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Chapter Text

Erra's hands twitched. His body burned as he breathed, radiation still licking his skin, dying down slowly, painfully.

He clawed at the wall, slowly, unsteady, but finally managed to break free. His vision was blurry but he could see his sister on the floor. His beloved sister. She was still alive.. in the arms of the Tenno.

Ballas was dead. Good riddance.

He pushed himself to stand, ignoring the pain. "Natah!" He limped toward them.

The Tenno looked at him, breathing heavily. "..Erra. I thought-"

"I-" His response was interrupted when he fell on his knees, hearing the noise of his leg tearing apart. He growled at them. "Is Natah.." He had to ignore the pain. He had to.

They placed a hand on her cheek. "She's safe.. we're safe. Come on."

"We?"

"Well, it's that or getting stuck here." They lifted her up, then offered their shoulder as support.

Narmer still had influence over his fleet. He was alone in this. With great regret, he placed a hand onto their shoulder, pushing himself up. It hurt, but he did not let it show, snapping at them for commenting on it.

They went into the Tenno's ship, and took off.

"Op- Drifter, are you sure you want this -maniac- guest into the orbiter?" A voice rang from a small flying thing.

Erra growled at it.

Drifter waved them off, going deeper into the ship, leaving him there.

He sat against the table- or more, he collapsed, his legs were in a bad state. He breathed in. Then out. He couldn't heal this himself. The burns were too severe and he did not have any strength- all of it gone with his ship. His people..

He watched the Tenno.

"Natah is okay. We're going to her station thing, don't know how the kid's called it but we're going there." They placed a large box to the side and brought out.. supplies of sort. Bandages?

"This was a temporary truce." He hissed. "We-" He growled at them when they tried to touch his leg.

They lifted their hands up. "You need help with this."

He glared down at them, knowing he couldn't fix it himself. The pain was punching through his mind, almost unbearable. He nodded at them with a scoff.

They gently applied some sort of cream. It stung, but he felt the properties of it- it wouldn't harm him.

They started by dressing the worst- his left leg. The injury was raw but they were incredibly gentle.

"Where's the child one. You look too similar to them for it to be a coincidence."

They glanced at him. "Yeah. A Paradox. It's a weird thing actually."

Hm. A strange thing indeed. But corrupted in Void. He stayed silent as they bandaged his legs. Then one of his arms and part of his back. He felt like he was still stuck with a second skin, it wasn't pleasant, but it lessened the ache. Enough to feel relief.

He leaned against the table, unfolding his legs fully.

They checked him over, and when satisfied, called to the Cephalon. "Let's go Ordis. Lead us to safety."

Trinkets made noise when the ship started to move. He recalled seeing some before but he wasn't sure. His head was going to explode.

"I'm Drifter by the way. The ship is the kid's. Long story." They sat nearby, why they insisted to talk, he had no clue but he was too tired to be angry. "You alright?" They asked after a pause.

Nothing was, and he wasn't about to talk to them.

"You can go see her if you want. She's downstairs."

He pushed himself up, and limped down the platform. He held the ceiling to not fall over. His legs really hurt.

He approached the backdoor, making a wide berth from the infestation pulsing nearby. Disgusting.

He entered the room, and there she was. More like herself than he had ever seen her.

She rushed to him, and lowered him on the floor. "Erra." She cupped his face.

"Natah." He leaned into her touch.

"Let me help." She whispered. He did not protest.

Her energy coursed through his limbs, healing the worst but still not enough. His leg came back in one piece underneath the bandage, and it took a lot to not bite her. The pain eased slowly. He breathed deeply.

"I was wrong." He said quietly.

"The children, my children, lost so much, too." She moved her hand across his cheek in circle. "Ballas took everything away from us."

"He is no more. You ended it all."

"There is a place for you still. We have to keep fighting."

He met her eyes. "What is there to fight? I've lost my ship. Our people are suffering."

"Step by step. We need to remove Narmer's influence. We will free them. Instill peace between us."

He laughed dryly. "Peace."

"Erra."

"..you bring the soft in me, Natah."

She smiled. "Peace does not have to mean living together. Simply be in harmony with each other."

"I do not wish to discuss this right now."

She hummed. "I will continue to lead them. We will heal. It'll take time."

He knew it would take time. He had to heal and regain his strength. His legs and his back were the most damaged. He had to adapt and overcome. He wouldn't let this bring him down.

He would have liked to kick that blue asshole down into the sun himself if he could have.

"Sleep." His sister whispered. "I will watch over you."

He did not resist when she pulled his head on her lap. He relaxed, feeling the tension leave him. Sentients did not actually need to sleep but it helped heal injuries and he was tired of being in pain.

-

"Erra." Natah called softly.

He chased the cradle of sleep unsuccessfully and he woke up. Flames licked at his body but when he looked, there was nothing.

"We're here." She continued. "I must go."

"Then I shall not hold you back." He pushed himself up. She knew he wouldn't follow her. She belonged. He did not.

She nodded to him, then disappeared into the center of command.

He sighed. He was stuck here with the Tenno. It wasn't the worst thing in the world- they had accepted his help easily but that did not mean he liked the idea.

He looked to the door when Drifter entered. "That's our stop."

"Elaborate."

They gestured vaguely. "To the Voyager's camp. That's where we stay. Kahl has some bounties to stop the Narmer crap."

He stood, and followed them. The camp was a basic one, with a faint light against the dark of the night. Lua could be seen low in the sky.

The people present froze as he passed by, but none dared to speak. He preferred it this way.

They entered the ship, and all pretense fell as he limped toward the bundle of blankets on the side. He collapsed in it, not caring how he looked.

Drifter did not look at him. They went on to their business whatever that was.

He waited until they were out of sight, then finally curled up in the blankets. He hid underneath, the cold air did not do any good to his body.

--

Erra woke up to unusual warmth. He peeked from underneath the covers and saw a heat lamp by his bedside. Hm.

"We should redo the bandages." Drifter said from the table, plate of fruits and tea at the ready.

He would have to work with knowing he needed their much smaller hands to roll the bandages. He would have done it himself if he could.

They moved to stand but he stopped them. "Eat first. Then go wash your hands. I do not want dirt on my injuries."

They nodded, and focused on their food.

He decided to get a head start and remove the bandages. He did not touch those on his back, feeling them stick to his body. The pain had lessened but still there to tire him, he realized. He would need more to get up from this.

Drifter kneeled in front of him, medical kit at the ready.

His right leg had healed nicely. The burns had scarred over and there was no trace of any infection or radiation. His other leg though.. the injury was still raw. They bandaged it so delicately he wouldn't have guessed of them. It was.. new. He wasn't sure how to react so he did not.

For his back, they stopped abruptly after trying to remove one piece. "This will hurt. It's gotten stuck."

"Do as you must." He replied flatly.

They gently pulled and yes it hurt but he did not move.

"It's alright. Hold on I'm almost done." They babbled over and over.

It stung. Badly. "Tell me." He hissed.

"The radiation just messed it all up. But the cream helped." They pulled the whole thing off.

He leaned his head down, growling lowly. He needed energy. He had to find a way to heal but thinking into the pain was difficult. He could focus his inner flow to remove.. remove the..

Drifter started to clean the area.

He snarled. "You-!"

They grabbed his hand and held it. "It's okay. I'm sorry it hurt." They caressed his hand gently. "I have to clean your back."

He stared at their joined hands and tried to comprehend what was going on. Them? Comforting him?

"Do you allow me to?" They asked.

He glanced at them, the fight leaving him. "Continue."

They took a clean towel and started to gently tap across his back. "You know, we've never met before. I know you don't like us-"

"Like? I absolutely hate your kind. All I ever wanted was to live without those disgusting people. They destroyed everything."

"Yeah. They messed everyone up. I was stuck in the Zariman and escaped a Paradox. Duviri. The people are kind, even if I got killed many times. Swords always. It wasn't fun, but we made it. Thrax is a good king."

"This does not make sense."

"Yeah I know." They moved the dirty towels aside. "All done. Should we let it dry?"

"We should." He watched as they moved in front of him. He did feel a little better now that his back was clean.

"How can I help?" They gestured. "We need energy that we don't have here but that's kinda hard. So like, you can adapt. Can you like, molt like insects?"

"..molt like insects."

"Yeah! You shed the broken skin for a new one?"

"I need more information." They did not make sense. Why did they insist on helping him? He could do just fine if he could actually walk away from this damned place.

"Ordis?"

The annoying robot read a manual of sort some explaining molting- from mantids to spiders.

"There is one problem with your idea." He said after thinking it through. "My back cannot molt due to the wet injury. I could not shed it properly."

"Yeah?"

"Spiders- Tarantulas molt multiple times to repair their broken legs." Ordis said. "Though I don't see why you -can't just chop it off- can't molt. Radiations are at a lower level!"

He felt a headache brewing. He lifted a hand and rubbed between his eyes. "An open injury cannot fix itself without a layer to keep the flesh inside." He stated.

"Wait, won't the Void reset your parameters?" Drifter asked.

He did not want to admit it, but that was actually something that could work. That didn't erase the repulsion he felt about the ordeal.

He grabbed them when they tried to move behind him. "Do you actually think I would let you?" He snapped.

"I'm trying to help, here." They narrowed their eyes.

"And why would I?" He towered over them.

"Because you have no one else." They said without bite.

"Oh -just send him back to Natah and let her deal with him.-" Ordis said.

He smacked the robot out of the air, sending him tumbling downstairs. "Be careful of what you say, Drifter." He growled.

They stared at him, unimpressed. Not the reaction he was awaiting for. He turned away from them. Fine. He would ignore them and find a way out of here on his own. He never needed their help anyway.

He heard them gather the used towels then leave. Good.

He took the heat lamp and pulled it closer. He couldn't lie down without the bandages. What a mess he got himself into.

--

Early morning, Erra found himself walking the forest near the camp. He watched a caterpillar climb a tree, never faltering. Such a small thing. Life, surrounding him, breathing..

He missed life on his ship. His court, and all the fresh warriors trying to impress him. All of them ready to fight for what they believed in..

He did not spit into making peace- he had accepted this. They had a common enemy. Narmer. But it didn't erase years of war.

What he regretted the most was letting Ballas win. Bastard had it coming. But Erra lost too much- his people. He shouldn't have acted on his hatred.

..the Drifter was only trying to help him.

He leaned against the tree, giving some relief to his leg. It pained him so, but he called for them, he wouldn't be able to walk all the way back on his own.

Drifter approached, wearing their meat suit.

He eyed the multiple daggers in their frame's body.

They chuckled, removing the daggers in one swift motion. They approached. "His name is Kullervo. A good friend. You can trust him."

He leaned against the frame, to realize how small yet they were. Small, but strong he could admit that.
They walked back to the camp, and Drifter gently settled him in his bed.

"Drifter." He called before he could think it through.

They paused, looking at him almost expectantly.

"I want to see you. Not him."

Without hesitation, they stepped out of the link. Their warframe moved backwards and sat.

How interesting. "He has a mind."

They nodded. "He was imprisoned by Ballas. I didn't get much- he doesn't want to talk about it."

He eyed the thing with new lens. "I see." What kind of mind hid underneath? Could it understand the complexity of the world? He lifted a hand to Kullervo's chin, tilting his head up. He sensed a great pain within, much like the Drifter. "You are meant to be partners." He dropped his hand.

Drifter smiled to their frame.

Kullervo watched in innocent curiosity.

"I am stuck here." He stated. "Without.. help.. I.." for once he struggled for words. How unusual of him. How pathetic he looked.

They smiled to him. "Don't worry about it. Do you want me to try the Void? I've unlocked my powers recently but it should be fine."

"Not yet. But do tell me about it." He noted an unusual reaction of them. Maybe shyness? He wasn't sure with the Tenno, reading their expressions was a gamble.

"Yeah, it's a long story."

"We have time."

Kullervo scooted closer to them, tilting his head, almost silently asking a question. They patted him and settled comfortably.

"It started when I tried to escape Duviri."

--.

Lua was glowing faintly in the sky, stars shining even more. It was pleasant to stop and see the world in such a.. simple way. It was late and the cold hurt but he was free.

Drifter approached. They gestured at him to lower down and he did. They placed a blanket over his shoulders.

He rolled his eyes.

They smiled, and their face changed colors very slightly but it did not go unnoticed by him. He wondered why they were smiling.

"You're comfortable." He stated.

They did not deny.

"Why."

They shrugged.

"Was only a week of my presence enough for you to form a friendship? How strange."

They did not comment, hiding behind their long hair.

"You have no need to hide your words in my presence." He said after a moment.

"How do you feel?"

The question caught him off guard. "Good, I suppose." He said slowly. He knew what they were about to say and he did not like it.

"You hide your pain when I can help you." They turned to face him. "Let me help you." They offered their hand.

"You spoke of Durivi. Of the world you created to protect yourself. Why are you here?"

They looked to the sky. "..I want to help. I haven't, before. I need to fix that."

"With the enemy."

"Are you?"

He watched them attentively, trying to piece them together. There was a lot they did not say, a lot of pain and torment, but they still cared. They cared about the people of Duviri. They cared too much about him- it was wrong of them and yet.. he couldn't walk away.

"Very well. I place my life onto you a second time."

They beamed. "I'll do my best."

They led him back to the camp, and sat in his bed.

"Ready?"

He glanced at them, at their determination. He nodded.

They placed their hands on his back and focused.

Energy coursed through him and he felt as if he was floating.

And then he was falling into a burst of colors, of clouds and- he was falling. He spread his limbs, changing his form to channel the wind and slow his fall.

The landing knocked the breath out of him. He rolled a few times until stopping in a meadow? A farm? He wasn't sure but the pain was real.

He was in Duviri, there was no doubt.

He pushed himself up, only to meet.. Dax? He stood tall, hands clasped behind his back to hide his weak spot. He recalled the stories Drifter told him.

"His majesty Dominus Thrax demands your presence in His court."

"I mean no harm." He replied.

The guards led him toward the palace, which wasn't too far from here. He hated the place already. Too much gold. Too much.

There, on the throne, was the king child, head leaning on his hand. He did not seem impressed. "Hm. A guest. One of a kind."

"You can thank our.. mutual friend." He stood tall.

"Accidentally. They're definitely an idiot." He straightened. "We shall wait for them. Feel free. I'm not your babysitter." He waved them off.

Erra exited quietly. He could not stand being in the presence of these fake ceramic dolls. He knew what they were, but the resemblance.. he did not like it.

He walked to a less populated area, where he could sit away from curious eyes. He wasn't sure as to why it felt all so real. The way Drifter had explained it wasn't exactly sure at one hundred percent. A book from a tale. A tale made real. And then a kingdom in the calm.

His back burned.

He looked up and saw Drifter coming down fast, on a steed. Their beast stopped gracefully and they rushed to him.

"Erra!" They stumbled but he caught them.

"Why, this wasn't what I was expecting when you said you'd help."

"I didn't mean to-"

"Hush. I understand." He led them to sit. "How do we leave?"

"Through the palace. But actually.. we can find something to help. Maybe Eevani, it's a plant."

"I would rather leave." He looked toward the palace, the statues.. the sight brought anger in him.

"Okay. Okay." They draped a cloak over his shoulders, then offered their hand. He took it, and together they walked to the palace.

"Back again?" The kind drawled.

"Your majesty." Drifter nodded. "We wish to leave your domain. It was an accident actually."

"Hm. I expected no less of you. But you won't. Not yet."

Erra narrowed his eyes.

"What?"

"A great response gracing my ears. Mathilda had food prepared for you and Lodun a home. We shall heal your friend, because it seems you are unable to."

Erra stepped forward and the guards moved. The king stopped them with a hand, meeting his eyes. "I am not here of my own. Let us leave."

"Now you are. You will leave when I tell you to and not before."

"Your majesty I thought we-"

"I am aware. But know a good deed when you see one, Drifter. Now go." He waved them off, slumping in his seat once more.

Erra lifted a hand but his power did not come. It was suppressed, here. He growled in frustration and walked out.

He still hadn't recovered enough. What a pathetic mess he was. He wanted to crush something under his claws.

"Erra wait-"

He grabbed them and sent them crashing. "What have you done!" He held them pinned with his foot. "I should not be here!"

They shrunk into themself. "I'm sorry okay?"

"Oh, it seems no one can stand you, here." A man snickered.

Erra glared at him, taking a step back. "Lead us to our personal quarters. Our conversation is not finished." He hissed.

The man choked. "Pardon?!"

"He's pissed, sorry. Could you tell us where it is please?"

"The house right outside the walls." He glared daggers and Erra did not look away. "You better make him watch his tone."

"Thanks Lodun." Drifter grabbed Erra's arm and guided him away.

The house was small, but had a high ceiling and everything that was needed for a meal and medicine.

"Why do you bend to the whims of a king child?" He snapped.

"They're my friends, even if it isn't easy most times. I'm sorry. It wasn't my intention to.. to be here."

He stepped closer, forcing them against the wall without touching them. "You have no control over this power. Look at this." He gestured outside. "This is- I shouldn't be here."

"I'm sorry."

He backed away and went to sit down. "Apologizing won't magically open the exit for us."

"I don't know what Thrax wants. Sometimes he just acts on whims like you said." Pause. "Let me at least put the cream on your back."

"No. Leave me be."

They exited the house without another word.

He sighed out the frustration. He was not one for games but if he had to.. the worst of it all was the architecture. He hated it. Hated what it represented. And yet, this place had been made by a child, long ago. Said child had grown into a adult, a person he had asked help to. He had almost died for them. He did not understand what he felt.

He took the first item in reach and threw it as hard as possible into the wall. It shattered, leaving glass shards onto the floor.

He rolled in bed because he was in pain. That was it. No one was here to watch him suffer.

-

Drifter did not come back for the night. He did not care, if they left him here he needed not a babysitter.

He sat by the window and watched the colorful sky turn grey with stars. He could see the ship in the distance. The cursed thing.

Below, the people were already in their homes, not one soul outside.

He admitted the nature was pretty. He grew used to the forest, as if it was there for him. A strange thing indeed. His past self would have laughed at how much of a mess he was at this moment.

Making a different decision changed him. For the better? He knew not, but he couldn't back down now. He had to keep going.

And talk to Drifter about their.. disagreement.

--

Erra woke up to the noise of the door opening. He watched them enter and move about the kitchen. They were preparing tea.

He waited until they were done, then pulled a table closer to the bed. "Come sit."

They obeyed. "I'm sorry for this. It wasn't my intention."

"I know." He sighed. "My reaction was not appropriate. But get us out of here. If I have to punch that stupid king I will."

They snorted. "I don't doubt that. But be patient."

"I am not a patient person."

"You have been, so far. You changed." A statement. Had he?

"I've been betrayed once. What's a second time?"

They laughed, placing their hand on their knees. "Oh I don't plan on doing that!"

He scoffed. "You're too righteous for that."

They beamed.

He looked away, not able to look at them anymore. "My back is still wet from the humid environment."

"The plants I talked to you about can fix that."

"Let me process the information." He lifted a hand. They handed the medicine over. Bitter when eaten, but a healing property. He did not know how it would react to his skin. "Is this real?"

"As real as you and I."

"I see." He sighed. "The idea of molting was not bad in the beginning but I can't do it. It doesn't seem possible even with my adaptive cells."

"Oh. Then what can we do? Will you heal?"

"Hopefully the injury closes without too much pain. The radiation is slowly thinning out of my system." If he could walk like he used to- he did not lose hope for that. He would heal. He had to.

"You'll be brand new and then we'll kick the bad guys asses!"

"Get to work."

They snorted but did as told. They were gentle, extremely so. He had never experienced a touch this soft- not after he grew into his adulthood, where he and his sister were separated. He hated his father, but that worm was right for once in his life by helping the Tenno.

Once done, Drifter went to wash their hands. "Try to sleep on your side tonight to let it dry. Do you need more warmth? I can get more blankets too. Huh, maybe ask for more heating." They continued on, muttering to themself.

He let them be. He didn't feel like interrupting them from their rambling.

He stretched his legs, removing the bandages. His bad leg had dried completely, with a crust over his injury. He still sensed some radiations within his body but he had almost eliminated all of it. A matter of time.

"I'll be right back!" They called, as if remembering something important.

Hm. They were unpredictable but.. he did enjoy that.

--

To pass time, he had burned or broken most of the annoying gold inside the house. Nothing too Orokin remained and it was ten times better like this.

The sky was pink, he noticed when he stepped outside. Overly so. Almost like a vomit of colors. Joy, then. Drifter spoke of Mathilda fondly. He did not recall most of what they said about her and he did not try to remember.

He sat and enjoyed the warm weather. It was a huge relief from the cold, which he was now sensitive of. It wasn't pleasant but he'd lived through worse. He had to keep going.

-

He did not see Drifter for the best part of the day, until they came back as if they had fallen into a pot of plants. Flowers clung to their clothes, even in their hair.

"You're a mess." He stated.

"I know." They waved him off and disappeared inside.

He stayed out an hour more before deciding he had enough. This wasn't like anything he had ever seen before. The peace.. the calm.. it unnerved him.

Drifter was struggling with their hair and it looked rather funny, sticking in every direction.

They glared at him.

He chuckled. "Here, let me." He took the comb awkwardly and tried to very gently move over the knots. It caught most times but they did not complain. The motions calmed him. And.. their hair was soft to the touch. He shook his head. "Here, it should be less of an hassle."

"Thanks."

He went in his bed to rest.

"Would you let me check your back again?"

He gestured at them to go on. They went to wash their hands, then came back with more cream. Their touch was as gentle each time. All of it was new to him. He wasn't sure he liked that.

"It has started to scar over." They said, pressing over the nape of his neck. "Does it sting when you walk?"

"I'm fine." He replied, trying to tame the storm he felt within himself. What was wrong with him? With them for that matter. They were too.. Caring.. With him. It was wrong.

Once they were done, they moved away. "I'll bring you fresh blankets."

He did not reply. There was nothing to say.

--

The door opened in a bang, and a woman walked in, hands full of flowers. "Oh Drifter!"

"Mathilda-"

"I bring you flowers, oh, you definitely need them." She dropped the flowers in their arms. "Now you give them to him." She smiled.

"What-"

Erra stared at her as if she had grown another head. What was this nonsense again.

"Come on!" She insisted.

Drifter blushed as they approached. They lifted the flowers to him.

"I do not understand the gesture." He said. He lifted his hand, trying to hold the plants without destroying them which was a feat in itself. Some crumpled and fell.

"It's a rom-"

"Thanks Mathilda!" They led her outside and closed the door on her.

"Remember!" She called through.

"I am not sure if I should ask." He said. He placed the flowers on the desk.

"You give flowers to friends." They said. Their face was still colored. They seemed.. embarrassed? "Sorry about all that."

"There is no need to apologize, even if I do not understand." He stretched his leg again, the strain wasn't as much. The crust had sealed shut the injury with only two dose of the Eevani. At least he could walk without too much of a limp visible. He couldn't be seen as weak.

"Do you need more cream?" They asked once they dumped the rest of the flowers in the sink.

"I will be fine." He settled in bed with a book. He needed to let his body rest after fighting the radiation. It was a luck that he was still alive.

--

Duviri was almost peaceful. The sky remained pink most of the time, which he did not understand why the king would find it joyful to have him prisoner here.

Erra could force his way out. Realistically, he knew he wouldn't be able to right at this moment, but he preferred the lies over the harsh truth. He needed to be patient with himself.

And for Drifter.. Ever since the flower incident, they've been distant and jumpy. They rarely talked anymore, and he found it very unusual. He wondered what was on their mind. He could sparse some fragments from the colors of the sky but this was not enough.

Were they afraid of him?

Somehow the idea left him bitter. He knew all things had an end and yet..

He was confused. He needed a confrontation and actual words, not whatever their problem was.

--

Erra woke up to a sudden shock through his abdomen. He turned over, trying to grab anything- the lamp fell on the floor with a loud clatter. He cursed every star in this damned universe as the pain stabbed him once more.

He saw something red. It had arms? The thing pushed him on the bed.

"Erra!" Drifter.

His vision was too blurry but he recognized them. And.. Their frame? He blinked slowly, fighting the dizziness.

They spoke but he did not make out what they said. And then Void energy hit him in the torso.

He gasped, holding onto Kullervo for dear life as the Sun's radiation slowly left his system. When he came back to himself, Drifter was holding his hand. He did not feel the radiation anymore- all of it now gone.

"How- how do you feel?" They asked, voice barely above a whisper.

"Insane." He grunted. The pain that remained was from his back. His legs did not ache currently which was a given. He was tired of it all already but he knew he had to power through. Maybe now that he was cured of his poisoning, his sentient powers would come back to him.

"I don't feel radiations anymore." He lifted a hand. His sentient energy rippled through him- a beam ended its course into the wall, effectively breaking it. "Hm. Brand new as you said."

"I'm glad." They laughed breathlessly.

"Now. How do we leave?"

They looked away.

Hm. "Drifter. What are you not telling me?"

They did not reply.

He tapped onto their torso. "Answer me."

"It's.. complicated." They replied. They went into the kitchen.

"Drifter come back here." He demanded. They ignored him. Anger burned within. "Why are you avoiding it? What are you scared of?"

"A lot of things actually." They mumbled.

"Then speak clearly to me. I cannot stand it when you do not."

"I- I'll be back!" They ran outside.

"Drifter!" He screeched. He slammed energy into the door. It shook but stayed on its hinges.

Sigh.

--

Drifter did not come back the next day.

Erra felt it was a good day- his injuries did not hurt as much so he went in search of the Drifter and their stupid non-words.

The sky had turned cyan blue with fear. Fear of what?

He marched on, and people avoided him. He avoided them too. He didn't care. He wanted answers and he would get them.

On his way, the Dax soldiers stopped him as the king approached on his steed.

"Looking for them are we?" The king child snickered. "I thought so." He gestured to the sky. "What did they do?"

"What did they not? Find them. I need to talk to them." Erra said. He had enough of this mess. "Or better, let me leave."

"You want to leave?" He leaned forward.

"Yes."

"Then leave. I'm getting bored of you. The portal is all yours." Thrax snapped his fingers, and the Dax moved in formation.

Erra did not hesitate to walk to the portal.

-

He came back to the Voyager's camp. Exactly at the same place he had entered Duviri in.

Good riddance.

Now that he had somewhat recovered, he could leave. Where? As far as possible. Or did he really want to? He.. He had enjoyed the moments in their presence. But there was something telling him to leave. He did not know what to follow.

He could go bother his sister. Anything else than this mess. He wasn't even sure what he felt.

When he looked at them, disgust wasn't the first to come to mind anymore. They had.. grown to be an ally. That must be it.

He walked up to the Grineer. "You. I need all of your information about Narmer's influence and the Sentient moves."

---

Erra spent the next few days planning strategies for the stupid Grineer camp. It cut the loss and actually helped. He knew the Archons weren't far on the line, it would require Tenno help ( which he left to his sister ) until then, he viewed what they had. They took control of one ship. Small, but still something.

He had to fix his mistakes and save his people.

--

It was late at night when he heard footsteps, knowing exactly who it was. They had taken their time, he thought.

He sat up. "If it isn't the Drifter. What brings you to me?"

They approached. Their face was lit by the glow of his eyes along with the starlight of the night. Red suited them well. "Sorry." They looked away but he tilted their head so their eyes met.

"Speak clearly. You've run my patience thin."

"Thrax wanted to help in his own way." They whispered, leaning into his touch.

He frowned. "How so?"

"Because I.. I have feelings for you."

All his thoughts came to a stop. What. How. What was.. "..what kind of feelings?" He asked, voice unusually quiet.

"Can I?" They gestured to his face. What did they wish to accomplish? He nodded nonetheless, curiosity getting the better of him even as his mind screamed at him to leave.

They gently cupped his face, and pressed their lips to his snout.

"What is.. what is this?"

"A kiss."

"I- I know what it is. But what I am asking is why."

Their eyes were full of hope, and something else.. fear? Did they fear he reject them? "I.. grew used to you and you aren't so bad under your tough exterior."

He snorted. "I could say the same about you. I have this.. curiosity about you. Yet.. we are different."

"Does it bother you? I know our people haven't.. been in peace but.."

"I will not change for you."

"I'm not asking you to. Shit, I haven't even asked for these feelings. You're.. you. Intelligent, understanding.. attractive.." they mumbled the last word.

"I've also hurt others and sought out vengeance."

"Haven't we all." They sighed. "Your sister forgave you. I'm not asking you to work with the Tenno. I just.."

"Say it clear." He moved his hand to their chin and neck.

They exhaled. "I love you."

"I'm not sure what it is about you.. you drew me in. How bothersome." He lifted them up and brought them in his bed. They did not protest. "You really do."

"Yeah." They smiled to him.

"Say it again."

"I love you Erra."

"Again."

"I love you, you alien from another world." They grinned.

He laughed. As easy as it was, he knew he did not feel indifferent when looking at them. Perhaps that was what he had been waiting for. Maybe not, but he was content here.

"Remove your coat. I don't like the texture."

They shrugged it off and tossed it aside. "Better?"

"Hm-hm." He pressed onto their torso lightly. How fragile the Tennos were. "It is rather enjoyable. Don't get used to it."

"Not a cuddle kind of person?" They caressed his cheeks.

"Not with the enemy." He leaned into their touch.

"Woo, you let your enemy in your bed, bad general you are."

"I detect sarcasm."

"Hm. What else can you detect?"

"Your heart is beating much faster than it should." He leaned down. "How cute."

They blushed. "Well." They pulled him down, and hugged him.

"I cannot move my arms." He looked like a flat bug. Or a fish out of water.

"Small detail." They giggled. They did not seem to mind that he was on top of them in an awkward position. It didn't matter to him much.

It was foreign, but comfortable. It should disgust him but he found no trace of that, no matter how he turned his brain inside out.

What was it about them? He didn't know. But right at this moment, he felt almost.. safe. Safe to keep his guard down- that they wouldn't stab him in the back.

It was.. strange. Strange yet welcome.

Chapter Text

Erra watched Kullervo wander around, looking at everything that he passed by.
Drifter hadn't spoken about their Warframe in detail. He wasn't sure of its origins or what it could feel. He was curious and so he approached.

"Kullervo."

The frame froze.

"Hm. Something of a flight instinct. Do not be afraid, I will not hurt you."

Kullervo turned slowly, slouching despite the blades in his body. He watched, curious.

"You haven't seen anything beyond Duviri."

He stayed still.

"You don't want to go back." That got a reaction- a full flinch. Hm.

"Stop bothering him." Drifter called.

Kullervo took that as an escape and fled.

"He's upset." Erra replied. "What happened to him?"

Drifter approached, leaning on his arm. "A lot. Don't push him."

"Perhaps I could help him."

"You-" They snorted.

"Don't look at me like that." He frowned.

They chuckled. "Like what?"

"Are you aware of being, as Thrax says, a little shit?"

That made them laugh even more.

He grabbed them under the arms with one hand. "You're annoying." They were and they knew he enjoyed it.

They smiled, leaning their arms onto his. "On a scale to one to ten?"

"Twenty."

They laughed. "You're cute."

"Cute." He wasn't cute!

"Yep." They gestured. He brought them close to his body and they latched onto him. They cupped his face and kissed him between the eyes.

"A thing I need to get used to." He muttered. They were driven by touch more than he was- something he never allowed himself to indulge before.

"Bad?"

"Have I said so?" He raised his brows.

They smiled. They kissed him again. He pressed his forehead to theirs.

"Your lips are soft." He whispered. All of them were, actually. He learned new things everyday in their presence.

"Cute."

He dropped them.

"Hey!" They crossed their arms, but couldn't hide the smile threatening to break through.

He ignored them and went into the forest. The frame couldn't have gone too far. The waterfall echoed on the cliff walls, as the sun settled slowly over the horizon.

Kullervo was sitting on a rock, watching the fish swim by.

"May I approach?" Erra asked.

The frame glanced at him, then nodded.

Erra stood next to him, watching him. He mainly kept to himself, no matter how many times Drifter tried to get him out of his shell, but that was understandable- Ballas had been cruel on many times to those who refused to bow to him.

"I do not ask you to speak with me. I merely wish to be someone you can stand being in proximity."

Kullervo's blades twitched, but not in aggression, perhaps in fear of being punished.

"I am not here to hurt you."

Kullervo met his eyes.

"We both have a common enemy. You've seen what happened."

He nodded, gesturing to Erra's broken leg.

"Yes, it does take time to heal from injuries. They may not only be physical."

He lifted his hand as if to sign, but froze. He grabbed one of his daggers and pulled it out.

Erra watched as the frame wrote on the ground. The only word- Drifter.

"I wouldn't have stayed if I had not cared about them." He replied flatly.

Kullervo continued writing. "Save from ship."

"Hm. The cursed ship. They have gone back there, yes. I cannot accompany them, you should know." Even if he could, he wouldn't even step foot there. The Void scarred this place beyond recognition, hiding monsters.

He shook his head and pointed again. "You."

"Ah. Yes, what?"

He pointed again.

"I couldn't stay and watch my people die. That's why I helped them."

The frame pushed his blade back into his body, watching the water.

"I am not going to leave. And they're perfectly aware of this."

He gestured so-so.

How he wished the thing would speak instead of messing with him. Right. This was new for everyone. "Are you trying to protect them?"

At that, Kullervo looked at him. He hesitated, then nodded. He lifted his hands to sign. "Saved me."

"That sounds like them. I believe we both benefitted from their shining light."

Kullervo let himself fall forward into the water.

That was the right choice of frame for Drifter that was for sure.

--

Erra had arranged himself a nest by a large tree, away from the Grineer and their constant babbling. It was a good sleeping spot, with fake fur and any blankets he could fin, underneath a tent held up by the tree. Big enough to fit him comfortably, keeping all the warmth he needed. He took his time settling down, trying to find a comfortable position.

His routine was broken when Drifter approached, holding something in their coat. He placed the tablet aside. "What did you do this time? Not a rat again." He arched an eyebrow.

They were smiling. Not unusual but something made them excited. They opened their coat and lifted a yellow Kavat- a kitten.

"A mess that's what it is." Ordis muttered.

"A kitty!" They kicked off their boots and jumped into his nest.

"I see." Expect the unexpected.

"It's for you!" They offered the Kavat to him.

What.

"She's still tiny but she'll grow big fast enough. You can name her."

The Kavat sat on his lap and watched him with her round eyes. He offered a finger, and she headbutted his hand.

"I do not see how I can care for it." He said gently. He did not wish to make them regret their decision but how could he care for another being when he still struggled with himself?

The Kavat leaped on his shoulder. She curled up and started to purr.

"Ordis accepted to do the maintenance. You just have to enjoy having her with you. I wanted to.. you know.. when I leave on mission- sometimes it takes days. You'll never be alone."

He placed his hand under their chin. He understood their sentiment. He had never been cared for this way- they did things to help him without expecting in return and he.. he loved them. "Thank you. Her name shall be Starlight."

They beamed.

He couldn't resist to their beautiful smile. He brought them closer to him, and they snuggled into his side.

He took his tablet to read but the warmth lulled him to sleep.

-

Erra woke up when Drifter tripped on his leg.

"Sorry!" They whisper shouted.

"Why are you whispering. The other's in the camp wouldn't even wake if a meteor fell nearby." He rubbed his face.

The Kavat was sitting by his side, looking up at him. He stretched his legs. He shouldn't sleep upright, the pain wasn't worth it. He had to remind himself that his body had changed due to his injuries. He had to be patient.

"How about we eat breakfast near the waterfall? It should be warm enough to help."

He hummed in acknowledgement. He petted the Kavat- her fur was so soft. She jumped on his shoulder as he pushed himself up. His leg sent shocks when he put weight on it- going from his knee to his back.

He followed Drifter toward the pond. They seemed worried and he did not want them to worry about him. He would deal with the pain on his own.

He lowered into the water, up to his torso. The Kavat didn't seem to care. Good. He found he enjoyed having her close- such a little ball of sunshine she was.

Kullervo offered the plate of neatly cut fruits.

"Thanks." Drifter chirped. They dug in happily.

The frame hesitated. Then he sat by the water.

Erra relaxed his limbs, letting the water soothe his aches. The water could be warmer but he wouldn't complain. Maybe he would get to it when the sun had fully warmed the forest.

After breakfast, he went to work. There was still a lot to do- he wouldn't stop until the Narmer was gone.

--

The Kavat followed him everywhere.

When she wasn't perched on his shoulder, she ran between his toe claws and he often had to stop moving to not walk onto her. That would have been annoying but her little chirps were endearing. Swayed by a Kavat.

He approached Drifter and leaned over their shoulder. "A new mission?"

They sighed. "I have to go to the Zariman again. They need help getting rid of the pirates. The Void is acting up again."

He nuzzled their cheek. "Return safely, Drifter." He paused. Maybe they would enjoy to hear him say it more often. "I love you."

They turned to him and kissed him between the eyes. "I love you."

He exited the ship, taking his extra tablet along. He was completely alone in the camp- the Grineer were off on mission.

Complete silence.

And then he heard the loudest noise he'd ever heard on a small creature like this. "What do you want?"

She stood on her back legs.

"I can't lift you up. My back will not allow me. But do follow."

He went to the pond- at this hour it was warm enough to be pleasant and he did not want to miss it.

Earth was not so bad but he would prefer having his ship. Drifter could come with him and they'd live away from all the trouble. He had had enough of war for many lifetimes.

The pond was shining softly with the glow of the afternoon, making a perfect moment for relaxation. He did not need to be present for the Grineer when they went on mission, that was taken care of by other Tennos and whoever was stuck with it. All he had to do was give access to Sentient ships and make a safe path- the rest was up to them.

He lowered himself into the water. "Come sit." He said to the Kavat.

She leaped on his shoulder and snuggled to his neck, purring.

"We need to think about a gift for them. I can't have them think I do not care, yes?"

It wouldn't be easy. They rather not have possessions, unnecessary things, and a weapon would not be fitting. Not for them.

He wanted to do something but wasn't sure what.. Finally, he wasn't very good at this whole relationship thing.

-

He spent way too much time on the tablet trying to look up romantic gestures and none would fit. They all sounded ridiculous. He didn't even have hands to offer a massage. Why were humans so strange?

They gifted him a Kavat and he couldn't even think of anything to give in return!

It was frustrating.

"Erra?"

He startled, sending the tablet flying off. He cursed.

They giggled.

"Ah, welcome back." He gestured at them to come closer. He pulled them to sit on his lap. "I will be honest, I have searched on what to do for you but have not found anything worthwhile. But I do care about you, you know this, yes?"

They smiled. "Of course I do. I don't need any gifts- I just-" they paused, searching for words.

"Do not bring me any other gift lest I have another existential crisis. Please."

They laughed. "Okay."

He caressed their cheek. "I am learning about it still, but I am glad to have you by my side."

"You're my strong independent alien."

He snorted. "Your humor is one of a kind." He held onto them.

"But you love it."

"I do." He leaned down to press his snout on their nose.

"I don't need anything." They whispered. "Your presence is enough. Coming back to you after a difficult mission is the best reward I could ever get. I love you so much Erra."

He thought that love hit him directly in the hearts and.. he wouldn't change it. He still had a lot to learn about them and he counted on staying, no matter the difficulties. "You gave me a chance and I am grateful." From the corner of his eye he noticed Kullervo give a thumbs up.

That was his world now. He liked it.