#for all that essek and astrid can never trust each other. loath each other

[dent-de-leon]

We've seen how confrontational Astrid and Essek become at the mention of Caleb, all the bad blood that still lingers--all the wounds left behind by the Cerberus Assembly that still fester, their warring ideals and beliefs, the immense danger and risk they each pose to one another. To Essek, Astrid and Wulf are forever entangled with the root of Caleb's trauma, inexorably intertwined. And when Astrid ascends to her seat as archmage of the Cerberus Assembly, it only furthers Essek's mistrust and wariness.

And just...thinking of how Kingsley starts flirting with Caleb immediately, falls in love with his dear Magician all over again. Essek who saw all the cruelness of Lucien, and yet is still so taken by the Nein's love for Mollymauk--the soft words of comfort and gentle forehead kiss Caleb gives him.

He's moved to tears by Caleb's own gutting grief, his heartbroken goodbye and loving tenderness. Essek who cries out that, "It's not fair"--how relieved was he, when the tiefling started to stir? When Caleb threw his arms around both Essek and Veth as he looked on at his Circus Man with such warmth and affection--"and watch the others descend on Mollymauk."

Essek and King running into each other over the months, over the years. Essek growing accustomed to the charming rogue's affections, the way Caleb always indulges him. King who never misses the chance to flirt with his Magician, playful and teasing, pretty words and a tender kiss on the forehead. Essek who is startled when Tealeaf starts to treat him the same, throwing his arms around the other wizard and insisting they go out for drinks.

Essek being able to connect with another friend who fell for Caleb, bonding over their mutual affection and ridiculous adventures with the Nein. Essek seeing someone else who loves Caleb--but would never hurt him, someone he trusts and grows to care for. Two of Caleb's partners bonding and becoming close, all three of them building a little life together--