred.

I chuckled as I found myself in the shade of a tall pear tree. "Is that a promise?"

Valdemar grinned, and I squeaked as I found myself pushed up against the trunk. My face burned as their nails dug into my shoulders, their lips brushing my ear.

"Take me to dinner first."

And with that, they released me and strolled away, hands behind their back.

"Oh, you're so cruel, Val!" I wailed, hardly restraining laughter as I trotted to keep up with their long stride.

"I know, darling." Valdemar gave me a smug smirk.

"So are we on for dinner, then?" I took their hand and kissed it, tasting the shiny leather of their gloves. They sniffed, though I could see that they were forcing back a smile.

"Hm. As long as it's your treat as promised."

I kissed their hand again, pulling them in a little closer and making them blush again.

"It's a date, then!"

Chapter Text

"So this is truly how humans do...?" Valdemar eyed the people around us, completely ignoring their curious or downright frightened looks. I squeezed their hand a little tighter, swinging it as we walked.
"Dates." I finished their thought."Yes. It'll be nice, I promise."
"I have no doubt of that, my dear. It's only that these...humans are staring much more than they ought to."
I shot a glare at a sneering passerby, clinging possessively to the quaestor's hand. "They won't say anything."
Valdemar shrugged noncommittally.
"Oh! Here we are." I steered my partner into a small, corner restaurant, small and cozy. I knew it would probably be much simpler than what Valdemar was used to, but it would have to do.
A waiter approached us and led us to a small two person table. I didn't miss the professionally startled look he gave Valdemar, and scowled at him.
Valdemar crossed their legs, leaning their cheek on one hand.
"What do humans do on...dates?" they asked with the curious air of a scientist.
I struggled to explain it for a moment.
"Well...er...you eat if you go to a restaurant, and talk, and enjoy the others company."
"Hm. Well, the last two are simple enough. Did the fact that I lack the need to eat escape you, dearest?"
I felt my cheeks grow hot with embarrassment.
"N-No. I just thought you might like to try some food. It won't hurt you, will it?"
To my surprise, a small flush gathered in their cheeks.
"Of course not. But it's unnecessary."
I smiled earnestly at them.
"I don't mind."
Valdemar sighed, but it sounded affectionate.
"Alright. What do you suggest?"
I flagged down the waiter.
"The nicest dessert you have, please!"

In a few moments, I was scarfing down a slice of cake, while Valdemar nibbled delicately on a raspberry jam cookie.
I offered a forkful of cake to them. "Wanna try?"
They accepted the mouthful and smiled, just a little bit.
"Quite delicious. What is it?"
"Devils food cake."
"Ah. That accounts for it."
I wasn't sure if it was a joke or not, but it was funny, so I laughed.
Valdemar chuckled, taking a small bite out of their own stack of cookies.
"This has been delightful, my dear. Perhaps...some human customs are rather pleasant."
I grinned. "Really?"
Valdemar looked at me curiously.
"Did you think I would not enjoy this?"
I shrugged, averting my eyes for a moment. "Well, it's not really your style. I suppose." I admitted
The quaestor shrugged, and their cheeks darkened more, causing their faint freckles to disappear.
"Ah, well..." they cleared their throat. "I'd enjoy most activities as long as its done with you, Y/N."
I smiled and offered another forkful of rich chocolate cake. They handed me a cookie in return, and I took a large bite.
I caught someone looking suspiciously at Valdemar, and gave them a ferocious scowl.
Valdemar chuckled.
"You look as menacing as a kitten, my dear."
I frowned even more, making them laugh harder.
"I don't like it when people give you that look."
"And what look is that?"
"That look like...you're a thing. An animal. That people stare at."
I could have sworn I saw their smile slip the slightest bit.
"Ah, well...theres no helping that. If people desire to stare, that is their personal problem." Valdemar said decisively.
I shrugged. The stares annoyed me. I refused to think of my partner as anything less than perfect, and I despised when people clearly thought of them as far from that.
Valdemar leaned across the table, resting their cheek on their hand.
"Tell me, darling...are you, perhaps, ashamed of being with me?" they did not mince words when they wanted an answer.
I stared at them, taken aback. "Of course not. Why would you think that?"
They watched me unblinkingly. "You don't seem to like the stares."
I shook my head vehemently. "No! But that's because I don't like people looking at you like that, not me!" I explained. "It makes me so mad that they can't see you like I do."
"And how do you see me?"
I sat back incredulously, staring at them.
"You're...amazing! You're witty and sarcastic and you have a nice voice and you're cute and-"
Valdemar's cheeks darkened with every word. "Alright, that's enough. I-I...thank you."
I reached out for their hand. They eventually took it, rubbing their thumb over my knuckles.
"If you're really alright with being out in public with me...perhaps we should do this more often."
My entire face lit up.
"Really?"
Valdemar chuckled, leaning their cheek on their hand.
"Well, of course, my dear." their smile became a little more menacing. "Perhaps it can be a vivisection of the next person that gives us a dirty look."

Chapter Text

"Darling, why on earth are you here at five o clock in the morning?"
I yawned, plopping onto Valdemar's chair and tossing the satchel carried haphazardly on the desk.
Valdemar sighed. "Make yourself at home, while you're at it." They added sarcastically.
I smiled sleepily at them.
"I made you a present." I dug around in the satchel and pulled out a flower crown, somehow still intact, even through my rough journey to get to the dungeons.
Valdemar eyed it.
"Ah...what exactly do you expect me to do with it?"
I smiled.
"It's not just any flower crown. It's made out of deadly plants; foxglove, deadly nightshade, belladonna..." I ticked them off on my fingers. "I made it specially for you, Val."
I could have sworn I saw the quaestor's cheeks darken.
"And...do I wear it, then?"
I nodded.
They carefully placed it on their head, and smiled little.
"Thank you, my dear. It's a very thoughtful gift."
I beamed back, happy that they were pleased.
"Is that why you are here so early, Y/N?" Valdemar asked.
"Yes." I yawned again. "You have a meeting with the courtiers today. I wanted to catch you before then."
Valdemar's penetrating red eyes softened. They pulled me forward by the waist, pressing a kiss on my forehead.
"You truly are a sort of wonder. For a human."
I felt my cheeks get hot.
"Thank you."
Valdemar sighed, tutting at my already drooping eyelids.
"Come along. To sleep with you."
I didn't protest, leaning against their shoulder as they led me to the operating table and sat down on it.
I sat beside them, then stretched out on my side, resting my head comfortably on their lap.
Valdemar twisted a strand of my hair around their finger. I smiled, feeling myself drift off to sleep.

Second person POV

Valdemar smiled softly at you. You were most likely the only human they'd let so close to them.
They ran their nails through your hair, careful not to nick your scalp and wake you. You stirred a bit, mumbling nonsense in your sleep.
Suddenly, a knock came to the dungeon door before it flew open with a crash.
Valdemar scowled, glancing quickly at you. Somehow, the loud noise hadn't woken you up.
Inside strode Vulgora and Vlastomil. Behind them cowered Volta, nibbling on a cookie.
"QUAESTOR!" Vulgora boomed.
Valdemar gave all three of them a poisonous look, placing a hand over your ear.
"I'd appreciate it if you would refrain from shouting, Vulgora." They said calmly, acid seeping into their tone.
Vulgora laughed loudly, but spoke at a normal volume.
"Your little human pet is asleep, huh?"
Valdemar stroked your hair, their fingers ghosting over your cheek.
"Yes. What do you want?"
Vlastomil peered over Vulgora's shoulder.
"The meeting with the countess is in less than half an hour, quaestor."
Valdemar didn't look up, their fingers trailing along your arm.
"Then I have half an hour to spend with Y/N. Leave me."
Volta smiled, continuing to nibble on her cookie.
"How very sweet of the quaestor, oh so very sweet, Volta thinks!" she trilled.
"You've gone soft, Valdemar." Vulgora sneered.
Valdemar looked up, their fingers continuing to trace along your jaw.
"Would you like to test that theory? I guarantee it shall be proven wrong." Their menace seemed to poison the air around them, and all three courtiers could feel it.
"Hmph. Well, be done with your little toy in twenty minutes."
You shifted in the quaestor's lap, rolling onto your other side. One arm went around their waist as you whispered gibberish under your breath. Valdemar could've sworn they heard their name among your mumblings.
"I don't answer to you, pontifex." Valdemar answered calmly. "I will be at the meeting. Now leave me. You're going to wake Y/N."
The courtiers left. Vulgora slammed the door a little more forcefully than necessary.
Valdemar winced a bit at the crash the door made, but continued to stroke your hair. Though they'd never tell anyone, least of all the courtiers, you were so much more than a toy to them.
In fact, they were fairly sure they loved you. In whatever way they could.
Perhaps they'd tell someday.
But who knew?

Chapter Text

“Goodness, Y/N, what on earth have you gotten yourself into?” Valdemar raised their eyebrow at me as I staggered into the dungeons. I wasn’t exactly sure how I’d managed to make it down here in one piece; my lip was bleeding, there was a rather nasty gash on my shoulder, a few bruises on my arms, and my head was throbbing.
“Yeah, so,” I grinned tiredly. “I may or may not have pissed off Vulgora so I could spar with them.”
Valdemar groaned, pinching their temples.
“Honestly, Y/N, you tend to be extremely stupid sometimes.”
“I know. But that’s why you love me.” I slumped against the wall, the world beginning to spin. “Mind helping me out?”
Valdemar stood from their desk, still looking irritated. They caught me right before I hit the floor.
“Your human body is so fragile. It is absolutely vital you stop putting yourself through this.” They lifted me easily, holding me bridal style in both arms. “Up you go.”
I was dropped onto the vivisection table, and groaned as my head hit the metal. “It’s all in good fun. I’m tough.” I mustered a smile.
“As your doctor-“
“I don’t value professionalism.” I shot a cheeky grin at them.
“As your partner. I insist you cease this.” Valdemar busied themselves with analyzing my wounds. “I can’t have the first human I’ve cared for in centuries wind up dead because of their own stupidity.”
I smiled, softer this time.
“I won’t die. Not now.”
They looked up to shoot a stern glare at me. “From my experience, many of you don’t usually plan on it.”
I decided to change the subject. “You don’t intend on slicing me open like this, do you?” I teased them, reaching up to touch their face.
“Don’t be foolish.” They scoffed. “Though I have considered performing a lobotomy on you to confirm you have a brain in your skull, pet.”
I snorted. “Oh, you’re so sweet, really.” I replied sarcastically.
Valdemar wiped a stream of blood from my mouth with their thumb. “That doesn’t seem too serious. Did Vulgora strike you over the head?”
“Yeah, er…they did.” I rubbed the top of my head, wincing a little bit at the feeling of a bump starting to form.
“That is more reason for concern. I do hope you don’t have concussion.” Their fingers picked through my hair, gently prodding the tender area. “We mustn’t risk making you stupider than you already are.”
I snickered. By now I was used to this banter. “You’re hurting my feelings, babe.”
“I’m sure you can survive a bruised ego, dear. This, however,” They ran their finger along the gash in my shoulder. “This will take longer to recover from.”
I squirmed. “Can you please just help me?” I pleaded.
“Of course I will. Just hold still.” They tugged at the ruined fabric. “Remove your shirt, if you please.”
I raised an eyebrow with a playful smirk. “Okay.”
Valdemar huffed. “If you’re going to make immature implications, I shall simply let you bleed out.”
I pulled my shirt off obediently. “Sorry.”
It was no surprise my torso was bruised as well. Valdemar sighed impatiently.
“The best I can do with this is a salve to ease the pain for a while.”
I shrugged. “Sounds good to me.” I replied, arching my back to give them slightly better access to my black and blue ribs.
I felt their deft fingers rubbing something cold and slimy onto my skin. It relieved the aches at least a little bit, causing me to sigh.
Once they finished, I sat up. “You’re an angel, truly.”
“Truly I am no such thing. Lay back down and let me check your head.” They snapped.
I obeyed, letting them investigate my swollen scalp again.
“I’ll get something cold on this. One moment.”
I craned my neck to see them walk to the edge of the room and pull out a small sack.
“I’m beginning to tire of cleaning you up so often.” Valdemar placed it carefully on my head. It was mercifully cold, dulling the pain of the bump on my head considerably.
“No you’re not. You know you love me.” I winced as they touched the bruise around my left eye.
They disregarded that. “I can’t do anything about this. Let’s see the cut.”
I turned the injured shoulder towards them. A row of three ragged gashes marked my shoulder, puckered at the edges. Blood was trickling down my back far faster than was probably healthy.
Valdemar tutted. “It isn’t terribly deep, but we should staunch the bleeding.” I heard them bustle around in another part of the room, presumably for bandages. “I assume they caught your shoulder with their gauntlet?”
“Yep.” I shrugged my shoulders and flinched. “It hurts.”
“It’s your own fault.” They said sternly, but I caught a flicker of affection in their eyes as they cleaned the wound with a cloth.
I hissed as the disinfectant touched the cut. “Ow!”
“Do you want it to fester, dear?” Valdemar continue to dab the blood away.
“No.” I mumbled grudgingly.
“That’s what I thought. Hold still, now.” They finished cleaning the wound and began to wrap it with the bandages, pressing herbs in between my skin and the gauze.
I tried not to squirm. “Thank you for patching me up, Val. I really do appreciate it.”
Valdemar sighed. “I suppose it’s my responsibility as your significant other.” they tucked in the loose edge of the gauze. “Do try not to get yourself killed.”
I sat up, flexing my shoulder and wincing again. “I’ll make sure I don’t die for you.” I promised them.
Valdemar breezed past me to grab something else, only pausing to press a short kiss on my forehead.
“You’d best apologize to Vulgora.” They advised.
I snorted. “Never.”
“I suppose it’s your funeral.” Valdemar studied the point of the scalpel that had been left on the counter. “However, I assure you that your lifeless corpse is one I’d rather not see on my dissection table.”
“You’re making me blush, stop it.” I hopped off the table. “I’ll apologize if it helps you sleep easier at night.”
“I don’t sleep at night.” A smirk tugged at the edge of Valdemar’s mouth.
I snickered, sidling up to them to kiss their cheek.
“See you later. Do you still want to take a walk in the gardens later?” I asked.
“I do indeed. Run along now, pet.”
I waved goodbye to them and headed back up the stairs. A few steps up, I heard their voice drift through the stairway.
“Try to make it through the week without another injury, dear.”

Chapter Text

“Magician Y/N, I’m so glad you wanted to have a picnic with Volta!” Procurator Volta enthused, waddling towards a grove of trees within the palace gardens, encumbered with a picnic basket almost bigger than she was.
I snickered, balancing a basket almost as big on my hip. “Of course, Volta. I don’t know you very well, and I would love for us to be friends.”
“Friends??!” Volta's warm cinnamon eye widened, and a smile broke across her features. “Oh, yes, Volta would be delighted to be friends with you!”
I giggled. “I’m glad. Come on, let’s set up here.” I spread a large linen sheet on the grass while Volta dropped the basket with a huff.
I began taking food out of the basket. It looked like more than I could eat, for sure, but for Volta this was small potatoes. I made a mental note of a few things I wanted to eat and decided to leave the rest to her.
“Oh, these cookies look delicious! And you brought so many! Yes, Volta is very pleased!”
I giggled again as she began to eat. The procurator was so delightful, and much less aggressive than the rest of the court.
I took a bite of a perfectly juicy pear. “Hey, Volta, do you get out of your estate a lot?”
Volta looked up, her mouth full of sandwiches. “Oh, sometimes Volta goes to eat. Or buy food.”
I took another bite of the fruit in my hand. “Do you ever do anything else?”
“Hmmm….no? What else is there to do?” Volta kept eating, starting on some chicken.
“Lots of things! There’s the community theater in the flooded district, the rowdy Raven, there’s plenty of things!” I smiled at her. “When we become friends, we should go together. It would be so fun.”
Volta’s eyes widened again, her lower lip trembling. “You would really go somewhere with Volta?? As her friend?”
“Of course I would. We can even get popcorn to eat during the show.”
She just about tackled me with a hug.
“Oh, thank you, thank you, Y/N!” d
I laughed. “Aw, Volta, you’re welcome.” I hugged her back, feeling like I could crush her if I squeezed too hard.
“Why, Y/N. Procurator Volta.”
I tossed my head back, gaining an upside down view of Quaestor Valdemar. “Oh, hey, Val!” I smiled at them. Volta released me from her grip so I could turn around and greet them properly.
“I’ve told you not to call me that, dear magician. What are you doing?”
The quaestor was the complete opposite of Volta; they we’re chilly and quiet and rather intimidating. But it never bothered me, and never had, as we’d been in a secret relationship for almost a year now.
“Having a picnic. I brought Volta along with me.” I explained. “Do you want to join us? If you’re not busy.”
“I think I will.” Valdemar sat down pointedly. They looked incredibly out of place sitting on the picnic blanket in a stained lab coat, but I was happy with their presence nonetheless. They had a very specific effect on me; although they unsettled most people, I had figurative stars in my eyes whenever I was around them.
“Dear, kind Y/N was offering to take Volta to the community theater with them!” Volta trilled.
“Oh, is that so?” Valdemar arched an eyebrow at me, and I blushed.
“Mhm. I thought it would be a good way for us to become friends.” I smiled at them. I wanted to move closer to them like I usually did, press myself into their side in a way that I had done so often that it came easily as breathing.
Instead, I passed them a piece of cake. Valdemar took it, but didn’t eat.
“My, Volta, you seem to have eaten most of the picnic. Have you left any for Y/N?” they asked, tilting their head to one side. Their voice was vaguely chastising.
Volta froze, her eyes darting between me and the pile of food.
“Oh, dear! Volta does not wish to be rude, no no, she is just so very hungry-“
I stifled a laugh. “It’s okay, Volta. I’m perfectly full with my sandwiches and cake, I promise.”
“Oh, Y/N is so very kind!” Volta began eating again.
“Very kind indeed.” I could hear Valdemar hiss out the statement through gritted teeth. Behind my back, I slid my fingers into theirs.
They stiffened for a moment, then relaxed slightly.
“Quaestor, is Vulgora about the palace today?” Volta enquired.
“I wouldn’t know, procurator. Perhaps you should go look yourself.” Valdemar replied coldly.
“Oh, oh, perhaps I will! But I must finish this delicious food!” Volta eagerly reached for a napkin filled with rolls.
“As I’d expected.” A touch of annoyance seeped into Valdemar’s tone.
I took a bite of an airy sponge cake, and out of habit, offered a forkful to my partner. “Want some? It’s really good.”
“Thank you, dear, but I’m not hungry.” They held up their hand, and I ate it myself. “Procurator, I believe the pontifex is at their estate. Perhaps you should bring some of this lovely food to them.”
Volta looked concerned. “Oh, but then there will be none left for Volta!”
“Perhaps the pontifex would just enjoy the company. The food will be more beneficial for you.” Valdemar replied.
“Hmmm.” I could see by Volta's expression that she was already convinced. “Volta thinks that is a very good idea, dear Quaestor! I think I shall do that, yes!”
I giggled, and Volta seemed to remember my presence.
“Oh, kind Y/N, you will not mind, will you?”
“Of course not, Volta. Go ahead.” I smiled.
“Thank you! I shall bring all this delicious food to dear Vulgora, now! Thank you for coming to the picnic with Volta!”
“Anytime.” I chuckled at the sight of the small courtier toddling towards the palace with the large basket. Now all that was left was a few plates of half eaten food, the blanket, and the cool spring breeze.
“You did that on purpose, didn’t you?” I gave Valdemar a sly look.
They were stifling a smile. “I don’t have any idea what you’re talking about.”
I snorted. “Oh, sure.” Now that Volta was out of sight, I sprawled across their lap, staring up at the sky.
“You can’t blame me for wanting you all to myself, pet.” Valdemar laced their fingers through mine, examining my hand with an almost scientific air.
“I don’t blame you,” I grinned. “But I do want to be friends with Volta.”
“Of course, darling. It’s just a tempting prospect, that’s all.” I felt their finger tracing patterns in my arm. I knew for a fact that it was the major veins they were tracing over, but that was just what they were used to doing.
I sat up and leaned bodily against their chest.
“You don’t have to be jealous.” I smirked at them. Valdemar scoffed.
“Don’t get cocky.”
“I’m not. But I know you’re jealous. Just a tiny bit.” I leaned my head back l against their shoulder.
“Hmmm, perhaps you’re right. But you’re just as greedy for my attention, aren’t you?” Valdemar wrapped an arm around my waist.
I grinned, nudging my face against their jaw. “Of course. But I’m just more open about it.”
“You are human, pet. I am not.” Valdemar’s tone became slightly icy.
“I haven’t forgotten. And I don’t mind how you show affection. I know it’s there all the same.”
They didn’t answer for a moment, and I faltered.
“It…it is there, isn’t it?”
Valdemar smiled just a little bit, studying my face curiously. One gloved hand traced my cheekbone.
“Val?”
They still didn’t answer. But by the way they pulled my face closer, closing the space between us, lovingly running their fingertips along my jaw, I knew what it was.

Chapter Text

It was a beautiful day at the beach.
The sun reflected on the azure ocean, glittering against the many sailboats and vessels that dotted the sea. The sand was hot under your bare feet as you tugged Valdemar along to an empty spot on the shore, a few feet away from the hissing foam.
You could still feel the heat through the blanket as you laid it down on the sand. After thrusting an umbrella into the ground, You put your hands on your hips, admiring your handiwork, before turning to your partner.
“Oh, Val, your sunhat’s going up again.” You gently pulled their hat back over their forehead. A translucent black veil kept the sun exposure on their face to a minimum, but it was clear enough for you to catch a faint smile on their face.
“Thank you, dearest.”
You sat down, patting the spot next to you. Valdemar sat, looking hilariously out of place.
Their fingers slid through yours. You gave their hand a squeeze.
“Julian and Asra have the food, and they’ll be coming later. I thought you might want to be early.” You explained.
“You’re very considerate. I do hope the doctor won’t be too rowdy. I was hoping this would be a peaceful excursion.” Valdemar replied, a hint of playfulness in their voice.
You laughed. “I’ll tell Julian to tone it down. Asra will keep him in check.”
“Hello there, Y/N!”
You couldn’t help but laugh at the sight of Julian’s lanky figure bounding over the sand, juggling two comically large picnic baskets in his arms. Asra walked behind him, a grin twitching at the edge of their mouth.
Julian dropped the baskets on the blanket, panting, and sprawled onto the sand. Asra dropped cross legged beside him, chuckling. Faust popped out from his coat, bobbing her head.
“Hello, Y/N, Quaestor. How are you both?” Asra asked, the breeze ruffling their snowy hair.
You smiled at him, beginning to unpack the basket. “We’re good. Thanks for bringing food.”
“It’s no trouble!” Julian interrupted cheerfully, winking best he could with an eye patch. “Got it all myself, you know.”
“Really? I seem to remember you begging Mazelinka to make it for you.” Asra replied, eyes twinkling with amusement. Julian elbowed them in the ribs.
“Are we going to eat now?” you asked, pulling a cloth napkin of rolls out of the basket. “I was hoping to show Valdemar something before we did.”
“It’s up to you. Julian and I can hold down the blanket.” Asra smiled mischievously. “I’m sure you’d like some time of peace and quiet before Julian starts on his day drinking.”
“Hey! I don’t get loud when I drink!” Julian protested.
“So you don’t deny the day drinking?”
You laughed as the two began to quarrel good naturedly, and tugged Valdemar to their feet.
“Come on. I learned a new trick, and I wanna show you.”
Valdemar followed you to the edge of the shore, where a small dock had been built. Tied to it was a rowboat barely big enough for two, bobbing merrily in the swell of the ocean.
You carefully got in, and held out your hand for them to follow.
Valdemar gingerly stepped inside. “I do hope I won’t have to swim. I’m not dressed appropriately.” They muttered.
“You won’t, I promise.” You placed both hands on either side of the boat, closing your eyes. Magic tingled down your arms and into your hands.
Squeezing your eyes more tightly, you released the power into the rowboat. The wood glowed white for a moment, shuddered, and shot forward!
Valdemar audibly screeched with alarm, grabbing onto you for dear life. Their hat flapped in the wind, being held only by a strap under their chin.
You laughed, wind whipping your hair as the boat skidded over the water, bouncing over every wave you passed. Your arms twined around their waist, hugging them close to you as it picked up speed, weaving around the occasional sailboat.
“I do not like how quickly we are going, magician!” Valdemar hissed in your ear, their nails digging into your back.
“You’re going to have to let go of me if you want to slow down.” You replied cheekily.
They growled, but reluctantly released you from their constrictive grip.
You placed your hands on the rim of the boat, whispered a spell under your breath, and the boat slowed down.
You turned to your partner with a grin. “Tada!”
Valdemar still looked irked, but managed a dry laugh.
“Very fascinating, pet.”
You leaned over the rim of the boat, squinting against the glare of the sun. The Lazaret was a speck in the distance, the shore a thin line. The only thing visible was an island, a few hundred feet ahead.
“Wanna check it out?” you asked, pointing to said island.
“I suppose so. There’s not much else to occupy our time with, anyways.” Valdemar adjusted their sunhat with a huff.
As you got closer, the island appeared to be a sort of jungle, covered with thick foliage. You hopped out of the boat and onto the sandy shore, tying the boat to a nearby branch.
Valdemar stepped out, their fingers pressed together as they surveyed your destination. The thick trees made the island shadowy and foreboding, and you could hear strange noises within it.
You elbowed them. “This looks right up your alley, babe.” You teased.
Valdemar gave you a pointed smile. “I suppose you’re right. Shall we explore?”
You eyed the dark jungle again. Curiosity eventually outweighed the nerves, and you nodded.
“Sure. Let’s do it!”

Chapter Text

The jungle swallowed any sort of light as you stepped inside. It was almost pitch black, and you could barely see a few feet in front of you.
“How very fascinating.” Valdemar muttered, their fingers closing over your wrist. You could hear the rustle of fabric as they removed their sunhat.
“What’s fascinating? I can’t see a damn thing.” You whispered back. It was your turn to cling to them, eyes darting back and forth in the gloom.
“There is a creature here. I’ve never seen it before.” Valdemar mused, one arm curling around your waist. “Don’t make a sound, now. We mustn’t frighten it.”
Curiosity overwhelmed you. You summoned a silver ball of light, illuminating the dimness.
And nearly screamed at the sight of a two headed deer, grazing on a tree. It didn’t even startle at the sudden light; only flicked an ear and kept eating.
“isn’t it interesting?” they whispered, their eyes glinting with a familiar morbid curiosity. “I’ve never seen anything like it.”
You reached out to touch it’s flank. The deer's fur was coarse and damp, and it still didn’t react to your touch.
“I must have a sample of it’s fur.” Valdemar approached the deer, reaching into their pocket for something you couldn’t see.
While they were occupied, you headed further into the jungle. You didn’t see any other two headed deer, but you did catch a glance of huge moths perched on the trees, and even bigger spiders devouring them.
Eventually, you came upon a clearing with a pond in the middle. It was surprisingly clear, and very deep from what you could see. A few fish swam below the surface, close enough to touch.
You kneeled on the bank. Curiously enough, you could sense a faint pull of magic from within it, but you couldn’t tell if it was from the fish or the pond itself.
“Hey, Val! Come look at this!” you called. Your voice seemed strangely muffled by the trees.
After a few moments they peered into the clearing, pocketing something you couldn't quite see.
“What is it, pet?”
You motioned for them to sit down next to you.
“There’s some old magic in this.” You idly swirled your fingers in the water, then jumped when it glowed temporarily blue at your touch.
Delighted, you started to draw patterns on the surface, each one glowing brighter than the last. You looked up at Valdemar, a smile on your face.
“You have to try this.”
Valdemar gingerly brushed their fingers over the surface of the water. Their fingers left a streak of glowing crimson that faded after a few moments.
“It must react to temperature.” They put their whole hand in the water. It bloomed red where their hand was, and you would have thought that they’d started bleeding if you hadn’t known better. “Or perhaps, magic?”
You reached into the water as well, interlacing your fingers with theirs. Red and blue whorls of light twined and mixed together, resulting in a vibrant, lavender that permeated at least half the pond.
Valdemar squeezed your hand. They didn’t look at you, but you saw a faint smile flicker over their expression.
You moved a little closer to them, leaning your head on their shoulder. They froze for a moment, before relaxing against you.
“I guess we go pretty well together.” You murmured into the silence.
Valdemar’s ruby eyes reflected the light of the pond as they turned to look at you, pulling your hand from the water. Glowing purple dripped off your interlocked fingers, sinking into the sandy soil below.
“I suppose we do.” They gave you one of their rare non-threatening smiles. You smiled back, brushing a light kiss over their cold cheek. They caught your chin in their fingers when you began to pull away and firmly kissed you, their other hand tightening on yours.
This, truly, was a magical moment.

The sun was edging towards the west by the time you and your partner had set off for the shore. The boat seemed to know where to go on its own, allowing the both of you to relax in the back of the rowboat as it bounced along.
“We must remember where that island was, dear. I’d very much like to explore it further.” Valdemar said, placing their sunhat on their lap. You smiled, leaning heavily against their side.
“We will. I’d like to visit again myself.”
Their arm wrapped around your shoulders. “I had a wonderful time with you.” They said it so softly that you almost didn’t hear it.
You nudged your head under their chin. “I had a wonderful time with you too.” You replied quietly, absently running your hand over the rim of their sunhat.
The shore was fast approaching. In a few moments the boat bumped against the sand, only a few feet from Asra and Julian.
Julian already looked thoroughly intoxicated, and was belting out what sounded like an off tune sea shanty, while Asra laid collapsed in a helpless fit of laughter.
Valdemar pinched their temples for a moment before putting their sunhat back on.
“Having fun?” you asked, trying to hide a snicker of your own.
“Oh, hello, you two.” Asra managed through their chuckling. “I was about to go look for you. Did you enjoy yourselves?”
“Mhm.” You sat down on the blanket. “We found an island off the coast. It was really interesting.”
He smiled. “Really? I wonder if it’s been charted.”
“I hope not. It’d be fun to name an island.” You nudged Valdemar. “What would you name it?”
Valdemar shrugged. “I’m not certain, pet. I’ve never been asked to name an island before.” Faint amusement seeped into their tone. “Perhaps I should name it after you.”
You grinned, delighted. “Aw. That’s sweet.”
They chuckled. “Perhaps it shall be our special area. For us to explore.”
Your smile widened, and gave them a quick squeeze.
“Yeah. I’d like that.”

Chapter Text

What is this? I have no idea but here it is. Tw for alcohol, swearing and barf
----------🫀🫀🫀🫀
Your head was spinning.

You stumbled down the palace hallway, hopelessly trying to find your room again. Even through a haze of alcohol you knew it had been a bad idea to join Asra and Julian at the Rowdy Raven, and subsequently, enter a drinking contest that you'd lost. Not only did it attract too much attention to Julian, who was still on the run, but it also would probably result in a bitchass hangover on your part.

“Fuck-“ You leaned heavily against the wall, stomach heaving. The last thing you wanted to do was throw up in the hallway and leave it for someone else to find.

“Magician. What a surprise to see you here.”

You whipped around, almost falling backwards with the momentum of the movement. Dizzy, you registered Quaestor Valdemar in front of you, their fingers steepled as they surveyed your current state.

“V-Valdemar!” You hiccupped, leaning your head against the marble wall and trying to stifle the sudden urge to giggle. Your already warm cheeks flushed further when they raised an eyebrow at you.

You were flustered enough around them when you were sober, and while intoxicated it was even harder to keep your crush on them under wraps.

“That is I. What are you doing here at such an hour?”

A giggle flew out of you before you could stop it. “What about you?”

“My private affairs that are surely none of your business.” Valdemar replied coldly as they took a step closer, then back again. “My, you reek of alcohol. What on earth have you been doing?”

“None of your…your business.” You swallowed thickly when you felt your stomach heave again.

“If you vomit, please allow me time to get out of the way.” They said, sounding entirely indifferent to your misery.

You tried to stand without the wall supporting you. Huge mistake.

You staggered and almost crumpled straight to the ground, knocking into a vase and sending it wobbling.

Whether by instinct or concern, Valdemar caught you under the arms. You flushed at the sudden proximity, grabbing onto the front of their coat for balance.

Their face was extremely close to yours. Their eyes were so pretty; you didn’t know how you'd never noticed.

“You’re really attractive.” You blurted out, black creeping onto the edges of your vision.

You felt Valdemar's arm nearly slip out from under you. “I beg your pardon?”

“You’re really attractive!” You repeated, louder. They slapped their hand over your mouth, hissing. “Quiet! You’ll wake the whole palace.”

“Sorry.” You replied through their fingers. “But you are.” Your head lolled to one side, against their shoulder. Their skin was cold even under their clothes, and it felt nice. You rubbed your cheek against it, causing them to nearly drop you again.

“Stop this at once. Where is your room?” Valdemar snapped.

“I don’t know!” You slurred. “Curse you, Asra, this is all your fault- begging me to c-come.”

“Oh, this is hopeless.” Valdemar groaned. “Just follow me, please.”

“Okay.” you giggled, your mood instantly escalated at the prospect of going with them anywhere. They allowed you to lean against them, one arm squeezing their waist to keep your balance.

You didn’t really process where exactly they took you. All you could register was passing through the dark library at one point, and a cramped elevator at another. But next thing you knew you were in what looked like what you expected the dungeons of the palace to look like. It was mercifully dim, and you closed your eyes, suddenly very tired. Valdemar let you drop to the cold stone floor on your knees.

“If you absolutely must vomit, do it in here.” Valdemar nudged a wooden bucket towards you. Your stomach lurched, and you threw up mostly liquid.

“It is shameful how much of a fool you’re making of yourself.” You heard a sneer in their voice. “I was beginning to admire you, magician.”

You leaned against the rim of the bucket, tears pooling in your eyes. “It wasn’t my fault. Asra made me.” You insisted, a tear sliding down your cheek. Then you threw up again.

“Drink.” Valdemar snapped, thrusting a cup of water in to your hands. You obeyed, taking small sips. It settled your stomach ever so slightly.

“Thank you. You’re -hic!- so nice.” you looked up at them, hair falling over your wet eyes, feeling an even stronger rush of infatuation for them. “I really like you, you know.”

“Don’t be ridiculous. Take this.” they handed you a glass vial full of hazy gold liquid and crossed the room to fuss with some boxes. “It will help you sober up.”

You waved the potion in your hand, nearly spilling it. “But I do! I think you’re the most brilliant person I’ve ever met.” You insisted, trying to sit up. You ended up leaning heavily on something that was metal and cold. “You’re so smart. And you know so much. And you’re cute. And funny. And cute.”  You hiccupped, then giggled at yourself. “I think you’re amazing, really.”

When you looked up, mild panic was flashing over Valdemar’s face, though you weren't quite sure why.

Then their eyes hardened, and they took the bottle from your hands to shove it against your lips. “Drink. Now.”

You finally did, feeling the cool liquid trickle down your throat. It tasted vaguely sweet, and you smiled, exhaustion suddenly crashing over you like a wave. You still felt off, but you didn’t feel like you were about to throw up or faint at any moment.

“Isn’t that better, now?” Valdemar said, sounding extremely inconvenienced. You heard an uncomfortable squelch, and the sound of a scalpel clinking against a tray.

“Yes.” Your eyelids drooped as you leaned your cheek against the cold floor. “Goodnight.”

“What? You absolutely cannot sleep down here!” They hissed. “Now that you are somewhat sober, you can find your own room!”

“Too tired. Don’t remember.” You mumbled. The hazy outline of Valdemar faded into black, and suddenly nothing was.

~~~~~~~~~

Valdemar scowled at your now-asleep and slightly shivering form on the floor, feeling a twisting in their stomach that they hadn’t felt in a very long time. This is unfair. How dare they affect me like this.

They clenched their fists, trying to physically prevent how hard their heart-or whatever currently inhabited their chest cavity-was thumping, trying not to relive the moment of shock and sudden…weakness at your confession.

But they couldn’t help it, and they hated it. Valdemar hated how, for a brief moment, your words had caused a brief flash of excitement through them, a feeling that usually manifested only when they discovered a new specimen or when a new shipment of equipment came in.

Fuming, they snatched a spare coat and tossed it over you, gritting their teeth at the way their heart jumped when you sleepily tugged it under your chin, a tiny smile gracing your features.

Why am I feeling this way? For a human, no less!

For a moment, Valdemar considered dropping you on the examination table and using you as their next specimen for vivisection before you woke up. In such a vulnerable state it would be simple to just scoop you up and take a scalpel to your unconscious body. Surely, that would get rid of the pesky emotions plaguing them. If you were gone, there would be nothing else to feel for.

But they couldn’t. For once, they could not bring themself to do it. You looked too peaceful, almost angelic, asleep underneath one of their coats. And horror of horrors, the thought of you screaming in pain and fear did not appeal to them. In fact, it gave them a rather unpleasant feeling.

Valdemar kneeled beside you, grabbing your face in one hand. “What have you done to me, magician?” they hissed, squeezing your face so tightly you squeaked in your sleep, your eyelashes fluttering. Valdemar yanked their hand back as if they’d been burned, trying and failing to shove down the sudden cocktail of feelings bubbling to the surface at your reaction.

And you offered no answer.

Valdemar growled under their breath, grabbing a test tube and hurling it to the floor, watching it shatter against the stone.

For now, they would focus on their work. They would positively drown themselves in their work, and forget about it. Surely, it would pass. It had to.

 ~~~~~~

You woke up to a clatter of metal on metal, with something around your shoulders. Your head was pounding, and your stomach definitely did not feel like it normally did.

You sat up, rubbing your eyes. Where am I?

You vaguely remembered going to the Rowdy Raven with Julian and Asra….oh.

Confused, you scanned your surroundings. It looked like you were in a cross between dungeons and a hospital.

“Why, their Majesty is finally awake.” You heard someone behind you singsong, sarcasm thick in their tone.

“Mmm?!” You yelped when you saw Valdemar behind you. Screwing your eyes shut, you managed to dredge up a faint memory of them dragging you here last night.

“I hope you had a pleasant rest? On the floor of my dungeons, no less.” They continued in that irritated tone.

“What happened last night?” you sat up, wincing when your neck cracked.

Valdemar’s eyes widened with glee. “Oh, you don’t remember?” they cackled, the sound echoing through the dungeon.

“No.” you snapped back. “Can you tell me?”

“Gladly.” Valdemar pulled you roughly to your feet, causing you to abruptly realize an old doctors coat had been draped around you.

“Now, let’s see. I seem to recall you stumbling about in the halls like a fool at ungodly hours. Then out of the pure goodness of my heart,” they sneered at the words. “I brought you to my private workspace in order to assist you. There, you admitted several times of what seems like your affections for me, and promptly went to sleep on the floor.” They tapped their chin rather exaggeratedly. “Yes, I believe that covers everything.”

Your face burned with embarrassment. “Oh, gods, I’m so sorry. I-I'm not myself when I’m drunk, I’m so sorry if I caused any trouble-“

“It was rather amusing, if irritating.” They continued as if you hadn’t said anything, sweeping the doctors coat off your shoulders. “My, you just kept on about how brilliant I was. I dare say it was even touching, how highly you think of me.” They chuckled. “And even going so far as to say I was attractive? I haven’t heard that in a long while.”

You grumbled, crossing your arms. “Well, you don’t have to go on about it. If you do, I’ll think you liked it.”

Valdemar froze in the motion of hanging the coat over a chair.

“Perish the thought immediately, magician.” They said, a little too quickly.

It was your turn to laugh. “Why? Did you like it, quaestor?”

“If you’re going to be a nuisance, leave my dungeons.” Valdemar snapped.

A shit eating grin spread across your face as you walked over to them, albeit a little shakily. “You’re not answering my question.” You said cheekily.

After a moment of silence, they answered. “There is absolutely no shame in admitting that I somewhat enjoy when someone positively sings my praises, as you did last night.”

You smiled. “I guess there’s no use in denying it sober, anyways. I really do think you’re every bit as brilliant as I said. I really admire you.” Heat gathered in your cheeks again. “And…And I wish that others appreciated it too.”

Valdemar paused for a long moment, their back facing you with their arms folded behind it.

“How adorable.” They finally spoke. Their voice was a mix of condescension and something else you couldn't place. "The human admires me? When I am quite sure they have almost no idea of what I am capable of.”

“Sure I do. I definitely know you’re capable of a lot more than…well, than pretty much any person. I could feel it the first time we met.” You shrugged. “I don’t know the specifics, of course. But you’re very powerful, and most definitely not human.”

“And you still harbor such…feelings for me despite it?” Valdemar's grin was sharp. “Now that is fascinating.”

“You don’t have to be human to be brilliant. And you don’t have to poke fun; just reject me and let it be over with.” You snapped back.

“Reject you? I do not wish to reject you.” They tilted their head to one side. “I only wish to gauge what I can from this interaction, and understand how precisely your feelings for me work.”

“Well, it’s embarrassing me. Stop.” You muttered.

“I will not apologize for my curiosity. After all, no human has dared to admit any sort of attraction to me.”

“Well, I dare. I think you’re smart and witty and attractive and I really like you.” You said stubbornly. After everything that had supposedly happened, you might as well stick to your claims. “And I don’t care whether you feel the same for me, I think you ought to know at this point.”

“I do not know how I feel, magician.” Valdemar's voice was suddenly very tired. “Leave my dungeons. Now.”

“Vald-“ You reached out to touch their arm. In an instant they had batted your hand away and had your face in their hand, nearly crushing your jaw between their fingers.

“Do not touch me!” They spat.

“Why are you touching me, then?” You shot back through squished cheeks.

“Get out!” Valdemar released your face and gave you a push towards the stairway.

Slightly stung, you headed towards the stairs. “I’m sorry for causing any trouble. Thank you for taking care of me.” you said softly, without looking back. They didn’t answer.

The frustrated clinking of Valdemar’s tools faded behind you as you headed up the stairs. It led to a lift, and then another passageway that led to…the library?

You sat down in a chair just as a bookshelf slid shut over it, attempting to get your thoughts together. But before you could, the library doors burst open, and Asra came rushing in.

“Y/N! I've been so worried, where have you been?”

You laughed a little bitterly. “I’m sorry, I didn’t make it to my room last night. I…I stumbled in here and spent the night. I was really drunk, you know.”

Asra looked at you remorsefully. “I’m sorry. I should have looked after you. Its all my fault, really.”

You stood up and gave them a hug, unexpected tears suddenly pricking at your lashes.

“It’s okay. I was alright.”

You smiled, ruffling my hair. “I’m glad.”

You smiled back, blinking to keep tears at bay.

“I’m going to go to my room and change. I’ll meet you at the shop later.”

“Will do. Stay safe, Y/N.” Asra gave you a one armed squeeze and left the library.

You sat back down, contemplating the strange events of the morning.

And several stories beneath your feet, a demon fought with feelings that they ultimately had no control over.

Chapter Text

You found yourself back in the library, barely able to focus on the book you were leafing through.

Yes, your rather humiliating encounter with Valdemar a few days ago still hadn’t been forgotten. Your mind strayed to the odd experience rather often, and you weren’t sure why. You still felt embarrassed, intrigued, and a little guilty for troubling them all at once.

And to be honest, you kind of wanted to give them a proper apology. And perhaps pick their brain a little bit more.

So here you were, under the guise of casual reading, with a small tiger tooth aloe plant half concealed in your robes. A couple servants we’re chatting in front of the library doors, and you we’re waiting for them to move away from it.

The second they did, you got to your feet. Out of the vague memories you had of that drunken night was coming into the library.

You shut the library doors and closed your eyes, allowing your magic to permeate the room in search of…well, you weren’t exactly sure.

After a moment, it snagged on something discordant.

 You were inexplicably drawn in two directions at once; Julian’s old desk, and a bookshelf in the corner.

You decided to go with the desk first. It only took a few moments of rifling through the disorganized drawers to find a stack of letters. Underneath all of them was an oily iron key, set with a red stone that caught the light. It seemed to be the object your magic had caught onto.

You studied it for a moment, and slipped it in your pocket. There had to be a reason that you’d been drawn to it.

Another pull of magic nagged at the back of your mind, beckoning you towards the bookshelf. You followed the silent call, eventually stopping in front of it.

There wasn’t anything special about it, really. You ran your fingers along the spines of the books.

Then stopped on a red one when a jolt of magic tingled faintly through your fingers.

You tugged on it. It came loose.

Encouraged, you kept skimming the shelf. The same thing happened with a leather bound book, and a black and gold one, which hung out of the shelf halfway.

The bookshelf slid silently into the wall, revealing a gaping passageway.

It only took a moment of hesitation for you to go marching down there, armed with a light you’d summoned to your fingers.

The passage gave way to a rather menacing lift. This part was mildly familiar.

You tugged the key out of your pocket and slid it into the keyhole. There was an inscription below it you couldn’t quite make out.

The lift groaned, and its doors opened. You stepped inside, slight trepidation tingling down your spine. For your own sake, you really hoped this was somewhat safe.

It clattered into a darkness that even your light couldn’t quite pierce.

When the doors opened, yet another passageway faced you. But when you reached the end of it, you grinned.

You had reached the exact destination you were looking for.

However, to your dismay, you couldn’t see Valdemar anywhere. The dungeon appeared to be empty.

You had two options: wait, or leave the gift and go back up.

You decided on the latter. But first, you’d write a note; it seemed like the polite thing to do. You would have liked to do it in person, but if that wasn’t an option, then there wasn’t much else to do down here.

You searched for some parchment and a quill. There were quite a few scalpels scattered around the lab area, but no paper.

Eventually you approached a desk, near what looked like an operating stage. An empty inkpot sat in the corner, with neat stacks of parchment in the center. Curious, you picked one up and started to read.

It was written in orderly cursive, each letter precise and even. A research paper, it seemed.

“My, I thought I rid my dungeons of a rat problem long ago.”

You jumped, dropping the paper and letting it fall to the floor. Valdemar surveyed you from across the dungeon, blocking the passageway up to the lift.

“Oh! Hello, Valdemar.” You managed, trying not to let the alarm in your voice show.

“May I ask what on earth you are doing?” They asked, their irritation clear in their tone as they approached you.

“Yeah! Uh, I came down here to give you something. But you weren’t here. So I was going to leave you a note.” You explained. Awkwardly, you thrust the potted plant towards them, causing them to take a few startled steps backwards. Then they eyed it distastefully.

“What is it?”

You flushed, embarrassed. “It’s a succulent. They’re easy to take care of, so I figured it’d just…look nice on a shelf or something.” You cleared your throat. “I…I wanted to apologize. For imposing on you that one time. It…it was rude. And I didn’t get to properly say sorry.”

Valdemar arched an eyebrow. You couldn’t tell if they were judging you or not.

Then they took it from your hands and inspected it carefully.

“Are you jesting, magician?” Valdemar finally asked.

“What? No, I just…wanted to say sorry.” You fumbled. That strange flush of color was beginning to dust their cheeks again.

They fixed you with a piercing look that you couldn’t decipher. Then, seemingly satisfied, they placed the plant on their desk, near the inkpot.

“Hm. I suppose it does look rather nice.”

 You beamed. “You think so?”

“Yes.” Valdemar looked rather conflicted; torn between throwing you out and allowing for some conversation.

An uncomfortable silence fell over both of you.

They gave you a sideways glance as they sat down at their desk. “I have been contemplating your confession.”

You startled at the statement. “Huh??”

“Your confession.” They looked annoyed. “What you said that morning. I have been thinking about it.”

Your face warmed further, and you stared at your hands. “And?”

To be honest, you were fully expecting rejection. It would be better than not knowing, at least. After all, their behavior last time wasn’t too promising.

“I am…intrigued.”

You looked up sharply, confusion written across your face.

“Intrigued?”

Valdemar fidgeted, their eyes flicking back and forth between you and their desk.

“When I said I did not know how I felt, it was the truth. I did not know.” They sighed. “I do not know now. I am...conflicted.”

“How so?” you asked. You were curious now.

“I do not know what my feelings for you are. I am not sure, and I do not like being uncertain.” They gave you a frustrated look. “I am not supposed to be feeling like this, magician. I have not felt this way in a very long time. I do not understand, and I do not enjoy what I cannot understand.”

“Well, could you…describe what you’re feeling?” you ventured.

Valdemar let out a short, skeptical laugh. But nevertheless they cooperated.

“Very well. I…oh, my, I do not know. I wish to be in your presence, when I see you about the palace. I enjoy hearing your laughter. And,” they gritted out the next sentence as if it caused them pain. “When I stumbled upon you in the dead of night, quite helpless, and you…you revealed such personal views on me, I…I felt exhilaration.” They looked at you with a rather hostile expression. “Do you understand?”

You nodded. “Well…I guess that’s how I feel. For you.” You chuckled. “Maybe put more casually, but more or less it sounds about right.”

“I do not understand, magician.” Valdemar’s tone was strangely desperate.

“I mean…we feel the same way, it looks like. That’s a start.” You offered.

They looked at you again, their gaze cold, then looked away.

You chewed on your lip, almost reaching out to them and then thinking better of it.

“I won’t force you to feel or not feel anything. And I won’t try to force anything between us, either. But maybe I can give you time to…sort things out?” You suggested. “If you decide you want to possibly…start something between us, or not, just let me know. That’s really all I ask.”

I could hear Valdemar’s fingers drumming on their desk as they seemed to think it over.

“Alright, magician. I will send you a note when I have made my decision.” They replied, not looking at you.

You nodded, a tiny flicker of hope igniting in your stomach.

“Okay. I’m gonna head back up now. So…goodbye.” You gave an awkward half wave.

Valdemar looked back at you. Their voice was a little softer when they spoke.

“Goodbye. Thank you for the gift.”

You smiled.

“No problem.”

And you headed back up to the surface.

The next few weeks had you on edge. Each day a part of you hoped for a note, and each day that part was disappointed. For a while, you began to despair that perhaps Valdemar had been toying with you after all, giving you false hope for the amusement of watching you crash and burn.

These thoughts were prevalent in your mind as you sat on the veranda, between Asra and Nadia. You were technically supposed to be listening, but your mind kept wandering back to the hypothetical note you were supposed to receive.

However, your train of thought was interrupted by Portia, who had come in with the mail.

“Good afternoon, you three!” she said cheerfully, a handful of letters in her grasp. “Milady, these are for you.” A series of chenille envelopes were placed by the countess's teapot. “Oh, and Asra, this is for you.” Another envelope by Asra's teapot.

“Oh, Y/N! This one’s addressed to you!”

You nearly choked on your tea.

A black envelope was placed into your hands. It was sealed with heavy red wax, and your heart jumped into your throat when you saw your name on the back, in that same, orderly cursive you’d seen in the dungeons.

“Were you expecting a letter, Y/N?” Nadia enquired.

You shook your head, then slowly nodded.

“Uh…sort of.”

Asra looked at you curiously. They’d been the first to notice your unease for the past weeks, you could tell, but hadn’t brought it up.

Now squirming under the scrutiny of two people, you tore the letter open. Inside was a sheet of bone white paper.

Come to the gardens at ten o clock tonight, by the pomegranate tree. I have made my decision.

You swallowed.

“Is everything alright, Y/N?” Asra asked, concern in his voice.

You nodded quickly, stuffing the letter in your pocket.

“Yes, I’m okay. Countess, may I be excused? Something…came up.”

Nadia smiled graciously. “You may.”

You could feel Asra’s questioning gaze on your back as you left the veranda.

The thing that “came up” was you sitting in your room, silently panicking. What was their answer? You were dying to know. Half of you was terrified of the possible negative outcome, but the other half was hopeful. Just a tiny bit.

You stared at the note, studying every orderly letter as if to memorize it.

The rest of the day was going to drag.

You could hear the clock strike ten from the gardens as you sat cross legged underneath the pomegranate tree, nervousness pricking down your spine. It was agony to wait for Valdemar to show up, and there was a certain degree of fear that something bad could happen.

A few minutes passed. You watched the cloudy sky through the trees. It looked rainy; you hoped that Valdemar would hurry up and get here before the storm came in.

“Hello.”

You jumped at a slightly muffled voice right beside you.

“I wasn’t sure if you’d show up.” You replied, a little annoyed. The only thing you could see in the dark was their catlike red eyes, so you summoned a small sphere of blue light to see better.

“Of course I would. I am very punctual.” Valdemar replied dismissively, taking a seat beside you.

You looked at them curiously. “So? What’s your answer?”

They looked at the grass for a moment, then back up at you. You caught a flash of white in one hand.

“What’s that?” You asked, trying to get a peek.

Valdemar held it up to the faint light. It was a flower, something that looked rather out of place in their gloved hands.

“It…it is for you.” They muttered, dropping it into your lap. You picked it up, studying the cream colored petals.

“Why?”

Valdemar looked at you irritably. “I have come to tell you I have accepted your proposition. I wish to start a…something with you. A relationship, perhaps.”

Your heart leaped, and a smile spread across your face. “Really?”

“Yes.” You had finally figured out that weird spread of color was their way of blushing.

“Oh, I’m really glad. Are you sure? I don’t want to make you feel forced into it, I promise it’s all your choice, i-“

You were cut off my Valdemar grabbing your face in one hand, forcing you to look them in the eye.

“Y/N. I am quite sure of my decision.” They said slowly, emphasizing each word.

You flushed, and smiled sheepishly.

“Well…thank you.”

For the first time that night, Valdemar looked amused.

“For what, dear magician?” they shifted their grip on your face to cupping your cheek in their palm.

“For…telling me. Returning my feelings? I’m not sure.” You shrugged. “I’m just…happy.”

Valdemar looked at you soundlessly, sliding their fingers to your temple, then your hair.

“I am glad you are happy. I…would like to make you happy.” They said, a certain caution in their voice. This made your smile wider, and you leaned your cheek into their palm.

Valdemar studied your face, their eyes taking in your features. They leaned a little closer, promptly causing your cheeks to flush with heat.

“Your face is very warm.” They noted, picking up the flower from your lap. Almost absently they tucked it behind your ear, turning your face to one side to make sure it was on properly.

Your face was on fire at this point. Valdemar smiled faintly.

“Your face is even warmer now, and with such casual gestures. I wonder how much warmer I can make it.”

You let out a flustered giggle.

The closer they got to you, the more heat rose to your cheeks. You knew Valdemar could tell, and heard them chuckle when they were mere inches from you, eliciting a squeak.

“What are you doing?” you whispered, unable to hide the slight tremble in your voice.

“Are you uncomfortable?” They asked in a whisper that matched yours.

You shook your head.

Valdemar hesitated, their gaze flicking to your lips and back up to your eyes. They had that conflicted expression again.

“May I?” they finally asked, their voice a quiet murmur.

Your heart pounded against your ribs so hard that you weren’t sure if you could speak. But you managed a soft “yes”.

Their lips were startlingly cold against yours. Their fingers curled under your jaw, holding your face still.

Despite the physical chilliness, there was affection in the kiss, a warm affection that you had to admit you didn’t expect. Almost subconsciously you moved closer to them, lacing your fingers through theirs.

And the sky opened up.

Raindrops fell through the branches of the pomegranate tree, lightly pattern on the grass around you. You broke the kiss laughing, raising your flushed face to the heavens and sticking out your tongue to catch the rain.

Valdemar looked considerably less pleased. “My gloves are leather.” They muttered unhappily.

You formed a small umbrella of magic around both of you, repelling the water. Valdemar nodded approvingly.

“What a useful trick.”

You laughed. “Thanks. Should we head back to the palace?”

“Perhaps.” Was the noncommittal answer. “I suppose I would not mind staying here for a while longer. Granted you keep your clever little shield.”  

You smiled, moving a little closer so your shoulder bumped theirs.

“Deal.”

Chapter Text

Your face was a mess.

You sniffed, wiping your eyes with the heel of your hand. You knew your face was thoroughly tearstained by now, and it was tempting to just call it a night and leave the countess's party. As beautiful as it was, it was no fun alone.

You'd been waiting for half an hour on the balcony where you'd agreed to meet, trying to avoid the pitying looks from couples inside who knew you'd been stood up as the night got later and later. The rejection had stung; you though for sure you'd gotten a nice date to come with you for once. But you supposed not.

You inched inside, dipping your head to keep your tear streaked face out of view. After a few minutes of maneuvering through the crowd you managed to get behind a marble column, concealed in the shadows, to have another good cry about your misfortune.

“Why, apprentice. How curious to see you here.”

You startled at the voice. It took a moment to register Quaestor Valdemar's presence right beside you.

“Oh! Jeez. Hello, quaestor.” You hastily scrubbed at your stained cheeks, trying to keep your head tilted at an angle that your mentor couldn’t see. You should have known it would have been useless; after quite a long time of working beside them, you knew that little escaped their notice.

“Are you in some sort of emotional distress?” They enquired curiously. You managed a bitter laugh, cursing their observance.

“Oh, it’s nothing. Do you have a handkerchief?”

Valdemar's intense stare burned a hole in the side of your head.

“I do not. And it certainly seems to be something.”

You used your sleeve to wipe your face, avoiding eye contact at all costs.

“Oh…it’s nothing, really. My date for tonight just didn’t show. It’s no big deal.” You definitely sounded like you were trying to convince yourself. “I-I’ll probably just have some drinks and call it a night.”  You gave them a watery smile, feeling your mouth tremble as a fresh batch of tears welled up in your eyes. Valdemar was definitely the last person you'd want to get emotional in front of, and you couldn’t come up with a good enough reason to excuse yourself from their presence.

“I see.” They said, rather tersely. You wiped your eyes with the back of your hand, trying to be discreet and failing miserably. Instead, you shifted your focus to the music, and tried to avoid looking at the couples paired up for the final notes of a soft waltz.

“Would you care for a dance?”

You looked up, startled and quite honestly unsure if you'd heard them correctly.

“What?”

Valdemar gave you an annoyed glance.

“A dance, apprentice. Would you like to dance?” They repeated themself, enunciating each word as if you were hard of hearing. “Your distress makes me very uncomfortable. Perhaps that would alleviate it.”  They shrugged. “And I suppose I can do you this favor. As your mentor.”

You wiped your cheeks one more time, then eyed them carefully.

“Do you know how to dance?”

Valdemar rolled their eyes. “If you are going to be disrespectful, then I shall simply leave.”

“No! No, I’d like to dance with you.” you said hurriedly, moving closer to them.

The first waltz was ending, slowly being phased into another. People were starting to pair up again. Valdemar followed you out into the dance floor, and turned to face you. One arm snaked around your waist, perhaps a little tighter than was probably necessary. You instinctively rested one hand on their shoulder, fidgeting a little against their tight grip. Of all the dance partners you'd expected to have tonight, they were definitely not on the list.

Their fingers slid through yours and clenched, their tight grip making you wince. Valdemar seemed to notice, and their grip thankfully loosened. You smiled nervously up at them, half waiting for them to start.

Honestly, you didn’t expect Valdemar to be a graceful dancer, but they were. Their movements were fluid and almost easy to follow. You let them lead (figuring they’d probably be leading anyways) and found that they led well; they seemed to know what your next movement would be before you made it. You couldn’t help but smile when they dipped you with much more elegance than you thought they were capable of.

“You’re really good at this. Where did you learn?” You asked when they pulled you back up, their fingers finding yours once again.

“Years of experience in the court.” They replied with a wry smile. “And far too many years of the late count's parties.”

You laughed. “Well, you’re a great dance partner. One of the best I’ve ever had.” You let out a startled giggle when they spun you, catching you thoroughly off guard.

“Thank you, apprentice. I do try my best.” Valdemar yanked you back into the starting position.

You laughed again, catching yourself on their shoulder. “For me? I’m flattered.” Your previous mishap had been forgotten for the moment. You'd honestly never thought you'd see your mentor in this light, but here you were.

“What a very flirtatious attitude for someone who was deeply upset just moments ago.” They replied. You flinched a little at the sudden ice in their tone.

“I’m sorry. I wouldn’t want to overstep-“

“Oh, do not apologize. You are interrupting the waltz.” Valdemar cut in, tugging you closer to them in order to narrowly sidestep another couple. You smiled, relieved, and continued the dance.

“Well…thank you, anyways, for dancing with me. I really appreciate it.” You squeezed their hand as the music slowly faded out.

“You are quite welcome. It was rather enjoyable.” Valdemar replied airily.

It took the three seconds of silence between songs for you to notice the close proximity between the two of you.

Heat rose to your cheeks, and you cursed it. A new song was beginning to play, but you barely noticed.

“Are you intending to stay, Y/N? Or would you prefer to retire?” Valdemar asked. You studied their face for a moment, noticing a flicker of something more than idle curiosity for your answer.

“It makes little difference to me, of course. But  I do very much adore this song, and I would not mind sharing another dance with you.”

You looked at them one more time. A slow smile spread across your face.

“Then I think I’ll stay. And in that case,” you tilted your head playfully at them, draping your arm fully over their shoulder. "Could I have this dance?”

Chapter Text

“Really, Julian, you’re drinking way too much for one of the countess's parties.” Asra scolded gently, smacking the doctor upside the head. You giggled at the indignant expression on his face, made several times funnier by the alcohol you'd consumed throughout the night, though it wasn’t nearly as much as what Julian had in his system.
The three of you were mingling near the graceful staircase of the palace, with Julian taking as many drinks from the waiters as they’d allow. The gala was going well, and you could see Countess Nadia making small talk with a few nobles.
“Yeah, Julian.” You elbowed his ribs. He cackled, burying his face in one hand.
“Come on, Asra, lighten up. It’s what parties are for, yanno.” He hiccupped, sending himself into another fit of giggles.
Asra rolled their eyes, but a fond smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. “You’re idiotic. Sometimes I question why I'm in a relationship with you.”
“Because you looooove me, Asra!” Julian bellowed, throwing an arm over their shoulders. Asra laughed despite himself.
Julian fixed his silver gaze on you. “Say, Y/N, you don’t have a partner, do you?” he drawled, leaning heavily on Asra.
“Not at the moment.” That was a lie. You did, in fact, have a significant other, but as far as Julian knew, you were single. You hadn’t been able to find them at the party yet, but since they weren’t really one for the countess's celebrations, you'd assumed they’d stayed at their estate instead.
Julian clicked his tongue exaggeratedly. “Damn shame. Anyone'd be lucky to have you, Y/N.” he bowed dramatically, still holding onto a snickering Asra with one arm.
“Oh, you. I don’t really mind.” You brushed him off.
“Heyyyy, Y/N, I wanna make a bet.” A devious smile spread across his face. “Wanna bet?”
You chuckled, pinching the bridge of your nose with your fingers. “Okay, I’ll bite. What’s your offer?”
“Alrighty!” Julian let go of his partner and nearly plummeted to the floor, but caught himself on the stairway. “I’ll pay you twenty coins to ask out…errrrr…” you could see him scanning the room, and snickered.
“Valdemar! I’ll pay you twenty coins if you ask out Valdemar!”
You whipped around, surprised. Quaestor Valdemar was indeed wandering around, their discomfort obvious even with a surgical mask over their face.
“I didn’t think they’d show.” You mumbled to yourself.
“Cmonnnn, do we have a deal, Y/N??” Julian intoned lazily, waving one hand.
A crafty smile spread across your face. “Sure. But if they agree, you pay me fifty coins.”
He grinned, and stuck his hand out to shake. “Deal!”
You shook it with a smirk. Truly the easiest bet you'd ever made.
You could feel both Julian and Asra watching you as you marched straight up to Valdemar and tapped their shoulder.
They turned curiously. When they saw you, recognition sparked in their eyes.
“Why, Y/N-“
“Do you want to go on a date with me?” You interrupted them, loud enough for Julian to hear.
Valdemar looked visibly confused, pulling their mask down. “Why are you speaking so loudly? And-“
You desperately nodded your head in Julian’s direction (who had the grin of someone expecting extremely juicy gossip to transpire), mouthing “say yes”.
“Ah.” They seemed to understand, and the beginnings of a grin played at the corner of their mouth. “Why, yes, Y/N. I would very much like to…go on a date, as you say.”
You could have sworn you heard Julian’s jaw hit the floor. You bit the inside of your cheek, mustering all your self control to not start giggling.
“Fantastic! Um, I’ve heard there’s a really nice theater in the flooded district, is that good?” You were already losing your battle with laughter.
“Certainly. That sounds delightful.” They smiled mischievously. You had to cough back a snicker.
“Great, I’ll see you, then!” you were almost shaking in an attempt to contain your giggling.
“I need another drink.” Julian declared from behind you. Out of the corner of your eye, you saw him drag a still-chuckling Asra across the ballroom to find another waiter.
The second they were out of earshot, you burst out laughing.
Even Valdemar chuckled a little. You wiped your eyes, still giggling. “Oh my gods, the look on his face was priceless.” you gasped.
“May I ask what that was for, my dear?” They asked, brushing a loose strand of hair from your face.
“A bet. Julian just happened to see you first. I’m really glad you came, by the way. I thought you’d stay home.” You smiled at them.
“I was considering it. But I did want to see you before the night ended.” Valdemar shrugged. “I figured you would desire sleep once you arrived.”
“Aw, that’s nice of you. I was hoping I’d see you too.” you squeezed their hands. “Oh, by the way, Julian owes me fifty coins. I’ll split it with you for cooperating.” You gave them a playful wink.
“How kind of you. Be sure to collect immediately, however. The good doctor is not known for his reliability.” Your partner rolled their eyes.
“I will. And I’ll be sure to take a carriage back home, and say goodnight.” you promised.
They patted your cheek. “Good pet. Run along and find Doctor 69, now, and fetch your money before he runs off with it.”
You laughed, and with a quick glance around the room, gave them a quick kiss on the cheek.
“Okay. See you later, Val.”
“Goodbye, dearest.”
You scampered off into the crowd, on the hunt for Julian.

You found him in slumped by a column, ranting to Asra about something indecipherable. The only thing you could properly hear was something about leeches.
You nudged him with your foot. “Alright, fork over my fifty coins.” you insisted.
Julian looked at you with disbelief, hiccupping. “I can’t believe they actually said yes.” He babbled. “Are they drunk too? I never thought they’d do that with anyone.”
“Y/N simply has that charm.” Asra chuckled, his eyes twinkling.
“Alright, alright.” Julian grumped, digging in his pockets. Eventually he coughed up all fifty coins and dumped them into your hands.
“Pleasure doing business with you, doctor.” You winked at him, and headed off into the crowd to find something to eat.

You leaned your head against the side of the carriage with a tired sigh. You were more than a little tipsy, and absolutely exhausted. You were eager to get home.
Soon enough, the Pale Estate came into view through the window. You sat up, the motion making the coins in your satchel jingle.
The driver looked wary of the looming edifice when you got out. “So…you’re sure this is where you wanted to end up?” he asked, doubt obvious in his tone.
“Yes. Thank you.” You handed him a few extra coins for his trouble. However, the money you'd won off of Julian remained intact.
The door to the estate was unlocked. You pushed it open, the dark hallways looking like they were capable of swallowing you.
But for you, it was home.
“Valdemar!” You called at the top of your lungs. When there was no response, You sighed and headed up the stairs, trying not to trip in the darkness.
A faint light spilled into the hallway. Ah, there they were.
You poked your head inside. Valdemar was indeed inside, intently looking at something through a microscope.
“I’m back!” You said cheerfully, pushing the door fully open with a flourish.
“Good evening, darling.” They replied without looking up. “Did you enjoy the party?”
“I did. Here.” You dropped a handful of coins on their desk. “Twenty five coins for you.”
Valdemar chuckled, picking up a coin and rolling it between their fingers. “Thank you.”
“It was pretty lucky you decided to come. Now I’m twenty five coins richer, and so are you.” You jingled the coins in your satchel for emphasis.
“So it was.” They turned in their chair with a thin smile, steepling their fingers under their chin.
Your voice softened. “I’m glad I could see you there anyways, though. It’s nice to see you at parties. Or anywhere unexpected, really.”
“How sweet of you. Perhaps we shall go to the next celebration the countess throws together.” Valdemar offered. That was definitely unexpected; Valdemar definitely valued peace and quiet.
Delighted at the offer, you grinned. “That would be fun.” A thought occurred to you. “Oh, by the way, do you wanna actually do that date I asked you out on? The community theater is fun.” You asked.
“I don’t see why not, dearest. The flooded district is quite the fascinating area.” Valdemar replied.
You smiled. “Tomorrow afternoon?”
“Alright. I shall come fetch you.”
“Sounds good. I’m gonna go to bed now, so I’ll see you in the morning.” A yawn swelled at the back of your throat, reminding you how tired you really were. “Goodnight.”
They tapped their lips with one finger, and you kissed them. “Goodnight. Sleep well.”
You gave them a backwards wave as you headed out of the office and into your bedroom.

Chapter Text

You thunked your heel against the wall impatiently, trying not to make it look like you were listening into the conversation of the room beside you. A court meeting was well underway, and you could faintly hear Vulgora and Vlastomil arguing, along with Nadia attempting to calm them down.

You perked up when you heard Valdemar’s voice cut smoothly through the ruckus. You couldn’t quite make out what they were saying, but whatever it was, it had dissolved the argument. You smiled, leaning your head back against your arm. Your partner was excellent at gaining instant silence from anyone. That was just how their presence commanded respect.

You jumped when the door clicked open, and the courtiers filed out. You busied yourself with a book from your satchel, trying to look like you hadn’t been eavesdropping, but you could feel Valdemar’s eyes burning straight through your hurried façade the second they stepped out of the room.

“What a coincidence seeing you here, dear magician.” The amusement was obvious in their voice. You looked up from your book, a smile twitching at the corner of your mouth.

“Fancy seeing you here.” You put your book back in your bag to properly look at them, watching the courtiers retreat down the hallway over their shoulder.

“And I am sure you were not outside waiting for me like a lost puppy, were you?” A tiny smirk crossed Valdemar’s expression.

You gave them an exaggeratedly offended look. “Whaaat? Me? Never.” You nudged their side with your elbow. They offered an indulgent chuckle, taking your arm.

“Of course not, dear.” 

“How was the meeting?” You asked as the two of you began to walk down the hallway, in the same direction as the other courtiers. Valdemar responded with a noncommittal noise. “Uneventful. My colleagues being ridiculous, as always.”

You laughed. “That’s what you always say.” You leaned your cheek against their shoulder. “Do you want to have lunch with me? I know you don’t usually eat, but…” you trailed off hopefully.

“I would enjoy that, yes.” They patted your hand. You beamed, having to reach up a little to give them a kiss on the cheek. You could already hear the faint chatter of the other courtiers up ahead.

Their fingers curled under your chin, catching your face halfway and effectively distracting you. You smiled as they tilted your head back for a kiss, their grip shifting to the nape of your neck to hold your face still. You draped an arm over their shoulder, giggling a little when they pulled away.

“I’ll go ask Portia to get something from the kitchens for us. Meet you in the gardens?”

Valdemar patted your cheek, leaning over to nip at the shell of your ear. “I shall see you there.”

You grinned, giving them one last brief kiss before heading for the kitchens.

A few days later, you were back at your usual post by the salon, once again listening through the door. Except this time, you had enchanted a pair of earrings so you would be able to hear what was going on considerably better.

The courtier's voices came as clearly as if they were right in front of you.

Nadia spoke first, managing to tamp down the chatter. “Now, you five, we’ve come to discuss-“

“Whatever it is, it has to be quick! I have things to do, you know!” Vulgora growled, interrupting her.

“Oh, Vulgora, don’t be rude!” Volta pleaded.

“Shut up!”

“As I was saying,” You could hear the eye roll in the countess's voice. “I believe we should discuss food distribution. Procurator Volta, as you are in charge of this, I would like to speak with you.”

“Then, pray tell, why are the rest of us here?” Valdemar asked, sounding extremely inconvenienced. You heard Vlastomil and Vulgora make similar noises of agreement.

“Are you hoping to see MC, dear quaestor?”

You froze at Volta's voice. Startled silence fell, and you could practically hear everyone turn to look at Valdemar.

“Do you have some business with the magician, Valdemar?” Vulgora demanded.

“I-“

“Oh, you did not know, Vulgora? They are the quaestor’s lover, are they not?” Volta piped in.

Your eyes widened. How did she know?

As far as you knew, your relationship had been a secret. It might cause problems if people knew, after all. But it seemed like the cat was out of the bag now.

“They’re what.”  Valerius spoke for the first time, and you cringed. Out of all the people you would have wanted to know about this, Valerius was most certainly not on the list.

“The quaestor?? With a lover??” Vlastomil exclaimed. “How very interesting!”

“I would love to hear how you came by that very personal information, Volta.” Valdemar hissed through gritted teeth.

“Oh, well, Volta saw you! In the hallway, after our last meeting!” Volta didn’t seem to catch on to Valdemar’s sharp tone. “Volta was returning, you see, to find any snacks that our dear countess might have left!”

“Care to elaborate on what precisely you saw?” it was Valerius who spoke this time. You made a face.

Volta still seemed to be speaking to Valdemar. “You were very close, yes! Oh, oh, it was very pleasant indeed to see our dear quaestor being so kind, so affectionate towards MC!”

You flinched. She must have come back around the corner when we were in the hall together. You thought.

“Is this true, quaestor?” Nadia enquired. She didn’t sound angry, just intrigued. “You have been seeing MC?”

“I do not see any point in denying it.” Valdemar replied coolly. “I have been seeing them, yes.”

“How very delightful.” You breathed a sigh of relief at Nadia’s response. “I’m sure you could not have made a better choice in a partner. Tell me, why did you not inform us? We would never have overreacted.”

“I beg to differ.” Valerius muttered. You stuck out your tongue at the door.

“I really did not think it was any of your business.” Valdemar pointedly ignored the consul. “They are my private affairs, after all.”

“Of course.” Nadia replied graciously. “Now, let us continue-“

“How long have you been with them?” Vlastomil interrupted. Soon enough all the courtiers were asking rather nosy questions, unwilling to let the subject go no matter how much the countess attempted to move on.

In the middle of all of it, you didn’t hear Valdemar’a voice. In fact, they remained stubbornly silent, unwilling to answer anything.

You heard Volta’s chirp over everyone else’s.

“Do you love them?”

Everyone went silent, apparently anticipating an answer.

Valdemar hesitated for a few moments before answering stiffly.

“I...I suppose I do. As much as I am able to.”

Everyone finally seemed satisfied. Nadia finally managed to switch topics, and you leaned your head against the wall with a smile, closing my eyes. Your heart was pounding comically hard because of what you'd heard. You were flattered that they’d verbalized their feelings in front of their colleagues. It was sweet, and definitely rare.

In only a few moments, the meeting had dissolved into arguments, and was quickly dismissed. When the doorknob turned, you grimaced and ducked behind the door to the nearest room, which appeared to be full of dusty antiques. From your spot you could hear the courtiers chattering about the newest gossip they’d attained: Valdemar in a romantic relationship.

Eventually you heard four sets of footsteps fade, and removed your earrings. You wouldn’t need them for now.

You perked up when you heard someone walking towards your hiding place. Though Valdemar was usually dead silent, they could make themselves heard when they wanted to.

“My, I wonder if a little duckling is hiding here.” Their soft hiss cut through the silence. You bit your knuckles to stifle a giggle, intending to draw this out as long as possible.

Gloved fingers curled around the edge of the door, and Valdemar's smirking face followed soon after.

“Ah, there you are. I knew you would be hiding somewhere to eavesdrop.”

You grinned back, reaching over to take their hand. “Right as always.”

Valdemar raised an eyebrow. “I assume you heard the…information our procurator so graciously exposed to the court?”

You gave them a sheepish smile. “Yeah. Are you…mad?”

They pondered that for a moment. “No. I am not angry, much less at you. I suppose it would have come to light sooner or later, after all.” They laced their fingers through yours. “Hopefully my colleagues will not kick up a fuss about the matter.”

“Oh, well, now the servants have something to gossip about.” You couldn’t help but chuckle at what Portia's reaction would be to the information.

“Now, I believe I would like to stretch my legs. Would a walk in the gardens suit you, dearest?” Valdemar asked, offering their elbow for you to take.

You hooked your arm through theirs with a grin.

“Yeah. That sounds great.” You playfully knocked your shoulder against theirs. “And hopefully no one else comes peeking around the corner at the wrong time.”

Chapter Text

"Y/N, I'm so glad you could bring your partner over for dinner." Asra said warmly, setting three bowls on the table. You smiled back, dropping a spoon in each one. "I'm glad you let me. I've been meaning to have them at the shop for a while, but I wanted to clear it with you first."

"The two of you are welcome any time, and you know that." Asra's violet eyes twinkled in the lantern light as they stirred a large pot on the stove. You hung over his shoulder, peeking into it.

"What's for dinner?"

"Soup. Julian gave me Mazelinka's recipe, since it's a special occasion." They smiled mischievously.

"Ooh, I've heard it's amazing. I can't wait to try it."

A knock on the door came as you were checking the bread in the oven. You almost toppled a chair in your haste to get to the door and open it.

Valdemar was standing outside in the rain, an umbrella resting delicately on one shoulder. "Good evening, dear."

You beamed, grabbing their free hand in yours. "Hi! I'm so happy you made it."

They offered a small smile as you pulled them inside. "Here, I'll take your umbrella. Val, you know Asra, my mentor," you gestured in their direction, and he waved. "Asra, you of course know Valdemar."

"I do. It's a pleasure to have you." Asra put their spoon down and held out their hand. After a moment of hesitation, Valdemar took it and shook.

"The pleasure is mine. After all, I have never visited MC's shop. It is very...cozy." Their pause didn't seem insulting, just intrigued. They took a seat at the table, folding their hands in their lap.

"Well, we do our best." Asra chuckled, returning to the soup. You pulled the bread out of the oven, mumbling a word of thanks to the stove salamander, and grabbed a handful of spices to put on the table. "I hope you like soup, Val. Apparently it's a special recipe." You set the bread in the middle and hurried to the counter for a butter knife.

"Soup is just fine." Valdemar replied, drumming their fingers on the table. "Did you bake the bread yourself, MC?"

You smiled. "Yep! My special recipe this time." you put the butter dish next to the bread and sat down next to them. "You can try it if you want."

"The soup's ready, come and get it!" Asra called cheerfully, tapping a ladle on the brim of the pot. You picked up your bowl and gestured for Valdemar to do the same. Once everyone's bowls had been filled you all sat down and began to eat.

"Hey, Y/N, do you have that spice Mazelinka sent?" Asra asked. You nodded, reaching for a bright purple vial on the table. You were pretty sure it was purple. Right?

"Do you want any? She said it makes the soup better." You held the vial out to Valdemar. They took it, sprinkled some over their soup, and soundlessly put it back. Asra reached for the spices, and you cut a slice of bread for yourself.
There was silence for a while as everyone ate, and even though it was tolerable at first, it quickly became awkward.

Ever the diplomat, Asra started up an easy conversation about how the palace was for you, how you and Valdemar had met, what they liked. Surprisingly enough, Valdemar seemed at ease speaking to him. It made your heart swell to see them getting along with your master; everyone seemed to be happy and enjoying their food.

All of a sudden, Valdemar stopped mid sentence. Looked at you with a mildly panicked expression.

"May I speak to you for a moment?"

Confused, you nodded. They stood and took your elbow, dragging you to the corner.

"Magician, I do not feel very well." They hissed, their grip on your arm becoming vicelike. You winced.

"What's the matter? Are you alright?" you asked, reaching up to touch their forehead out of instinct. They impatiently batted your hand away.

"I feel faint. What is in the soup?"

"I don't know, I'll ask Asra. Here, sit down." You led them back to their seat and grabbed Asra's arm to yank them towards the same corner.

"Asra, what was in the soup?"

"Nothing that would harm a demon."

"What about the spice?"

Asra picked up a jar from the table, filled with gold liquid.

"I think it's just marigold with some magic."

Your blood ran cold. "That was the spice?" You hissed. "I thought it was the purple vial!"

"What?" Asra stared at you, wide eyed. "Y/N, that was a truth serum!"

You smacked your palm against your forehead. "Asra! Why was that in the kitchen with the spices?"

"I must have put it there by accident!"

You huffed out a frustrated sigh. This was definitely going to be an interesting evening.

"Is it going to hurt them?" You asked.

"No. But they'll be saying whatever comes to mind for the next couple hours." Asra flinched. "It's powerful. Hopefully they didn't put too much."

You returned to your seats. Valdemar looked at both of you quizzically. "Well?"

"You're gonna be fine, don't worry." You promised them. They didn't look terribly reassured, but nodded, taking another bite of bread. "I am still feeling faint."

"Would you like some water?" You jumped to your feet.

"No. But I would like you to sit closer to me, I am still chilled from the rain. And you are very warm." By the way their eyes widened and their hand flew to their mouth, you assumed the truth potion was kicking in.

But you laughed and obliged, scooting your chair closer to theirs.

"Apologies. I do not know what has gotten into me."

You took their hand and squeezed. "Don't apologize. I don't mind."

Valdemar looked thoroughly vexed. "Magician, what was in that soup?"

"It wasn't the soup." You replied vaguely. It wasn't a lie.

"I'll make some tea." Asra interrupted helpfully. "Would the two of you like some?"

You nodded, and Valdemar did too. You began to clear the table, putting the leftover bread back into the oven.

"You look very sweet in such a domestic setting, dearest."

You jumped at Valdemar's voice, your face instantly warming up. Beside you, Asra chuckled quietly.

"My goodness, what in the devil's name-"

Asra interrupted again by placing three steaming cups on the table. Once you sat down, he raised an eyebrow at you with a small, mischievous grin. You gave them a blank look, unsure of what exactly he was planning.

You took a sip from your cup, just as you heard Asra speak.

"So, quaestor, I've been meaning to ask. What're your intentions with Y/N?"

You choked on your drink, looking up to give them a scathing glare. "Asra!"

Valdemar responded surprisingly quick. "Why, I...I wish to protect them. Care for their well-being, and make them happy."

You almost dropped your cup. The truth potion was definitely working, judging by their startled expression at their own confession.

"That's...really sweet, Val." You rested your chin on the heel of your hand.

Asra had a triumphant little smirk on his face. You glared at them.

"So, you do care for them, then? How much?"

"Asra." you growled, willing him to stop taking advantage of your accident and your partner.

"I care for them very much. More than anything." Valdemar responded firmly, then covered their mouth, eyes wide.

"Do you love them?"

It took them longer to answer. But after a moment, they replied.

"Yes. I have no doubt that I love them, in whatever way I can."

You were thoroughly blushing now. "I...I love you too. Really, truly, I do."

"I am glad to hear it." Valdemar's cheeks had darkened considerably, making their freckles vanish.
Cursing under your breath, you grabbed Asra's sleeve and yanked him to the stove.

"You have to make something to undo it!" You snapped.

"It might take a while-"

"I don't care! I'll help you. There has to be something!"

"Alright, alright. I'll figure out something." Asra gave you a patient smile. You couldn't hold back a tiny smile as you knocked his shoulder with yours and sat back down at the table.

"So...Val, I accidentally gave you a truth serum, instead of the spice. I'm so sorry, I swear it was an accident, but Asra can fix it, I promise."

"I figured that much." They didn't sound angry.

You sheepishly rubbed the back of your neck. "You're not mad, are you?"

Valdemar rolled their eyes. "No, I am not mad at you. I am rather frustrated that I cannot keep things to myself for the time being, but I do not blame you."

"O-Oh...okay." You flushed, averting your gaze. "So...did you mean all those things you said?"

When you looked back up, they seemed equally embarrassed.

"I very much did. I care for you very deeply. And you would not have to give me any sort of potion to prevent me from being dishonest about my feelings for you...although these were not the precise conditions I envisioned for such a confession."

You laughed, taking another drink of your tea. "Yeah, I imagine not."

Valdemar drank their own tea, remaining in silence. This time, the quiet was comfortable, and the sound of Asra mixing and grinding potion ingredients made for a soothing ambience.

You soundlessly reached for their hand, as you were beginning to get used to doing. They took it, their gloved fingers cold on your skin.

"I can feel the bones in your hand."

You snorted at the abrupt comment. "Really?"

"Yes. It is a nice feeling."

You looked at Valdemar with a grin. "I hope you're not getting any ideas about seeing what's under my skin." You teased them.

"Certainly I am, I'm a doctor. But I would not do that to you, I am much too fond of you for that."

You laughed. "Well, that's a relief. I suppose if you had any intent on vivisecting me, it would have come out by now." You squeezed their hand. "But I trust you wouldn't, whether you say so or not."

Valdemar chuckled. "I am very gratified to have earned your trust, dearest."

"Alright, this should reverse the effects of the potion." Asra announced, holding a small bowl full of blue liquid. "Go ahead and drink it, Valdemar."

They looked rather wary of the concoction, but obeyed. Nothing seemed to change, but after a few moments they squeezed their eyes shut, pinching their temples.

"I believe it worked." They seemed to be focusing intently. "Yes, it worked."

You smiled at Asra. "Thank you."

They waved off your thanks. "I'll try not to put my magical exploits in the kitchen." He promised, then winked. "Unless, of course, you need them for something."

You scoffed and threw the now empty bowl at them, which he easily caught.

"It's getting late. Are you ready to go home?" You asked Valdemar.

"Yes, I believe so." They offered their arm, and you took it.

Valdemar turned to Asra, who was now washing the dinner dishes.

"Magician Asra."

He turned around, spoon in hand. "Hm?"

They paused for a moment. "Thank you for your hospitality. And...well, I suppose the accidental truth serum. It was...helpful."

Asra smiled warmly. "Anytime. Have a good night, you two."

You gathered your cloak and handed Valdemar their umbrella. Asra waved goodbye to us as we stepped outside, shutting the the two of you as you stepped outside.

The rain had let up for now, leaving the night misty and damp. Fog swirled around the dim street lamps as you stood on the magic shop's doorstep, listening to the faint clink of dishes from inside.

"That potion was a little helpful, wasn't it?" You mused, nudging your shoulder against theirs.

"I think it was." Valdemar replied decisively.

You looked at them, giving their arm a gentle squeeze.

"It's nice when you're open like that. You should do it more often."

That elicited a laugh. "Oh? Perhaps I should." Their voice softened a little. "Perhaps I will."

"I'd like that." You tugged them towards the carriage parked beside the shop. "Now let's go home so you can sleep off the rest of that potion."

Chapter Text

“Gosh, it’s dreary, isn’t it?” You peeked through the curtains of the salon, watching raindrops chase each other down the windowpanes. Behind you, Valdemar made a noise of agreement. Without even looking, you knew they were perched on the sofa, reading a book.

You turned around, the book of Vesuvian myths you'd brought with you long forgotten. “I’m bored, Val.” You announced, flopping unceremoniously onto the couch beside them. The side of your head knocked against their arm, causing them to lose their grip on the book.

“Does reading not amuse you, pet?” Your partner absently reached out to touch your hair, still absorbed in their book.

“No.” You sat up to lean against their side, peeking at the page they were on. “There isn’t anything you wanna do besides read?”

“Not particularly.” Was the frustrating answer. You grumbled, bumping your head against their shoulder. You wanted to do something. The weather made you both very sleepy and very alert at the same time.

“Cmon, Val!” You urged, squeezing their forearm.

“Do not behave like a petulant child, darling.” Valdemar's fingers brushed the nape of your neck, then your collarbone, making you shiver with the sudden cold.

You huffed in defeat, getting up to retrieve your book. They were stubborn, and you knew it wouldn’t get you anywhere to bug them about it more.

The moment you settled next to them, they spoke.

“Do you have your deck with you?”

You looked at them curiously. “The tarot deck? Yeah.”

They looked up from their book, a faint smirk crossing their face. “Perhaps giving me a reading would entertain you.”

This was interesting. Valdemar wasn’t usually that interested in magic, though they didn’t mind listening to you ramble about it. They’d never asked you for a reading before, and you'd never thought to offer one.

“Alright.” you pulled the deck out of your pocket and felt the comforting weight in your hands, trying to clear your mind. After shuffling the deck, you spread out three cards in the space between you and Valdemar on the sofa, settling into a kneeling position.

“Go on. Pick one.”

Valdemar selected the middle card after a moment of hesitation. You flipped it over, revealing the Lovers.
Their silent message made you smile.

“Well? What is my fortune, then?” You could hear amusement in Valdemar’s voice.

“Connection will be important in the near future, and remembering how to achieve it is key.” You looked at them, tilting your head to one side. “Those who care for you won’t turn away from you, despite what you may think.”

A rare expression of surprise crossed their face. After a pause, they spoke again.

“And is that…connection, as you put it…could it be impossible to achieve?”

You focused on the cards again. The answer came again, bold and clear.

“No. If it’s sought, it’s never impossible. It could possibly be hard to figure out, but you will be able to if you try.”

Valdemar seemed to be thinking that over. The Lovers were silent, their message apparently delivered, so you scooped the cards up and put them back into your pocket. You had several questions, but decided not to ask them.

“So…what’d you think?” You asked instead, resting your head on their shoulder.

“Very…enlightening.” Their expression was distant. “I will surely ponder it.”

You shrugged. “It always means something. Can I ask a question about it?”

“You may.”

“Are you afraid I’ll turn away from you?” You asked. They folded their hands in their lap, not meeting your gaze.

“The thought does plague me now and then.” Valdemar answered after a moment, tapping their fingers together.

You rested your hands on theirs. “I’m not going anywhere, Val. Not anytime soon.”

“You will. You are mortal, and you will die.” The sentence sounded forced and somewhat sad.

“Well, yeah, but not anytime soon. You’re stuck with me for a while.” you playfully nudged your hip against theirs.

Valdemar gave a short laugh, closing their fingers over youts. “That I am.” They finally looked at you, mixed emotions flickering over their expression.

“But what a promise you make, to not turn away intentionally.” Their tone was curious. “Such a promise that even the cards acknowledge it.”

You grinned, squeezing their hands. “And I’ll stick by it. The cards would’ve said if I wouldn’t.”

A faint smile crossed Valdemar's face. “I have no doubt. I suppose I trust the Arcana to an extent, but I must admit I trust you infinitely more.”

You laughed, touching your forehead to theirs and closing my eyes. You could feel them stiffen for a moment, but quickly relax, their fingers lifting from your hands to brush your jaw.

“That’s sweet.” You could feel their lashes brush your cheek, and heat instantly rose to your face. “Maybe the connection part of the wont be as hard as you think.”

“Perhaps not with you.” Valdemar’s voice was a quiet murmur now.

Silence fell between you, the only noise being the rain outside. You were both content simply in the closeness, and words weren’t necessary for the moment.

The sound of the rainfall was making you sleepy. You leaned your weight more heavily against them, adjusting your position so you were more comfortable. You put your head back onto their shoulder, keeping your hands in theirs, and sighed, already beginning to drift off.

“Thank you for the reading, pet.” Valdemar’s voice faintly registered in your head.

“You’re welcome,” You yawned, pressing further into their side. “Remember…not going anywhere.”

They chuckled softly, one arm sliding over your shoulders.

“Neither am I.”

Chapter Text

"Just a little longer, sweetheart." You whispered into your bag, your feet crunching on the gravel path to your partner's estate. A disgruntled mew met your words, and you could feel the small animal squirming in your bag, although you'd made certain to put it on top of a spare coat you'd kept in there so it would be semi comfortable until you got home.

You pushed the door to the Pale Estate open, wincing as it slammed shut behind you. A few very dimly lit torches illuminated the hallway, which were more for your benefit then Valdemar's.

You strained your ears, trying to listen for them. Not like that would have done any good.

"Good evening, dearest." You jumped when you felt a hand on your shoulder.
"Val, for the love of- please stop doing that." You begged them.

"My apologies. You are home very late." Valdemar observed, wordlessly studying you up and down. You could see the tiniest bit of concern in their expression.

"Oh, yeah, about that." You winced inwardly as you reached into your bag and pulled out a tiny ball of black fur and whiskers. Valdemar's eyes widened ever so slightly with surprise.

You'd found the kitten by one of the empty vendor's stalls on the way back to the estate. It didn't seem to have an owner, and a few scraps of food later you'd managed to get it in your bag and keep it there for the rest of the way home. To be completely honest you really weren't sure how Valdemar would react to another living thing in their house. You were pretty sure that you filled the quota.

They plucked the kitten from your hands by the scruff, inspecting it as it dangled from their fingers and pointedly ignoring it's frantic meows. "What is it?"

"It's...it's a cat. A baby." You gently took it back. The kitten stared up at you with mismatched eyes and squeaked. "It's a stray, and it doesn't belong to anyone."

By the way their eyes gleamed eagerly, you knew they'd wildly misinterpreted your intentions. "How kind of you to get me present, my dear. I have been lacking specimens, and a cat will do just nicely." They reached for the kitten.

You squeaked, pulling it away from their grasp. "No! No vivisection. I wanted to keep it."

Valdemar looked disappointed. "Alive?"

You couldn't help but laugh. "Yes, Val. Alive."

"What good is it while it is alive?" They frowned.

"It's a pet! You know...it keeps you company, and you take care of it, and-" You gestured helplessly. "There's plenty of room for it. We can section off a room for its food and stuff. I don't think it'll be any trouble."

Valdemar held out their hands expectantly, and after some hesitation you handed the kitten to them. It was small enough to fit comfortably in one hand, and they studied it, looking rather unsettled by the noises of protest it was making. They probed its fur with their long fingers, flipping it onto its back on their palm.

"I believe it is a female." Valdemar announced after a moment, allowing it to cling to their sleeve with its claws.

You couldn't help but giggle as the kitten made her way up their arm and onto their shoulder, butting her head repeatedly against the side of their face.

You covered your mouth to hide another giggle. "She likes you, Val. You should name her."

"I did not say we could keep it. This is my house." Despite their words, Valdemar scratched under the kitten's chin, a tiny smile on their face.

"Well, can we?" You persisted, giving them the most pleading look you could muster. "It won't be any trouble, I know it won't."

"Oh, very well, dear. I suppose it won't do any harm." Valdemar put the kitten back into your hands. You beamed, pressing a kiss on their cheek.

"Thank you! What should we name her?" You cradled the kitten in one arm. "She's black, so maybe we could name her something relating to that." You began ticking off names. "Inky, Shadow...hm, Velvet, Midnight-"

"No, no, we must give her something unique." Valdemar scooped the kitten up again, staring at it intently.

"You're not allowed to pick a name in some long dead language I can't pronounce." You nudged their side, and they frowned.

"You're no fun, darling." They complained, but seemed to accept it. "Hm...does the name Caligo strike your fancy, then?"

"Well, I can pronounce that. What does it mean?" You asked.

"It is the word fog in Latin." They set the cat down on the floor. "Yes, I think that suits her."

You nodded in agreement. "Yeah, I can get behind that." You winced when Caligo started kneading her claws into your leg, mewing insistently. "Okay, time for bed. I'll have to buy food in the morning. Are you coming?"

Valdemar shrugged, but still followed you down the hallway, Caligo nestled comfortably in the crook of their elbow.

While your partner didn't technically sleep, they weren't opposed to a nap now and then when you asked. By the time you'd all gotten settled in the too-big canopy bed, Caligo had managed to cram herself under your arm and was now loudly purring. You grinned and scratched her head, delighted when she began kneading her paws against your sleeve.

"She makes you happy, does she not?" Valdemar was seated beside you on the bed, reading a book with one arm loosely over your shoulders. You smiled at them.

"Yeah, she does." You scratched the kitten behind the ears.

Valdemar put the book down to give you a fleeting smile in return.
"Good. Then she will not be any trouble at all."

Chapter Text

“Hey, Val!” You yelled at the top of your lungs. You weren’t sure if they’d  hear you from their office upstairs from the library on the first floor, but it couldn’t hurt to try.

Right before you thought they hadn’t heard you, they’d materialized behind you. “What is it, little one?”

You had gotten so used to this that you didn’t even startle. “Look what I found.” You opened up a panel in the wall, revealing a compartment filled with swords.

Valdemar laughed, placing their hand on your shoulder to look. “Oh, my, I haven’t seen those in decades. I forgot they were here.”

“You know how to sword fight?” You clasped your hands together, thrilled with this new information.

“Certainly, darling. I’ve been alive so long I must learn something to occupy my time.” They pulled a scabbard out of the compartment and unsheathed the sword, letting it catch the light. “It was a hobby of mine. And an easy and somewhat legal way to acquire corpses.”

“Don’t tell Vulgora. They’ll be begging you to spar with them for years.” You teased them.

“Ah, they would be no match for me.” Valdemar sheathed the sword again. “They strike with brute force, whereas I strike strategically.”

“I would have loved to see you fight, Val.” You reached for a sword of your own. A purple scabbard held a slender silver blade, the hilt laced with intricate gold veins. You couldn't help but admire it in the sunlight from the window.

“Perhaps I could teach you. Would you like to learn?” they hoisted the strap of scabbard over their shoulder. You beamed.

“Oh, yes please!” You put the sword back in it’s scabbard and smiled.

“Alright. Come along, let’s go outside.”

Behind the pale estate was a large hedge maze, probably modeled after the one in the palace, that created large grassy clearing in the center. The only difference was that this one bloomed with black roses that you’d never seen anywhere else. A wrought iron gate separated the few visitors of the estate from touching the roses, but allowed them to look.

This was the spot Valdemar had chosen for their lesson. You unsheathed the sword, testing it’s weight in one hand, and made an overdramatic stance with your sword pointed forward. Valdemar clicked their tongue. “Your position is incorrect.” They straightened your shoulders, moving your hips so they were aligned. “Much better. Now, your task is to parry my blows.”

“What if I cut you by accident?” You asked worriedly. Valdemar chuckled.

“You won’t. And I will not cut you, I assure you of that.” They took a similar stance to yours. “I’ll go easy on you for now.”

And they swung. You turned your sword to one side, blocking the blow.

Quick as a dart they aimed the other way, and you barely managed to block it again. They aimed up, down, and to the left again, and you found it easier and easier to parry each stroke as you went on.

“Very good.” Valdemar commented with a grin. “Now let’s try offense. This time I will block your blows.”

You wasted no time in trying to get past their sword with yours, aiming up and down just like they had done. But they easily dodged and blocked each one, all with a triumphant little grin on their face. No matter how hard you tried, they managed to evade your jabs.

“Ah, you are catching on.” Valdemar said. “Now we will try both. We will try to parry each other’s attacks. Do let me know if you’d like to stop.”

You almost tripped trying to dodge a firm jab at your hip, and countered it with one aimed at their arm. The clanging of metal on metal echoed through the silent grounds as the two of you sparred.

You were starting to pant, but you honestly enjoyed this. For another thing, this was the first time you’d ever seen Valdemar have fun with something that wasn’t dead.

There were a few times were you narrowly missed, and times where they narrowly missed you. But you found that the movements were becoming easier, and you could move and dodge quicker. By the small smile on your partner’s face you could tell they were pleased.

After a while, you noted that you were being backed further and further into the gate. That observation almost distracted you into getting a sharp poke on the leg.

“Focus, now. That’s quite essential for these activities.”

“I’m focusing,” you replied, landing a jab so close to their side that it nearly took a button off of their coat. “Are you?”

“Don’t get smart with me when I have a weapon in my possession.” Valdemar scolded you, and you quickly side stepped another blow aimed at your elbow.

Unfortunately for you, the motion caused your foot to catch on a stone, and you almost fell backwards. Valdemar took that as an opportunity to jab at your stomach, which you curved inwards to avoid.

“You’re a natural, my dear.” They praised. You grinned, and suddenly noticed that the gate was less than a foot away. You could use that to your advantage.

“Yeah?” You carefully studied them. They were still attempting blows that you had to block, but getting steadily closer.

“Yes.” They aimed a low blow at your ankles, which you barely knocked off. And at last minute, you made a grab for their coat while their sword was near the ground. Gritting your teeth, you managed to get a handful of fabric and swung around so their back was against the gate.

Well, You just about slammed them back against it by the shoulders, pressing both arms on either side of them. The metal of your sword was cold against your forearm, and you grinned triumphantly.

Valdemar looked surprised, which was a pleasant departure from the norm. You smiled, and reached up to close the distance between you, your arms still pinning them to the gate.

“Oh, my, little one,” they sounded amused as they pulled your chin up for a kiss. “I hardly recall that being in the rules.”

“Mmm…I don’t remember any rules.” You murmured. Their arm was lazily creeping around your waist, and you pressed yourself further into their bony frame; both to keep them from escaping and just to be close to them.

They cupped the back of your head in their palm, breaking the kiss only to press another one against the corner of your mouth, leaving kiss after chilly kiss across your jaw. You closed your eyes, basking in the affection.

“You were so close, my love.” They cooed.

And then before you even knew what was happening, your back hit the bars with a painful clang, and Valdemar had you unfortunately pinned.

You shouted, trying to wriggle free, but the second they raised their blade to press the blunt edge against your throat, you knew it was game over.

“So very close, but not close enough.” Valdemar tutted, wiping imaginary dust off of the hilt of their sword. “But it seems I won.”

“It looks like you did.” You gave them a playful look, rolling your neck so it strained against the cold metal of the sword. “What’ll your prize be?”

“I think,” their voice lowered. “I want you to kneel.”

You laughed a little weakly. But nevertheless when Valdemar moved the sword away from your neck, you dropped to your knees, hands behind your back.

“Okay.” Your voice was a whisper now. You sucked in a sharp breath when they used the flat side of the blade to lift your chin, tilting their head to one side with a satisfied smirk.

“You submit so willingly, my dear.” They hummed, tilting your face further back.

You swallowed hard, your knees  shaking a little. Valdemar studied your expression, amusement and keen interest obvious on their face.

“And how much you must trust me. I could easily cut your throat open now, but yet you allow me to have a blade at your neck.” You grimaced a little as the point of the sword prodded your jugular for emphasis.

“I trust you, Val. I love you.” You looked up at them earnestly. Warm amusement flickered across their expression.

“And I love you, darling.” They tapped the underside of your chin. “You may get up.”

You stood up, and Valdemar gave you another amused once over. “I’m quite impressed that was your first try.” They sheathed their sword, and you followed suit.

“Thanks. Asra always said I had good reflexes.” You sheepishly rubbed your neck, your face warm with exertion and definitely no other reason. “You’re a good teacher.” 

“Thank you. Shall we go back inside, now? I think some tea would be quite nice.” They offered their arm, and you took it.

“That sounds great. Can we spar again sometime?” you asked as the two of you left the garden.

“Certainly. But hands will be strictly on weapons.”

“Aw, you’re no fun.”