✨Peaceful, Safe, Warm.✨
Lucanis has been avoiding sleep. Spite has had enough.
My Rook, Thea Mercar, has a 3 year old daughter that lives with her in the Lighthouse. She loves Lucanis, and Lucanis sees Amalia as his own.
Candlelight flickered off the walls of Thea’s room. It was late, nearing close to midnight as she sat, watching Amalia play. They both needed to sleep, but Amalia’s nightmares were keeping her wide awake.
The three year old happily set up her teddies and butterflies at the table for her tea party, dressed properly in her pajamas and the small crow cape Lucanis gifted her. Thea looked on, waiting for the party to start, laying on the couch in a long dark floral silky robe with her hair down, wine glass in hand.
“Need any help setting up?” Thea asked.
“No, ama! I got it!” The little girl cheered.
Thea smiled, though her eyes were heavy with sleep. She nodded off every so often, her soft snores made her daughter giggle.
Amalia’s tea party prep was interupted by a knock at the door. The little girl rushed to her mother, tapping her chest frantically. Thea’s eyes shot open, grabbing Amalia’s hand.
“What’s wrong bean? Are you okay?” She fussed, looking over her daughter.
“Someone is outside, ama.” She whispered.
“What?” Thea whispered, placing her wine glass down, slowly moving off the couch. “Okay sit tight, I’ll go see who it is.”
Thea tiptoed across her room, listening through the foor for any indication of who their late visitor was. They knocked harder this time, causing her to jump.
She opened the door slowly, finding Lucanis on the other side, leaning against the wall. But instead of his brown eyes greeting her, she found purple ones.
“Hello, Spite.”
“Smells like. Honey… and wine.”
“Did you come all this way just to smell my room?” Thea laughed.
“Lucanis. Won’t sleep. Brought him here. Thea is peaceful. Safe.” Spite spoke lowly.
“I thought you were finally letting him sleep.” Thea tilted her head.
“He wants. To rest. Peaceful. Safe. Warm. Too afraid. To ask.” Spite sneered.
Lucanis’ body got stiff as the purple fled his eyes, revealing his brown ones once again, looking to Thea in confusion.
“Thea?”
“Spite. He walked you to my room.” She smiled.
Lucanis shook his head with a sigh.
“I apologize. He knows better.”
“You don’t have to apologize. I’m glad he brought you here and not somewhere dangerous. I thought he was letting you sleep now? Thea asked, watching the remorse wash across his face, his eyes dropping to the ground.
“He-I. It’s complicated. Did I… did he wake you? You’re usually sleeping at this hour.”
“No he didn’t. I promise.” She reassured him.
They stared at each other for a moment, Thea’s lips curved into a smile.
“Spite mentioned you wanting to rest. Specifically, here, with me. That’s why he brought you.”
He looked to her with wide eyes, realizing Spite overshared.
“Ahh… well, yes. I do. Ever since Spite and I found our way, I can’t say it hasn’t been on my mind. I haven’t sleep fully in so long and I…” His voice trailed off, suddenly feeling embarrassed.
He sighed, slowly looking into her eyes.
“I just find myself wanting to be close to you.”
Thea’s heart leapt from her chest.
“I… feel the same." She swallowed hard. "There’s always a place here for you to rest.”
“If sleeping meant I could wake beside you, I would give anything.” He whispered.
She smiled tilting her head slightly, like she did when she was nervous.
“Well, my bed is very comfortable, and yours, whenever you’d like, no need to give anything up.”
They smiled at each other, standing with the tension thick between them. Lucanis’ eyes almost sparkled in the faint candlelight from the hall, never leaving hers. Thea pushed the door open with a smile.
“Would you like to come in? Amalia’s been having trouble sleeping too, so we’re having a party.” She laughed. “Unfortunately I don’t coffee, my supplier is out… sleepwalking,” She giggled. “I only have wine, water, apple juice and cheese.”
“I’ll have a talk with your supplier… but no coffee? What sort of party is this?.” He smirked.
“A tea party.” Thea smiled.
“Ahh… in that case I should bid you goodnight.” Lucanis smiled.
“Damn it, if only I knew a coffee fueled sleepy crow was going to stop by!”
Lucanis laughed, his eyes glancing into her room. The warmth washed over him in an instant, inviting him in, and it was everything he wanted. He looked back to Thea.
“I do not wish to impose.”
“You’re not. It would make Amalia’s night. She’s been begging me to ask you to play tea party with her.”
“Really?” Lucanis smiled.
“Every day since she had tea with Caterina, she’s been obsessed. She’s going to be so happy you’re here.” Thea said. “Besides, I wouldn't mind your company, either.”
Lucanis couldn’t help but smile.
“Is that so? Well, I am yours for the evening. Unless Amalia holds me hostage.” He smirked.
Thea smiled as they locked eyes, both lost in each other’s gaze. Lucanis took in the sight of her hair completely down, the tiredness in her eyes, the robe falling off her shoulder highlighting the softness of her skin. Just standing near her brought him peace. She reached for his arm, linking it in hers. He smiled warmly, her touch was warm, the gentlest in what felt like a lifetime.
“Do you sleep in those?” She asked, eyeing him up and down, still fully dressed in his vest and boots.
“Usually. It’s easier, just in case Spite sleepwalks.”
“Well, it is a pajama tea party so I’ll find you something comfortable to wear.” She laughed.
She closed the door behind them and Lucanis took a deep breath looking around her room. Light music played from a music box; the stars painted along the wall shimmered in the candlelight. He sighed, feeling relieved.
Little brown eyes popped up from behind the couch followed by a string of giggles that made Lucanis smile.
“The Little Crow. So many giggles. Unbridled joy. Must. Keep her. Safe.” Spite whispered.
“Lucanis!” Amalia squealed. “Are you here for my tea party?” She asked, her brown eyes wide with excitement.
“I am. Though a coffee party would be better.” He smiled, heading over to her tiny table.
“Maybe to you!” Amalia rolled her eyes.
“My lady, you wound me.” Lucanis replied dramatically, pressing his hands to his heart. “Is a crow cape required for your tea party? My cape is back in the pantry.”
Amalia thought for a moment, hand on her hip as she looked to Lucanis with one eyebrow raised.
“No it’s okay. Next time I don’t think you can come if you don’t have one.” She said seriously.
“I’ll be sure to have the finest cape next time. What will they say if I am not invited to Lady Amalia Mercar’s next tea party? I’ll be the shame of The Crows.” Lucanis smiled.
Amalia giggled, pouring him tea, then pouring some for Thea, passing it to her on the couch.
“Okay, you have to keep your pinky up. It’s polite.” Amalia said, focusing on keeping her tiny pinky up, taking a sip of the tea.
Lucanis did as she said, taking a sip gracefully until his face frowned, swallowing the liquid.
“Do you like it??” Amalia asked, eyes wide.
Thea laughed quietly as Lucanis smiled, shaking his head.
“Don’t tell the others, but this is the best tea I’ve ever had.” He whispered.
Amalia squealed in happiness with a smile, making both Lucanis and Thea grin at each other. Thea’s heart beamed watching the two together, her eyes meeting his from time to time in a tender gaze. She let them be, grabbing a book from the shelf and laying back down.
Another hour passed, tea was shared along with lots of giggles until sleep finally found Amalia, resting her head on the table. Thea smiled, scooping her up and bringing her to her bedroom. She brushed the hair from Amalia’s eyes, placing a kiss on her forehead before turning on the nightlight and closing the door.
Thea turned with a sigh, praying to whoever was listening that Amalia would have no more nightmares tonight. She smiled at Lucanis lounging on the couch, a blissful smile on his face looking back at her.
He had removed his collar and vest, the buttons on his shirt were undone. He finally looked at ease, which made Thea incredibly happy.
“Do you think she’ll stay asleep?” He asked quietly.
“I hope so. She’s been having bad nightmares lately and they make her afraid to go back to sleep. But maybe since she knows you’re here, she’ll feel a little safer.” Thea smiled.
“I’d fight away every bad dream for her.”
“I know that. She knows that too. First Talon and vanquisher of nightmares. We truly are too lucky to know you.” She smirked.
Lucanis could feel himself blushing as he let out a quiet laugh, his eyes crinkling. He sat up, leaning his arm on the edge as he cleared his throat.
“I’m grateful that Spite brought me to you tonight.” He said lowly.
“I am too.” She smiled.
“I have… wanted this. To stay by your side. I just didn’t know what to say… or do. I am… not good at this.” He laughed.
Thea shifted closer to him, reaching for his hand. He tensed at first, his nerves getting the better of him, but he eased into her touch, a lazy smile breaking out on his face. She held his hand with both of hers, tracing soft patterns into his skin.
“I’m not good at this either. There have been so many times that I’ve wanted to invite you to stay just to spend time with you or to see you without it being wrapped up in fighting Venatori or darkspawn. I just got too nervous, I never want to pressure you or make you feel uncomfortable.” She smiled.
Lucanis shifted, turning his body closer to her, tucking her hair behind her ear, cupping her face. The sudden touch sent shivers down Thea’s spine, making her blush.
“You make me feel anything but uncomfortable.” He paused, a small smile appeared on his face
“Maybe… we both should start doing the things we want.” He whispered, praying she wouldn’t hear the way his heart was beating out of his chest, or the slight crack in his voice.
“Maybe we should.” She whispered back, a smile on her face.
His hand still cupped her face as he leaned up, and she met him halfway, their lips pressing together, but slightly off mark. They both laughed quietly, smiling as they tried again. Their lips met once more, sharing the softest kiss.
Lucanis swallowed hard as they separated, letting out a breath he didn’t know he was holding. Thea’s eyes fluttered open, her cheeks unmistakably red. She let out a nervous giggle, making Lucanis smile wide.
He shifted again, reaching for her hands with his free one. They sat, fingers intertwined, soaking in the moment together. He let out a yawn, leaning his head on the couch, but his eyes never left her.
“I really do hope you feel… safe here… with me.” She whispered.
Lucanis looked to her, so much longing in his eyes.
“I do Thea. More than you know.” He whispered “Being with you, near you, is the safest I’ve felt in years. It was a confusing feeling… but after Spite asked for your help and seeing you in my mind, or the Fade, it was like feeling the sun on my skin.”
“I was scared that I wouldn’t find you. I’m so glad did. That prison in your mind… you have so much on your shoulders, no wonder you couldn’t sleep.”
“Sleep is my real fear, but next to you? I feel I can conquer it.” He whispered.
She smiled, feeling the butterflies swarm in her stomach. Her eyes glanced to the table, teacups and plates still scattered.
“Was the tea too strong for you?” Thea smirked.
“I’m not sure it was strong enough. Next time I’ll bring coffee beans and show Amalia how to brew the perfect cup of coffee.” Lucanis beamed, leaning his head on his wrist.
A comfortable silence washed over them, both enjoying each other’s presence. It was easy, safe. Lucanis could feel his eyes closing, feeling sleep creeping up on him.
Thea smiled as she watched his eyelids flutter, fighting to stay awake.
“Let me grab some clothes for you.” She said, lifting off the couch and retreating to her closet. Lights twinkled as she entered, the smell of her perfume danced its way to Lucanis.
He smiled hazily, imagining what it would be like to see her get ready for the day. Watching from the bed, seeing her pick out outfits, doing her hair, what her voice would sound like in the morning. His heart was burning as his mind wandered further, what it would be like to see her undress, to feel her skin on his… he shook his head, trying to push the thoughts away.
He could hear Thea humming; his feet followed the sound as he leaned in the entryway of her closet. She was deep within, focused on sorting through her various robes and capes. He reached out, running his fingers over the clothes, everything was neatly put away and smelled like her. She turned her head to see him, giving him a smile.
“Is this why it takes you so long to get ready before missions?” He smirked.
She dramatically gasped with a laugh.
“So rude!” She laughed. “And no, it’s my hair. It takes me forever.”
“Ahh. Things of beauty do take time.” He smiled.
Thea rolled her eyes with a laugh , the sound muffled through her clothes.
“Do you not like your natural curls?”
She turned to him, tilting her head.
“It’s not that I don’t like them, it just… I guess they remind me of the person I used to be, someone I don’t really recognize.” She shrugged, pushing more clothes out of her way.
“I understand that.” He paused, walking closer. “The first time I saw you wear your hair that way… it took my breath away.”
She spun around about to make a joke but stopped, seeing the smile on his face and the adoration in his eyes. She couldn’t help but smile back, praying her face wasn’t getting any redder.
“Oh…” She giggled. “Okay, how do you always do that? The things you say sometimes…” Her voice trailed off.
Lucanis let out a quiet laugh, leaning against the dresser.
“I’m not sure, I think you bring it out in me.” He smiled.
Thea shook her head, walking toward him and handing him the pile in her hands.
“Here, see what fits and what doesn’t just leave on the dresser.” She smiled, her hand brushing over his arm. He smirked back, relishing the feeling of her touch again.
She slipped out of the closet, closing the door behind as she sat at the edge of her bed. She covered her face in her hands. The butterflies in her stomach would not stop fluttering as she smiled to herself. Lucanis was here, in her room, and it was everything she wished for.
He emerged in the clothes she gave him, ditching his shirt for one of her silk robes. She let out a giggle as he showed it off, the fabric spinning as he turned. He didn’t bother tying it, and Thea’s eyes couldn’t help but wander to his exposed chest, taking in the dark hair, the trail down his stomach. She swallowed hard with a smile. He placed his folded clothes on the table, looking back to her. He walked to her side, leaning against the bed frame.
“I can see why you own so many of these. They are very comfortable.” He laughed.
“They are, and you pull it off well.” She smiled, careful not to stare.
She took down the bedding and tossed the extra pillows to the floor. He ran his fingers over the sheets, watching her every move intently. He could feel himself slip further and further into the safety of her room. It was addictive and dangerous, but he didn’t stop himself from climbing into her bed, the mattress holding him like a warm hug. He let out a sigh, laying his head on the pillows, taking a deep breath. The sheets smelled like her, and he wished to be wrapped in them forever.
The bed was soft, warm, and safe. He felt like a cat sleeping in the sunlight. Thea untied her robe, slipping it off and laying it on the end on the bed. Lucanis was lost in the sight of her, the silk fabric of her nightgown shifting on her body, the way the candlelight danced on her skin. She climbed into the bed, sitting next to him with. He propped himself up on his arm, his eyes half closed with a loopy smile on his face.
He couldn’t help but brush her arm, feeling her soft skin. She turned with a smile, lying down beside him.
“You are so beautiful.” He whispered, reaching for her hand. “What have I done in this life to deserve you? To deserve this?”
Thea’s heart shot up into her throat as he intertwined his fingers with hers, bringing it into his chest. She moved closer to him with a smile, giving his hand a squeeze.
“You deserve more than this after everything you’ve gone through. You deserve love, and kindness, and peace. I hope one day you see that too.” She whispered.
He blinked back tears, brining her hand to his lips.
“Thea- I… thank you.”
She smiled, kissing his forehead.
“You need to sleep.” She whispered, brushing some hair from his eyes.
“I will. Much better now that I’m with you.” He whispered. “Thank you, Thea.”
“You never have to thank me.” She whispered back, running her fingers through his hair. He pulled her close, his thumb ghosting over her lips before he kissed her, letting his body relax into hers.
She watching his eyes close with a blissful smile on his face. He fell asleep instantly, soft snores filling the space, with no sign of Spite taking over. She covered them both with her blanket, staring at him a little longer before feeling herself drift off.
Morning came and the door to Amalia’s room opened. She tiptoed over to her mother’s bed, huffing as she climbed up the side, using Thea’s hips to pull herself up. She jumped seeing the form of Lucanis draped over her mother, his arm holding her tight, his head resting on her shoulder. Amalia giggled to herself, covering her mouth before they could hear her.
Lucanis opened one eye smiling at her, earning even more giggles in return. He lifted his arm up slightly, with enough room for Amalia to crawl through. She squealed, laying against her mother as Lucanis’ arm wrapped them both tight. He smiled to himself, if sleeping in Thea’s room meant his mornings would be like this, he would be happy the rest of his life.
“Lucanis. The Little Crow. Thea. Peaceful. Safe. Warm. Not afraid. Anymore.” Spite whispered. “Smells like… home.”
