Oath of Ancients - Katz92 (2024)

Chapter 1: An Oath Explained

Chapter Text

“Are you certain, Lunaris? A paladin’s oath is a heavy burden to carry. You are young, with a lot of life ahead of you, and these oaths are not easily broken or set aside.”

Lunaris knelt in the center of the forest clearing, the light of the full moon illuminating her and the half-elf standing above her. “I understand, Lady Cleo. But I want to help more of my people walk out of the Underdark. I want them to see the world I’ve gotten to see. And…and I don’t want any other kids to lose their families.” Her eyes are shining as she looks up at the old paladin. “If I had abilities like yours, I could help more people.”

“Your oath is more than power, young one.” Cleo’s voice was stern. “These tenants will guide every action in your life until it ends or you choose to break them and live with the consequences.”

“I understand. The light has given me a new life. I would do anything to protect it, for myself and for others.”

The woman nods and draws her sword. “Very well. Recite your Oath.” She stabs the blade into the dirt before saying, “Kindle the Light.”

“Through your acts of mercy, kindness, and forgiveness, kindle the light of hope in the world, beating back despair.” Lunaris repeats back, her voice steady. She doesn’t see it, but Cleo notes the faintest bits of moonlight starting to gather around the young drow’s shoulders.

“Shelter the Light.”

“Where there is good, beauty, love, and laughter in the world, stand against the wickedness that would swallow it. Where life flourishes, stand against the forces that would render it barren.” More light gathers, but Lunaris is still oblivious, eyes locked on the woman that had become her mentor.

“Preserve Your Own Light.”

“Delight in song and laughter, in beauty and art. If you allow the light to die in your own heart, you can't preserve it in the world.” At her words, a chime of laughter seems to pass through the clearing. For the first time, Lunaris notices the light slowly gathering around her and her eyes widen.

Cleo can’t contain the smile crossing her face. “Be the Light.”

“Be a glorious beacon for all who live in despair. Let the light of your joy and courage shine forth in all your deeds.” The light suddenly intensifies, filling the clearing with moonlight for a moment before dispersing, flecks of light remaining in the air. “Wow…”

“Rise, Lunaris. Be welcome in the Order of Ancients. May your Light never fade.”

______________________________________________________________________________

With the moon high in the sky, Lunaris finds a secluded spot to open the journal given to her by her mentor so long ago. She starts to recite the tenants of her oath by moonlight, repeating them over and over again, a mantra to settle herself.

“Lunaris?”

She’s startled out of her trance by the voice, whipping around to find Shadowheart standing above her a few feet back. “Shadowheart, do you need something?”

“No. I saw you walk off and got curious. I am sorry if I interrupted your prayers.”

“You didn’t, not really.” She waves the journal. “I was simply meditating on my oath and its tenants.”

“Your tenants?”

“Yes. When I decided to become a paladin, and joined the order I did, I had to take an oath. The ideals I would hold above everything else. That oath is what gives me access to the abilities I have.”

“Interesting.”

Lunaris studies Shadowheart for a moment. “Would you like to hear them?”

“Why not.” Shadowheart settles an arm length away as Lunaris opens the journal again.

“Kindle the Light. Through your acts of mercy, kindness, and forgiveness, kindle the light of hope in the world, beating back despair.” Lunaris’ voice is steady as she reads the first one, pausing as she finishes because she knows Shadowheart will have comments.

“The light of hope, seriously?” Shadowheart rolls her eyes.

“Do you really plan to sit there and tell me there is nothing you hope for?”

She scoffs. “Who has the time for hope?”

“Don’t you hope we’ll find a way to be rid of the tadpoles?”

Shadowheart blushes and starts to fumble over her words. “I–you–that–”

“You don’t have to answer.” Lunaris quips, barely hiding a grin. “Wouldn’t want you to ruin the dark and broody mystique you have going on.”

Shadowheart opens her mouth to respond but Lunaris interrupts with the next tenant.

“Shelter the Light. Where there is good, beauty, love, and laughter in the world, stand against the wickedness that would swallow it. Where life flourishes, stand against the forces that would render it barren.”

Both are quiet for a moment before Shadowheart asks, “What would you consider the wickedness that would swallow it?”

Lunaris shrugs. “It’s situational, I suppose. I may view bandits on the road thieving from passersby differently than a man stealing food to feed his family because he’s been overtaxed. A lord that is benevolent to their peers, but mistreats their common folk. I stand to protect the light, the goodness in the world, but it isn’t necessarily black and white.”

“Interesting. But suffering is a part of life–everyone will experience it.”

“I don’t disagree. But if I have the opportunity to step in and prevent it, and have the ability to, why wouldn’t I? Some suffering and loss can be avoided.”

“Some believe loss to be sacred.” Shadowheart counters.

“Well now you’re just arguing semantics. I’m well aware that not everyone follows the same ideals I do. I will always offer to help–but if someone told me to back off, I likely wouldn’t force the matter.”

“Very well. What is the next one?”

“Preserve Your Own Light. Delight in song and laughter, in beauty and art. If you allow the light to die in your own heart, you can't preserve it in the world.”

Shadowheart laughs. “Ah, that makes sense.”

“Hm?”

“I believe I have heard your like referred to as The Party Paladins?”

Lunaris laughs. “You probably have. We like to have a good time. It isn’t often I find myself in the company of my fellows, but when we cross paths…” She shakes her head, clearly enjoying a memory. “There is a lot to enjoy in the world, so why not indulge?”

“Some of us understand restraint.” She responds primly.

“And some of us understand it has a time and a place. But to each their own. Would you like to hear the last one?”

“Why not. I’ve gotten this far.”

“Be the Light. Be a glorious beacon for all who live in despair. Let the light of your joy and courage shine forth in all your deeds.”

“You have got to be joking.”

“I’m not.”

“A glorious beacon? That’s really a part of your oath?”

“I didn’t write it!” Lunaris’ eyes crinkle with laughter. “It’s an ancient fey oath, are you really surprised?”

“I shouldn’t be. Yet I am.” Shadowheart pauses, studying the drow for a moment. “There is something I don’t quite understand though.”

“Ask away.” Lunaris shifts to put her journal away before looking over at Shadowheart.

“You have your tenants–do you truly not pray to a particular deity?”

“Not really. I certainly pray–to Silvanus, when I am acting on behalf of nature’s balance; Helm when I am offering protection; or Lathander for safe travels. My abilities are not so tied to a particular deity that they must have my sole attention, but to a larger concept–to the light and keeping it alive. There are temples I am more welcome in than others, and ones that I prefer to seek lodging with, but my upbringing was far from religious, nor did I take my oaths in a particular god’s temple.”

“What is it you feel closest to, then?”

“It’s a bit silly, but the moon.” She tilts her head back and closes her eyes, basking in the moonlight. The pose allows Shadowheart to note the way the light plays off her amethyst skin and highlight her deep purple freckles. “It was by its light I first explored the world beyond the Underdark. When the sunlight was too harsh for my eyes and on my skin, the moon lit my way.”

Shadowheart scoffs. “You sound like a Selunite.”

“I have found rest in Selune’s temples before, but not exclusively. She may be an embodiment of the moon, but I do not pray only to her, or to her more than others. Like I said–I made my oaths to a larger concept, not a particular god.”

“So you’re simply a moon-struck fool.” There’s a hint of teasing laughter in the cleric’s voice.

“Perhaps I am.” Lunaris shrugs. “Through acts of mercy, kindness, and forgiveness, kindle the light of hope in the world, beating back despair. Think back a few hours, Shadowheart. I had an angry githyanki over one shoulder and an anxious intellect devourer over the other, all while on a nautiloid hurtling through the Hells.” She stands and brushes herself off. “Yet I took the time to get you out of that pod. I woke you up when I found you on the beach. Perhaps you should meditate on why a moon-struck fool would do so.” With a wave, she makes her way back to her tent, leaving Shadowheart to her thoughts.

Chapter 2: Kindle the Light

Chapter Text

Lunaris perches on a rock away from the celebrations going on around her. She’s so lost in her thoughts that she doesn’t hear someone approach.

“You may be the most reserved ancients paladin I’ve ever seen at a party, Lunaris.” Halsin settles next to her with a grin. “Your lot tend to be the center of attention.”

Lunaris looks over to the elf and shrugs. “I don’t know. It’s a victory for the tieflings, for certain, and they deserve the chance to celebrate. I’d never take that away from them. I’ve made my way among them and indulged, but…”

“The tadpole. It lingers in your thoughts.”

She chuckles. “Yes…but also the Shadow Curse.”

“My apologies. I should have held off telling you about it, and have guessed such a thing would draw the thoughts to one so devoted to the light.”

Lunaris shakes her head. “No, I pressed you for more information and I’m glad you told me. Means I can better prepare our next steps.”

“At the expense of your own enjoyment?”

“It’ll keep the rest of us alive.” Lunaris casts her gaze out to the partygoers. “I have to keep them safe.”

Halsin watches her for a moment. “Alright, enough of this.” He stands and crosses behind her before giving her a big shove. “Kindle your light, paladin. The shadows will be waiting for you come dawn.”

Lunaris laughs as she stumbles up to her feet. “Very well, druid. I will see what sort of trouble I can get up to.” She raises an eye at him. “Unless you’re offering to kindle my light.”

Halsin’s eyes go over to Shadowheart. “No disrespect, Paladin, but I would not be suitable company for you tonight. I’d like to enjoy a night under nature’s creation after being captive in the goblin camp. But I believe there may be a cleric more than willing to do so.”

Her eyes follow his to land on Shadowheart, who is sipping on a glass of wine and making a noticed effort to not look at them. “Mol owes me a favor, perhaps I can call it in and get a bottle of the finer stuff she stole away.” She states, not taking her eyes off Shadowheart.

He laughs. “Should have known the little trickster would have swiped something for later.”

“She’s got a good head on her shoulders. Cares a lot for the orphans.”

“Agreed.”

Lunaris starts to walk away, but then stops and looks at him again. “That wasn’t exactly a no–just a not right now.”

Halsin grins, leaning back on the rock. “It wasn’t. Enjoy your evening, Lunaris.”

“You too, Halsin.” With a wave, she crosses camp to the corner she knows Mol is hanging out in.

“Wasn’t expecting to see you back here so soon.” Mol appears from behind a rock as Lunaris steps out of the firelight.

“Was hoping I could call in a favor?”

“Depends on what you need.”

“A good deal on one of those nice bottles of wine.” Her eyes flit to Shadowheart.

Mol tracks where her eyes go. “Trying to charm your sweetheart?”

“Hoping to.”

“Suppose I could.” Mol starts digging through the bag when one of the other tiefling children appears. He whispers in Mol’s ear for a moment before she sighs. “Here. On the house. A favor for a favor.”

Lunaris raises an eye. “I don’t mind paying.”

“Apparently I’ll have an uprising on my hands if I make you pay. Just means you have to shop with us when we get to the city.” Mol holds out the bottle.

“Deal.” Lunaris takes the bottle and gives Mol a nod before walking in Shadowheart’s direction.

“Done enjoying the celebrations?” Shadowheart asks at her approach.

“Too much on my mind to really enjoy them. I wouldn’t want to bring the energy down.”

“It all seems a bit excessive to me.”

Lunaris laughs. “Could be wilder, given the circ*mstances. But some restraint is probably wise.”

“Is that why you’re over here instead of partying?”

She shows off the bottle. “I was hoping you might agree to share it with me, away from the group.”

“Why not.”

The pair wait for the attention to be drawn away from them before slipping off into the darkness. “I found this spot the other night when we were camping and wanted to spend some time by myself. Will you follow me?”

“You’re not secretly plotting my end because I follow Lady Shar and you’re so dedicated to the light, are you?” Lunaris rolls her eyes. “I’m kidding, Lunaris. Lead the way.”

They walk for a few minutes in silence, surrounded only by the sounds of the woods. Eventually they come up to the edge of a waterfall. From their vantage point, they could see the celebration occurring in the clearing they were camped in, the waterfall pouring into the Chionthar.

“Here?” Shadowheart asks as you come to a stop near the cliff edge.

“Here.” Lunaris confirms, grabbing a blanket from her bag and spreading it out for the two of them. She settles before patting the space next to her. “Come sit with me.”

The cleric sits side-saddle with a little distance between her and the paladin. “Did you have something in mind once you got me out here?”

“Well I didn’t beg a bottle off of Mol for nothing.” Going back into her pack, she produces two goblets, as well as a little wrapped package. “And I may have swiped some of the sweets Gale had cooked up in preparation.”

“Risky.” Shadowheart says with a laugh. “Should we toast then?”

Lunaris finishes pouring them both a drink and starts to ponder hers, swirling the dark liquid. “...To us.”

“Us? And what does us entail?”

“You can’t deny that there’s…something building between us.”

“You’re right–I can’t. I probably should, but I–ouch!” She flinches in pain, barely avoiding spilling her drink.

Setting her cup aside, Lunaris shifts to face Shadowheart. “May I?” She holds out a hand, waiting. Shadowheart holds the tingling hand close to her chest for a moment before nodding and resting her hand in Lunaris’. “Tell me if this hurts too bad.” Using both of her thumbs, she starts to massage Shadowheart’s palm, gradually increasing the pressure.

Shadowheart flinches a little, but doesn’t prompt her to stop. “It hurts, but…not a bad hurt? Like soothing a sore muscle.”

Lunaris lets a small smile cross her features. “I’m glad. I hate seeing you in pain.”

“You do?”

“I always feel like that with my traveling companions, but there is something about seeing you in pain that hurts more. Like an injury to my soul.”

“Dangerous words.”

“I know. But you should know the truth.” She stops her massage and wraps Shadowheart’s hand in both of hers. “I care about you, Shadowheart. Deeply. From the moment I saw you in the pod, you’ve been in my thoughts. It would be distracting, if it wasn’t such a balm to my heart. I feel like I can do anything when I am standing at your side.”

“You truly are a fool.” Shadowheart says, but Lunaris knows her well enough that there is no cruelty in her voice. “But you are my fool, if you will allow it.”

Lunaris shifts one of her hands to cup Shadowheart’s face as she slides closer. “May I?” At the cleric’s nod, Lunaris leans in and presses their lips together. She can feel Shadowheart relax into her and deepen the kiss for a moment before pulling back.

“Did that hurt?” Shadowheart whispers with a pleased smile on her face.

“Not at all.” She leans in and presses their temples together. “It was perfect.”

“Good to know. Now come back here.” She shifts, encouraging another kiss that Lunaris is happy to provide.

When they do finally part, Shadowheart cuddles herself closer, tucking neatly under her paladin’s chin. “You know, I don’t know much about you.”

Lunaris takes one of Shadowheart’s hands in hers and rubs her thumb along the back of it. “What do you want to know?”

“Anything not about the Absolute, the tadpoles, a shadow curse…anything about you.”

She’s quiet for a few moments before picking a memory. “I like to embroider.” She twists her sleeve to reveal little mushrooms stitched along the edge. “My mother taught me. When we decided to leave the Underdark, that’s how we were hoping to make a life for ourselves on the surface. My father had a green thumb, and had been growing and harvesting plants that only grew in the Underdark to make dyes with, to make it more desirable. He even had ideas about trying to grow them again in a basem*nt, if he could get the conditions right.”

“How old were you when you left?”

“A hundred and twelve. Not much past adulthood for a drow.” She sighed. “And then everything changed.”

Shadowheart pauses. “You don’t have to talk about it, if you don’t want to.”

“I don’t mind. As long as you don’t mind hearing about it.”

“I asked.”

“We were very nearly out. There were merchant families that traded with Eryndlyn, and in exchange for stock for them to sell, we could go with one of their caravans. Seemed perfect, even if the trip would be long–they didn’t seem to take any issue traveling with Seldarine drow, and there were quite a few families traveling with us. We traveled the tunnels for weeks, I couldn’t tell you how long anymore. Let us get close enough to the surface that we could taste the fresh air.”

She sighs. “And then they turned on us. Slaughtered the children first. We were the only family of only adults, and my parents told me to run. I didn’t want to leave them, but I didn’t want to die either. I grabbed anything in reach and ran. I didn’t stop until I hit sunlight. I was practically blinded by it, and I still have the scars from the sunburns I got, but I didn’t stop until I stumbled into someone’s camp. Fortunately, they were willing to shelter me.”

“That sounds awful.”

“We wouldn’t be talking if anything had happened differently. The camp I found had a paladin that took me in. She was so patient with me while I adapted to living above. And in the end, she taught me the path I now walk and led me in first taking my oath. I owe her everything.”

Shadowheart goes quiet, a comment on her tongue she’s not sure she wants to continue with, but Lunaris notices. “Shadowheart, if there’s something you want to say, you can. I won’t be offended.”

“I was just thinking about some of Shar’s ideals. The joy we’re supposed to take in suffering. I feel as though I should be pointing out all you have gained through your trials, yet that feels so cold to say to someone I care about.” She chuckles. “Of course, I also don’t want the “I told you so” I have probably earned.”

“I’m not exactly feeling in a holier than thou mood, so we can skip it today.” She shifts, adjusting herself and Shadowheart so they are better curled into each other. “In fact, I would rather turn to happier things in general.”

“I supposed we can manage that. Did you have something in mind?”

Lunaris thinks for a moment before grinning. “Trust me?”

“Always.”

She shifts, swiping both their goblets in one hand and tugging Shadowheart to her feet with the other. Shadowheart falls against her in surprise, but the paladin catches her before starting to sway. From their hideaway, they can barely hear the music from the camp celebration around them. “Dance with me, Shadowheart.”

“I’m afraid I don’t remember how.”

“Just move with me. Doesn’t need to be any sort of fancy court dance. Just…follow my lead.”

“You know I’d follow you anywhere, right?”

“Be careful, Shadowheart. Some would say that’s a terrible idea.”

“I doubt anyone down there would.”

Lunaris shifts them so that Shadowheart can only look at her. “I don’t want to talk about them.”

“Jealous.”

“Perhaps.”

Shadowheart laughs, leaning into the drow and taking her goblet back. “You’re a fool.”

“A fool you’re dancing with.” For the first time, her laugh is more of a giggle. “Dancing with your moon-struck fool in the moonlight.”

“You’re drunk!”

Lunaris drains her cup before taking Shadowheart’s hand and spinning her around. “You did call me a party paladin the day we met.”

“This is hardly a party.”

“A party of two.” She tugs the cleric close and returns to their gentler sway. “Any time alone with you is a party in my eyes.”

Shadowheart says nothing, not even a sarcastic rebuttal, just nuzzles herself closer in agreement. Even as the music changes, they continue to dance in the moonlight pressed close.

It’s when Shadowheart yawns that Lunaris realizes how late it has gotten. “Do you want to go back down?”

“Not really.” Shadowheart’s cheek is resting just over Lunaris’ steady heartbeat. “It’s nice, having a little space to ourselves.”

“We’ll be perfectly safe out here.”

“Then let’s stay.”

The paladin shifts her grip to pick Shadowheart up. Once she’s cradled in Lunari’s arms, it’s easy to kneel down on the ground without disturbing her. It’s then she starts to lay them both back, Shadowheart half on top of her so they can look up at the stars. “Watch the stars with me, Shadowheart.”

She yawns, cuddling closer. “I cannot promise I will be up long.”

“I won’t take offense if you fall asleep on me.” Lunaris starts to carefully dismantle the series of chains holding Shadowheart’s hair up. “I’ll be here when you wake.”

“Stupid elves and their need for so little rest.” It’s clearly a tease, one that has Lunaris laughing.

“All the better to protect you with, my light.” She shifts a little to press a kiss to the top of Shadowheart’s head. “Rest well.”

Lunaris is content to stay up a little longer, observing Shadowheart in the moonlight. She eventually realizes she concurs with cleric in her arms, and she is infact a moonstruck fool. But until Shadowheart seemed more comfortable, she would keep the extent of her affections close to her chest. A smile on her face, eventually she falls into her meditation for the night.

When Shadowheart wakes up the next morning, it’s to the feeling of fingers toying with her hair and sun warming her skin. She stretches and props her chin on Lunaris’ chest, saying, “Is this what I have to look forward to every morning? A big, strong paladin playing with my hair?”

“Depends. Do you like it?”

“I do.”

“Then yes.” She leans in and presses a kiss to Shadowhearts forehead. “However, as much as I would love to spend the morning like this, we should get back to camp.”

“Very well.” Shadowheart leans up to press a kiss to Lunaris’ lips before rising to sit. The pair worked together to gather up the blankets they had used before standing and walking back down to camp.

“Shadowheart?” Lunaris pauses at the edge of camp, hoping no one can see them yet. “Are we trying to hide this at all from the others?”

“Why would we? I’m not ashamed of the time we spent together and how I feel about you.”

“Neither am I. But I’d also want to spare you any scathing remarks from–”

“Well, look who is wandering in.” From the other side of the trail, Astarion sauntered up with a grin on his face.

“--any of our companions.” It’s instinctive of Lunaris to step infront of Shadowheart and cut her off from the vampire’s gaze.

“It’s just Astarion, Lunaris.” Shadowheart’s fingers are light on the paladin’s bicep as she steps around her. “We all know his bite is worse than his bark.”

“You wound me.”

Shadowheart stretches up to kiss Lunaris. “I’m going to see if anyone has started breakfast. If you’re going to threaten him I would rather be out of earshot.”

It was hard for Lunaris to pull her gaze away from the cleric’s retreating figure, but when Astarion cleared his through her eyes shot back to him. “Anything you’d like to say, Astarion?” She tried to keep herself calm under the gaze of his cat-who-caught-the-canary look.

“You compliment each other nicely.”

“Oh.”

“What, I’m not all scathing remarks. And I do consider you to be a friend. Seize whatever opportunity you can.”

“Thanks, Astarion.”

Chapter 3: Shelter the Light

Chapter Text

Nothing Halsin said could have prepared me for this. Lunaris ponders as she huddles close to the light with Shadowheart, Karlach, and Gale. The rest of their party was still camped in the Underdark while they investigated the situation. Unlike their typical marching order, Lunaris stood in front and Shadowheart in the back–it appeared that Shar was protecting her from the curse, so if something happened and she was cut off from the dancing lights Lunaris summoned, she would be okay. Also near the front was Scratch–while he wasn’t thrilled to be in the shadow-cursed lands, after Lunaris asked for his help scenting out what was going on, he agreed.

“Soldier, did you hear that?” Karlach whispered from behind her, causing the group to pause. Lunaris focuses for a moment and she hears it too–voices, and it sounded like they were worried about something.

“I do. Everyone stay close until we know if they’re friend or foe.” Their circle tightens up as Lunaris draws the motes of light closer.

As they come around the corner, they see a group of humanoids carrying torches, moving cautiously. Lunaris squints into the dark and catches a glimpse of a badge on one of their tunics. “Harpers?” She whispers. “What are Harpers doing here?”

They appear to be talking to each other, until one of them calls out. Before Lunaris and her friends can fully understand what is happening, shadows appear around them and attack the Harpers.

“Lunaris, we have to help!” Karlach is already starting to move.

“Agreed.” She draws her longsword. “Try to stay close to the light!”

They surge forward, Lunaris sending out the motes of light to better illuminate the battlefield. She doesn’t stop until she reaches the shadow creature in front of the Harper leading the group. With a cry, she swings her sword across the shadow’s middle, flashing with holy light. The creature shrieks before disappearing, leaving behind an odd orb.

Lunaris and the Harper lock eyes. “Thank you, Paladin.” The Harper pants, grasping at her side.

“Thank me when they’re gone.” She shifts to take up a defensive position in front of the Harper, surveying the field. Shadowheart’s own divine magic was having the same effect as Lunaris’. The cleric was dashing between the shadows, the bird-like spirit guardians illuminating the creatures and preventing them from vanishing again. This allowed Karlach to follow behind, and Gale to snipe from afar. It only took a few moments for the shadows to be defeated, the Harpers saved.

As her friends gather back up, she starts to give them a once over. “Everyone alright?”

“A few scrapes, nothing too bad.” Karlach huffs, coming down from her rage.

Gale examines a tear in his robes while saying, “My ward deflected most of the damage, I’ll live.”

“I’m fine.” Shadowheart states, absentmindedly rubbing at her palm.

Lunaris’ gaze goes to the Harpers. “Harpers?”

“We’ll live, thanks to you.” The lead responds. “You should follow us to Last Light–it’s the only place of safety around here.”

“Lead the way.”

They travel in a couple of groups huddled together, still desperate to stay in the light. It isn’t long before they’re approaching a bridge leading to a large building covered by a silvery dome. Once they’re nearly there, Scratch pauses and nudges Lunaris’ leg.

“Mistress, I smell something over there.” He says, shifting over to one side.

“More shadow creatures?” She crouches, rubbing his ears.

“No…it’s familiar, almost.”

“Harpers, is this where you’re taking us?” Lunaris calls out.

“Yes. Why?”

“My hound smells something amiss. Before we head in, I would like to check it out.”

“We’ll wait just inside the barrier for you, then.”

Lunaris nods. “Alright, Scratch, lead the way.”

With a bob of his furry head, Scratch turns at a branch on the main road. They don’t have to walk for long before it’s clear what Scratch had smelled.

“No…” Lunaris falls to her knees at the edge of a battlefield where bodies of the tieflings they had met, rescued, and celebrated with lay. “How…how could this happen?”

Scratch whines, tucking himself closer to his master.

Gale casts his eyes around the clearing before resting a hand on her shoulder. “This isn’t all of them, Lunaris. Looks like some got away.”

She looks up and notices the same thing. “We have to find them. If…if we’d just stayed with them after they left the grove…”

“You couldn’t have known.” Karlach interrupts, her voice tight. “None of us could have. We equipped them the best we could.”

“Maybe some made it to the Inn.” Shadowheart says, kneeling on the other side of Scratch. “We won’t know until we get there.”

Lunaris shuts her eyes and inhales deeply. “You’re right.” She stands and walks over to the nearest body. “Karlach, help me take the bodies back to Last Light. I don’t care if they don’t have the space for the bodies, I will not let the shadow curse take them, and if the other tieflings are there they deserve the chance to mourn.” For a moment, the motes of light flared brighter in acknowledgement of her promise.

“On it.” The pair loaded most of their gear on Shadowheart and Gale, dug through their bags to roughly assemble something they could use to place the bodies on, and carefully piled them together. Between the two of them and the make-shift sling, they were able to start carrying the bodies back down the path and to the bridge they’d left the Harpers at.

“Leave them here, Karlach. I’m sure we will need to prove to someone that these bodies haven’t been cursed.” Lunaris states as they are about to cross the barrier. She does so, and the group enters.

They barely make it 5 steps in when the ground erupts in vines and a white-haired woman approaches them. Lunaris forces herself to relax, allowing the bindings. “I come in peace, druid.”

“It’s true, Jaheira.” Harper Lyssandra steps forward. “She rescued us from the shadows.”

“Kindness is often a decoy.” Jaheira replied, gaze hard. She reached back into a pocket and pulled out a stopped bottle. “This is why we’re here, you see. Some kind of curious creature full of all manner of secrets. But if there is one thing we’ve learned…” The druid stepped closer and held the bottle up, allowing Lunaris to see that there was a tadpole twitchinginside. As it came close, it started to thrash about, like it was trying to reach her. “...it’s that it knows its own kind.”

Lunaris shuddered at the tadpole reaching out, offering to enhance her powers if she just removed the druid. “Let me explain.”

“I have no time for your deception. You should never have come here, True Soul.”

“I am no True Soul.” The paladin struggled to keep her composure at the vines tightened.

Jaheira’s hands flair with magic. “Harpers–”

“Wait!” A voice familiar to the group cuts in, dashing to stand to the side. “What are you doing, she’s the one that saved us!”

“She protected the Emerald Grove?”

“Yup, didn’t leave a goblin standing. A bit stuffy, but not so bad to hang around with.” Lunaris smiled a little at Mol’s description of her. “Saved two of my friends too–one from harpies and another from a mad druid with a snake. Trust her with my life.”

“A True Soul with a mind and will of her own? How?”

“Will you free one of my arms?” Lunaris asked. When the vines loosened around one arm, she reached into a pouch and produced the artifact. As Jaheira brought the tadpole closer, it writhed in pain and the bottle darkened.

“What in the hells is that thing?”

“An artifact with the power to protect those infected with a tadpole from it’s influence and halt ceremorphosis. I am still unlocking exactly how it works, but since it has been in our possession, we have been visited in our dreams by a figure wanting to protect us and destroy the Absolute.”

“Congrats. You’ve earned the benefit of the doubt.” With a wave of her hand, Jaheira dismissed the Heralds holding them at arrowpoint. “I’m old enough and wise enough not to question a silver of hope when it crawls from the dark, despite not exactly understanding that artifact.” The vines vanished, freeing Lunaris. “So, what brought you here?”

“I seek an end to the shadow curse and the destruction of the Absolute. I believe both can be found in Moonrise Towers, and with a man called Ketheric Thorm.” Her eyes flit between Mol and the dead tieflings they brought to Last Light. “And the tieflings. Whoever else is missing, I will find them.”

“Quite the to-do list.”

Lunaris draws her sword and plants it in the ground. “I will find the tieflings, Jaheira. I will lift this shadow curse. I will end Ketheric Thorm.” Her voice is steady, and with each promise more and more moonlight gathers around her like a cloak. “The shadow will take no more from this place, not while I draw breath.”

“Bah, Paladins.” Jaheira states with a shake of her head, although there is a slight fondness to her words. “Always so dramatic.” She watches Lunaris sheath her sword. “Be welcome in Last Light. Come speak to me inside once you have settled in.”

~~~

“I’m a bit shocked you’re okay with lying like this.” Shadowheart comments once they are free to roam Moonrise Towers and seem to have a moment to themselves.

“There’s nothing in my oaths that is against deception. If it furthers my attempts at protecting the light, then it is allowable. This rescue attempt would qualify.” Lunaris states, her voice hard. Shadowheart opens her mouth to respond, but the paladin surges forward, single-minded in her goal of infiltrating the prison.

“She’s been like this for three days.” Karlach steps up to Shadowheart’s side. “I thought it was bad when we were looking for Art’s instrument around the House of Healing and she was dealing with that doctor, but this is something else. I swear if the rest of us didn’t need the amount of sleep we do, she wouldn’t stop.”

“You’re just as eager to find and free the tieflings.” Shadowheart counters.

“I am. But it’s like she’s blocked out everything else in pursuit of it.”

“She swore an oath. She won’t stop until they’re free.”

“Yeah. Just don’t want there to be any other casualties in the meantime.”

Shadowheart flicks her gaze from the tiefling to the drow and back. “We’ll make sure of it.” She flinches as the wound on her hand flares, but she does her best to school her features so Lunaris doesn’t notice.

They follow Lunaris down some stairs and into what looks like the prison. With some more quick lies from the drow, they’re given free reign to at least speak to the prisoners, which is more than just the tieflings–a group of deep gnomes has also been captured. And they have a plan.

“So that’s all we need from you.” Wulbren states. “Gives us a way to break the wall down, and a distraction, and we’ll do the rest.”

“The tieflings two cells over. If you do this, you have to get them out as well.” Lunaris states.

“Aye, we will.”

“Good.” Lunaris looks around and spots the two guards conversing. The way they’re faced, they’ll never see her slip the hammer between the bars. “Get ready.” She says it as much to the gnomes as she does Astarion, Shadowheart, and Karlach. The gnomes nod and she walks away.

“Everything alright?” One of the guards asks as the group approaches.

“Couldn’t be better.” With a flare of divine light, Lunaris pulls back and punches the guard closest to her.

The fight is over quickly, the element of surprise working in their favor, despite also drawing the attention of the warden. As they pull the bodies out of sight, Lunaris notes the hole in the gnome’s cell and the tieflings gathered together. A quick investigation of the central building reveals the levers that open the doors. Once the door to the gnomes’ cell is open, Lunaris and the group join the gnomes in helping the tieflings get out.

“This way, quickly.” Lunaris leads the way to a boat at the back of the cave. “We can lead you all safely to the Last Light Inn. You’ll be safe there.” She doesn’t hesitate–drawing her greataxe, she makes two quick strikes on the chains to release the boat. “Karlach, can you navigate?”

“On it.” She and Astarion take the back of the boat, leaving Shadowheart and Lunaris to sit among the tieflings.

“Are any of you hurt?” For the first time in days, there’s a softness back to Lunaris’ voice as she takes her place next to Lia.

“No, we’re okay. They hadn’t really gotten around to hurting us.” There’s a small smile on the tiefling’s face. “You saved the day again.”

The drow shakes her head. “I wouldn’t have known you all were captured if not for Alfira and Rolan. And if we’d stayed with you on the road, this wouldn’t have happened. Zevlor wasn’t in there, and Mol hasn’t been seen, and–”

“Hey.” Lia nudges her knee against Lunaris’. “You’ll find them. And you saved us. That means something.”

“I could never leave you all behind. Never.”

“And for that, we’re grateful.”

Their trip across the water is shockingly short, and everyone breathes a sigh of relief when they cross the moon barrier. Unfortunately, it was short lived. They were met on the docks by one of the Harpers, and he was not happy to see them.

“No one comes in without the High Harper’s permission!” He yelled, standing firm on the docks and allowing no one off, not even Lunaris and her companions.

“Jaheira sent us to get them! She knows I was trying to rescue them!” Lunaris touches a hand to the necklace she’s wearing and disappears in a puff of mist, only to reappear completely in the man’s space. “They have been through enough. Let them into Last Light.”

“It was bad enough–”

Lunaris straightens out to her full six and a quarter feet in height, towering over the human. “Bad enough what?! That she let me and my friends in? The Flaming Fist? A drow? Take your pick, I’ve heard it before!” It’s rare that Karlach, Astarion, and Shadowheart see their paladin rely on her intimidating presence, but in this moment she was leaning into the full force of it.

“I–I have to test them!” With trembling hands, he digs into a pouch and produces a tadpole in a jar. “W-we have to know they aren’t infected!”

“Then just bloody say that! Step back, and allow them to disembark.” He finally does so and Lunaris turns to look at the boat. The prisoners gathered had moved away from the boat’s edge during the confrontation, and seemed hesitant to proceed.

“I won’t allow them to harm you. I swore I would bring you here, and I will not break that oath.” She offers a hand out to the boat and waits.

To no one’s surprise, Lia takes the offered hand and allows herself to be helped out of the boat. “Come on then. She’s good on her word, we all know that.” The tiefling’s words seem to snap everyone out of their stupor and after a minute everyone is lined up and waiting to be tested.

Lunaris stands watch, barely two steps away from the Harper at all times while he does so. After making his way down the row, he nods. “W-welcome to Last Light Inn.”

“Hmph.” The paladin huffs and turns away. “Everyone’s this way. You’ll have a chance to get cleaned up and something to eat.”

“I’ll stick with them.” Karlach states. “You should meet up with Halsin to see if we can find Thaniel.”

“Thanks, Karlach.” Lunaris makes her way back into the inn and the room Halsin and Art were occupying.

“Lunaris.” Halsin immediately notices her approach and stands. He only has to look at her for a second before concern crosses his features. “What is the matter? Is everything alright?” He can’t help resting his hands on her shoulders once he’s close enough.

“It’s…been a long few days.” She admits. “But, we found most of the missing tieflings, as well as some captured gnomes. And this.” From her pack, she pulls out the carefully wrapped lute. “I think this might have belonged to Art.”

Halsin carefully unwraps it and smiles. “I think you’re right. Do you play, Lunaris?”

“What feels like a lifetime ago. But I am willing to try.”

He guides her to sit next to Art on the bed and takes his post back up on the other side. The lute is old, but it only takes a moment for Lunaris to bring it into tune and start to pluck out a few notes. Halsin’s eyes don’t leave Art for a few moments, but when Lunaris starts to sing, his eyes are forced back to her.

“Little girl, little girl, don’t be afraid; little girl, the dark cannot harm you. Little girl, little girl, don’t run away; little girl, the dark cannot harm you.” She’d never be a bard, but there’s a clearness to Lunaris’ voice that more than makes up for any missed notes. “LIttle boy, little boy, don’t be afraid; little boy, the dark cannot harm you. Little boy, little boy, don’t run away; little boy, the dark cannot harm you. Child, child, don’t be afraid; child, the dark cannot harm you. Child, child, don’t run away; child, the dark cannot harm you.” She takes a deep breath before going into the last verse. “Children, children, lost in the dark; children, the dark cannot harm you. Children, children, run to me now; children, the dark cannot harm you. Children, children, come quickly now; children, the dark cannot harm you. Children, children, run to the light; children, the dark cannot harm you.”

Lunaris plucks out a few more notes, and even opens her mouth to keep signing with Art’s eyes snap open and he bolts upright. “Thaniel!”

“Easy, friend.” Halsin steadies him, finally looking away from Lunaris. “My name is Halsin, this is my friend Lunaris. You’re safe here, we’re friends.”

“Thaniel! You have to help him!”

“How?”

“He’s stuck–stuck in the shadowlands. Someone has to go get him.”

“I see.” Halsin turns to Lunaris. “Thank you for your help, Lunaris. Please, go get some rest–once you’re awake, I should be ready for our next step.”

“Are you sure we can delay?” Lunaris stands and sets the lute down near Art. “Because–”

“Lunaris.” Halsin stands as well and moves to stand face-to-face with her. “Rest. A few more hours will not make a difference in the span of 100 years. If I am right, the fight ahead will not be easy, and you and our friends should be at their strongest. We will reconvene in the morning.”

“Very well. I’ll check in with Karlach to see how the tieflings are settling in and–”

He sighs. “Rest, paladin.”

She just blinks at him for a moment. “I…I don’t understand, Halsin.”

Halsin reaches up and rests his hands on either side of her face. From there, he’s able to trace the faint dark circles under her eyes. “There has been a lot on your mind, Lunaris. Last Light Inn is safe, and you should take advantage of the fact that nothing can harm you here. You cannot shelter anyone if you are exhausted. Go find Shadowheart, and get some rest.”

In his grip, she wilts a little. “...Okay.”

WIth a moment of hesitation, Halsin leans in and gently presses a kiss to the crown of her head before releasing her. “I will see you in the morning.”

The act doesn’t even shock her, she just nods and makes her way out of the room. She only gets a few steps out when Jahiera waves her down. “I only need a moment of your time.” The druid states as she approaches. “Shadowheart and Astarion gave me the rundown of what you found at Moonrise. We can talk more tomorrow about next steps. And the tieflings are settling in and taking care of their own, we are making sure they are fed and clothed. For now, your cleric asked you to join her upstairs–I suspect you shouldn’t delay.”

Lunaris nods and starts to make her way to their room upstairs. Each step gets harder and harder, and by the time she’s opening the door the exhaustion of the last few days has settled into her bones. “Shadowheart?”

“Hey.” Shadowheart gets up from the bed and crosses to her. She’s already out of her armor for the evening and ready for bed. “Let me help you out of your armor. And I grabbed dinner for us. And–”

“I’m sorry, Shadowheart.” Lunaris says, reaching up to cup one of the cleric’s cheeks. “I’ve…been a bit much over the last few days. I shouldn’t have been pushing everyone like I was.”

“We understood. And they’re safe now. Is Art awake?”

“Mhm. Halsin’s talking with him now, and should have a plan for us once we’ve taken a good rest.”

“Good.” Shadowheart’s fingers start to work on the buckles and clasps of the adamantine mail the paladin is wearing. “Then…a little time to ourselves?”

“I think we’ve earned it.” Lunaris starts to help with some of the buckles, but Shadowheart bats her hands away.

“Let me. Just start thinking about how good of a dinner Gale can make at an inn and with plenty of time.”

“Mmmm I already am, it smells amazing. What did he make?” Lunaris reaches up while Shadowheart finishes and starts to tuck her braids closer to her head.

“He took the last of the pig we grabbed from the duergar camp and grilled it for everyone. Alfira wanted to help, she scrounged up enough potatoes to mash. And I think one of the Harpers was responsible for the bread.” Shadowheart stepped away from the drow and grabs the scarf Lunaris uses to tie her hair back.

“Delicious.” She takes the scarf with a yank, forcing Shadowheart closer. “Thank you, my light.” She leans down and presses a kiss to her lips.

“Hurry up, my fool.” Her voice is full of fondness as she steps back.

Lunaris finishes covering her hair before leaning over and starting to shimmy out of her mail. “Ugh!” She stretches her arms up high. “It feels so nice to be out of that. Meditating in my armor is terrible.”

“You’re no fun to cuddle either. There’s a basin of water if you want to clean up a little before you eat.”

In a few more moments, she’s cleaned up a little and changed into comfier clothing. “Do you mind if I eat in bed?”

“I’d prefer it, I’d like to go to bed but I know you’ll be up a little longer. And if I’m wrapped around you, you won’t leave the bed to go do something.” Shadowheart grabs the plate and some wine, setting both on Lunaris’ side of the bed.

“I’ll catch the lights then. The moonlight is plenty for me to eat by.” She does so, plunging the room into dim light. Lunaris then crawls into the bed and waits for Shadowheart to sprawl out against her before starting to eat.

“If you drop anything on me, I’ll never forgive you.”

“Noted. Goodnight, my light.”

“Goodnight, Lunaris.”

Chapter 4: Preserve Your Own Light

Chapter Text

They were four days outside Baldur’s Gate when Halsin first noticed it. In fact, it was the morning after Lunaris (with Shadowheart’s permission) had agreed to spend the night with him in the woods. The convenience of them both being elves ensured a long and enjoyable night that ended with them curled together by the Chionthar, but come morning he became fully aware of Lunaris’ predicament: she was fading. With her tucked against his chest, the stress of trying to reach the city quickly was evident on her face. She swore she was fine when she woke up, promised there would certainly be more daliances in their future, and they returned to camp and their travels.

In watching her the next day, he came to a second realization: Shadowheart wasn’t faring much better. He felt certain it didn’t have anything to do with the time he spent with Lunaris–it didn’t seem in character with the cleric, and given everything she learned during the Gauntlet, she had to have plenty on her mind. The pair were content to linger near the back of the group, which allowed Halsin to wander to others.

“Karlach, can I ask you something?”

The tiefling blinked at him and shrugged. “Sure, what’s on your mind?”

“You’ve been traveling with them longer and I just wanted to be sure–this isn’t normal behavior for Lunaris and Shadowheart, is it?”

“Good eye. They’ve both been slowing down. I don’t think they’re doing it on purpose, but we’ve been at this for so long at this point that it was bound to start catching up. They’re not the only ones either. Lae’zel hasn’t bullied Gale in two days, Gale hasn’t complained once about our supply situation since we left Last Light, couldn’t tell you the last time I noticed Astarion fed and Wyll’s been more morose than usual.” She shakes her head. “It’s the damn tadpoles. Even though none of us have taken in more of their power, the Brain’s been messing with us more. Combine that with everything waiting for us in Baldur’s Gate, we’re a bit of a mess.” Karlach briefly looks back to Lunaris. “Her worst of all. We decide things together, certainly, but we all look to her for guidance. Not really fair, but that’s how it’s shaken out. So we’re just piling stress on her.”

“Do you think everyone would agree to us taking an extended rest? Perhaps stopping early tomorrow?”

“If you can make Lunaris stop, we’ll fall in line.”

“I’ll help.” Jaheira appeared from further down the line. “We’re fresh to the group, Halsin. If you can put the cleric and the paladin to rights, I can handle the rest.”

“You’re certain?”

“I can help her out. I’m not doing great myself, but it’s still better than Avernus.” Karlach shrugs. “Just tell me what to do.”

Throughout the day, the trio planned out a rest day for the group. Karlach and Jaheria would handle something for everyone at camp, but Halsin was determined to get the other two away. Scouting ahead was the perfect excuse to find a good spot to camp, and a secluded space for at least the two of them–three, if they allowed him to stay–to recuperate.

When the group met back up with Halsin on the road, they were shocked to see the druid had already started setting up camp.

“Halsin?” Lunaris made her way to the front, confusion on her face. “What are you doing, it’s barely noon.”

“I know.” He stands and crosses to her.

“And you’re setting up camp.”

“I am.”

“Why?”

“Look around, Lunaris.” He waits for the paladin to survey their group. “You all have been going nearly non-stop since the nautiloid. The increased activity from the Brain is wearing on you even more. If you don’t take a break and rest, you won’t be in any shape to tackle the problems in Baldur’s Gate.”

“But the longer we wait…” Lunaris doesn’t even seem fully committed to the argument and she sighs. “I don’t even have the strength to argue. I suspect you’ve already plotted with someone else to plan a break, and I’ll look like the asshole if I don’t agree to it.”

Halsin can’t resist a grin. “I did already spend time starting to set up camp.” He shifts away and pulls back a blanket, revealing a dead buck. “And a fresh kill for Astarion, to give him the chance to feed.”

The vampire’s eyes widen as he takes in the creature. “How touching.”

“Didn’t spill a drop of blood, either.”

Lunaris sighs. “Everyone, we’re stopping early today. Rest up, do whatever you want to relax, and sleep in a little tomorrow. We couldn’t even stop a goblin right now, let alone the Absolute.”

There’s a quiet murmur of agreement and everyone starts to set up parts of their camp. Jaheria takes charge of the group, allowing Halsin to face Lunaris again.

“I have something for you.” He offers his hand. “If you’ll follow me.” Halsin notices Shadowheart’s gaze start to fall and extends the other to her. “The offer is for both of you, if you’re comfortable, Shadowheart.”

She immediately takes his hand. “Can’t deny I’m curious what’s going through your mind, druid.”

With Shadowheart agreeing, Lunaris can’t help but smile a little. “Well I suppose I can’t say no now.”

He can’t help but grin back. “You can’t. Your other option is getting thrown over my shoulder and carried there, with Shadowheart laughing at you as I do so.”

The cleric grins and releases his hand. “You should say no. I would like to see that.”

Lunaris did have time to brace herself before she was hoisted into the air and plopped onto Halsin’s shoulder. She laughed–the first genuinely loud laugh either had heard in days. The druid easily carries her into the woods, Shadowheart on their tail. He walked them a few minutes in before shifting Lunaris back onto her feet.

“You know,” she starts through laughter, “I don’t think I could tell you the last time I was thrown over someone’s shoulder like that.” She leaves a hand on Halsin’s shoulder to keep steady as the world rights itself.

“It was quite the sight.” Shadowheart steps up to her other side and tucks herself under Lunaris’ arm. “Well, Halsin, what did you have planned out here?”

He steps aside, revealing that he had carefully coaxed the surrounding plant life to create a little alcove that he filled with pillows, blankets, and other creature comforts. “Just a space for you to rest. Away from the group, away from your problems.”

Lunaris stepped closer, eyes wide. “This…I don’t know what to say, Halsin.”

Shadowheart gives her a nudge. “Say thank you. It’s a very kind gesture.”

“Thank you.”

Halsin smiles. “Good. I hope you enjoy it. Both of you.” He starts to take a few steps away, but stops at Shadowheart’s next words.

“Are you not staying?”

“I wouldn’t want to impose.”

Shadowheart looks up to Lunaris. “I don’t see you as an imposition. Do you, Lunaris?”

The paladin shakes her head. “I’d love for you to stay, Halsin.”

He steps up to her and cups her cheek in his hand. “Then stay I shall.” After pressing a quick kiss to her forehead, Halsin steps back again. “Come, get comfortable.”

It takes several minutes of working at clasps of armor and shimmying out of chainmail, but eventually the three of them situate themselves in the alcove. Lunaris and Halsin prop themselves against the wall, cuddled into each other. Shadowheart lays out on the ground so she can rest her head on a pillow in Lunaris’ lap.

“Well, Halsin?” Lunaris lets her weight sink into the druid. “What now?”

“We enjoy each other’s company? Perhaps take a nap?”

“We don’t nap.”

Shadowheart scoffs. “Speak for yourself.” She yawns. “If I do doze off, don’t wake me.”

Lunaris runs her fingers through Shadowheart’s hair. “Please do, my light. You haven’t slept well since speaking with Ailyn.”

The cleric reaches up and cups the paladin’s face. “Make sure you rest too. Or at least do something relaxing.”

She opens her mouth to respond, but is interrupted by Halsin reaching behind him and producing a bag. “I grabbed your embroidery kit. You mentioned the other night you haven’t had a chance to work on anything recently, and I thought this might be a good chance.”

“...I can’t remember the last time I unpacked this.” Her hands shake a little as she pulls out a small hoop with an abandoned project on it. It looked like she was halfway through creating an arch of flowers in an array of colors. “I was making this for a wedding I was going to up in the High Forest. I was waylaid in Daggerford for a time, and when I got back on the road I was pulled here. Suppose I’ll have to find a way to send it along once I finish.”

“Who was getting married?”

“A pair of my fellow paladins, Lydia and Calliope. I hope it went well.” Lunaris goes quiet in thought.

“You’ll have to track them down once the tadpole is no longer a concern.” Halsin comments, which causes Lunaris to snort.

“Oh it won’t be hard.” A smile crosses her face. “Lydia may be hundreds of years my junior, but she treats me like it’s the opposite. I can only hope she still went through with it and she isn’t dragging Calliope all over Faerun looking for me.”

"They sound like good friends."

"Couldn't ask for better. I led Calliope through their oaths, when the time came. I'm proud to stand among them."

"It's a shame you had to miss it." Shadowheart chimes in, her eyes still closed. "I can only assume that many in attendance were from your order?"

"Aye. It was likely quite the wild time. Hopefully I'll be able to catch up with everyone I missed soon."

"You will."

With that, Lunaris reaches into the bag and produces a needle and colored thread. She begins to work carefully, following the design she had started weeks ago, slowly expanding on it. Sensing that she was happy to lose herself into the task, Shadowheart let her breathing slow and drift to sleep. Halsin followed Lunaris' lead, pulling out a half-finished whittling project that looked to be the start of a cat.

They let the hours pass, tucked away in the little sanctuary that Halsin had created for them. No one seemed to notice the passage of time until the sound of footsteps alerted the two elves. Both snapped up to attention, only for Scratch to appear with a bundle in his mouth. The dog set it down and started to wag his tail.

“Mister Gale asked me to bring this out for you. And Miss Jaheira wanted to know if you would stay out here tonight or if they should expect you back.”

“Mmmm is that dinner?” Shadowheart blinked awake at the smell of food.

“Yes, love.” Lunaris ran her fingers through Shadowheart’s hair. “Should we camp out here tonight or go back?”

“I’m sure the two of you would prefer to stay out here. And one campsite is the same as another to me.”

“Halsin?”

The druid leans in and presses a kiss to Lunaris’ temple. “I am for staying. It should be a beautiful night.”

“Then we’ll stay.” She beckons Scratch closer to give the dog a few pets before sending him on his way.

Halsin reaches for the parcel and opens it to reveal their meal: roasted potatoes and carrots, and slices of pork they salvaged from Moonrise. Whoever dished it up had done so in a way that would allow them to share out of one bowl.

Shadowheart sits up and snuggles into Lunaris’ side. “Looks good.”

“Mhm.” Lunaris agrees. “I hope Gale actually rested today, and didn’t just spend it cooking.”

“I think he likes to, Lunaris.” The cleric takes a bit of the food and sighs. “And he’s good at it.”

With Lunaris in the middle, the trio continues to eat and enjoy what Gale had cooked for them. Lunaris and Halsin trade off stories from their years wandering the forests, continuing to try and one-up each other on the dangers they faced.

“You’re both absolutely mad!” Shadowheart exclaims, trying to hold back shocked laughter.

“Lunaris, you have to be lying.” Halsin added.

“I’m not!” The paladin was indignant. “I was patrolling the forests north of Waterdeep, and came across a youngish green dragon wreaking havoc on the farmers! There wasn’t time to get any backup, so I handled it myself, wrestled the thing to the ground, and killed it.”

Shadowheart’s jaw drops. “Young ish ?”

“I’m sorry, identifying the exact age of a green dragon isn’t exactly my forte! It was either the biggest wyrmling I’d ever seen or the smallest young dragon I’ve ever seen! Its claws were certainly strong enough to take a chunk out of me.”

“Fine, Lunaris.” Halsin throws his hands up in defeat. “You win, I do not think I can top single combat with a dragon, no matter the age.”

“Mmm and what do I win?”

Halsin throws Shadowheart a wink before hauling the drow into his lap. She was laughing as Shadowheart came up behind her and wrapped her arms around the paladin’s waist, propping her head on her shoulder. “Us, Lunaris. You won us. ”

The druid shifts a little in order to wrap his arms as far around both of them as he can. “Is that an acceptable prize?”

“I suppose so. It would be rude for me to deny such handsome and pretty faces.” Lunaris turns to press a kiss first to Shadowheart’s lips, then Halsin’s.

“Thank the gods I took a nap earlier.” Shadowheart quips. “I have a feeling an early night is not on the table.” She kisses Lunaris’ shoulder. “Not that I want it to be.”

“No.” Lunaris states, flashing a grin to both of them, light dancing in her eyes. “Let’s have some fun tonight.”

Chapter 5: Be the Light

Chapter Text

The first morning after the Elder Brain falls is an odd one. For weeks now, Lunaris has relied on the gentle probe of Shadowheart’s thoughts to know the woman had awoken. But for the first time, she’s alone in her head. Instead, it’s a quiet grumble and an attempt to bury herself further into Lunaris’ chest that tells her and Halsin that she’s trying to deny being awake.

“I’ll fetch us some breakfast.” Halsin presses a kiss to Lunaris’ hair before sliding out of bed and out the room.

The elf reaches up and gently runs her fingers through Shadowheart’s white hair. “Good morning, my light.”

“Is it truly morning?”

“Closer to noon.”

Shadowheart cracks her eyes open, shifting to plant her chin on Lunaris’ chest. “So late? You could have woken me up, you and Halsin must have been up for hours.”

“We stayed up a bit longer after you fell asleep, so that we would come out of our trance later. We’ve been up maybe an hour.”

“Oh.”

Lunaris leans in to press a kiss to Shadowheart’s forehead. “You’re not the first non-elven lover for either of us. We know how to adapt to our partner’s needs.”

“If you’re sure.”

“We are. Don’t worry about it.”

At that, the door opened to reveal Halsin, a tray balanced on one hand. “Good, you’re awake.” He steps inside and kicks the door shut.

“Mmm, that smells amazing.” Shadowheart starts to sit up, and both women shift in order to eat. Halsin joins them back in bed, getting in on Shadowheart’s side so the smaller woman is between the elves.

Lunaris opens her mouth to ask him about the rest of their party, but then stops–Wyll and Karlach were in Avernus; Lae’zel returned to the Astral; Astarion was taking refuge in Cazador’s former estate; Jaheira, Minsc, and Boo went back to her home in the city; and last they heard Gale was staying with Rolan to investigate the crown’s location. Truly they were alone at the inn, and the realization made all of her features drop.

“My heart, what is wrong?” Halsin caught the look immediately and reached across to tilt her head towards them.

“I just realized…everyone else is gone. It’s just us.”

“Oh.” Shadowheart’s face fell as the situation came to her. “I…I didn’t think I’d miss it. Our loud mornings at camp.”

“It is for a good reason, dear ones.” Halsin was quick to comfort them both. “Your separation means your task was completed, and Baldur’s Gate saved. Everyone is now free to pursue their new lives. As are the two of you.”

“What are we going to do now, Lunaris?” She turns her head up to the elf.

The paladin’s heart fluttered. “We?”

“Was that presumptuous of me? I was under the impression we had no reason to separate.”

“No, we don’t.” She nuzzles Shadowheart’s head. “If you’ll have me, I will always be by your side.” Lunaris then looks up to Halsin. “And you? I suspect you have already picked your next task.”

“I have. I intend to take anyone that does not have a home in Baldur’s Gate and wants to join me in the woods. The orphans in particular.” He chuckles. “They have already started to call me Daddy Halsin.”

Lunaris smiles. “I should have known.”

Even though they didn’t have the tadpole connecting them, Shadowheart and Lunaris shared a look that told them everything they needed to know. “Can we join you, Halsin?”

“I don’t want you to feel as if you must. We decided early on that we were free to live our lives as we wanted. Don’t you want to stay in Baldur’s Gate?”

“Why would we?” Lunaris counters. “I am not from here, nor does city life particularly suit me.”

“And I have nothing holding me here. I would much rather stay close to the people I care about.” Shadowheart adds.

“And we both know how it feels to be orphaned. I took my oaths so I could protect those who needed it, and who more than them?”

Halsin chuckles. “I should have assumed your feelings on the matter.”

Lunaris considers his words. “...Do you want us to join you?”

“Nothing would give me greater joy. So long as it is what you desire, and for more reason than to just follow me.”

“You’re a nice perk to the situation.” Shadowheart teases. “I think we both have our hearts set on the matter now, don’t we?”

“We do.” Lunaris leans over and presses a kiss to Halsin’s cheek. “You’ll have to work harder to be rid of us, darling.”

“Whatever shall I do.”

____________________________________________________________________________

Six months later…

From her vantage point, it’s easy for Lunaris to see the activity in the rest of Reithwin. In the six months since the defeat of the Absolute, they had been hard at work restoring the old town and Moonrise Towers into something habitable for living folk again. Despite Thaniel’s warnings that he would know if anything nefarious was approaching, he knew the paladin found peace in having a place she could watch from. And watch she did–not all of the time, but always a few hours a day. Some of the younger tieflings–it didn’t feel right to call them children anymore, not after all they’d gone through–also used it as a lookout point to help keep an eye on things.

“You really don’t have to be up here you know.” A voice appeared next to Lunaris.

She isn’t startled, just smiles down at the forest’s guardian. “I know. Hard for an old paladin to put down their guard.”

There’s a snort and another small figure appears with mismatched eyes. “You’re not old Lunaris.” Oliver states.

“Well, maybe not when I’m talking to you two.” She brings a hand up to tussle the boy’s hair, mindful of his little horns. “Did you need something, or just wanted to chat?”

“Halsin’s looking for you.” Thaniel replies as his twin ducks away from the paladin’s hand with a grin. “Said to meet up in the temple.”

“The temple? Is everything alright with Shadowheart?”

“Think so. Unless she’s said something we couldn’t hear.”

Oliver rolls his eyes. “We hear everything.”

“Not everything!” Thaniel’s quick to correct him. “We don’t listen when it’s something private that won’t endanger the forest.”

“But we wanted to come tell you because Halsin keeps getting distracted as he walks over here.”

She laughs. “We know. Thanks for the message, I’ll head there now. Will you let Halsin know?”

“Sure!”

Lunaris climbs down from her watch tower and makes her way through the village they’ve been slowly repairing. They’d chosen to redevelop the land Reithwin and Moonrise occupied, making it more suitable for their needs. It was only within the last month or so that everyone was adequately housed and farming had begun in earnest, but no one ever complained. She suspected that just having a place that belonged to them and could be shaped by the refugees was enough for many. Now that housing was settled, they were even starting to boast a trading post, and talks of remodeling the inn before the rains hit was also in the works.

She didn’t quite make it to the temple before she got sidetracked herself. “Momma Luna!” In an instant she was swarmed by some of the younger orphans they’d taken in. They started talking over each other, whatever they were trying to ask her about getting lost.

“One at a time!” She laughs, kneeling down to be more on their level. “What’s going on?”

“We want to go swimming! We can’t find Mamma Shadow or Daddy Halsin, so we went looking for you!” One of them chimed.

“I’m sorry kids, I can’t right now. Someone was asking for me.”

“Awwww.”

Lunaris looks around and spies two of the tieflings that settled with them, Bex and Danis. Bex clearly sees a situation brewing and comes over, Danis on her heels. “Lunaris, is everything alright?”

“The children want to go swimming, but I was on my way to find Halsin, and I haven’t seen Shadowheart all day.”

“We’d be happy to take them.” Danis wraps an arm around his wife’s shoulders and gives her a squeeze. “A swim sounds nice.”

“It does.”

“Yay!!” The children cheer and Danis starts to lead the group off, Bex lagging behind for a moment.

“Thank you, Bex. I’m sure you both had other plans for the day.”

“I was going to work on some sewing, I can just as easily take it with me. Or simply enjoy our surroundings.” She laughs a little. “I thought Danis and I would find everything we were looking for in Baldur’s Gate…but I think the life we’ve found here is exactly what we needed.”

Lunaris hugs her tightly. “I’m glad you both came out here. I know it couldn’t have been easy.”

“The three of you make it easy. Go, I wouldn’t want you to keep Halsin and Shadowheart waiting.”

“They’re together?”

“Oh!” She brings her hands up to cover her mouth. “Forget I said anything, I should catch up with Danis and the children.” Bex runs off, not giving the paladin another chance to respond.

With a shake of her head, Lunaris starts making her way towards the temple once more. The temple was Shadowheart’s personal project. Like many, mu ltiplegods were featured for worship–although no trace of Shar was to be found. Lunaris thought she would need to insist on it, but found that was unnecessary and Shadowheart had already arranged everything. She only made it a few steps inside when a voice called out to her.

“Lunaris!” Shadowheart rushed up and threw her arms around the paladin with a kiss. “Thank you for coming–where’s Halsin?”

“He’s not the one that found me, Thaniel and Oliver did. Apparently he kept getting side tracked, so they took matters into their own hands.”

“My apologies.” Halsin rumbles from behind them, entering the temple. “They were correct, however–I kept getting distracted on my way to find you.”

“It’s alright.” She leans over to kiss him. “The boys said you needed to talk to me?”

“Yes.” Shadowheart responds. “Let Halsin cover your eyes, and we’ll lead the way. We have something to show you.”

“Very well.” Halsin gently covered Lunaris’ eyes and Shadowheart took her by the hand.

The pair slowly led her through the temple, and then down. She noted how chilly it got after a few minutes, and guessed they had gone underground. Resisting the urge to say something, she continued to follow them a bit longer.

“Okay, wait here.” Shadowheart released Lunaris’ hands and walked away. A few moments passed, and then, “Open your eyes.”

It took a moment for her eyes to adjust, but as they did she gasped. Somehow, they had dug out a cavern and transformed it into an underground garden. Mushrooms, crystals, and flowers were scattered in plots throughout the room, and Lunaris recognized them all. She spun around to look at the pair, who were both smiling. “How?”

“I carved out the land with a couple of other Druids, and we had help from Blurg and Omeluum in acquiring seeds and starters. Once everything was in place, we worked with Spaw to help foster growth. It doesn’t need it any more, but he’s offered to keep an eye on everything.”

She starts to wander, running her fingers over many of the things growing here. “I can’t believe you managed this.”

Shadowheart walks up to her and links their arms. “It was your father’s dream, wasn’t it? You’ve spoken of it so fondly, and have been so careful with the dyes and seeds you had left from them, that we thought you would enjoy this.”

Lunaris turns them to take both of Shadowheart’s hands in hers. “It’s perfect. He would be so happy to see this.”

“Good.”

Halsin steps up and rests a hand on Lunaris’ shoulder. “There’s one more thing. Follow me.” She follows as he leads them deeper and into an alcove. In this secondary room, it’s immediately clear to her that it’s set up to process and produce dyes, and a space to use them. “You don’t have to take up their trade in full if you do not want to, but as a hobby, it might be nice.”

She can’t help the tears gathering in her eyes. “This is so thoughtful. I can’t express how thankful I am.”

Shadowheart reaches up to wipe away the tears. “I’m not going to ask you to fully put aside your armor, but you did save Baldur’s Gate and possibly quite a bit of Faerun. You deserve a space to just be and relax.”

“No, you’re right. I’ll always be here and be ready to defend those that need it. But having something else to put my hands to sounds quite nice.”

“Good.” Halsin steps up and presses a kiss to her lips. “You’re our light, Lunaris. Ours, this village’s, and more. But you do not have to stand alone, and we will be by your side for however long you want us.”

She smiles. “You’re stuck with me now, druid. Good luck getting rid of me.”