#viago de riva deserves better

[the-raven-and-the-tower]

Viago de Riva; forgotten son with a found family of assassins (a brief but angsty dive)

Born one royal bastard of many to King Fulgeno II of Antiva, Viago was born without a lot of choices, but one very large one;

Exile or the Antivan Crows.

VIago was the only one of all Fulgeno's bastards that chose the Crows, a choice that put him on a path of shadows and blood. Turning his back on the only home he has ever known for the ruthless world of the Crows, Viago had to forge his own house and find his own family, turning his back on a royal lineage that never wanted or acknowledged him.

Viago has walked in both worlds, where betrayal can come from any direction and alliances are often temporary - in either world, his survival has hinged time and time again on his vigilance and natural mistrust of others. More than once, the only thing that has kept him alive was the way he builds tolerance to poisons and insists on testing everything he eats. I have to wonder if Viago has ever truly rested, he's always alert, always keeping one step ahead of all the threats on every side - always in danger, both as a bastard who could be seen as a threat to the legitimate line and as a Crow Talon surrounded by ambitious assassins.

And then there's his relationship with Teia 💜

I love the humanity of Viago's struggle to love and be loved. As a royal bastard, he would have been inherently unwanted and constantly reminded of his illegitimacy - daily reminders to ingrain a perpetual sense of unworthiness and isolation into him. I love the honesty of how he struggles to open up and be vulnerable, even with someone like Teia from within the world of the Crows.

The two of them live in a dangerous world, where personal relationships can become weapons in the wrong hands. Viago has every reason to shy away from Teia (and sometimes does), yet that inherent need for perception and connection drags him out of safety and back into her arms, time and time again.

All of that to say loooooooooooook at this fourth draft of a letter Teia is helping Viago write to send to his dad about the situation in Treviso with the Butcher.

King's Draft: Action on Behalf of Antiva

As Seventh Talon, I give notice that the Antivan Crows have drawn a contract against the enemies of Treviso, the Antaam. (Teia)

Teia, the Seventh Talon, is writing to inform of the situation, rather than Viago (Fifth Talon). We don't know if she's stepping up to protect Viago from his asshole father or if Viago doesn't speak to the king often on principle (he does in prior Dragon Age content), or if this is simply how it is done - maybe there's an existing agreement among the Crows to avoid political complications by keeping the king and his son seperate. Any way the cookie crumbled, I like these crumbs.

It is not the Antaam. (Viago)

We aren't required to give His Majesty a point-by-point, but he's your blood, Viago. It is a courtesy to let him know we are going to war. (Teia)

"He's your blood, Viago." I don't know if this is a reminder of his unique ability to bridge two vastly different worlds or if it is just a reminder of political significance, but either way it struck me as significant. Despite his royal blood being a source of personal pain, it provides Viago leverage in ways that other Crow Talons could never wield, not even Caterina.

The occupying Antaam are strong, driven, fanatical. They cannot be reasoned with because reason is just a weapon to be resisted. They can be killed, of course, but removing a leader does not remove their desire to be led. They are a force we must contend with, but they are NOT Treviso's true enemy. (Viago)

A name, Viago. Contracts require a stabber and a stabbee. (Teia)

Teia (child street thief turned Crow) is the pragmatic and operational, focusing on fulfilling the requirements as a formality, while our baby boi Viago the Strategic is firmly honed in on reality and understanding the details. Teia wants to take the next step to move forward, Viago wants to understand the problem before making the next move. They are so different and I love the way their differences lend their relationship strength, rather than pulling it apart.

Teia, you know my doubts. The Butcher took the city too easily, and there is dealing with the gods there that I dread to know. But I fear that the true enemy of Treviso is not known because they ARE known, merely unrevealed. (Viago)

"The Hand That Leashed Treviso." Is that nebulous enough? (Teia)

I like this. Sarcastic, yet she's showing that she's listening to Viago's concerns and hearing them.

Yes, that is a series of someones we can eventually kill. But not something we can send my father. (Viago)

And he acknowledges being heard, but points out the impracticality of presenting such a target to his father. Again, I think it's fucking significant that he refers to Fulgeno as his father and not as the king. Whether he's tying himself verbally to his unique position, subconsciously reacting to his abandonment by the royal family or just responsing to Teia's "he's your blood" earlier, it feels poignant. Like the kick in the gonads I'd like to five Fulgemo.

On to draft five, then. Neri, begin again. (Teia)

It says a lot to me that they're having this entire conversation in front of their scribe. Doubtless someone sworn to secrecy already, it just strikes me as wholesome that they're comfortable having these disagreements in front of Neri. They may agree yet, but they're committed to it. And their disagreement has no weight on their opinions of each other.

Viago de Riva, Fifth Talon Andarateia Cantori, Seventh Talo Transcribed: Neri de Acutis

[vigilskeep]

Do we know enough about how Crow succession and talonship works to believe it would be possible for Viago to take the seat of first talon either through some sort of non-violent coup in the absence of an heir to house Dellamorte or through marrying his kid (rook) off to Lucanis? Asking because I really don't know and would love to write something in that direction...and you seem a crow enthusiast...also love your blog

THEORETICALLY. yes.

we haven’t seen the talons shift directly, but they do shift, with regularity. house arainai was first talon in living memory and then fell slowly downwards to their current point where they’re struggling in and out of eight talon like a drowning man who keeps finding his way to air for just enough breath

the eight talons system, if you’ll allow me the tangent, is a really fascinating choice of fantasy hierarchy because it is such a clear hierarchy. among a bunch of ambitious killers whose prime goal is notoriety. you can only hold each position here if everyone below you is too afraid to do anything about it. what an anxiety trip it must be to decide whether to push someone down just one rung or to try to destroy them entirely; do you want to leave your rival with more opportunity or more motivation? but crow power is also all about theatre, all about perception—you are first or fifth or seventh talon primarily because everyone agrees that you are—so making a failed gambit for a higher talon has got to be incredibly damaging. which is a risky setup. it discourages attempts, but when someone does make an attempt, they will not be fucking around

anyway ignore all that we’re talking about soft takeovers today. okay so house dellamorte has a dying core family, theoretically. we’re making the assumption that no surviving young children from any branch of the family are mentioned because none exist. we have two heirs, neither very acceptable (my apologies to caterina’s delusions), both men in their 30s with (again, assumed) no children, and neither making much progress in that regard. (arguably dependent on player choice when it comes to lucanis, but since he can fall in love with and express his undying devotion to any kind of rook, we can at least say he’s not making that much effort.) within a generation the core family may die out. but that is a LONG TIME to wait. you still have to deal with the current ones, they’re pretty robust

lucanis is the current first talon as of the end of veilguard. can he be convinced to give this up and hand first talon over to someone better suited? i do believe it. mostly because i need to believe, for my mental health, that we can get him out of there. but he also now has a fairly bulky support system full of people who love him and will notice how bad this is going to be and convince him he deserves things like a life he doesn’t hate

as always your main problem is caterina. caterina is not going to allow a takeover, soft or otherwise, while she is still alive. caterina didn’t give up first talon when they murdered her children. there’s probably an emotional plot in here where she can be made to accept what she’s done to her family, far too late, but with time left to save just one by letting him go. on the other hand, i’ve also been experimenting with plots in my mind where she tries to quietly get rid of viago or romanced rook for having too much influence, with the added benefit on hopefully being able to steel & refocus lucanis on defending the house against whoever she frames. or plots where she blames lucanis trying to leave and not being the boy she remembers on his, you know, demonic possession, and attempts to forcibly remove or destroy spite. so. there’s potential ups and downs, here.

i don’t know how helpful rook de riva/lucanis is. most of your problem here is that everything that sets this ending up by giving the de rivas more power, and by giving any rook more power over lucanis, is something that in my mind would crank caterina’s wariness all the way up. house de riva surely has to move up from fifth already after the events of the game and look more like a contender, and i don’t think even caterina’s delusions about lucanis’ suitability for first talon could make her blind to the effect rook can obviously have. i definitely think she would delay on a marriage and have the power to do that

i think it’s worth saying that rook de riva at any point bringing up to lucanis the idea of handing things over to viago would be a hell of a conversation. i know lucanis never remotely suspects rook of any agenda and trusts them completely, and i know i agree with rook here, but you’ve GOT to see how “i love you and having power is bad for you and what you should do is hand it all over to my talon” sounds. i truly could not blame him for a bit of doubt here especially if caterina was around to suggest it

sorry this is a completely messy and disconnected response. i don’t even know if i had a point. you might have to wait for caterina to actually die? is that my point? i can see rook de riva/lucanis being helpful to ease a transition of power to house de riva then. i also think it’s worth pointing out that teia might be the better contender for all this out of the two lovebirds. what quietly makes teia probably the most dangerous talon in the crows, if she ever chose to be, is that everyone likes her. i’m not joking or trying to handwave crow politics, it’s a form of soft power and the result of her cultivated skill that nobody ever suspects teia of anything. even caterina treats her gently, and literally a talon who tried to murder all the others in tevinter nights was delaying murdering her because she was his favourite. if anyone can handle a gentler transition like what we’re talking about, maybe it’s more likely to be teia

[soupandsorcery]

Fiore laughs for a solid minute when she finds out. She takes a breath, tries to compose herself, and then bursts into lilting peals of laughter again.

Lucanis is clearly trying very hard not to pout, his arms folded, his eyes averted, staring daggers—pun not intended—at the wall. "I told you," he says, sounding put out. "That I am not good at this sort of thing. I wasn't any better when I was younger."

"I'm not laughing at you. Not really. It's just—" she breaks off to try to stifle another wave of amusement, and Lucanis glares. "Sorry. I'm sorry, really. It's just, I'd forgotten all about that."

"You..."

She nods. "You know Viago. He gets a knife from a Dellamorte, and his brain starts inventing all sorts of sinister reasons for it. I think he assumed you had it out for him or his house or both. It never even occurred to him that you were trying to send your regards in a different way."

"Mierda," Lucanis mutters, dragging a hand down his face. "I didn't consider that. I just saw the knife, and it was very well made, so I thought it would be to his standards..." He trails off and shrugs helplessly. "I don't know."

"It was beautiful," Fiore agrees. "He showed it to me while making me promise I wouldn't let my guard down, in case you had others on your side looking to take us out." She smiles at the memory, rolling her eyes. "And he says I'm the dramatic one. Do you want to know something else funny?"

"Is it at my expense?" he asks, eyeing her warily.

Fiore shakes her head. "No. So, obviously nothing happened because you weren't trying to send a cryptic warning that you were coming after him, and after a few weeks I asked Viago if I could have the knife if he didn't want it."

Lucanis blinks at her, surprised. "You did?"

"Like I said, it was a beautiful knife. It seemed silly for it to go to waste if Viago wasn't going to use it. But he said no because he's like that. And because he wasn't convinced you weren't just playing the long game. But it would have been interesting, wouldn't it? If I'd had the knife you used to try to woo a de Riva all this time?"

"It would." Lucanis' voice is soft, and he reaches out to take her hand, smoothing his thumb over her knuckles. "I will get you a better one, though. One more suited to you."

She smiles at him and leans in to kiss the corner of his mouth. "And I promise to give it the appreciation it deserves. And you, of course."

It's beautiful to watch the flush spread over Lucanis' cheeks. To take in the way his eyes dart to hers and then down to the floor, a shy, but pleased gleam to them.

"Maker, I hope I'm there when Viago puts the pieces together," Fiore continues. "His head might explode."

Lucanis just sighs.

[selunesdreams]

Chapter 17: No One From House Dellamorte Kneels

“The Crows abandoned me.” She said, shoving him off. “I just had the sense to go where I was welcome.” Viago shot to his feet, gesturing around the room. “Is this where you’re welcome, Fiammetta? Jeopardizing your life in a conflict you should have no part in? Parading yourself around a leader while-” HOW DARE- “Viago!” Lucanis snapped before Spite could break through. “This is not the time or place.” “He’s right.” Teia said, pulling Viago by the arm towards the courtyard. “Clearly the de Rivas have some things to work out, but right now, saving Caterina and stopping Illario is priority.” Viago worked his jaw as his eyes flitted between Lucanis and Rook.  HE DOES NOT LIKE YOU NEAR ROOK. DOES NOT LIKE US. “The meeting begins at dusk. In the Opera House. We’ll hold Illario’s plans off as long as we can until you arrive.” He tore his gaze away from Rook and stormed out of the kitchen, Teia casting an apologetic glance over her shoulder as she hurried after him. As the doors swung shut behind them, Lucanis grasped Rook’s wrist and drew her towards him. “He’s worried about you. Don’t take his words to heart.” “Too little, too late.” She said, wrenching her arm away. “Just get me out of here so I can kill someone who deserves it.” YES. GIVE ROOK - GIVE US - SOMETHING TO KILL. Lucanis pursed his lips, exhaling through his nose as he glanced in the direction of the courtyard.  “I’ll talk to Davrin. The others have too much going on right now. You should take some time for yourself. I’ll come get you when we’re ready.”  Out of respect, Lucanis pretended not to notice the tears pooling in Rook’s waterline. He walked to the courtyard, giving her a moment of privacy, despite how badly he wanted to pull her into his arms and comfort her. He was going to throttle her cousin later.

Pairing: Lucanis x Fem Rook/OFC x Spite???

Summary: Viago tours the Lighthouse, Davrin learns about Crow customs, neither Dellamorte ends the evening how they imagined, and Lucanis practices his brooding.

Word count: 5k

Things of note/warnings: 18+ fic, MDNI! This chapter contains content from Lucanis' veilguard quest, A Murder of Crows. Warnings for: violence, blood, Viago yelling. Please read on AO3 if you need to track warnings, they will be inevitably detailed better there (or just want to be real sweet and give me hits/kudos/comments).

Read on AO3

─── ⊹⊱♤⊰⊹ ───

“So my cousin makes you sleep in a closet?”

“I chose the pantry.”

Viago sat at the kitchen table in the Lighthouse, watching Lucanis pour himself his fourth cup of coffee that morning. He and Teia had wandered through the eluvian with news of Illario, and after last night, Lucanis had suggested Teia be the one to wake Rook up.

“Hm.” Viago drummed his fingers on the table thoughtfully. “I suppose it has good choke points.” 

As he leaned against the mantle, Lucanis glimpsed his reflection in a pot hanging by the stove. Deep circles were carved under his eyes, evidence of his paranoia of Spite sleepwalking them into Rook’s chambers again last night. 

A few more beats of uncomfortable silence passed before Viago spoke again.

“You know, Teia and I broke up over that shit Rook pulled last week.”

“Just over Rook?” Lucanis raised his eyebrows skeptically, his voice echoing inside his mug. 

“I need to work on my tone, apparently.”

Lucanis swallowed and nodded, suppressing a grin. “How long this time?”

“Ten minutes.”

“A record,” Rook sneered, following Teia into the kitchen. She perched atop the table, her legs dangling over the side. “You have news for me?”

“Illario is making his move.” Viago said, sliding an envelope across the table to her. “An invitation. To celebrate our new First Talon and discuss the situation in Treviso. It came across my desk this morning. He’s hosting nearly every Crow House at Caterina’s villa.” 

“Cousin, you look so melancholy. I thought you loved parties.” Rook ignored Viago’s scowl as she drank from his untouched cup of coffee and turned to Lucanis. “Are we crashing?”

“This is our best shot at getting Caterina out. Then, we stop Illario.”

“All the Crows in one place.” Rook said. “I’m sure an abomination and the embarrassment of the de Riva household will be more than welcome.”

“Your poor decisions would have been easily forgiven had you not deserted Treviso entirely.” Viago interjected. 

Rook froze, slowly turning to face him. 

“Excuse me?” Her voice pitched higher as she slapped the invite down onto the table in front of him. “I’m fulfilling a contract fighting elven gods . I chased a dragon out of our city. Give me a fucking break.” 

Viago stared, unflinching. “You abandoned your family to take a contract I didn’t approve.”

“Vi…” Teia warned.

“I abandoned no one!” Rook snarled.

Lucanis shifted, feeling Spite bristle in reaction to her anger.

“Where were the Crows when my father lost his mind? When he drowned me every day as some part of his sick training regiment? When he beat you senseless for trying to protect me? When I was starving, because he poisoned what little meals we coud afford to build my immunity, until I was petrified at the thought of eating breakfast? ”

Viago remained silent, his fury simmering beneath the surface. Teia bit her lip and Lucanis set his coffee on top of the mantle, both moving closer in case they needed to arbitrate. 

“And then, when I made a well-intentioned mistake, my own cousin makes a mockery of me by having me serve as the First Talon’s glorified maid, all because he decided I needed to be made an example of!”

As Rook held Viago’s glare, Lucanis reached for her shoulder, pulling her several steps back. 

“The Crows abandoned me.” She said, shoving him off. “I just had the sense to go where I was welcome.”

Viago shot to his feet, gesturing around the room. “Is this where you’re welcome, Fiammetta? Jeopardizing your life in a conflict you should have no part in? Parading yourself around a leader while-”

HOW DARE-

“Viago!” Lucanis snapped before Spite could break through. “This is not the time or place.”

“He’s right.” Teia said, pulling Viago by the arm towards the courtyard. “Clearly the de Rivas have some things to work out, but right now, saving Caterina and stopping Illario is priority.”

Viago worked his jaw as his eyes flitted between Lucanis and Rook. 

HE DOES NOT LIKE YOU NEAR ROOK. DOES NOT LIKE US.

“The meeting begins at dusk. In the Opera House. We’ll hold Illario’s plans off as long as we can until you arrive.”

Viago tore his gaze away and stormed out of the kitchen, Teia casting an apologetic glance over her shoulder as she hurried after him. As the doors swung shut behind them, Lucanis grasped Rook’s wrist and drew her towards him.

“He’s worried about you. Don’t take his words to heart.”

“Too little, too late.” She said, wrenching her arm away. “Just get me out of here so I can kill someone who deserves it.”

YES. GIVE ROOK - GIVE US - SOMETHING TO KILL.

Lucanis pursed his lips, exhaling through his nose as he glanced in the direction of the courtyard. 

“I’ll talk to Davrin. The others have too much going on right now. You should take some time for yourself. I’ll come get you when we’re ready.” 

Out of respect, Lucanis pretended not to notice the tears pooling in Rook’s waterline. He walked to the courtyard, giving her a moment of privacy, despite how badly he wanted to pull her into his arms and comfort her himself.

He was going to throttle her cousin later.

─── ⊹⊱♤⊰⊹ ───

“So, where are we headed?” Davrin asked as Rook pulled her blade from the heart of a Venatori mage.

“The Opera House. It’s…” Lucanis stopped in his tracks and scanned the rooftops on the horizon. “You know it’s across the grounds. In the guesthouse.”  

“Opera House?” Davrin echoed. 

“Caterina hosts galas there, Crow business. Those kinds of things.” Lucanis leapt down onto a balcony, motioning for them to follow. 

“No Opera?” 

“Rarely.” Rook interjected. “It’s a bit of an inside joke.”

“How?” 

“It’s ah….where we make people sing. If you catch my drift.” 

“Uh…” Davrin offered her a hand as she hopped across a gap between roofs.

“They interrogate people. Torture them.” Rook ignored his hand, landing safely on the rooftop beside him. Chivalry wasn’t dead amongst Crows, but underestimating a lady certainly was. Out of her periphery, she caught Lucanis observing with amusement as the warden awkwardly wiped his palm on his armor and muttered something to himself. 

“There.” Lucanis pointed out a tower with a stained glass window. “That will get us where we need to be.” 

“Estate’s pretty big already. Does it really need a second house?” Davrin asked. 

“It’s for guests.” Lucanis replied, as if the answer should be obvious. “You don’t think we’d just let them stay in our rooms? Risk them cutting our throats?”

“I had my own room in the main house.” Rook bragged, catching up to Lucanis on the next rooftop as they neared the villa. 

Lucanis smirked. “You were…special.”

Rook’s mood had lightened after a few hours of uninterrupted rest, but she was certain the second she was in the same room as her cousin and Illario, her fury would return. For the time being, she chose not to be bothered by Viago’s earlier comments. 

With a polite touch to the small of Rook’s back, Lucanis ushered her ahead onto a fallen beam between platforms. 

“After you.”

She nodded graciously, holding her arms out and stepping carefully across. 

“I get it. He can be a gentleman because he knows all your bird customs.” Davrin grumbled, balancing precariously on the walkway behind them. “Remind me why we couldn’t just go through the front door?”

“Rook already tried that. It didn’t end well for her.” Lucanis said, earning himself a jab to the ribs as she passed him. “Besides, there’s no way my cousin would let me in-”

“-HE FEARS US. GOOD. HE SHOULD.”

Rook slipped inside a broken window, descending over stacked crates and barrels to the landing below. As they arrived at a gate, Lucanis pried some freshly placed boards off the secret passage to the villa.

“I had to come back and conceal the escape route again after you tried to die here.” He said as Rook shot him a questioning look. “I thought I was the only one who knew about it. I found it playing as a boy.” 

“I found it when I left the villa. Illario doesn’t know it’s here.” She said, effortlessly slipping through the narrow passage. Lucanis followed her, Davrin grunting as he squeezed himself inside.

They crept through the cavernous tunnels until they reached the underbelly of the house in silence. Rook pressed an ear to a pair of wooden doors, listening carefully to a conversation on the other side. 

“They mentioned an old woman.” She relayed, closing her eyes to better make out their voices. 

Lucanis scowled. “Caterina.”

“Must be a difficult prisoner,” Davrin mused. 

“She’s difficult in any scenario.” Rook mumbled, earning herself a glare from Lucanis. He cracked open the door before motioning them on. In a blur of violet, he advanced ahead, running his blade through two Venatori standing guard in the hall.

“Ugh. Illario let them in here?” He wrinkled his nose, wiping his sword on their clothes as they choked on their own blood, “I’m going to have to have the entire place cleaned.”

His footsteps were silent against the intricate marble flooring as Lucanis led them through the villa. White sheets covered the furniture and sculptures, just as they had over a year ago, albeit dustier. 

“This is your home?” Davrin asked, looking around from floor to ceiling. “No wonder your cousin wanted to inherit.” 

“I lived here until I was 18. Caterina made us get our own homes after that. But she still kept rooms for us. Ilario abused that privilege. Insufferably.” 

Spite inhaled deeply. “Home? Smells like dust and linseed oil.” 

“Don’t say that when Catrina is in earshot.” Lucanis chastised him.

“So, Rook, what was so bad about that cushy assistant job?” Davrin asked. 

“Illario.” 

“TRAITOR.”

Lucanis motioned them towards the den. “Caterina’s room is up here.”

Slowly and soundlessly, the three ascended the stairs. At the top, Rook pressed her back to the wall, peeking around the edge. Two Venatori were stationed outside Caterina’s door, bored and yawning. With an outstretched hand, she delivered a swift electrocution to one, stunning the guard beside them in time for Lucanis to cut their throat, discarding the body into the corner. Davrin nodded, his mouth forming a line as he watched them work. 

“The door is barred from the inside.” Rook said, tugging on the handles. 

“I’ll go first.” Lucanis said, pulling her aside. “If my grandmother is in there, better she strikes me with that cane than you. I’m at least used to it.”

He leaned back and delivered a swift kick to the doors. They swung open, revealing Caterina’s room precisely as Rook remembered it, save for the mess of broken furniture that had been served as a barricade. As Lucanis stepped inside, his hopeful expression dimmed, finding it empty, but out of the corner of her eye, Rook caught a flash of amethyst just above his head. Before she could open her mouth to warn him, he caught the First Talon’s cane before it made contact with the crown of his head. Lowering her weapon, his face fell, as if he’d seen a ghost. 

“Caterina?” He breathed.

“Lucanis! My poor boy.” She lamented, kissing both of his cheeks affectionately. In shock, he returned the gesture vacantly, going through the motions before shoving a hand in his pocket. 

“I believe you dropped this,” He said, handing Caterina the opal ring she had slipped under the door to signal Rook of her presence. The two exchanged a somber look before she slid it onto her middle finger, kissing Lucanis’ cheek again before her eyes fell upon Rook. 

“Fiammetta. You kept your word and returned my grandson to me.”

“You can thank me later. Right now, we should get you to safety before we stop Illario.”

“Do not speak about me as if I cannot fend for myself! Have I not survived these Venatori on my own?” Caterina snapped. “There’s no time for heroic nonsense. I will come with you.”

“Illario is reckless, Caterina. Don’t make Lucanis lose you all over again.” Rook pleaded. 

The old woman squinted, assessing both Lucanis and Rook before giving a resigned grunt.

“Go.” she grumbled, appraising Davrin as she pushed past him out the door. “I’ll meet you in the Opera House.” 

Lucanis flashed Rook a faint smile.

“Welcome back to House Dellamorte, De Riva.”

She took his hand in hers, running a thumb across his knuckles. “It’s good to be back.”

He clasped his free hand over hers affectionately, searching her face intently.

“When this is over I-”

From the hall, Assan rushed in, inspecting every corner of the room. Lucanis’ smile faltered as Davrin entered behind the griffin, clearing his throat.

“I thought we were in a hurry.”

“We are,” Rook said, dropping Lucanis’ hand. “Come on, we can scale the window to the gardens.”

Rook bristled as they stepped inside the Opera House. It was ominous, as it had been the night she’d been misled to kill an innocent man. Since then, she had been to Crow gatherings in the space, but never under such grim circumstances or with the knowledge she now possessed about Illario’s motives.

Chatter and whispers traveled through the stairwells from above. Nearly every Crow in Treviso must be present tonight. If things didn’t go their way, it was certain death for her and Lucanis.

“Caterina’s death was a tragedy.” Illario’s voice echoed through the building as Rook and Lucanis dispatched two Venatori in the Opera’s anteroom. “But to get Lucanis back from the dead, only to lose him to a demon? For me? That is a deep personal loss.”

At her side, peering through a crack in the door, a low rumble escaped from Lucanis’ throat as he gritted his teeth. 

“Keep your head…” Davrin urged. 

“And so I take the mantle of First Talon with a heavy heart.” Illario continued, “But the Crows will rise from the ashes-”

Lucanis rose to his feet. “I’ve had enough of this.”

“Do you even have a plan?” Rook hissed.

“Knives are involved.” He replied as she followed him. 

“-with our new Venatori allies, we could claim Antiva-”

“Over my dead body!”

Illario turned, his eyes narrowing the sight of his cousin kicking open the main doors. Behind him, Viago and Teia exchanged a glance as two other Talons unsheathed their blades. 

Cutting his fingertips on the Crow brooch upon his breast pocket, Illario drew a red haze of power between his palms, making Rook’s stomach roil with dread. 

“That could be arranged.”

Several Venatori stepped from the shadows, and the remaining Talons drew their swords. Rook quickly worked to assess who would side with them as she cut through a Venatori on her right. Teia and Viago were a given, and Bolivar, Sixth Talon, usually sided with the Dellamortes, but tonight, it was impossible to tell: Which Dellamorte did he consider the true heir? Could any of the Crows in this room trust a Dellamorte after this?

“Yield!” Illario commanded, summoning his reserves of blood magic. 

“You can’t…overpower…us both!” Lucanis gritted out, Spite’s wings unfurling behind him. The crowd gasped collectively, and Illario’s smug expression wavered.

“Now you fall.” Spite and Lucanis snarled in unison. 

“You should have stayed dead, cousin! All of this is on your head!” Illario roared as he unsheathed his blades, one clashing with Lucanis in an instant. 

“You started this, cousin.” Lucanis said with a cloying sweetness. “I’m ending it.”

A Venatori blade nearly hooked Lucanis from behind, and he turned to engage them. Rook pointed Davrin towards the rest of the incoming Venatori as she stepped between the Dellamorte cousins, not allowing Illario to get the upper hand. His face slackened as she swiped at his middle with the sword he’d gifted her so many years ago. 

“Keeping your grandmother locked in her room?” Rook demanded, dodging his half-hearted attempt at cutting her. “What is wrong with you?”

“It was for her own good.” He seized her by the wrist as her free hand attempted to drive a dagger into his ribs. “I would have never harmed her.”

“Damn it, Fiammetta!” Viago barked from across the room. “Do not let him get the upper hand!”

Rook ignored her cousin, freeing herself from Illario’s grasp with a flick of her wrist, just as her father had taught her. 

“Was poisoning me for my own good? Did you know I would have died without Viago’s intervention?”

“I never wanted to hurt you-”

“Or how about your alliance with Elgar’nan?” As she threw her blade at his face, Illario dodged, turning to watch it lodge itself in the wallpaper and rip a line through the ivory embellishments. “You know he wants me dead, right?” 

“Fi-”

She silenced him with a slap to the face. Illario’s hand came to his cheek, pressed against the red flushed skin there as he returned his gaze to her slowly, a lethal look in his eyes.

“You were one of my oldest friends.” She snarled, “I trusted you above so many others. And you lied to me. Betrayed me. And Lucanis! Your own blood . Your ambitions really know no bounds.”

Illario threw her against the wall, knocking the wind from her.

“What I did, I did for the Crows!” 

He pinned one hand above her head, the dagger in his other hand hovering over her neck. 

“You did it for yourself!” Rook shrieked. 

Just above Illario’s shoulder, she watched as Lucanis dispatched three Venatori, desperately trying to reach her. Illario followed her gaze and, with a cry of frustration, thrust Rook ahead of him, blade pressed to her throat. 

“Stop!” He shouted, wrapping an arm across her torso and walking her to the center of the room, as if she were a human shield.

Lucanis threw aside the final mage he’d been fighting just as Viago leapt from the Opera stage. The two met them under the grand chandelier, weapons drawn, while Davrin checked over his shoulder as he and Assan continued pushing back the remaining Venatori.

“You don’t want to make an enemy of me, Illario.” Viago advised, circling them. “Let my cousin go. Don’t do something you can’t take back.” 

“You decide what happens next!” Illario warned, his blade digging further into Rook’s skin. 

“You think you’re in too deep, Illario,” Rook murmured as she felt a single bead of blood run down her neck. “But you can still fix this.”

“Stop talking, Fiammetta.” He hissed, but his hold relaxed, giving her room to breathe. 

“What’s your endgame here?” Rook asked him, “Because Lucanis doesn’t want to kill you, but Spite will. This little standoff only lasts as long as I’m alive. Harm me, and it’s all over for you.”

“Maybe that’s your problem, Fi. You’re on a first name basis with my cousin’s demon.”

“I tried playing nice.” Rook said, slipping one hand through the crook of his elbow and wrapping her fingers around his knife. An electric current danced up to the hilt, causing Illario to flinch, and his grip on her to falter. Blood stained her palm as he recoiled, inadvertently slicing open the skin where she held his blade. Illario shoved her forward to break the static that surrounded them, and Rook tumbled to the floor, leaving a trail of crimson handprints as she scrambled backwards. Viago bent and pulled her up, fingertips digging into her shoulders as he restrained her, keeping her from intervening.

Lucanis approached his cousin, pointing the tip of his sword at his heart.

“I’ll kill you for that.” He growled.

Illario scowled, clutching his chest as he fought to steady his pulse, falling to his knees. 

“So I’ve heard.” He said through clenched teeth, “What are you waiting for, cousin? Finish what you start.” 

Spite’s wings disappeared behind Lucanis as he sheathed his weapon with a look of contempt. He gestured to the Crows leaning over the balcony with bated breath, the Talons standing with disappointed expressions behind him. 

“I already did. What am I ever going to do that is worse than this? On your knees? In front of every house?”

Illario stared at the crowd, jeering and booing from above. Hope and malice faded from his features, replaced by the sting of humiliation. 

“Get up, Illario.” Caterina commanded, her cane falling on the floor with a resounding knock between each step as she entered the room.

“Caterina!” Teia cried, “Thank the Maker!”

Viago released his hold on Rook, yanking Illario to his feet as the First Talon stood over her grandson, disgusted. Both hands poised atop her cane, the bejeweled eyes of the carved Crow head beneath her fingertips stared directly at Lucanis. 

“No one from House Dellamorte kneels.”

Rook felt a pang of empathy for her old friend. He looked like a boy again, scolded for playing in the gardens too roughly. Proven inferior to his cousin, once again. 

“He’s your family.” Rook moved to Lucanis’ side, resting a hand on his arm. “You said he was all you had, besides Caterina…”

“That was before you.”

Lucanis drug a hand over his face and sighed.

“But you’re right. He’s family.”

Illario scoffed.

“You think you can show me mercy? That’s not up to you, is it? Caterina is still First Talon.”

“Enough, Illario! Lucanis is the new First Talon.” Caterina announced over a roar of cheering from above. “His decision stands.”

Both Dellamorte cousins’ faces fell in unison. Whether or not Caterina intended for it to be, Illario’s loss was a punishment for each of them. What one desired most in the world, the other desperately had tried to run from. 

Lucanis schooled his expression into something focused, commandeering, void of the remorse and aching etched there moments ago.  

“Viago. Keep him out of trouble.” He directed.

“I’m no miracle worker,” The Fifth Talon said, tugging Illario aside, “but I’ll see what I can do.”

Illario leaned towards his cousin as he was escorted from the premises.

“Lucanis…” he taunted, holding out each syllable.

“Don’t.” Lucanis voice was hard and clipped. “Not now.” 

Caterina walked slowly to a nearby table, picking up a goblet of wine and passing it to her grandson. Reluctantly, he stared at it in his hand, panic flickering across his face as he lifted his head to meet Rook’s stare. Before she could react, a glass of wine was shoved into her own hands, and Teia began making a toast. Rook’s ears rang as she watched Lucanis swirl his drink, lost in his thoughts.

“To Lucanis!” Davrin called out with a proud smile. Well-intentioned as their friend was, something about the way everyone raised their glasses, the way Lucanis brought his wine to his lips like a death sentence, made her want to choke. She mimicked a drink, and discarded her goblet, watching from the perimeter of the room as Lucanis was congratulated by each Talon, save Viago, who was likely giving Illario a beating somewhere between here and the casino. 

Davrin joined her on the wall, wine in hand and Assan at his heels. 

“I thought you’d be happier for him.” He nudged her with his shoulder. “Does this make you Queen of the Crows or something?”

“This isn’t what he wants.” Rook whispered, voice catching in her throat as she watched Lucanis smile and nod in a sea of congratulations.

All those years of Crow training, just to feign happiness.

“In that case, try not to be offended if I don’t stick around to celebrate. Those Venatori landed a few good blows on me and I’m ready for a hot salt bath.”

Rook nodded and gave an appreciative, thin-lipped smile as her friend disappeared. In silence, she observed the party from afar until she was interrupted by a scraping sound against the marble floor beside her. 

“Dellamortes, get all the praise.” Caterina muttered, tapping Rook’s shin with her cane. “Come. Walk with me.”

Suggestions were never optional with Caterina, and knowing better than to decline, Rook uneasily followed her out the patio doors to the gardens. 

They strolled past the rose bushes and sat on a stone bench under a willow that was not native to this area of Treviso, but that Caterina had insisted to have imported decades ago. Rook had to admit it was thriving here. 

“Do you recognize this opal?” Caterina asked, slipping off her ring. Rook took it gingerly between her thumb and forefinger, letting its iridescence catch in the moonlight.

“It’s the same gem Lucanis stole and gifted to me when we were children.” She smiled softly, her breath rising in the fog as she spoke. “I still remember the look on my father’s face when you came to our door.”

Rook passed the ring back to Caterina, and she held up her hand to decline, shaking her head.

“Keep it. I’ve outgrown it.” She said firmly. “Consider it a token of my appreciation for saving my grandson, and myself.”

“Caterina! I can’t possibly accept this.”

“You would insult your First Talon by declining a gesture of her gratitude?”

“To be fair, you just gave that title to Lucanis.” Rook knew she was in dangerous territory, but felt bold enough to test the waters. Riling Caterina was a risk, but one with an amusing payoff.

“Precisely. I gave him a title. He knows I won’t retire until long after he buries me.” 

Rook carefully slipped the opal over the ring finger on her right hand. So strange how it found its way back to her, given the circumstances.

“Maybe I was too soft on Illario. I stoked the fires of his resentment by favoring Lucanis to take my place. But I knew Illario would never be cut out for Talon. He was prone to fits when he didn’t get his way and spent too much time fretting about what was fair or unfair. In the Crows, there is no such thing as fair.”

Caterina lifted her head towards the stars and frowned, as if they shared her disapproval.

“From a young age, Lucanis always saw the world for what it was. He would cry for dead birds in the garden, and then wipe his tears and bury them under this willow tree, because he knew it needed to be done. He has an impeccable talent for leaving no job unfinished, even when no one is watching. His internal compass is strong, where Illario’s is easily led astray.”

Rook remained silent. It was rare that Caterina was talkative, and rarer that she showed even a glimmer of regret.

“I was hard on Lucanis, focused my lessons on him because I needed him to have what it took to survive. Being First Talon doesn’t just make you a target, it makes the people you love targets. Lucanis showed exceptional talent and caught the attention of the other Crows even as a boy. Whether or not he wanted my title, I needed to ensure he’d survive long enough to turn it down.”

Uncertain Caterina would let her live to regret it, Rook spoke anyway. 

“You hardly gave Lucanis an opportunity to say no, announcing his change in rank before every Crow in Treviso.”

Surprisingly, Caterina’s cane remained firmly planted on the garden cobblestones.

“Sometimes we are burdened with things not because we desire them, but because we are the best person for the job. Lucanis will make a good First Talon precisely because he does not want it.”

“You knew?”

“I knew. Illario was talented in charming people, but being skilled in manipulating others put him at risk of being manipulated himself. My grandson could change his colors to suit whatever person or situation he needed them to, because his own identity was so unstable. Lucanis is who he is. He’s a lethal assassin, and an excellent Crow, but he cannot resist doing what he believes is right.” 

Rook blinked, certain she’d been poisoned when Illario’s blade nicked her throat, and that she was hallucinating this entire exchange. 

“I will not insult you by telling you your parents would be proud of you, Fiammetta. I think you already know that. And we both know it’s not their approval you desire.” Caterina continued, “You are like Lucanis in many ways. You did what you felt was right, and when you made a bad call, you accepted your punishment with your head held high. You never complained. You paid your debts, and you moved on. You accepted the role of leader against gods, because it needed to be done. Your cousin believed you were neglecting your responsibilities, abandoning your family, but wherever your battles lead you, you will always embody the spirit of a Crow.”

She rose to her feet and nodded towards the manor. 

“Come. My grandson is spying. I think he’s worried I’ve brought you out here to kill you.” 

Rook glanced towards the Opera House, where Lucanis was brooding against a foggy window pane, hands buried into his pockets.

“The guest room is as you left it. Several of the gowns in the closet belonged to my daughter-in-law. She was about your size. We might be assassins, but there’s no reason to be covered in blood at a party.” She said with a wink. “Rest assured, she fitted all her clothing to be suitable for an ambush. You’ll be at no disadvantage.”

─── ⊹⊱♤⊰⊹ ───

Rook assessed the opera house floor as she descended the staircase, dressed in a sleeveless black gown that took her nearly half an hour to lace herself into. Caterina wasn’t joking - the dress fit her like a second skin, and she could kill someone in this ensemble just as easily as she could in her leathers. The trouble would lie in getting it off. Wearing heels, against her better judgement, Rook decided to allow herself the enjoyment of one last Dellamorte soiree.

A dense crowd surrounded Caterina, Teia close to her side. Even though former First Talon had opted for the party to continue despite the disgrace her grandson had made of himself, everyone present was on edge. Repairing the distrust between Houses would take time, but at least the First, Fifth and Seventh Talons still had faith in one another. And, at the end of the day, Crows never really trusted one another.

“There you are.” 

At the sound of a familiar voice, Rook’s footstep faltered on the final stair, and she caught herself on the guardrail as a hand slipped around her waist.

“I’ve been looking for you.” 

[deputyrook]

woahh i've never considered it but yeah spite fused with Illario would work really well, it fits him and his storyline imo a lot better than lucanis (who like you said, isn't actually very spiteful at all). and the addition of being spiteful towards lucanis for everything he has (especially ROOK) ..... the possibilities omggg the DRAMA, spite pushing him to just take her, take her away from him, he doesn't DESERVE her (we do)

YEAH YES like Spite I think remains relatively neutral because he’s inside Lucanis, who really is a kind thoughtful man? In his first scene you can see Spite needling him a bit, which doesn’t seem to land that well- but imagine how much worse that kind of influence would hit Illario.

Spite just always in Illario’s ear whispering: He always takes everything you deserve. The favourite. The better Dellamorte. He doesn’t even WANT it!

And with Rook- especially with a de Riva Rook, with ties to Viago and by extension Catarina’s other favourite Teia- I think it would drive Illario insane. Lucanis never wanted to be First Talon, it was supposed to be him. It would be a good alliance for their houses, to be with Rook, with him as First Talon. Rook should want him.

[sky-fire-forever]

DADWC time :D How does ❛  i know things aren't easy right now, but i want to remain a fixture in your life. after all, you're one in mine.  ❜ for Rook/Lucanis sound?? Obsessed about this pairing rn!

Thank you for the prompt! I tried something new with this, with it being from the point of view of someone outside of the pairing I’m writing it for. You can be the judge of how it turned out.

For @dadrunkwriting - Dragon Age: The Veilguard Spoilers

My Rook in this is Voltah de Riva, who uses they/them pronouns.

Caterina does not believe herself to be an unkind woman. Strict, perhaps, but it’s out of necessity. Everything she’s done has been for the good of her family, for the betterment of those who have survived. She’s lost too much to go soft now and lose it all. 

Part of wanting the best for her family is wanting the best partners for those who remain. Lucanis is the First Talon now and if he is to wed, he deserves the best, someone who will support him and who can fend for themselves if things turn sour. He deserves someone who will protect their standing and can provide heirs to house Dellamorte. 

What he doesn’t need is a Crow from another house grasping at power and encouraging dangerous ideas. 

“I fail to see the problem,” Lucanis says, his voice tight with irritation he can hardly contain. “Rook has done more than prove themself. They not only saved the world, but they helped put an end to Ilario’s misdeeds, they helped save you and they stopped a ravaging dragon from destroying Treviso. What more could you ask from them?” 

Caterina leans against her cane, a frown upon her lips. “Surely you can not be so blind, Lucanis.” It hurts her to break her grandson’s heart this way, but it’s far better than the alternative. “The de Rivas want the title of First Talon. You are standing in the way of that. All it would take would be your death and then–”

“Rook would never.” Lucanis sounds offended by the very idea. “They could not care less about my title. Their interest in me long predated my appointment as First Talon and I have no doubt that they would continue to love me if I were to lose that title entirely.” 

“You must be practical,” Caterina insists. “This is Viago’s protege. Do you not think he has trained them well? To manipulate and deceive?” 

“No more than any other Crow.” 

“But they are a Crow,” Caterina reminds him. “A Crow of a lesser standing who stands to win much by building a relationship with you. That is not even to speak of the way they encourage that thing inside of you.”

“Don’t bring Spite into this,” Lucanis warns.

“It is a demon, Lucanis. One that we should be focused on removing as soon as possible.” 

“As I have told you before, there is no separating us now.”

“Do you know that? Or are you simply unwilling to try?” She presses. “Because Rook told you not to bother trying?”

The idea of a demon remaining permanently within her grandson is terrifying in its possibility. It’s even more frightening that Lucanis doesn’t seem the least bit concerned with removing the foul creature inside of him. All because a pretty face told him to accept the demon as part of him. 

Caterina knows better. She knows her grandson is no demon. 

“Rook did not–”

“Would you give up your entire life for them? Throw away all we have worked for? For an upstart and a demon?” 

“That’s enough!” Lucanis snaps and Caterina is caught off guard enough to fall silent. “Enough. Please.” His voice turns from harsh to soft in a moment, guilt bleeding into his tone. 

She grips her cane tightly. “These are the questions you must ask yourself, Lucanis,” she says. “You can not run from them forever.” 

She leaves him to ponder her words, but doesn’t stray far, listening in to see how he reacts to what she has to say. She hopes he’ll listen, prays that he’ll see sense and abandon this childish romance of his. She wants nothing more than his happiness, save for his survival. 

She hears him sigh and she hesitates only a moment before following him out of the room. She sticks to the shadows, knowing from years of training how to follow even the most perceptive men without being spotted. She uses her old tricks now, trailing her grandson as he leaves the estate and climbs to the rooftops. 

She spots who he’s meeting right away, Rook’s face lit by moonlight as they pace back and forth on the ledge. 

They look up as Lucanis approaches, their face breaking into a grin. “So, how’d it go?” When Lucanis doesn’t respond, they whistle. “That bad, huh?” 

“I don’t understand it,” Lucanis says. “I thought she would see reason, but it’s like she’s incapable of believing our love is for love’s sake. Everything appears as a bid for power to her.” 

“Guess I am the power-hungry type,” Rook jokes. “I mean, it’s always been my dream to take over the world!” 

“Rook, please. Be serious.” 

Rook’s smile falls and they sit on the edge of the roof, their legs dangling off the side. “What do you want me to say, Lucanis?” They ask. “Your grandmother isn’t going to change her mind about me no matter what I do. She isn’t that kind of woman.” 

Lucanis sits beside them. “I know.”

“Then what do you want to do?” 

He sighs, considering. “I know things aren’t easy right now, but I want to remain a fixture in your life,” he says. “After all, you’re one in mine.”

Rook studies his face in the moonlight. “Good,” they say eventually. “I’m not letting you go that easily, Dellamorte.” 

“I would hope not.” 

The way Lucanis looks at his lover in what is believed to be a private moment gives Caterina a moment of hesitation. There’s love there, genuine and passionate. It’s more affection than she’s ever seen on her grandson’s face before. 

She hopes that love doesn’t get him killed.

[silurisanguine]

Rook's Q&A

from this post as i cannot for the life of me find the original question list by brownsolas Answering for my Antivan Crow Rook - Teleri De Riva.

Where in Thedas is Rook from?

Originally she was part of the Tasallan Dalish clan that wandered the northern Free Marches close to the Antivan border. But she calls Treviso home now. It's why she still has her Free Marches accent even living in Antiva for so long.

What is Rook's alignment?

Chaotic good. She tries to be diplomatic but is also sarcastic to a fault and she cannot abide bullshit.

What is their race and subclass?

Elf, formerly Dalish. She's a rogue through and through.

If Rook was a companion, where could they be found?

Sitting on the edge of a rooftop in Treviso, pelting stones at anyone who dares harm one of the cities cats. You'd need to assist her in a contract on a cat killer before she'd join you.

What emotion did they usually express in conversations? Sarcasm and wit. Though she learns fast who appreciates it and when to tone it down. After all she can be utterly respectful and sweet to Emmerich and Catarina.

What companion(s) are they platonically close with? All of them, she cares deeply for her temporary found family. But closest would be Bellara.

What companion are they romantically involved with? Lucanis. She had a bit of a crush on the Demon of Vyrantium, though only through reputation. But meeting him was better than any previous ideas. She was captivated by his personality and strength against everything he had faced.

Who are they suspicious of? Illario Dellamorte the first second of meeting him again. There was something off about him, a guilty conscience.

Does Rook get along with their chosen faction? Oh yes, they saved her, from her anger, gave her focus and purpose and a new family. She does trade good natured barbs with Viago, but they are like brother and sister. After all he was the one who brought her into the Crows, gave her a chance.

Is Rook proficient with playing any instruments? She can play the Elvhen lute well, thanks to her mother's teachings. and thanks to that she can also play the smaller Antivan lute known as The Northern.

Weapon/s of choice? Mainhand - Enchanged Longblade as it adds necrotic damage and she is a De Riva, so all about the poisons. (Visually though it looks like the Golden Grassblade.) Offhand - Either Cold Steel / Arainai's Talon/ Mythal's Light (early on) or Antivan Rapier ( visually the last is what appears as.) Bow - Dragon's War Bow / Cryptwood or Reptile Recurve . (Appearance is the Assassin's Shortbow - antivan style as it's not rediculous size and looks like a proper bow.)

What is Rook's orientation? Mostly straight...though when she meets Isabela, it has her questioning things. According to Taash, the pirate queen has that effect on people.

What is Rook's thoughts on killing? Necessary evil or take pleasure in it? It's her job. She's never taken a contract where the target didn't deserve it, trusting her Talon's judgement and sometimes, yes she takes satisfaction in killing assholes. She very much enjoys contracts on those who are cruel, especially to animals or those who target Dalish.

What hobbies does Rook have? Playing the lute, cooking with Lucanis, her appearance, playing with Assan, and collecting trinkets.

What NPCs did they like? Dislike? She adores Teia and Viago, she considers them like a brother and sister. loves Evka and Antoine. Highly respects Strife and Ashur. Dislike - She understands why Tarquin is prickly, but she's tired of him blaming her for not being in two places at once. The First Warden at first, hating his bull headed arrogance, but once she realised he was being affected by the Calling, she knew how to get through to him.

Do they have a favorite creature throughout all of Thedas? Griffons!! She never thought she would ever see one. But cats are a close second. She adores them everywhere in Northern Thedas and fully intends to have a black one some day as a pet. of course she also wouldn't mind her own Griffon that she and Lucanis can train as an assassin...just don't tell Davrin.

Do they enjoy life as an adventurer? As an assassin she travelled quite a bit, but it was always there and back. Now where she is, doing what she's doing she's seen more of Thedas than she ever thought possible and even with the hell going on around her, she loves it.

What would Rook be doing if they hadn't been recruited by Varric? Probably cleaning duty in the Diamond thanks to her fuck up. Leathers are a bitch to clean. But then acting as Viago's go to Antaam killer, thanks to her speciality in poisoned weapons.

How do you think Rook will meet their end? Hopefully - of old age in the Dellamorte mansion surrounded by family.

Would Rook side with Solas, or be against him? She was against him the moment she met him, but saw through his pride to what he was trying to do. She wanted to find a better way to deal with him than fight him. She was tired of fighting 'gods'.

What is Rook's favorite ability? Anything with poison as that is her speciality So Hurricane or Blade and Rain of Decay. But thanks to Bellara teaching her a new trick with the bow she loves using Lightning quiver too, which always gets Lucanis hollering with appreciation.

What languages is Rook fluent with? Fluent in - Dalish/elven. Antivan and Free Marches. Knows enough Tevene and a little Orlesian to get by. She's had to learn a few languages due to her job.

What will they do after the crisis? First a well earned rest at the Lighthouse. The Caretaker has told her it will always be there for her as she is the a keeper now and Harding's garden will remain as a memorial. But once everyone goes back to their lives, she goes back to Treviso and the Crows and... wait for the drama with Viago when Lucanis asks for her hand in marriage which means she'll probably move House.

Does Rook believe in the afterlife? She wasn't sure, but walking through the Grand Necropolis, she knows the person's spirit can carry on in some form, so there has to be somewhere it goes. Seeing the revelation of her people's origins, she think the spirit is set free and returns to the Fade. Spite has pretty much insinuated that for both her and Lucanis.

What specialization best represents Rook? The Duelist. Although she is proficient in the way of Three Trees; thanks to her Crow training, she became a natural at dual wielding elegant rapiers and sabers, making that her speciality. She is a living tornado of blades on the battlefield that Lucanis often commends her on.

What animal best represents Rook? A black cat. They look menacing but are often just goofballs. But they are still deadly predators and thank to their colouration blend into the shadows ready to pounce.

What was their life like before the events of the Veilguard? An Antivan Crow that was constantly exchanging good natured barbs with her Talon - Viago. It was good once she'd settled into the life and Teia helped her get over her grief of losing her clan. Treviso is a beautiful city of friendly people...mostly.

If a different faction were chosen, which one would Rook be in? She couldn't think of any other life she'd want, though the Shadow Dragons have her respect against oppression and slavery. And the Veiljumpers certainly are never bored in Arlathan forest.

What's your favorite thing about Rook? Her can do attitude and sense of humour. She sometimes uses it to deflect from her own worries and fears, but most often it's because she sees the absurdity of the situation and tries to make the best of it by diffusing the situation.

[fade-and-loathing-in-thedas]

Okay I'm obsessing over my Orlesian Warden, Marc, adopting all my other protags lmao He would so be like these little shits need some structure and unconditional love, and obviously he's the guy for the job.

“Tabris, for fucks sake stop picking fights with every human we see."

"Andraste's flaming asscheeks Hawke, you collected another one. Leave the damn bisexuals to deal with their own shit."

"Lavellan I swear to the Maker I'm going crack that damned egg if you don't. You deserve better."

"No! Maker damnit, no, De Riva. You can't fight actual fucking Gods.”

And yes, he would totally fight Viago for the role of surrogate dad of De Riva.

[birb--birb]

The Fool and the World!! 💛💛

aweeh excellent choices!! I thought too much about the World for him and now have a massive block of text about Savrin getting a happy ending 😭💕 thank yoouuu friend!! @spiritsong

Fool: Where did Rooks journey begin? What were they doing before joining the Veilguard?

Savrin has been a full Crow for like.... 12 years at this point? So helping look after some of the fledgling Crows in House De RIva (and by helping I mean teaching them how to get away with shit without Viago catching on, typical big brother role lmao). But aside from spending evenings on Treviso's rooftops (with or without cheap wine and a cute person to make out with), the usual Crow contracts re: keeping people in check around the city, and pushing back against the Antaam, Savrin was actually looking for his mom. She was a fellow Crow and was assigned to a very hush-hush mission in Val Royeaux when Savrin was 10. Its been 2 years since they'd last heard from her and while Savrin knows her letters have always been far and few between, he also knows somethings not right. The Talons wouldn't let him go look for her, but they're doing what they can to find her. Savrin's been in a mood for the last couple months after fighting with Viago about not being allowed to go look for her alone, so the in-game lore of "Rook attacks a group of Antaam and gets sent away" kinda connects.

World: What does happily-ever-after look like for Rook? Is it attainable, or just wishful thinking?

I've been thinking about this a lot lately, especially since he's like one of my few OC's who gets a happy ending.

Savrin never really expected much for himself, he knows being a Crow can be dangerous (and has almost had his story end many a times already) and kind of envisioned himself either living long enough to become a trainer of bebe Crows or get killed while out on a mission. He doesn't want to be a Talon or run his own House, he's quite content with his lil family of De Rivas! Savrins very much a "We'll see what the next year holds and go from there" kinda person, and lowkey expects to be killed on a contract (he's made his peace with his mortality a long time ago). So I guess his happily-ever-after would be having the ability to travel Thedas and experience new things, find out what happened to his mom, maybe find a special someone(s) that he enjoys being around. Just being able to continue experiencing new and beautiful things out in this world for as long as he can.

In reality, he got so much more than he ever could have hoped for💕 seeing all these new amazing places through the Eluvians, meeting incredible people who challenged him and pushed him to be better for himself and their own sake, working with people he'll cherish for the rest of his life!

Hell, meeting Emmrich, growing closer to the necromancer, and having the realization of "I want to wake up with this incredible man in my arms for as long as this life will let me... is this what they mean by love?" was so unexpected for him! Seeing Emmrich be so gentle and thoughtful with Manfred and all the other spirits he comes across, watching him throw himself into this fight against the gods despite his fear of dying, knowing that he's always there to back Savrin and the crew up even in the most harrowing of situations. Emmrich showed him a sort of gentleness he didn't think he deserved. Where Emmrich settles the souls of the dead, Savrin sends them to their deaths, sometime agonizingly so. This little Crow is forever changed knowing that someone with such a gentle heart chooses to stay by his side, and continues to shower him in a kind of love he never thought he'd experience. Savrin still doesn't know what his future will hold (right now, hopefully a goddamn break holy shit saving the world is hard), but he's forever grateful it will have Emmrich in it, and he'll treasure that for as long as he can.

[drysia]

the lovers and the star for the ask game!

Ooh, thank you for the ask from this Rook tarot ask game 🖤 Sorry its taken so long to respond, but wanted to make sure it was done before the new year (my time zone at least lol)

The Lovers: Who is your Rook's most significant relationship within the Veilguard? How do they help Rook feel seen and understood?

Emmrich, her beloved, that I can't say changes her, but helps cement the changes she's gone through since her time with Varric; from exile to hero. She thought Rook was going to be one of those personas she'd been trained to create, too bad for her it became the embodiment of her true self--if she could be something other than just a Crow. Acted so hard it became sincere.

Amara brings Emmrich with her everywhere once she meets him. He sees through her attempts at obfuscating her real feelings and when they're alone will ask questions in just the right way that she answers truthfully. He's a man with big feelings that he's open about and for the first time she feels free to share her own. It's met with no judgement and frequently he'll return a day or so later and share that he's been mulling over her responses to understand her better. He'll have Manfred send books to her room that he thinks she'll appreciate, ones that echo her emotions and elaborate those emotions. Sometimes she'll speak with him about them over their morning hot beverages, other times she sends the book back with Manfred after she's made heavy notations in the margins (Emmrich's so glad these are the Fade's copies and not his personal collection.) and they talk about it extensively.

They have many discussions and he understands where she's coming from. He would have been her biggest supporter regardless, but neither of them know that. So he is always there to support her ideas with the Veilguard and the other factions as well. Even if he disagrees, it is usually in private and they tend to come to some kind of understanding.

The Star: When things get dark, what gives Rook hope?

One of the big things Amara remembers her mother saying: "As long as you can breathe, as long as there are stars in the sky, there's a way you can win. Don't let the pain stop you from getting what you deserve."

Viago echoes a similar sentiment: "Do your lungs work? Do your eyes? Can you move? Then stop your whining. As long as two of those work, you are capable of completing the job."

Amara de Riva has been diagnosed by me with Doesn't Know When to Quit Disease. This is why Spite likes her so much. When she can't find hope in anything else she just believes in her own ability to carve out something positive. Things get dark for a while sometimes, yeah, but they've ended up okay before so that means they have to now. Eventually Emmrich is there and often times he echoes her own statements. That's right, dearest, you will find a way out of this, a way to ease this burden. In time, it'll come.

[queenmuzz]

🌹,🌾

🌹 What’s the first genuine fight Rook got in with their love interest about? How was it resolved?

Zea Ingellvar:

The infamous pre-tearstone island fight with Emmrich. Zea's interpretation of the fight was that Emmrich was having second thoughts. That perhaps she had fallen too fast, too hard for the man, who saw her as a little bit of ego boost for an older man. That he was doing an 'its not you, it's me' type of break up, with the implication that it was all her. A silly little girl who has read too many romance novels.

She's angry at him, but mostly at herself for getting her hopes up.

It's resolved after the prison incident, where Emmrich admits he was a foolish man whose fear got the better of him, only really understanding how much he needed her after she was ripped away from him.

Milo De Riva:

His first fight with Lucanis is over the fate of Illario. Milo can't understand why the man who got his lover imprisoned, tortured, posessed, and then kidnapped and attempted to usurp the First Talon's position should be left alive, let allowed walk in relative freedom. Why is Lucanis, who has his fate in his hands, not choosing to ending his miserable life? And why is SPITE agreeing with Lucanis? Milo isn't usually a vindictive guy, but Illario deserves a traitor's death.

He storms down to Viago to vent his frustration, thinking the Fifth Talon will take his side, but to his immense constertation, Viago disagrees with him.

"I once had to deal with a traitor, one who I cared for dearly. The rules stated I had every right to slit his throat, and he was willingly accepting the punishment it. And yet... he was family, and in the end I could not go through with it."

Grumbling at how everyone is going crazy nowadays, he stalks off... until he realizes who the traitor Viago was referring to....

Milo...

Swearing, he trudges back to the lighthouse, trying to formulate a proper apology for Lucanis.

He still has several plans on how to eliminate Illario if the bastard tries anything again

🌾 If there was a demon trying to trap/take over Rook, what kind would be the most successful? What would break their hold?

Zea Ingellvar:

Despair demon, hands down. She's not depressed per se, but she has a very low opinion of herself, attributing sucesses to others, and failures to herself. She's so desperate to help others, that she leaves nothing for herself.

Thankfully, she has a group of people who truly care for her, that will be there for her thick and thin. All she needs to do is ask, which is possibly the hardest step she's ever taken.

Milo De Riva:

Surprisingly for the good natured assassin, the one who rarely has anything other than a smile on his face. A rage demon.

Post game, he decides that due to him having connections with three seperate Talons, and is considered a big deal in the Crows, he ought to call in one single favour. He has a contract written up for his former Master, the man who trained him to become an assasin using rather incredible barbaric means (there were 5 kids in his group at age 10, by the time he was 13, there were two, by the age of 15, he was the only one). The only reason he's relatively sane and not too sociopathic is because Viago was the first person to show him kindness (And by 'kindness' I mean 'didn't lock in a lightless basement for days at a time' This IS Viago we're talking about)

He breaks into his old Master's place with Lucanis and Viago and is intended to give him a taste of what his childhood suffered when Spite says there's other people in the manor, specifically in the locked basement.

That's where they find two scrawny kids chained to the wall... and lots of child sized burial urns.

After knocking the kids out with a dose of Viago's concoction he was intending to use to take his time with his master, he passes the kids to Viago and Lucanis and orders them out of manor. They don't even get through the parlour before the screams start and the flames start licking the walls.

Lucanis finds Milo outside the manor as it goes up in flames, on the cusp of posession as he hurls fireballs at the place.

Lucanis braves the flames with spites help, getting close enough to Milo to embrace him with arms and wings. Both working in concert to stop the possession.

Spite doing his damndest to intimidate the demon into leaving while Lucanis is telling Milo ‘you did not give up on us, we will not give up on you’

It ends with Milo breaking out in sobs as Lucanis holds him tightly. Reassuring him that he’s there for him, he loves him so so so much

Viago is standing there, not quite understanding what just happened, but he sure as hell isn’t going to tell Teia

And that’s how the dellemorte household gets two new family members, and Viago becomes a grandpa the kids have stabbed Milo at least four times since they arrived, but Milo is a patient guy

[fatedmuses]

A letter from Rook to a faction leader - Carolina write a letter to Viago I dare you

Dear Viago (no too weird)

Viago,

Fuck, we both know I'm not good with words. (I get it from you) (Joking). Look, if Tearstone Island goes to shit- Fuck. I hate you for making me feel things.

I know we don't always see eye to eye (on anything. ever.) but you, somehow, managed to treat me better than my own parents did, even when you were just a prickly little shit teenager poisoning me for fun. (I assume you had fun because I sure didn't) House de Riva is better for having you as Talon, and if you ever tell anyone I said that I will deny it until my final breath.

Anyway, if I die, I want you to avenge my death. Yes, that's an official contract now. Make sure Elgar'nan and Ghilan'nain die a terrible, horrible death in my honor. And then ask Teia to marry you, because she deserves better but she wants you, for some reason, and she's the best of us and deserves to get what she wants. (Can I add that to a contract? Is that legally binding?)

Don't feel like you have to mourn me or anything. This is probably all one sided and I'm going to horribly embarrass myself if you see this, but at least I'll be dead if you do. At the very least give Neve my thanks for delivering it. (I'd give it to Lucanis but... I know he doesn't want to think about what might happen. To either of us.)

Try not to miss me too much. I'm sure that will be very difficult for you.

Love you,

Carolina

[heylavellan]

Antonio de Riva

Maker, I don't remember when they started popping up. Five, six years ago? First it was just one qunari on the gondolas, lovely fella named Riccardo. Had this broken horn. Everyone wanted to be on Riccardo's gondola. They hired another qunari. And suddenly most of the gondoliers were qunari. Those qunari gondoliers were the best thing that happened to Treviso. Fucking Antaam. - Overheard in Treviso Market

˚∘⊰⋆ about ⋆⊱∘˚

age: mid thirties

pronouns: they/them

class: spellblade

beliefs: none

strengths: adaptable, good listener, loyal

weaknesses: stubborn, distractable, hoarder

the crows: House de Riva plucked them off the streets after they were caught stealing food. One of the first qunari Crows, they stood out. During those early years, they stuck it out for the food and shelter. When Viago joined, things got a lot easier. The bastard prince and the qunari were inseparable, allegedly even lovers.

After a complicated contract to become a fully fledged Crow, Antonio abandoned they cover in Antiva City and returned to Treviso where Viago helped them take over the gondola business and in turn they helped him become Talon. The Crows -- Viago -- gave them everything. And for them, they are the perfect weapon.

˚∘⊰⋆ the veilguard ⋆⊱∘˚

Bellara: "She brings such joy to my life. I hope she continues to find her own."

Davrin: "He isn't the same warden that l first met. He seems happier with Assan and reconnecting with his uncle. He deserves a chance to exist unburdened for a while."

Emmrich: "His perspective on death is fascinating, and his interaction with spirits is incredible. I'm sorry he didn't become a lich, but he seems so happy with Strife and Manfred."

Harding: "I loved her. I wish I told her that more. She changed things for the dwarven people, and I couldn't save her."

Lucanis: "He doesn't see it, but he makes every day better. I love him, I love his diablillo. He is my angel."

Neve: "She had every right to be mad when I chose Treviso over Minrathous. I can only hope I proved myself her friend and supporter."

Taash: "I see so much of myself in them. Finding peace with the Qun, finding yourself. Then living. I'm glad I could be there for them."

Varric: "He trusted Solas was capable of good. I wish he got to see the mission through to the end."

˚∘⊰⋆ outside the veilguard ⋆⊱∘˚

Viago: "Asshole. He really expected me to hide away while the others got to take contracts? Poisoned the letter I got in Tevinter once I left with Varric. But if anyone hurt him..."

Teia: "She's one of the few people who can piss off Viago more than me, and I really admire that about her. Also, she doesn't poison the dinners she buys me."

Elwyn Lavellan: "Weird guy. I think that's what I like about him. Not afraid to be different."

The Viper: "He was blighted because of me, and yet he kept fighting for Minrathous. I'd do the same for Treviso."

Solas: "He is impossible. He is complicated. I despise what he did to me, how he hurt Lucanis. But he was friends to Lavellan, to Pavus, to Varric."

˚∘⊰⋆ relevant works ⋆⊱∘˚

sous chef - pretending to be normal is a luxury the lighthouse affords them.

A Fourth Type of Person - exes to lovers au. make them worse :))

[mythalsknickers]

This is beautifully written. I wanted to chime in with my own Rook, a de Riva born and bred in Treviso as well. The choice was something he knew as soon as the names were uttered what he would pick. It didn't make it easier. Minrathous had a floating palace that shoots lasers, they had templars, a standing military, the shadow dragons and the thread syndicate to stand against the Venatori and a Dragon. Treviso just had the Crows to stand against the Antaam and a Dragon. Even if Antiva had a standing military it would take days if not weeks to arrive from the capitol. Catarina would tell him to go for the more strategic city, knowing full well it was not Treviso, expecting those wishes to be followed. Even if they were disrupted with a Wyvern bone dagger. Viago would call him a sentimental fool, in good nature. Lucanis would say he owed him a debt, but how can he? Saving him from the Ossuary was something his own family should have done. Not younger lesser trained mage-killer from a more junior house. Saving Treviso was like breathing, it was home. His ribs hurt, he was sure he had burns down his legs. But this was home. Antiva and the Crows deserved better then to be sacrificed.

Thinking about saving Treviso. Thinking about how, yeah, obviously Lucanis approves of that choice, but on a deeper level, just…think about how much it means to him. That’s his home. It’s not Minrathous. It’s not some big city of wonder. It’s not even Antiva’s capital. It’s just Treviso. His home, his quiet and simple stomping ground in his not so quiet and not so simple life. Already taken over and being undermined, now threatened anew, with only the Crows to stand for it…and Rook stands up for it, too. Rook puts his home first, puts the people there first.

How many times has Lucanis put everything else to the side for the people he cares about? How many times has Caterina’s word overruled all? And someone he owes, who owes him nothing at that point, puts his home and his worry first.

Thinking about saving Treviso.

[selunesdreams]

Chapter 11: Truth Hits Everybody

“I am a coward.” He said breathlessly, “But only because I don’t want you caught in my mess.” His bottom lip caught on hers for just a moment, and he released her with a tormented expression.  “You deserve better, Rook.”

Pairing: Lucanis x Fem Rook/OFC x Spite???

Summary: Illario tries the "make her jealous" act, a missive from Viago delivers devastating news, Harding walks into the middle of a tense moment between Rook and Lucanis, and Ghilan'nain loses two dragons.

Word Count: 3.6k

Things of note/warnings: 18+ fic, MDNI! warnings: typical DA related violence, death, mention of murder.. Please read on AO3 if you need to track warnings, they will be inevitably detailed better there (or just want to be real sweet and give me hits/kudos/comments).

─── ⊹⊱♤⊰⊹ ───

In the middle of the villa gardens, Fiamma slid a vial of fish oil over the iron bistro table towards the First Talon.

“Caterina, please just take it. Let’s be done with this.”

Her early weeks at the Dellamorte residence hadn’t been entirely awful. By some stroke of luck, she and Caterina got on well, and typically took their breakfast together amongst the rose bushes, weather permitting. Their only point of contention? Caterina’s health. 

“Pretend I did, and I’ll tell your cousin how fabulous a job you’ve been doing around here.”

Fiamma swapped Caterina’s coffee for a glass of carrot juice. “You were going to do that, anyway.” She said, “Take it, or I’ll give you decaf.”

Caterina expressed her displeasure by ignoring her and poking at the half-eaten grapefruit on her plate. With an exasperated sigh, her breath visible in the crisp morning air, Fiamma examined the gardens. The flowers were bare and wilted from the autumn chill, and a few stray leaves drifted from the trees, sprinkled with dew from last night’s rain. Serene, save for the occasional rustle of foliage as birds skipped the surface, pecking and tugging freshly surfaced worms from the dirt. 

Suddenly, Caterina threw her arms wide with a loud gasp, interrupting her thoughts.

“Lucanis! My boy!”

As he strode across the courtyard, she shivered and gathered her cloak closer. Fiamma never understood how a man so close to her in stature carried himself as if he were seven feet tall. Stooping to plant a kiss on Caterina’s cheek, he grimaced as his grandmother squeezed his face between her hands, showing off a warm smile she only reserved for him. 

“How was your contract?” She asked, patting the empty seat beside her. 

“Too long.” He eased himself into the chair and reached for the carafe of coffee, pouring himself a cup. Leaning back, he nodded at Fiamma in greeting.  

“Enjoying your stay?”

“I would enjoy it more if your grandmother wasn’t so stubborn.” She said, returning her attention to Caterina and dropping her voice. 

“Take. The. Fish oil.” 

“Caterina, why do you give Fiammetta such a hard time?” Lucanis asked.

The First Talon scowled at her grandson’s admonishment and threw back the vial, her rings glinting in as sunlight peeked through the clouds. She chased it with juice and held out her hands expectantly.

“She abuses me, Lucanis.” Caterina grumbled, snatching her coffee from Fiamma’s grasp.

“De Riva, how can you treat a poor, defenseless old woman like this? After all she’s done for you?” His wink turned into a cringe as Caterina knocked her cane into his shin under the table.

“Call me old again and see what happens, boy.” She growled, standing up and shuffling past them. 

“Oh, come on, don’t be dramatic!” Fiamma called after her. “You’re not going to finish your coffee after all that?”

“You two deserve one another’s company!”

Fiamma leaned in towards Lucanis. “You saw her spit that fish oil into the carrot juice, right?”

“Old Crow trick,” He said, drinking his coffee. “People usually reserve that method for poisons.”

“Caterina thinks all medicine is poison. She’s going to be the first Crow to die a natural death.”

Lucanis smirked. “She’s too stubborn to die.”

Fiamma’s chair scraped over the patio stones as she stood and gathered the remnants of breakfast from the table. “I should go make sure she’s not putting out a contract on me.”

“Allow me.” Lucanis offered, swallowing as he set his cup down. He stacked the empty plates, taking the rest of the dishes from her hands and adding them to the top. 

“No need to pick up after the help, cousin!” Illario called in the distance, rounding a corner by the pond, arm in arm with his latest paramour: a wide-eyed wisp of a girl who clung to him, shivering, far too scarcely dressed for the cold. Illario’s influence, no doubt. 

Lucanis frowned, and Fiamma elbowed him in the ribs before he could speak.

“Just let it go,” she said under her breath.

“De Riva’s here as punishment.” Illario explained to his date, pulling out a chair for her.

“You couldn’t even spare a blanket?” Fiamma asked cooly, turning on her heel and pushing past Lucanis. “Classy, Dellamorte.”

His lip curled, and he shrugged off his cloak, draping it around his companion’s shoulders. The girl opened her mouth in protest and he shushed her, muttering something in her ear. Fiamma ducked under Lucanis’ arm as he held the kitchen door open, casting a disappointed glance over his shoulder towards his cousin.  

“He was sweet the first week.” She said as she set the dishes in the sink. “Then when he realized I wouldn’t jump in bed with him, he started parading around women to make me jealous.”

“Are you? Jealous?” Lucanis asked, nudging her aside and filling the sink.

“Of yet another victim of Illario’s facade?” Fiamma braced her palms against the marble countertop and hoisted herself up. “I pity her. He’s become such a selfish, cruel brat. I don’t even know who he is anymore.”

“I’ll talk to him.” Lucanis said, scrubbing at the plate in his hands harsher than necessary.

Fiamma hopped off the counter, reaching for a towel. “You’re such an old-fashioned romantic, Lucanis. How did you end up that way?”

“Probably the brief influence my parents had over me.” He said, passing her a clean plate to dry.

“Make sure whoever you end up with someday remembers to thank them for that.”

A huff of air escaped his nose as he watched her from the corner of his eye. “Death is my calling, Fiamma. I fear any fool who fell in love with me would only share that fate.” 

“Don’t fall for a fool, then.” she quipped.

Lucanis’ smile faded as he watched her put away the dishes on a nearby shelf.

“My cousin is an idiot, Fiamma. Just ignore his antics. He’ll get bored, eventually.”

“Why are you cleaning?” Caterina’s cane clacked against the tile as she stormed into the kitchen so quickly Fiamma wasn’t even sure if she needed it. “If the maid doesn’t have enough work, she gets lazy!”

“We’re avoiding Illario. Have you seen his newest conquest?” Fiamma inclined her head towards the window. “She’s quite the catch.”

Caterina stood on her toes, peeking through the curtains, and scowled. “Too young for him, but sufficiently naïve.”

“A shame. I’d hoped he might have finally found the one.” Rook murmured, giving Lucanis a wink.

Caterina lowered herself, having seen enough, and tapped her long fingernails on top of her cane. “Take your cousin to Viago and find him a contract, Lucanis. He clearly has too much time to spare.” 

He snorted and wiped his hands dry on his trousers, returning Fiamma’s wink. “I’ll be seeing you, De Riva.”

Caterina’s eyes narrowed, shifting between them as her grandson stepped onto the patio. She motioned towards the den with a contented grunt.

“Come, Fiammetta!” she said, “I need you to pen some correspondence for me. My carpal tunnel is acting up again.”

─── ⊹⊱♤⊰⊹ ───

“Mail.”

An envelope hit Rook in the face, and she sat up with a start. Glaring at Taash, she snatched it letter from the floor. “Can someone with a more delicate touch handle that?”

“Got a specific abomination in mind?”

“Get out before I kick your ass.” Rook threw a candle and Taash ducked with a smirk, watching it crumble as it hit the wall behind them. 

“I’d like to see you try.” 

They flopped beside her on the chaise hard enough that it rocked back. Rook braced her arm on the seat to keep from toppling onto the floor. 

“So I’ve got this thing with my mother later. Can you come with me?”

Rook gave them a bewildered look. “You’re asking favors? Now?”

“Uh. Yeah? That a problem?”

She sighed. “No, Taash, not a problem. I’ll be there when you need me.” 

“Thanks.” 

As they departed, Rook stared at the envelope in her hands bearing the De Riva seal. She hadn’t seen Viago in a week - the longest span of time since they’d reunited. It’d been a heavy week, too. She, Davrin, and Emmrich had descended into a nightmarish Grey Warden stronghold called the Cauldron, filled with blight and darkspawn. Hopeful to find where the gloom howler had taken the missing griffins, they discovered her plans to blight them instead - a twisted idea of freeing them. Davrin was rightfully distraught, but kept a cool head, turning his attention to researching obsessively in search of answers. 

The tension between her and Lucanis hadn’t helped, either. He was sulking in the pantry more than usual, carrying a look of shame every time she glanced in his direction during dinner. Why should she feel guilty about him wandering around like a kicked dog? He was the one who wanted to play the role of tortured romantic.

Rook took a dagger from her belt and worked its tip underneath the wax seal, tearing the parchment free and skimming her cousin’s missive. She squinted, trying to make sense of it, before she rose from the chaise and left her chambers. In a daze, she descended the worn stone staircase and crossed the courtyard as she reread it, her attention never leaving the page until she pushed through the kitchen doors. They creaked loudly on their hinges in protest, breaking Lucanis’ focus from behind the stove.

“Rook?” He looked up in surprise, carefully removing a steaming pot of water from the heat and setting it aside. “Are you alright?”

With a trembling hand, she extended Viago’s letter towards him. “What do you know about this?”

Perplexed, he reached out and took it from her. His eyes darted back and forth on the page, his frown deepening the further he read.

Cousin,  I hope this finds you well, and that you understand how deeply I regret our last encounter. I have feared for your safety my entire life, and never more than now, as you take on these gods. Know I will always come to your aid whenever it is in my power. Do not be afraid to call on me.  I’ve passed on your parcel, but I have many questions. You should not feel obligated to take care of Manius Casini’s family. Hear my words when I tell you they have more than enough gold for a good life in his absence. The Crows made sure of it ever since we recovered his body from the canals.  Your generosity is admirable, but do not spend another silver on the Casini family’s behalf. If you feel so inclined, perhaps that money could be put to better use on a place of your own in Treviso? That way, your vagabond strays can stop sleeping on my couch. -V

Lucanis scratched his cheek and passed the letter back to her. “I thought you knew, Rook.”

Her mouth felt dry. “Knew what?”

He tilted his head to the side. “Viago and I killed the Antaam responsible for your father’s death. The same night of the murder.”

“But Manius Casini murdered my father.” Rook protested.

Lucanis hesitated before continuing, clearly uncertain he should. With a sigh, he pulled out a chair, the wooden legs scraping against the stone floor, and gestured for her to sit.

“I don’t need to tell you that Dante De Riva was losing his mind, Rook. He was suspicious of everyone, even Viago. Casini was a double-agent in a Crow operation against the Antaam. The only reason your father wasn’t aware was because he’d stopped taking contracts and isolated himself so much. Casini came to warn him, but your father didn’t believe him, despite their long history of working together. He fled for help, but by the time he reached the Crows…”

The room suddenly felt suffocating and Rook’s knees, already trembling, gave way as she slumped in her seat. Lucanis’ lips parted in astonishment.

“You killed him.” He breathed as he drug out another chair, his eyes never leaving hers as he sat down. “That’s why you’re sending his family money.” 

“I thought he-I didn’t-” 

“I’m not judging you, Rook.” He reassured her. “You don’t have to justify it to me.”

“I thought it was him, Lucanis. Illario told me-”

“Illario?” He straightened in his chair. “What does he have to do with this?”

“He read the report-”

“Then my cousin must be illiterate. I wrote that report myself. I was very clear.” Lucanis leaned forward, his demeanor softening. “Tell me what happened, Rook.”

She swallowed hard. “Illario brought Manius to the Opera House. On my birthday. He had him tied to a chair like a gift. He gave me this…” She tore her shortsword from its hilt and flung it across the table. It knocked against the wooden surface, rolling to a stop at the center.

“You’re not at fault for this, Fiamma.” Lucanis said, taking the sword and examining its blade in the firelight before setting it on the mantle. “Illario is.”

“I think a part of me knew. I just thought if I had revenge, it would go away. This feeling-this empty horrible-” 

“My cousin restrained an innocent man, handed you a weapon, and told you where to aim all that grief and pain.” Lucanis crouched in front of her, taking her hands in his. “You’re an assassin, Rook. Illario knew what he was doing.”

She watched as he traced circles over her knuckles with the pads of his fingertips. For the work he did, his hands were surprisingly soft, where they weren’t calloused from years of wielding his blades.

“Manius claimed my mother was addicted to lyrium.” she whispered. “Is that true?”

“She got clean, but died from complications during withdrawal.” He shook his head. “I’m sorry, Rook.”

“So my father was paranoid and a liar?” She sniffed, drawing her hand away and wiping her nose with her wrist. “And everyone knew but me?”

“Don’t let it change who he was to you. Grief blinded him, and he hunted down every Antaam running lyrium through Treviso. Unfortunately, it put a target on his back.”

Rook squeezed her eyes shut, fighting back tears. “Why did no one tell me?”

“Viago asked them not to, to preserve your parents’ memory. He was trying to protect you. But he should have told you himself by now.” 

“I deserved to know then,” she said hoarsely.

Lucanis’ thumb brushed against her cheek comfortingly. “You did.”

“I can’t forgive Illario for this. Not ever, Lucanis.”

He tilted her chin up to meet his gaze. Firelight gently illuminated his brown eyes, shadows emphasizing the contours of his face. “I’m not asking you to.”

“He’s the coward. Not you. I should have never-”

“Rook…” A defeated sigh escaped through his nose, “I’ve been trying to figure out what to say to you about that day. There aren’t words enough to apologize-”

“No, I shouldn’t have called you that, you’re not-”

“I have been. With you.” He rose with her as she stood, one arm snaking around her lower back, pulling her against him. She blinked in surprise as he tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. Rook rested her cheek against his palm, and a slight smile played on his lips.

“Fiammetta, I-”

The kitchen doors burst open, and they simultaneously recoiled. Clearing his throat, Lucanis turned towards the fireplace, watching the flames, and Rook planted her hands on the table as Harding entered.

“Rook! I’ve been looking for you…” she paused, glancing between them.

“What is it, Harding?” She asked, glaring at the patterns in the wood, trying to compose herself.

“Right…” Lace seemed keenly aware she was interrupting something, even if she didn’t know what that something was. “The Wardens sent word. One of Ghilan’nain’s blighted dragons is in Hossberg. Not far from Lavendel.”

Lucanis turned around. “The one that attacked Treviso?”

Harding nodded. “No sign of the one from Minrathous, as of now.” 

“Get the others.” Rook pushed herself up. “We shouldn’t waste any time.”

Lucanis caught Rook by the arm as she moved to follow Harding.

“Now? Are you sure about this? You should take some time to process-”

“Not to sound religious, but I don’t get to decide when these things happen. The gods do.” She tried to pull her hand free, but his grip tightened around her bicep.

“Lucanis! Let me go-”

He pulled her in and smoothed his hands down the sides of her hair until he was cradling her face between his palms. His eyes searched hers desperately as his mouth hovered above her own.

“I am a coward.” He said breathlessly, “But only because I don’t want you caught in my mess.”

His bottom lip caught on hers for just a moment, and he released her with a tormented expression. 

“You deserve better, Rook.”

Her fingertips brushed against her parted lips as she watched him leave. Shoulders slumped in self defeat, Lucanis pushed through the doors without a glance behind him. With a shaky breath, she composed herself, reluctantly retrieved her sword from the mantle, and followed.

─── ⊹⊱♤⊰⊹ ───

“Damnit!” Neve shouted across the battlefield, “We need more hands!”

Rook’s knuckles turned white around her weapons as Ghilan’nain’s Icetalon extended its long neck and roared, spreading its wings wide as it took a menacing step in her direction. They’d put up a good fight until a second dragon, the very one that attacked Minrathous, arrived. With an endless supply of blighted blood at Ghilan’nain’s disposal to feed her thralls, Rook and the others were getting nowhere and only growing weaker. Even with Taash, a seasoned dragon hunter, on their side, they couldn’t seem to subdue them.

Lucanis and Assan soared overhead, striking at weak spots just as a streak of green blasted through the sky and lodged itself in the side of the dragon’s head. The Icetalon staggered back, falling to the ground. Rook turned around to search for the origin and cried out in relief.

“Viago!”

The ballista aimed for the Seartooth and fired another bolt, disorienting it. He leaned over the edge of the wall with a cocky grin.

“Thought you could use a hand!”

She smirked as the last dragon standing roared. Seizing the moment, Rook jumped over the dead Icetalon’s tail and dispersed a chain of lightning across the field. Stunned, the Seartooth barely caught Lucanis coming down upon its head, burying his blade in its skull. With a shriek, the beast shook him off and stumbled, collapsing in a heap.

Davrin cut in, sprinting and launching himself onto the dragon’s back, just as Assan dove through the air, swiping at its eyes. The Grey Warden drove his sword into its throat, gripping the hilt as he swung in the air, yanking hard to tear a line down the front.

Blood rained over the battlefield and Ghilan’nain’s thrall flapped its wings in a panic. With a feeble cry, it took to the sky only to plummet, shaking the ground beneath Rook’s feet with such force that it knocked her on her back.

The walls behind them erupted in cheers, and an ominous sense of déjà vu came over Rook as Ghilan’nain seethed above.

They were celebrating too soon. 

“She’s reanimating the dragons!” Neve warned. “We have to stop her!” 

Rook nodded, ducking under floating limbs and blighted tentacles to reach the closest ballista. She employed all her strength, digging her shoulder underneath it, lining it up with Ghilan’nain.

With a sharp inhale, she found her shot, just as her father had taught her during archery lessons. She fired on her exhale and took a step back, watching as the missile embedded itself in Ghilan’nain’s core. The dragons fell motionless, as the elven god howled in pain. The Wardens on the walls rallied, charging closer and Rook fell to her knees, exhausted. She grinned up at Neve as she caught her breath.

“For Minrathous?”

The detective smiled, offering a hand and yanking her upright. “For Minrathous.” 

Their faces fell as the air stirred with magic, static crackling above them. Neve threw out a shield just as a nearby group of Wardens were propelled back, and time slowed. Rook raised her head against an invisible force as Elgar’nan appeared beside his sister. He surveyed the field, frowning as his attention fixed on Rook.

“One resists…”

“The Dread Wolf’s influence.” Ghilan’nain rasped, “His presence lingers.”

Elgar’nan scowled and waved his hand. “Ever defiant, for now.” 

The air crackled again as they disappeared into nothing. Time progressed, marked by the sound of falling bodies - alive and dead - as they crashed to the ground with haunting thuds.

Neve released her shield and doubled over, chest heaving, and Rook scanned the field anxiously for her allies. Above, Viago, the other Crows, stood with Emmrich, Harding, and Bellara. To her left, Assan licked Davrin’s face as he sat up from where he’d fallen. Taash sheathed their weapons not far behind.

“Where’s Lucanis?” Rook asked in a panic. 

“Here.” 

She turned as he heaved himself from a deep puddle with a grunt, thick mud clinging to his boots and armor.

“We survived,” Neve said bitterly, staring at the sky. “Some of us, at least. Too bad the gods got away.” 

“We have our revenge. And so does Minrathous.” Viago interjected, casually descending a wooden staircase and leaping over a pile of debris. With a sob of relief, Rook rushed forward and flung her arms around his neck. He stiffened, attempting to pry her off.

“You’re making me look soft in front of the Wardens.” He hissed.

“Just let her.” Lucanis clapped a hand on his shoulder as he limped past. “She needs you right now.” 

With a resigned grunt, Viago encircled Rook with one arm, giving in to a reluctant half-embrace. 

“You did good, Little Flame.” He said. “You did good.” 

[theodosiani]

"how long were you planning this?" (for cosima?)

Kindness Meme || Accepting || @7thtalon

It’s unfortunate that Teia is the one to find her, better than Viago and worse than Dellamorte. She could accept that Lucanis would go along with her plan, if only because perhaps it will help smooth his rise as First Talon. Eighth Talons are always troublesome, Arainai produces broken children and cruel monsters and naturally the ones who arise above are the latter. Lucanis is a practical man, that much she is sure of, this easy opportunity to steer blame from his allied house and onto one that no one will see a problem with shattering would have been taken.

Teia will take it too, because she loves Viago, but now Cosima will have to be lectured while she is dying.

"I was seven when House Arainai took me? No, six," It is so familiar, to sit in the study of he Eighth Talon, especially covered in blood as she is. It leaks from her lips and she leans slightly to the left to spit on one of the many corpses in the room. "So ten, when they vivisected me and left me for Viago to find, that's when I started planning."

She has killed anyone high enough within the maker damned house to dispute the letters hidden in the secret drawer of the Eighth Talon's desk. An informal contract, the city of Treviso and a chance to steal the seat of the Fifth Talon. Viago will know that it is utter bullshit, Cosima would never work with House Arainai and neither would she lay his death at the feet of another House. That, of course, does not matter it is simply, finally evidence enough for the Arainai to be dealt with.

She is riddled with wounds, nothing she could not recover from with the right help, but then she will be a loose end. A scapegoat to go after instead of the ones who deserve it--Well, she also deserves it, depending on whom one asks but her sins are fresher. Yet, she thinks that hers wouldn't haven been left to fester for two decades like Arainai. It is unfair, life is unfair, so Cosima is taking a dagger to it.

If she dies here it is not a grand mystery who has killed anyone else in this room, fingers will not point to Viago because Teia will break those fingers. Everything will be tied up simply and neatly and House De Riva will be free of her stain. Cosima will go down as Cosima Arainai within the crow histories but she won't be alive to see it. It stings, but she's had worse wounds. The blood leaking from her neck a testament to that.

"Make sure they burn my body separately from this ilk," Her leg spasms, it's the closest she can get to control. A half-hearted kick at the head of the former Eighth Talon, "And give Viago my regards."