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Lux woke slowly, the light streaming through the bedroom window bringing her pleasantly from sleep. She groped blindly across the other side of the bed, disappointed when she found it empty. She opened her eyes as she heard a snicker from somewhere in the room. The bed dipped slightly as Free climbed back in, settling into Lux’s arms until she was so close that a scant movement from Lux would have their lips pressing together. Free quirked an eyebrow slightly and Lux took the invitation with a grin.
It was some time later that the two actually left the solace of their bed. They had a light breakfast nestled together in Lux’s study and Lux took the opportunity to engage in her favourite hobby, staring at Free. It didn’t matter that it had been almost six years since the woman had smashed into her life on the back of a crashing airship and a collapsed sewer. Lux never tired of staring at her. Free only grinned back at her, flipping her hair over her shoulder and pretending to pose causing Lux to laugh.
“So Blondie, what’s our noble governess got on her plate today? Other than admiring your citizens of course.” Free grinned as she once again stepped into Lux’s space, winding her arms around Lux’s waist and pressing her lips to Lux’s cheek. “I think I might have done all the admiring I can handle for the moment, I need to go and check in with a few people about some Silverwing sightings in the nearby villages. See if anyone actually has anything concrete. Other than that it’s just waiting on the next delivery, since it’s due any day now, and making sure the stockhouses are prepared for it.”
Lux punctuated the end of her own sentence by running her hands up Free’s bare arms to her shoulder, past the straps of her shirt. Despite her move to the far colder climate of Demacia, Free still insisted that unless it was raining outside she didn’t need to wear anything more than a tank top and reliable pants. A decision that Lux regularly found herself appreciating.
“How about you, Love?” Lux asked. Free tightened her arms around Lux’s waist sighing contentedly as she responded, “The students are all with Beorn and Clara for the next little bit so I’m gonna go to the workshop and get some stuff done. I know if everything goes well I can crack the conversion matrix today, and then I might be able to start actually testing it.” Lux nodded, tangentially aware that her partner was working on another hand held farming tool, aimed at increasing the efficiency of Terbisia’s farmers so that they could each curate more land.
In the half decade since her proper assimilation into Terbisia, Free had created numerous inventions that had massively eased the lives of her people and allowed the small town to really thrive. Lux was certain that without her girl's brilliant mind she would have had to ask for increased resources from the crown at least a few times.
Resources that likely would not have come without some sacrifices being made. As it was, Lux had only had to return to the capital twice in the last few years, each time for a celebration or meeting with some foreign politicians rather than to beg for favors. The thought made Lux grin widely, once again thinking about how lucky she had truly been that Free had decided to stay when Lux asked her to. And that she decided to stay every day since.
“Alright, Love. I’d better get going, I’ll see you for lunch?” Lux asked, making sure that she and Free were still on for their usual tradition of eating lunch together when they both had the time. “Wouldn’t miss it for the world Blondie, now get outta here or we’ll both be late.” Despite her words it was several seconds before Free unwound her arms from Lux’s waist and the two left the governor’s manor. Hand in hand until their plans drew them in separate directions.
As was usual for the women their lunch ended up with the two working together into the afternoon, with Free planning her experiments in the corner of Lux’s study while the governess looked through trade ledgers, the two enjoying eachothers company in the easy half silence. Soon however there was a knock at the door of Lux’s public office. “Come in,” A guard entered the room and smiled at the two, “Lady Light, Free; there is delivery at the gates. Alongside Garen Crownguard.” Lux started slightly, she was not expecting her brother to visit alongside the delivery. There must have been something requiring her immediate attention in the capital for the king to send someone so important as the Commander of The Dauntless Vanguard without prior warning.
Lux and Free exchanged a look before both standing and making to follow the guard. Lux could see in Free’s eyes that the woman was a little worried but not overly so. Lux smiled slightly at her partner, causing Free to grin back. “It’ll be alright Blondie, Shoulderpads probably just wanted to come say hi.” Lux grinned at the inventor, glad that the woman knew her well enough to help put her mind at ease.
Free was right, whatever it was it couldn’t be too devastating if they had sent Garen. Likely it was simply something that they wanted Lux’s opinion on in terms of mage laws and that her brother had taken the opportunity to come and visit. Lux took a calming breath, and reached out to take Free’s hand again as they walked towards the main gate.
Garen’s huge frame was easy to spot as he helped the guards unload the deliveries. He put down the crate he was carrying to fling his arm into the air when he saw Lux and Free approaching. Lux saw Free wave the hand that wasn’t firmly clasping Lux’s wildly into the air and smiled doing the same. It had been a great relief when the two had gotten along swiftly during their first meeting. Just after Lux’s second elongated trip away from Terbisia after her and Free had started dating, during their second year together.
It was the second time she visited the Great City at the behest of the king within a few months and she had been sure to repeatedly state that she was only willing to stay for a single week. And that if the matter they required her expertise for was not resolved then that was their problem to solve. Garen had inquired why Lux was in such a rush to return when she was usually fairly pliant when needed. And Lux had admitted that she had been romantically engaged with a person in her town for around two years. Naturally when Lux left at the end of the week Garen insisted on coming with her. Eager to meet his sister's paramour.
Thankfully Free had made a good impression on him, her joking demeanour but underside of severity one that Garen had likened to many of the soldiers he knew, something Lux found ironic since the man had no idea how close to the truth that was. The two had bonded surprisingly easily. Garen was fascinated by Free’s inventions and her expertise with technology while Lux was certain that Free simply enjoyed poking fun at her elder brother, and attempting to find out funny stories about Lux’s childhood of course.
Soon the two women were within earshot of Garen, and the guard who had led them to the gate swiftly fell in with the others organising the delivery for appropriate storage. Lux smiled at her brother, “Hello, Garen. It’s good to see you.” The large man smiled down at Lux before moving forward to engulf her in a firm hug. “You too sister. I am glad to see you.” The man released Lux and went to grab Free in the same hug.
A slight blur and Lux felt the air shift behind her as Free hid and Garen laughed. “Yeah yeah, you too Shoulderpads. Say, do these guys need any help, Blondie?” Lux looked up and caught the eyes of the closest guard who shook his head. “We’ve got this well under control, Lady Light. It’ll be ready for your inspection tomorrow.”
Lux smiled, “Thank you, Quinn. Come brother, you must be hungry.” She could feel the phantom weight of her questions hanging over her shoulder. The three entered Lux and Free’s home and Lux laid out some food for Garen, smiling as Free snuck food from the man’s plate whenever he turned away. “So, not that I’m not glad to see you brother but why are you here? Usually we would have received word of your intent to visit.” Free nodded, moving away from Garen’s plate to stand behind Lux resting her chin on her shoulder. Lux smiled to herself, she loved Free’s tactile nature, the way that the woman would always try to stay in contact with Lux whenever possible.
Garen smiled at the display, but the sigh he let out afterwards made Lux worry slightly. “Yes, and I thank you for having me at such short notice. But I am afraid you are correct in your estimations. The king has requested your presence at a meeting with some dignitaries. In fact he has asked for both of you, there is a meeting of Demacia’s foremost scientists and he wishes you.” Here the man nodded to Free who looked decidedly interested in the idea. “To be among them. He has heard of Free’s technical exploits and wishes for a demonstration, perhaps even has an offer for her. I must admit I am a little hazy on the details. But it would involve us leaving ideally tomorrow, or the day after.”
Lux smiled at her brother, the information rolling over in her head. She knew that Terbisia was becoming notorious for their embracing of technology due to Free’s inventions and it was nice to see that acknowledged. And it was nice to know that Free would be with her on this journey, but something about the request niggled. The unnamed foreign dignitaries gave her pause. She turned to Free who was already looking at her. “I see, do you mind giving us some time to discuss this brother?”
“Of course, the king understands that this might be a large request but he is hopeful that you will acquiesce.” Garen settled down to his meal as Free and Lux headed out of the kitchen to an adjacent room. “You alright Blondie?” Free asked, as soon as the door was shut. Her arms found Lux’s waist as Lux wrapped her arms around Free’s neck, pulling her partner as close to her as she could, seeking solace. “Yes, Love. Just nervous. Do you think it has something to do with…” Lux stopped short of explicitly mentioning Free’s past. Aware that Garen was only a room over. “We can always say no,” Lux added.
“I don’t think it’s that deep, Blondie,” Free said. “At least I doubt we’d be getting a nice invitation if it was. And you know we shouldn’t say no. You’ve said it yourself that it’s good for Terbisia for us to jump when they ask us to.” Free moved a hand to cup Lux’s chin, and Lux stared into those gorgeous purple eyes, glimmering with concern for her.
Her heart sang for a moment, she loved how well Free knew her. “You’re right, love. But Terbisia is doing better now than it ever has. We’re thriving with more mages coming in as well as your inventions. Plus the laws that I was worried about back then have already been sorted out. Terbisia is in a safe place. If you don’t want to go we don’t have to..”
Lux knew that it was an unlikely argument, that there really was likely nothing untoward with the request. But the idea of Free being in danger was disturbing for her. “Hey,” Lux felt Free brush her cheek with her thumb. “It’ll be alright, Blondie. Worst comes to worst we can leave whenever we like. But it’s not worth pissing off His Fanciness. And if he weren’t also asking for me you’d go.” Lux knew that Free was right, after all she had been back to the Great City numerous times in the past. “And hey, I get it, Blondie. I hate the idea of you being in danger as well. But we’ll be together.” Lux nodded, knowing that Free was right leaning further into Free’s hand.
“I know, I’m sorry love. I just worry.” Free smiled, and Lux found her eyes drawn down to her partner's lips. Lux leant forward and closed the gap between the two of them in a soft kiss. When they separated Free grinned goofily and Lux found herself calming down further.
“Seriously, Blondie. I think it’ll be fine. But also, if you don’t wanna do it. Then we ain’t doing it.” Lux smiled at the flippant tone in Free’s voice. Knowing that she meant it, Free would have her back whatever Lux decided. “Well then, sounds like we’re going on a trip, Love.” Free grinned even wider.
“Sounds like fun, Blondie. And what’s the chances of it actually being anyone who could recognise me anyway. Pretty sure half of Piltover never even saw me other than my ugly ass wanted posters.” Lux smiled slightly, appreciating the woman’s joke for what it was and pulling Free in for another kiss. Knowing that Garen would give them time and that they could both use the grounding for the moment.
But she also knew that Free was right, there couldn’t be that many people who might recognise her from half a decade ago. And that was even on the off chance that anyone from Piltover was there. Since they hadn’t exactly been on the world stage last time Lux was in the capital, and Demacia was hardly a fan of a place that used magic so flippantly, even if attitudes had been changing. Lux was certain that it would be fine.
_______
Caitlyn stepped through the low doorway out of her and Vi’s quarters with a stoop. They had been aboard the airship for a few days now, and the woman was beginning to get used to bowing her head in deference to door frames and low ceilings. It was, annoyingly, not a problem that either of her companions had suffered from as of yet. A fact that Vi had reminded her of repeatedly and with great amusement.
It was entering the main galley that Caitlyn found the shorter woman. She had a slightly downturned expression and was staring out one of the windows at the ground rushing by beneath them. Caitlyn took a moment to take in the set of her lover’s shoulders, the slight tension running through them as the redhead flexed her fingers unconsciously, tightening her hands into fists before releasing them.
The years of relative peace had been good to Vi, Caitlyn thought, with the few fights they had been involved in being against low level chem barons or the few remaining flares of Silco’s rebellion that weren’t happy even with the council’s recognition of Zaun, and inclusion of Sevika and then Ekko on the council itself. The woman had softened slightly, no longer all harsh edges and sharp eyes. Time away from constant struggle had allowed her to blossom.
But Caitlyn could tell that something was bothering her love, and she could hazard a guess as to what it was. After all this mission was Vi’s first time away from Piltover since the Noxian Invasion. And Caitlyn understood from the few things Vi had shared that it was something that was achingly reminding her of her sister. With quick steps, deliberately loudened so as not to cause her partner to flinch at sudden contact Caitlyn approached. Vi turned from her gazing out the window to look askance at the woman. “Are you alright Violet?” Caitlyn asked, holding an arm out in invitation.
The shorter woman took the invitation easily, sliding her hand into Caitlyn’s. “I’m alright, just thinking about her.” Caitlyn stayed quiet but squeezed Vi’s hand. She could tell that the other had more to say. “She told me once that she always wanted to ride in one of these. And I don’t even know if she ever got to.” Caitlyn squeezed Vi’s hand again. It was always difficult when the woman got lost in the memories of her sister, in the guilt of everything that happened between them.
It always felt a little like Caitlyn was stepping on someone's grave, in some way disrespecting something. Although perhaps that was simply that Caitlyn could imagine just how much Jinx would hate how much Caitlyn now knew about her. “Do you count that big balloon of hers?” Caitlyn asked with a trace of humour in her tone, she could tell that Vi would benefit more from distraction now than anything else. Vi exhaled a soft laugh, “Yeah, maybe. What do you need anyway, you’ve got that look in your eyes like something needs doing.” Caitlyn smiled, Vi was right.
She had heard from the captain that they would be docking sometime just before nightfall, which meant it was as good a time as any to go over the terms of their mission. “Right as usual, Violet. I figured we would have a debrief. Ekko is already ready.” Vi winced slightly at the mention of Ekko, and Caitlyn couldn’t help but feel sorry for her partner. She supposed it was better that Ekko had joined them than Sevika, but sadly as this was a council mission it required the presence of a Piltovan council member, and a Zaunite one. A rule that had been instated shortly after the Unification. When trust between the two sides of the council was still difficult to come by.
Caitlyn was glad that the council had included Sevika and later Ekko. It meant that she was no longer the only person arguing for undercity causes after she had taken up her mothers seat. But she knew that there was little love lost between Vi and ‘Little Man’ these days. The two could be cordial. Capable of working together when necessary, but it was a far cry from the easy camaraderie that Caitlyn knew Vi had hoped for when she had heard that the Firelight’s Leader would be taking a place on the council. More likely to tend towards sniping and bitter remarks when the two were left alone.
“Alright,” Vi said, taking a second to watch the ocean continue to race by through the glass of the airship window, “Let’s get on with it.” The two walked into the store room that had been converted into a small meal room for the three. Ekko was already sat at the makeshift table, leafing through some papers. He spared the two a look as they sat down, clearly willing to let Caitlyn take the lead.
“Right,” She began, picking up the pieces of paper that properly summarised what the council had agreed to be the limit of their terms. “I know that we all know most of this, but this is still a necessary formality. We’re heading to Demacia, I’m sure you both know that it’s not a country that Piltover has had many dealings with. This is because up until about 5 years ago they were staunchly anti-magic and regressive. This changed during their civil war.”
“They have become more accepting of both magic and technology, at least legally. Although our insider sources say that the social acceptance is a little slower, especially among the nobles. The Council wants us to use this new acceptance of technology to open trade routes, but also to attempt to establish a beneficial knowledge sharing infrastructure.”
“Effectively, The Council is willing to offer free Academy education to any aspiring Demacian inventors and scholars. In exchange for training and information about Noxian war efforts. Demacia has been at war with Noxus for a very long time and their information could prove invaluable for protecting Piltover from another attack. This offer has already been communicated to the King of Demacia, Jarvan Lightshield IV. And he has sworn to bring a suitable crop of inventors to the capital for us to meet.”
Caitlyn looked at the other two who looked to be engaged if a little disinterested, as she thought she was simply repeating information that the two already knew. “I have two possible points of personal contact, The Crownguard Siblings. I was close with them when I stayed in Demacia briefly before my parents settled in Piltover.”
“I believe that the elder sibling, Garen, is stationed in Demacia’s Great City as part of his duties to the Dauntless Vanguard. Which is Demcia’s foremost military force. The younger sister, Luxanna, is unlikely to be in attendance as she is currently the governess of a small town in the reaches of the country. So it’s fairly unlikely we will see her unless her town happens to put forward an inventor. A shame really, I always found her very agreeable company.” Caitlyn took a moment to think about the year she spent in Demacia with her parents, a year full of posturing and gala appearances. And sent a moment of thanks to her parents for their decision to relocate to Piltover.
“The reason we are actually having this meeting is so that I can tell you both this. Do not be fooled by Demacia’s appearances, as a culture they appreciate strength, honour, loyalty, and integrity. But their politicians and nobles are some of the most conniving you will meet. Do not make any agreements, by word or deed, unless you are sure that they fall within the remit of the council's offer. Do not -”
“With respect Caitlyn,” Ekko interrupted, voice slightly warm with humour. “We already know this, it was covered in the meeting before we set out. And you said it yourself, we’ve already made that offer to the King. I think our visit is a little more ceremonial than you’re making it sound. The council really just wants us to see if any of the inventors actually have any promise. That’s why they asked the two of us to go. Since it’s no secret that the rest of them couldn’t make ashes with a lighter. Except maybe Sevika and there’s no way they’ll let her around foreign politicians.”
The man chuckled to himself and Caitlyn found herself grinning. In spite of his strained relationship with her partner she did appreciate Ekko’s directness. “Yes, Ekko. I suppose you’re right.” Caitlyn allowed a slight edge to come to her voice, just enough to be noticeable as a joke. “I apologise for wasting your time, I’m sure you had far more important things to do aboard this small metal box with nothing on it.” The man grinned again at her, nodding. “Alright, fair point. Do we have any information on the people we will actually be meeting beyond these Crownguard siblings?”
At this Vi sat up slightly, picking up a sheaf of papers from atop a nearby crate. “This is what we’ve got.” The woman said, passing them out. “Pretty much none of them have ever actually visited Piltover, so the wardens don’t have much on them. But a few of their businesses extend to our side of Runeterra. So have a read.” Caitlyn accepted the papers from her partner gladly.
She knew that Vi had been pleased to actually be able to do something of use for this mission rather than being Caitlyn’s glorified arm candy and possible fight back up. And to be honest she was as curious as Ekko as to what Vi’s Warden’s might know about various Demacian political figures. The three resigned themselves to a final day of theorising and information sharing. Each determined to be as prepared as possible going into this mission.
Despite the occasionally tense atmosphere whenever Ekko or Vi said something that hit a little too close to their shared past the day passed quickly. Vi hadn’t been wrong, there was not much information available. But between Caitlyn’s knowledge of the culture, Vi’s papers and Ekko’s sceptical thinking they managed to put together a fairly comprehensive image of what they would likely be walking into. Just in time for them to hear the airships engines switch to a lower run as they approached the Demacian docking ports.
The three separated to go and prepare, Vi and Caitlyn to their shared quarters and Ekko to his own in order to get properly dressed and prepare their belongings. “Do we really need to be so careful about agreements and stuff, Cupcake?” Vi asked as they packed. Caitlyn stopped a moment and looked at her partner.
Vi seemed more curious than anything else but Caitlyn was happy to share her knowledge. “Yes, Demacians take the word of bond very seriously. Anything you agree to they will act as though you have made a binding promise. Provided that it benefits them of course. It isn’t like home where there will be a second phase of agreement.”
Vi nodded thoughtfully. “Alright, well I suppose I’ll be careful. And try not to end up without you at my back, just like our old missions?” Caitlyn smiled and nodded, glad but unsurprised that Vi was willing to take her warning seriously. She finished packing her bag and stepped forward to capture Vi’s hands in her own.
“Exactly, Violet. We’re heading into enemy territory.” She said with a grin, enjoying the way her partner's eyes seemed to flash as they caught hers. Vi grinned and leant forward to kiss her. “Well then good job I’ve got such good backup.” Caitlyn returned the kiss, happy to luxuriate in the affection until the ship landed.
It was about twenty minutes later that she felt the bump of the ship touching down, and stood to exit. They had been told that their bags would be dealt with by the crew although they had all taken the liberty of keeping their very personal belongings on them. They were greeted by a ceremonial force of very fancily armoured Demacian Knights and two well dressed nobles.
“Greetings honoured guests,” The man who, based on the number of medals on his dress uniform, was in charge said. “I am Shield-Sergeant Carrus. We hope that you will enjoy your stay in our great country. You will see that a carriage has been organised for you, and the King is awaiting your arrival.”
The carriage doors were opened by the knights and The Piltovan contingent entered as did the Shield-Sergeant who had spoken originally. The conversation flowed somewhat easily, the Shield-Sergeant eagerly pointing out notable things that could be seen from the window of their carriage in response to questions from the tourists. Caitlyn smiled seeing Vi’s curiosity at being in a new place. Especially one so different as Demacia. Her beloved’s eyes were sparking with wonder and her head was twisting in every direction.
Soon the carriage was pulling up to the large, white bricked, palace outside of the main city. With the Shield-Sergeant having a brief conversation with one of the guards the carriage was guided easily into the palace compound. After being briefly shown to their rooms the Piltovans were brought before the king. Caitlyn smiled up at the younger man on the throne, she had heard that Demacia’s king was young but to see him in the flesh and realise he was only her age hammered it home. Nevertheless the man cut a powerful figure, his ceremonial robes and crown lending a level of severity to him.
The man stood, walking slowly down the small dias his throne was placed upon. “Councillors, it is wonderful to finally have delegates from your fine city to taste our hospitality. I hope your journey was pleasant.” Here the man stopped a scant few feet in front of Caitlyn and the others, a half smile upon his face. “Please, we have laid out some food in preparation for your arrival, we may talk more there.” Before he turned, and flanked by a singular guard in sparkling armour walked confidently from the room expecting to be followed.
It was during the meal, when the small talk was completed; and each member had remarked upon the ease of their respective journey, the fairness of the weather, or their excitement at the forthcoming festivities. That King Jarvan turned to Caitlyn, “So Councillor Kirraman, I hear that this is not your first time in our country. In fact I suspect we may have met before however briefly.”
Caitlyn smiled at the king, surprised at how genuine her reaction was. Despite all his military bluster the King had an air of decency and honesty about him that she hadn’t been expecting. “You heard right, Your Highness, although I am certain that I would remember such a meeting had it occurred. But yes, I spent about a year here in my youth before my parents returned to take over the Kirraman business in Piltover.”
The man smiled, seemingly nostalgic. Caitlyn suddenly remembered the events that had forced Jarvan Lightshield IV into power, and was struck with the fact that perhaps his relative youth was as much a burden to him as her own had been when she had been thrust into a similar position. “Yes indeed you are right, we didn’t meet when you were here. Although I heard that you were close with both Luxanna and Garen. Who were friends of mine at the time. Until our duties drew us apart.” Caitlyn nodded, taking the offered topic.
“That’s true, I was hoping to see them both while I was here. But I hear that Lux is a little further afield these days.” Caitlyn said, she could see out of the corner of her eye that Vi had begun to refill her plate and that Ekko was looking sorely tempted himself and stifled a laugh. Even when trying to be on her best behaviour Vi would never turn down food. Caitlyn took a small bite of her own food, nodding in appreciation when the King arched a brow at her as if to ensure it was still to her liking.
“Yes, that’s true.” Jarvan IV said, filling his own fork before he continued. “However, you may get your wish after all. There have been stories of a most skilled inventor coming out of Terbisia, that’s the town over which Lux presides, for some time. When I knew you were coming seeking skilled individuals I had Garen ride out to request their presence. I am hoping they shall arrive in the following few days. In the meantime there are a number of inventors already in the city walls each of whom would be delighted to have your interest in their work. I am hoping you will be settled and ready to meet them by afternoon tomorrow? The kitchens have been put to work on a meal I am sure will be divine.”
Jarvan looked across the three, who shared a glance before Ekko spoke. “I think that will be possible, your Highness. And thank you again for the effort you have taken in this matter. I can speak for all of Piltover when I say we are extremely grateful.” The royal nodded, satisfied.
“Then I shall allow you time to settle, and I look forward to seeing you all at dinner tomorrow. Many of the leaders of the towns that have produced these hopefuls are excited to meet with you. For now I shall leave you to your meal. Should anything be dissatisfactory, please just ask. You are deeply honoured guests of both myself, and my country.” With that the King stood, leaving the room at the same easy pace as before. The door closing behind him, and the three being left alone.
“Well that’s good that your friend might be coming, Cupcake.” Vi remarked through a mouthful. Ekko snorted, “Yeah, and we’ve been invited to get to know every politician and noble that we’ll be disappointing when their engineers aren’t even worth the ride back home.” The man seemed perturbed, ignoring Vi’s glare.
“Seriously, I understand that they’ve not had politicians from Piltover visit before but he didn’t even mention what they’d be doing for us.” The man continued. Vi huffed slightly, taking another bite from her plate. “Course they didn’t Ekko. The entire point of this mission is for us to start building trust with the Demacians. They already think we’re a bunch of greedy businessmen without morals. Us doing something for them without immediately talking about what we want in return is kind of the point. Isn’t that right, Cupcake.”
Caitlyn smothered her sigh, she supposed that three days in close confines aboard the ship had been more of each other's company than the two could handle. “Neither of you are wrong. But nevertheless. We’re already here, let’s go and unpack. I don’t know about you both, but I’m excited to sleep in a proper bed tonight.”
Ekko nodded and stood, Vi following suit after pocketing another few bread rolls from the spread on the table. There was a guard waiting just outside the door, and Caitlyn took a moment to hope that they hadn’t been overhead as they were shown back to their quarters and told that if they wished to take a ride into the capital a coach was prepped for them whenever they desired.
As soon as the two were alone Vi turned to Caitlyn. “I know what you’re going to say.” The woman said, moving to the window of their room. They had been placed on the third floor, in a turret of the guest wing of the east house. Supposedly it was a position of high honour for some reason that Caitlyn couldn’t remember right now. “You think I should stop letting Ekko get to me so easy.” Vi continued, her expression turning mulish even as the sunlight dappled across her tattooed cheek.
Caitlyn smothered a reflexive sigh, she and Vi had had this discussion before. And truth be told, Caitlyn would feel a lot more comfortable weighing in on her partner's side if she at least understood what the problem was. “I’ve said before love, I understand that something happened between you two. And you know I’d never ask you to give up defending what you think to be right. But as it is, I need to maintain good relations with him.”
Vi grunted, seeming to weigh something up in her mind. Caitlyn wondered if four days of travel in close company, with a few more days of faux companionship with the man was finally enough to make Vi spill whatever it was that bothered her about her once-friend.
“He blames me for Jinx.” Vi admitted, out in a single rushed breath as though the words had been physically beaten out of her. “After the battle we talked, I found out some more about what things had been like while I was in Stillwater. And I told him about why Jinx became Jinx. Of why it was my fault.” Vi’s face crumpled and Caitlyn crossed the distance between them to wrap her arms around Vi, pulling the woman's head into the crook between her shoulder and chin.
“I asked that he consider putting up a statue, next to the one of Vander. For her. I know it wouldn’t have gone over that well topside but, she was a hero in the end. He denied it without even talking to me. That was our first argument. I said some things I regret. He said some things too. Like the fact that I didn’t really understand how bad Jinx had been for the undercity, before she became their hero, that I didn’t understand. But I still don’t, not really. He forgave her, gave her another chance. But he can’t do the same for me.”
“I’m sure it’s not that simple love.” Caitlyn said, her mind spinning with this new information, but there was one thing she was certain of. “I am sure that there is only one person in the whole of the world that blames you for what Jinx chose to do. And it’s the woman in front of me now. What happened to you and Jinx was no-one's fault but the people who pressed their boots onto the undercities' neck to line their own pockets. Whether that be the corrupt wardens, Silco, or anyone else. You were both just children Violet. I am certain that while you may both have your disagreements, that is not the source of Ekko’s anger.”
“Who wouldn’t blame me, Cait.” Vi sighed against her lover's shoulder. “Almost everything that Jinx did was my fault, all the people she hurt while I was rotting in that cage. And even after that. Even her death is my fault. I think that’s what he really blames me for. That she died saving me. If I just hadn-”
“Violet,” Caitlyn interrupted, placing her hand softly on the woman’s cheek and tilting her head to meet Caitlyn’s eyes. “I understand your guilt, believe me I do. The things I allowed to happen when we parted ways still haunt me, the people who were forced to lay down their lives to fend off the wolf I opened our gates for. But you must know it is just you that feels it. No one could blame you for any of that, not then, nor now.”
“Even Jinx forgave you in the end did she not? Even as she chose to save you, she forgave you.” It had been some time until Vi had been ready to speak to Caitlyn about what had happened inside the Hex Gates while she was fighting Ambessa with Mel. And even now it was a subject not easily broached. But Caitlyn couldn’t bear to see her love torturing herself so viciously.
“Maybe…” Vi said, her forehead thudding lightly back into Caitlyn’s shoulder. The taller woman sighed and wrapped her arms tightly around her partner. From muffled within her hold Vi’s voice, trembling so slightly that Cait would think she was imagining it if she couldn’t feel it in her lover's back. “Do you blame me?”
Vi asked, and Caitlyn felt her blood freeze. Had Vi truly harboured this doubt all these years? Had Caitlyn truly been so remiss in sharing her feelings with the holder of her heart? It felt as though her response was vomited up from the depths of her very soul. “Never!” Caitlyn choked, throat closing around a burning feeling that sprung tears to her remaining eye in seconds.
“Violet,” Caitlyn deliberately softened her voice, knowing that, while passion would have its place in convincing her love of her truthfulness, it was gentleness that would always win out between the two of them. “Please look at me when I say this.” She requested, moving her arms slightly to allow Violet to peek up at her without fully losing the contact Caitlyn was sure they both needed at this moment.
“I have never, and I will never blame you for anything your sister did. Nor will I blame you for anything that happened back then. Frankly I do not even think I can blame your sister wholly for her actions. Not knowing what I now know of the forces that conspired to keep the undercity down from far before even our births. It was not us who built the systems we were forced to dismantle. It was not you who put a gun in Jinx’s hand no more than it was you who put a gun in mine. And I know that no conversation can absolve you of the sins you feel. But please know it is just you who expects you to carry them. But as for me Violet.”
Caitlyn drew in another steadying breath, choosing to ignore the sharp pang at the back of her throat that reminded her how close she was to tears. “I forgive you. For anything you feel you have ever done to wrong me, for any hurt you feel you have caused me I forgive you. And please know that as I look at you now. I could not name a single one of them. I could only name the thousand loves I have for you. And all the ways you have dragged me from my own darkness. I can only hope that one day you will see yourself as I see you. And you will know how utterly I love you.”
Caitlyn fell silent, allowing herself to focus her attention back fully onto Vi’s face. To see the shock and hope in the woman’s steel grey eyes. She saw the way Vi’s throat bobbed as the woman swallowed harshly, “How did I ever get so lucky?” Vi seemed to murmur to herself before her rough hand gently wrapped around the back of Caitlyn’s neck and pulled her into a soft kiss.
Caitlyn allowed herself to be pulled in, knowing that Vi wanted physical reassurance in that moment. When the kiss ended Vi spoke again, “What would I ever do without you, Cupcake?” Caitlyn smiled slightly. She knew that one conversation couldn’t fix things, certainly not between Vi and Ekko. But seeing the light return to Vi’s eyes was good enough for her.
“Doubtless no better than I would ever fare without you Violet. Now, shall we get changed and go and explore this fine city we find ourselves in? After all, it is not until tomorrow that anyone is expecting us.” Vi grinned back at her nodding. The two spend a few more moments in their shared embrace before they separated. “You read my mind, Cupcake. I’m excited to see more of this place, and it’ll be cool to meet this Lux lady when she arrives. His Majesty said they’d be a few days right? Does everyone just travel on horseback around here?”
Caitlyn smiled, appreciating the effort Vi was putting in to distract her after their heavy conversation. “It certainly does seem so doesn’t it. Would you ever want to try it, love?” Vi made a face, “No thanks cupcake. Zaunites and animals don’t mix. And I definitely don’t trust anything that big.” Caitlyn snickered, the idea of Vi being afraid of a horse a decidedly amusing one. But she supposed she could understand the woman’s trepidation. There weren’t exactly a lot of friendly animals down in the undercity. And certainly no horses.
_______
Lux smothered another laugh as Free grumbled into her ear. The woman had never taken well to horse riding despite Lux’s repeated lessons, insisting that anything ‘with a front end, a back end and evil intentions in the middle’ couldn’t be trusted to be ridden. However, Lux couldn’t find it in herself to be too upset when it led to Free’s arms wrapped so tightly around her waist and her breath on the shell of her ear. Even if Lux’s ears were starting to grow a little tired of the constant grumblings of soreness and the superiority of chemtech engines that accompanied the warm puffs of breath.
Up ahead on his own horse Garen chuckled as Free let out a louder grumble as the horse jolted forward slightly. “It is shocking you haven’t developed an appreciation for the fine stallion in your time in Demacia, Free.” The man called back, a joke in his tone. Lux felt Free rear up behind her and found herself smiling as the two began to argue lightheartedly. It always did her heart good to see Free and her brother getting on. Gladdening to watch someone see the same wonder and life in the woman that she did.
As the countryside passed slowly beside her, and her lover and brother’s joyful barbs and laughter filled the silence of the wilds. Lux found her thoughts wandering to the woman who had lit up so much of her life in their time together. Even just after they had first met, when Free had first moved into town, and Lux had found herself cautiously navigating a relationship unlike any she had had before.”
“There had been something wild in the way Lux felt around Free. The way the woman just seemed to understand her, it felt like it was something that they had both been through. To know the feeling of a destiny that you didn’t understand but that you felt ceaselessly driven towards. Like it had left some indelible mark on each woman that had allowed them to recognise each other even upon their first meeting.
But Lux supposed that it was more than that. They both knew the weight of doing things that they weren’t proud of, but would do again if they had to. Even beyond their individual pasts though, Free made Lux feel understood. But unlike others who made her feel the same way, it didn’t leave a bad taste lingering in the back of her throat.”
“There was no emotionless weight of expectation like from her mother and aunt, or the foul feeling that crawled along her spine when Sylas had looked through her in those cells below the Great City. None of that from Free, instead whenever the girl proved to Lux just how well she knew her it simply caused a flood of love and admiration that felt like it started in the base of her chest and surged through her limbs.
But sometimes; when Lux was called away to the capital, or when Free’s own inventions called her to her workshop for days on end in a mad spree of work. Lying alone in bed, the thought would cross her mind. The idea that it was only her that felt this innate understanding. That Free was simply going along with Lux until she got bored.
The woman was surprisingly closed off with her emotions for someone who seemed so expressive, and sometimes Lux worried that the girl would eventually realise that Lux, and Terbisia, were shackles around her ankles rather than something she wanted. After all, thought Lux, the girl had named herself Free. Lux knew without a doubt that if Free ever felt like Lux's arms around her had become a jail cell rather than an embrace. The girl would be gone the next day.
Perhaps that was why Lux was so afraid as they got within eyesight of the Great City. She could feel the anxiety curdling in her gut, souring her mood. Even as Free and Garen’s discussion got more and more ridiculous. Lux felt her anxiety grow, the possibilities of what might be coming as they neared the city growing more dangerous and hurtful.
From Free being dragged away from her in chains to her being forced to choose between the girl and Terbisia, to the girl simply walking away from her by choice. She took a deep breath and leant backwards. Almost unconsciously seeking the warmth and weight of Free behind her, who tightened her grip around Lux in response.
It seemed like less than a moment later that Free interrupted the near constant chatter that had been going between her and Garen to say, "Say Shoulderpads, are the guards expecting us? I don't imagine His Majesty wants us staying in an Inn while we're here at his invite. Me and Lux will stay here while you ride ahead and let the guards know. That way he knows we're coming."
For a moment Garen seemed like he would disagree, but with a glance at Lux he decided against it. Instead he nodded. "An intelligent plan, Free. I shall be an hour there and an hour back at the least." He announced with airs, causing Lux to smile. It didn't matter how long he spent among the court, her brother was a terrible liar. But she appreciated what he was doing.
As soon as Garen was away Lux felt Free's hands roam over her shoulders, tugging slightly. She felt Free dismount behind her and did the same, quickly lashing the stallion's reins to a branch. As soon as she was done she turned and saw Free patting a small stretch of grass by the roadside. Lux sat and soon found herself with a lapful of Free.
The girl angled Lux's face to gaze into her eyes for a second before she asked. "Alright Blondie, what's got you all in a knot." Lux laughed slightly at the phrasing but stopped when she saw the serious set of Free's brow. "I'm fine love," she tried to say, not wanting to worry Free who she was sure must be having her own anxieties about their trip. Lux didn’t want to burden the woman even as the love and care shining in Free’s eyes almost made her spill her guts.
The blue haired girl snorted, "yeah sure, you've gotta wake up earlier than that to pull one over on me." Lux grinned at the girl's irreverent tone. “Now, what's wrong?" Free continued. Lux sighed slightly as Free shifted off her lap to lean against a nearby trunk and guide Lux into laying her head in her lap. Lux inhaled deeply, Free's scent of oil and smoke calming her mind. "Sorry Love," she said. "I'm just worried about how things will go. I don't want you to get hurt."
Free smiled down at Lux, bowing her head to press a kiss to her forehead. “Don’t worry that pretty head of yours, nothing like that is gonna happen. They couldn’t drag me away from you, Blondie.” Lux smiled as the girl's words washed away some of the worry. But something stayed with her, even as their conversation turned lighthearted in the afternoon sun, Free quizzing Lux about worthwhile spots to visit in the Great City. After all, it wasn’t Free being dragged away that haunted her. It was Free walking away, head held high.
Contrary to what he had said it was only about an hour and a half later that the tell-tale sounds of hooves approached and Garen’s voice called out to the two women. “I have news,” he proclaimed as he drew alongside the clearing in which the two women sat. “We shall be just in time for the dignitaries' meal, I imagine His Majesty will want you to join Lux. Our belongings will be looked after until the meal has concluded when we shall be shown to our accommodation.”
Lux smiled at her brother, "I am sure that will be lovely, thank you brother. I suppose we should get on the move then." She looked to Free who nodded. Shortly they were back on horseback, this time Lux did join in with the banter as they rode towards their destination. It was as they were in sight of the guards that Lux realised something she needed to check with Free, inclining her head slightly she turned and felt the woman behind her lean forward to bring her ear next to Lux's lips.
"I love you, Free"
Free tightened her arms around Lux and said "I love you too Blondie. We'll be just fine you'll see." Lux smiled and nodded as Free sat back pressing a kiss to her hair. Soon the gates of The Great City were upon them. Their horses were deposited at the stables and a carriage was drawn up that would take them the rest of the way to the Palace. "How come we can't just ride all the way up?" Free asked, confused.
"Since the assassination of His Majesty King Jarvan III palace security has become much more severe." Garen responded as their carriage set off. "Now the only acceptable way to approach is in one of these carriages, they carry a special emblem on their roof so that the archers overseeing the Palace Bar's can know who is coming and going." Free nodded clearly somewhat bemused still but accepting of the reasoning.
The woman then proceeded to entertain herself for the remainder of the journey by asking Garen to describe and define everything and anything that she saw outside the windows of the carriage. Lux found it particularly amusing when Free would point out each individual statue of Kayle and ask specifically for each who “The chick with the wings was?” no matter how little time it had been since Garen had finished his last explanation.
Eventually, much to Garen’s vocal appreciation, the carriage arrived at the palace and they were greeted by an officious looking man in dress robes. He was wearing the ranks and trappings of high administration and nodded at the party officiously. “Lord Crownguard, Lady Luxanna I trust your journey was not too difficult.” The man said, seemingly content to ignore Free entirely.
“Please, follow me and I shall bring you to the officiants dinner. The inventor you brought will have to stay behind of course but I shan’t imagine that will be a problem.” Lux wasn’t entirely sure how the man managed to pronounce inventor with a tone that was so hauntingly familiar to the many discussions of magic that Lux had heard in these very walls in her youth but she was unwilling to allow it to stand. “Actually,” She interrupted, "that is my partner Free.” The man seemed to double take, glancing between Lux and Free before his expression settled into a curt kind of authority.
“My apologies my lady, the day's events are for noble's and families only.” Immediately Lux saw the man's ploy, but had no choice but to acknowledge it. It wouldn’t do to be caught in anything even closely resembling a lie within the palace, especially not to a member of the royal administration. “Of course, understandable.” She admitted through teeth that she had to fight to keep from gritting, certain that her politician’s smile was growing more and more snarl like as she spoke. The man seemed to sigh, a put-upon air of disappointment gracing his features. “Oh I see, my apologies My Lady. As I said, your inventor will not be able to accompany you to the events. It is noble families only after all, regardless of … dalliance.” Lux heard Garen take a breath, and could see in the entourage's eyes that he understood that he had taken the words too far.
But Lux knew not to disregard such a powerful political opportunity just to sate her anger. “Give me and my brother some time with My inventor then. We shall summon you when we are ready to make our appearance.” The man nodded, his smug smile falling into a grimace as he exited to await on the other side of the door. She turned to Free, desperately hoping that the woman wouldn’t have taken offence to the man’s dismissal of their relationship.
Instead she found the woman looking at her smugly. Lux was confused for a moment before the other woman opened her mouth and with a slight tilt of her eyebrows said “Your Inventor huh, Blondie?” A blush blossomed on Lux’s face as Garen coughed. Nevertheless Lux could appreciate Free breaking the tension and allowed herself to lean forward and plant a kiss on the woman. “Of course, my love. And I’m sorry about him.”
Free shrugged slightly, seeming singularly untroubled, “It’s all good, Blondie. I didn’t really wanna go to that fancy dinner anyway. I reckon I’ll go find these other inventors that are apparently swanning about and see if anyone around here actually has anything approaching a brain.” Lux smiled, glad that Free hadn’t taken the man’s put downs to heart and nodded. She slipped a hand into Free’s and said, “alright, Love. Have fun, I’m sure we can get our…. Helper…. To point you in the right direction.” Free chuckled slightly, squeezing Lux’s hand.
Free took a moment to throw her satchel over her shoulder, “I might as well bring some tools if I'm going to play.” She commented as Lux nodded with amusement well used to Free's insistence on carrying her tools with her whenever possible. When the blue haired woman was ready Lux reopened the door through which the administrative worker had gone. She found the man standing at attention just on the other side of the room. “What room is the dignitaries meal in?” She questioned in a sharp voice, channeling the anger she still felt at the man's words.
“The Protectors Wings Dining Hall, My Lady.” The man responded, his already ramrod spine straightening further. “Very good,” Lux said, “my brother and I are well capable of making our way there alone, you shall guide My Inventor to where the others are. I assume that she is not the only inventor barred from these proceedings?” Lux questioned with an artfully raised brow deploying every inch of nobleman's condescension she had learned in her childhood.
“Of course, My Lady. No, My Lady.” The man stumbled slightly, clearly caught off guard by the change in Lux's demeanour but far too aware of his recent overstep to question it. Lux nodded, walking past the man followed by Garen. “Very good, see you later Free.” She bid farewell to her love who was grinning widely at the administrators discomfort clearly planning to prod the wound some as he showed her to where on the grounds the inventors had been allowed to stay.
Feeling somewhat mollified Lux set off towards the Protectors Wing of the palace. Garen on her heels, waited a moment before he spoke. “Pardon if this is out of turn sister. But it seems that you were more bothered by that man's insults than Free was. You must have known your relationship would receive this kind of welcome.” Lux sighed, while she acknowledged the truth in her brother's words that did not mean she welcomed them.
“What doesn't bother Free does not bother me.” She settled on saying, though not before she swung her head to ensure that she and her brother were alone. Garen hummed thoughtfully, “But you wish it? That the two of you would be wed.” He asked, laying a large hand on Lux’s shoulder, Lux sighed again. “I wish for Free to be happy. And she has never broached the topic.” She said, by way of ending the conversation. But she was certain of the truth. Free likely viewed marriage the same way that Lux had once learnt to as a Demacian Lady, a yoke around her neck.
It was mere youthful fancy that had Lux occasionally daydreaming about how good Free would look in traditional white garb. A stubborn holdover from a childhood of stories of princes and damsels. But Lux was perfectly happy without it as long as it pleased Free. And Free was never one to be shy about her wants, be that a position teaching the children, a proper separate building for her engineer, or even when she had asked that they begin sleeping in one of the smaller rooms as the size of the master bedroom made her uncomfortable when waking from the nightmares that plagued her. But Free had never once mentioned a desire to be married.
Garen seemed to sense that further comment on the topic would be unwelcome so stayed silent as they continued walking through the palace, the occasional guard or servant would gaze at the two before recognising them and allowing them to continue. There were few Demacians who did not recognise either Crownguard sibling alone and less that would not recognise them together, specially with Garen in his ceremonial armour and Lux with her staff at her back.
Combined with their prior knowledge of the layout of the palace it was a short time before the siblings came to the Protector’s Wing and introduced themselves to the guards standing at the grandiose ceremonial entrance. “Greetings honoured Guards,” Garen called, performing the traditional Demacian military salute of clashing his gauntleted fist against his breastplate. The guards at the large double breasted doors mirrored his action.
The doors were enormous, the Protector’s Wing being famously large enough that a mounted Silverwing Knight would not need to stoop to enter. At the door stood three of the King’s Protectorate who, Lux imagined, Garen could likely identify by name as Demacian military heroes uplifted from his own Vanguard to the honour of guarding the royal palace. Nevertheless the guards were steadfast in their duty, offering nothing further than a curt nod and a pointed direction towards the festivities as they heaved the enormous wooden doors open.
As soon as the doors opened Lux could hear the sound of music and talking echoing down from the Wing’s banquet hall and began mentally preparing herself for a day at court, she was unsure exactly who she would be entertaining but her brother had mentioned dignitaries, which could be anyone from a collection of Demacian Governors and Trades Leaders to the lord and king of every country from The Great City to Noxus. Lux sucked in a calming breath as she allowed herself to fully sink into the role of Governess Luxanna of Terbisia. Only to be interrupted as she heard Garen shift slightly beside her. “Sister, I have something to admit. Although it is a good admittance I swear it.” Lux stopped walking and fixed Garen with a look.
The man sighed, “I shouldn’t have said anything at all but I know how you feel about surprises.” Lux simply lifted a brow and waited for the man to continue. To his credit Garen looked as though successfully holding in any kind of secret for the prior two days since he had arrived in Terbisia had been a feat of monumental will and fortitude but Lux was inclined to give her brother very little credit at the moment.
“One of the visiting dignitaries is Caitlyn Kirraman, she requested that if possible she should like to see both of us. That’s why the king sent me to request Free to join the demonstration of inventors. So that you might both come.” Lux felt a cold chill wash over her, feeling like someone had doused her entire nervous system in ice.
It had been an admittedly interesting conversation to realise that a friend from Lux’s childhood featured prominently in a lot of Free’s worst memories, a more interesting realisation that for some time Free hadn’t really realised that Vi’s enforcer girlfriend was anyone important enough for Lux to know her. But all Lux could feel now was horrified. They had been right, they hadn’t been asked to come here specifically because of Free’s past. But it would be arriving all the same. Lux could only hope that they both survived the impact.
Lux started walking towards the hall, dragging a smile onto her face and feigning excitement at the prospect of seeing a friend again after many years apart, internally debating what the best course of action was. It seemed obvious, she would navigate the meeting with Caitlyn giving away as little about Free as possible. And hope that she wouldn’t have to agree to anything that would keep them trapped here for another day. If the Protector was on their side her and Free could leave the city before nightfall.
It would be a difficult travel back to Terbisia with so little time to prepare but she was certain that between the two of them it would be possible. But first, Lux mustered all her considerable will and breathed in a firm breath, holding for one, and releasing it. This was no longer a mere chore for the pleasure of the King.
This was now a mission with much much greater stakes. Behind her Lux heard Garen speed up to keep pace with her. She turned her head to grin at the man who looked decidedly concerned. “Come along brother, we have people to see!” The man grinned at her. Seemingly too glad to have not angered her to look too deeply past her words.
Together they strode confidently into the room announced by one of the administrators assigned to watch over the event. Lux had barely heard her own name announced before a person called her name suddenly from the long dining table they were sitting at. There were about eight people at the table leaving it far from full. Lux could immediately recognise King Jarvan at the head of it looking happy for their presence, flanked by a guard and a member of the administrators who seemed to be acting as an organizer. Most of the others were governors of various small towns from around Demacia, which Lux supposed made sense. There was far more need for invention and ingenuity in the parts of the country that the guiding hands of the Crown could not always reach easily. But that was immediately overshadowed by the three people sitting at the centre of the left side of the long table.
Despite having only ever personally met one of the people Lux could recognise all three. Caitlyn sat in the centre, her face a perfect etching of pleased civility although Lux imagined she could see a slight tightening of the skin around the woman’s light blue eyes. Beside her to the right, doing a far worse job of appearing interested in whatever had been being said prior to Lux’s arrival, sat someone Lux had heard much about. A woman, around the same age as Caitlyn, with red hair cropped close on one side and left to grow on the other and a tattoo on one cheek. Lux mentally banished the last of her hopes at not having to confront Free’s past as her eyes settled on Vi.
Truly it seemed to Lux in that moment that a better group to torment Free could not have been put together on purpose. Because, on Caitlyn’s other side sat a young man, about the same age as her Lux supposed, with dark skin and a shock of white hair tied into a loc ponytail at the back of his head. Lux could easily recognise Ekko from the stories Free had told her. In the back of her mind that same image began to play, of Free’s back as she walked away from Lux, head held high. Mentally chiding herself for spacing out Lux stepped fully through the door, dragging her smile back onto her face as she did so.
There was a noise of scraping as Caitlyn stood from her chair, “Luxanna! Garen!” The woman cried walking forwards with her arms opening. Lux took the invitation, genuinely pleased to see the woman again, and embraced her followed by Garen giving a far more respectful bow. “Caitlyn, it is good to see you again. I apologise for my lateness, had I known it were you I would have demanded we ride twice as quickly.” She said with a slight tilt of an eyebrow to indicate that she was joking.
Although she did hear Garen cough awkwardly behind her at the mention of his little deception. Caitlyn laughed and moved to turn back to the table, “Come both of you, you must sit with me. Business will wait a moment while we catch up. I’m sure.”
There was a round of agreements at the table even as Ekko continued to speak with the governor of a small town in western Demacia with some fervour. Lux smiled and allowed herself to be pulled along, “Indeed Caitlyn. I can see that you must have some interesting stories to share, and perhaps some people to introduce me to.” Lux said, mentally attempting to divine what would be acceptable general knowledge versus what Free had told her. She was shocked to see that the older woman was wearing an eye-patch and decided that she would simply act as though she knew nothing whatsoever.
Fortunately she was saved from having to act on her plan as Jarvan stood, immediately quieting the room. “Luxanna, Garen, I am glad to see that you have both made it. Please sit and eat and be merry, all of you. While this is certainly no casual dinner, the time for true business will come tomorrow. For the moment I merely wish us all to mingle and learn more about our esteemed visitors.” Here the king nodded to Caitlyn, Ekko and Vi.
“I am afraid that I must depart but I am eager to hear of the conversations you have all had. I am sure that I needn’t remind those of you with hopeful engineers to show off to our visitors that they must be ready by tomorrow. And I shall be looking forward to seeing you all then. As for our esteemed guests should you need anything at all please do just ask. I am not so busy that I cannot make time for you should it be necessary.”
Caitlyn nodded, as did Ekko and Vi. “Thank you your majesty, and thank you for your time and effort in organising this meeting for us. We are most thankful for your grace and hospitality.” Nodding in acknowledgement and with his piece said His Majesty exited, flanked by the administrator and his guard. Lux relaxed slightly as a piece removed itself from the puzzle. Her relationship with Jarvan was good now, having successfully navigated the awkward middle ground of friends and subordinates during Lux’s early visits from Terbisia.
But less eyes on her meant that her deceptions would be far easier. She might even be able to get through this meal without having to talk about Free at all. Because certainly if Caitlyn discovered that Lux not only had a partner but that said partner was in the city she would likely want to meet her immediately. And that could not be allowed until Lux managed to talk to Free.
Caitlyn guided Lux to the seat next to the Piltovan contingent meanwhile one of the visiting Governors used the distraction of the King’s exit to sweep Garen into a conversation about recent movements along the border with Noxus. Caitlyn indicated Lux to a seat beside Vi and the blonde smothered a sigh of relief at not being placed next to Ekko. Seeing the man who had once been an object of something close to romance for Free was making her guts twist in a way she had no desire to unpack right now.
“You are right Lux, I have much to share. I suppose chief amongst your questions must be this.” Caitlyn gestured slightly derisively to the eyepatch covering her left eye. Lux grinned slightly at the woman’s no nonsense approach. “I must admit that it is the greatest difference from when I last saw you, barring the fact that it’s been about fifteen years. Although I am sure you have some equivalent questions for me.”
Lux was thankful that she had the old friend angle to play, she was certain that without it she might have risked offending the visiting politicians as she flailed wildly for a plan. She had been expecting glancing questions about her and Free’s relationship, unwilling as she had been to hide it while they were at court, perhaps wondering if she was romancing the inventor merely to keep her as a Terbisian asset.
This was far closer to home, far more difficult to have anticipated. And all Lux could do was feel paradoxically glad that Free hadn’t been allowed to join proceedings and also wishing absolutely nothing more than to feel her lover’s resolute presence at her back. Nevertheless she soon managed to find her footing slightly as Caitlyn launched into the story of how she had come to lose her eye. Apparently it had been in the same fight that Free had faked her death in, which Lux supposed would be why the woman hadn’t known about Caitlyn’s injury.
The story was short and to the point, more a humorous anecdote about how difficult Caitlyn had found getting used to shooting again than a grisly war story. Despite the humorous tone that it was delivered in, Lux noticed that Vi had at some point snuck her hand onto Caitlyn’s knee in a show of support and decided that that would be her chance. If she wanted to avoid speaking about Free she needed to go on the offensive. Then after a suitable amount of time she could engage one of the other governors and turn the conversation to business.
“Pardon me, Caitlyn but I think some introductions are in order.” Lux said lifting her hand to shake Vi’s in the manner that she had learned from Free that Zaunite’s preferred, a firm clasp of hand to wrist instead of to palm as was Demacian tradition. “I’m Luxanna of Terbisia, it’s a pleasure to meet any company of Caitlyn’s.” If Vi was surprised at the handshake she didn’t show it, merely raising an eyebrow and suppressing a slight smirk.
“Any company huh?” She questioned before adding, “I’m Vi. Cait’s other half.” Lux smiled at the blunt introduction, the unasked question of if Lux was going to have a problem with Caitlyn and Vi’s relationship amusing given the circumstances.
“A pleasure certainly then, Caitlyn is an old friend. I’m glad to hear she has someone to look after her, how did the two of you meet?” Lux was of course at least passingly familiar with Free’s version of the story. But found that she quite enjoyed listening to the two women reminisce about their meeting. And definitely gleaned some details that Free had either not known or considered unimportant to how events had affected her.
Certainly Free hadn’t been able to give any details about how the two women’s life had gone after the Noxian Invasion, and Lux was glad to hear that Caitlyn had been well despite the stresses of life as a politician. A sentiment to which Lux heartily agreed when it was mentioned.
Nevertheless it seemed Lux’s plan was working, she estimated that she only needed to keep the two women talking about each other for another minute or so before one of the politicians scattered around the room would decide that despite the king's speech this was the perfect time to begin talking business.
However that hope was scuppered when instead it was Garen that approached. “Caitlyn! Apologies for my distraction. It is most pleasing to see you again and in such good health. This must be your partner.” The man gestured to Vi. “I am pleased to meet you, Vi.” Garen sat with them and quickly became enthralled in the tale the pair was telling about how they had been so nervous trying to break the news of their relationship to Caitlyn’s father that they had completely missed the fact that the man already knew and had been trying to let them know that for the weeks before their planned revelation dinner.
It was as the couple wrapped up the story to Garen’s boisterous laughter that the first blow was delivered to her hastily constructed plan. “Well I for one am glad that I have never had to deal with such hardships,” Garen said, laughter still echoing in his voice. “I suppose you haven’t had to deal with anything similar either sister. You certainly didn’t seem overly nervous when you told me of your relationship.” The man finished, flashing Lux a huge grin.
It was times like this that Lux was glad for the ironclad control she had been forced to develop during her youth, as she grinned a huge smile back at her brother even as he single-handedly destroyed her hopes of keeping Caitlyn in the dark. Lux could see the woman leaning forward slightly and squeezed down her instinctive reaction with every ounce of her will.
Caitlyn said, “Oh my, Lux, I’m so sorry. I have been doing nothing but speaking of myself. You have a partner! Tell me everything!” The woman leant forward clasping Lux’s wrists in what should have felt companionable but felt more like handcuffs as Lux’s hopes of escape died.
“Indeed, I mean it is certainly a little less interesting than your story I’m afraid.” Lux said slightly deprecatingly. “As you may have heard I was made governess of a town named Terbisia. We pride ourselves on taking in anyone who needs it. Free arrived and needed it.” Lux wanted to keep silent, to say as little as possible so that the risk of discovery was as slim as possible.
But the truth was that she absolutely adored talking about the woman. Much to the chagrin of many of the citizens of Terbisia who had been on the wrong side of Lux’s adoring rants.”She’s just incredible, we met because she was the only person who could help with one of the problems we were having. There’s just something about the way she makes me feel. And you should see the way she cares for the children, they just absolutely love her. And she loves them, the way her eyes light up so beautifully when… Sorry I’m rambling.”
Lux cut herself off with a grin. She was hoping that her ploy to avoid actually sharing any details about Free would work, maybe more effectively since she had nearly jeopardised it by mentioning her lover's gorgeous pink eyes. Caitlyn smiled warmly at Lux, clearly recognising a kindred spirit of someone absolutely foolish for their chosen partner.
“She sounds like a remarkable person, I’m glad you’ve found someone. I wish I could have a chance to meet her.” Catilyn said slightly wistfully. Lux felt her entire body freeze at the words. She watched in horrified slow motion as Garen opened his mouth, a smile on his face. She was powerless to stop what was about to happen.
“You’re in luck my friend. Free is a prolific inventor. She has been invited here to demonstrate for you all just like all the others.” Garen said proudly, and it dawned on Lux that she hadn’t thought to reckon with why the Piltovan diplomats might be here at the same time that the king requested engineers. She was silent as Caitlyn responded, confirming her worst fears.
“That's simply brilliant! It really is a great opportunity, especially if she is a smart enough inventor for the two of you to notice it. She would certainly thrive with a Piltovan education. And as the relationships between our nations improve so too will travel so it will become easier for the two of you to remain in contact.” Caitlyn remarked. Lux felt her already chilled blood freeze solid as the meaning of the words hit her like a hammer blow. The rest of the conversation seemed to blur. The political rescue Lux had been counting on arriving scant moments after Caitlyn’s revelation.
Lux took the exit gladly, before she could say anything to Caitlyn or the other visiting diplomats that might give any hint at her troubles. However, had she been questioned after the fact she would have next to no memory of what exactly she had spent the remaining two hours of the event discussing. Eventually the various visiting governors began trickling away to tend to their various businesses in the Great City. And with them Lux’s shield between her and Caitlyn slowly eroded.
It felt like mere moments after their previous conversation that Lux found herself once again speaking with the Piltovan contingent. This time Ekko had joined as well and after a brief introduction the dreaded question arrived. “So Lux,” it was Vi who had elected herself Lux’s executioner, “When can we meet this lady of yours? If she’s in the city as an inventor?” Lux watched as Ekko’s brows furrowed slightly, something clearly bothering him. However, before he could interject Caitlyn voiced her enthusiastic agreement.
“Yes, Lux it would be an absolute honour to meet Free. You speak so highly of her that even had I not known she was your partner I would have liked to meet her.” Ekko’s face seemed to scrunch slightly again and Lux had an idea. She recalled from the few times that Free had mentioned the man, that he was firmly dedicated to raising up the underprivileged and deeply suspicious of anyone in power.
As she considered this, an idea began to form. It was unlikely that Ekko had been briefed on much about her, as even Caitlyn had seemed somewhat surprised at her arrival. It was certainly unlikely that any of the three had wasted valuable time with some of Demacia’s nobles talking amongst themselves about her relationship. This meant that the man might be under the impression that Lux was attempting to leverage her friendship with Caitlyn to get Free into their education programme.
“I’m sorry Caitlyn but you’ll have to wait til tomorrow.” Lux said, pushing as much of her duress into her voice as she could, attempting to sell herself as truly saddened at the lost opportunity. “It just wouldn’t be fair for the other inventors if you had already met Free. I am certain that there will likely be talk of me coming in to steal the show because we are already friends. And I certainly couldn’t bear to actually influence your decision.” Lux briefly worried that she had laid it on too heavy when none of the Pitlovan’s responded.
Until Ekko let out a slight chuckle, “I see why you like this one Caitlyn! A noble with some sense of fair play.” Lux smiled at the man, overjoyed that he had taken her bait. Vi also looked pleased by her words so Lux counted that as a win as well. Despite the fact that the redhead may never know it Lux wanted the sister of her lover to like her. “Indeed, perhaps you shall find Demacian nobles slightly more honourable than the others you have interacted with, " Lux raised a slight eyebrow at the pair in front of her. “Although I make no promises.”
This time all the Piltovan’s laughed and Lux decided it was time for her to attempt to make her escape. She drew from the genuine joy that she had felt upon seeing Caitlyn again allowing a small amount of her real emotion to shine through her mask. “Nevertheless, I am sure you have much to do in the City and can’t stand about all day talking to us. It truly has been wonderful to see you Caitlyn. And to meet the both of you, Vi, Ekko.”
Lux leant forward and offered Vi and Ekko each a firm handshake, once again clasping just at the wrist as Free had once shown her. Definitely getting a noticeable glance from Ekko as well as Vi when she did so. However, neither said anything instead moving on to giving Garen a much more familiar handshake. Meanwhile Caitlyn had nodded, accepting Lux’s excuse and pulling the blonde into a firm embrace.
“Indeed, there are many places I wish to revisit in our brief time here. But I shall see you tomorrow?” Caitlyn asked, releasing Lux and pulling Garen into a hug as well. Lux thought for a moment, it would not do well to lie. Demacia was well known for their dislike of falsehood and it would only work against Lux for her future political endeavours to show anything other than the national respect for the truth.
However, that only restricted her from saying a falsehood that could be disproven. Leaving plenty of options open, “I certainly hope so, Caitlyn.” She said, allowing more of her smile through the mask that had sat on her face since she had been told who exactly the guests she had been invited to see. And receiving a smile from the blue haired woman in turn.
“Do you wish to be shown anywhere in the palace? Do you know where your carriages are stored?” Garen asked, having decided that Caitlyn and Lux’s moment was over enough that he could step forward and offer his assistance to the honoured guests. “I’m sure they’re fine brother, their administrator will surely be here soon now that the lunch is over. Besides, I need to speak with you.” It was telling how well her brother still knew her from their shared youth and bond that despite Lux ensuring her cheerful smile remained on her face as she said it, Garen’s spine stiffened near imperceptibly at her words.
It seemed the man had been hoping that the surprise had been pleasant enough to save him a grilling. Unfortunately for him as the fear left Lux, as she watched the retreating backs of the Piltovan Contingent guided towards their destination by a gently smiling member of the King’s Administrator’s, anger began to stir in her gut. The fear of Free leaving beginning to slowly give way to the anger of her being taken.
She waited until the two were in their carriage, heading towards the fields between the city and the palace where an administrator had told them the inventors had been permitted to experiment and begin setting up. Everytime Garen had attempted to strike up conversation while they had walked the halls her anger heightened. Had her brother known what Caitlyn would be offering to the inventors she was here to see? Had he known that they would be asking Free to leave her side? Lux intended to find out.
Eventually she could hold it in no longer. “Did you know?” Her voice cracked through the enclosed space like a whip. The emotions she had been working so hard to suppress during the past two hours chilled her voice to the point that it could have been mistaken for the shattering of ice. To his credit Garen only startled slightly, seeming more surprised that Lux had broken her self-imposed silence than anything else.
“Know what sister? Might I finally learn what has you so angry? I apologise for keeping Caitlyn’s presence from you, I had thought it would be a pleasant surprise, but it seems that there were things at work that I was unaware of.”
Lux sighed, Garen’s genuine curiosity already working to balm her anger. “I apologise brother, I am merely… worried. And if I am honest I understand that you didn’t know what was being offered by The Piltovan Contingent,” Lux paused, taking a second to watch Garen’s face for any hint that he might have known. When she found none of his usual tells she relaxed further, despite the terror of the situation she was in she was truly relieved to know that Garen hadn’t acted so cavalierly about her relationship.
“But I am certain that His Majesty knew both what was being offered and that it would be offered to Free. And that doing so would have her taken away from me.” Lux had to focus on that, she couldn’t afford to have Garen questioning if she had other reasons for her concerns. It wouldn’t do for him to suspect that there was any greater reason for Lux to not want Free and the Piltovan Contingent to meet.
Garen’s brows creased as Lux’s words registered. “Sister I can understand your frustration, but I am certain that His Majesty meant no slight. But you must acknowledge that to the knowledge of the courts you are unmarried and have announced no engagement. I am certain that it is only your placement in Terbisia and your well recorded distaste for the idea that has prevented numerous suitors arriving at your door every spring.”
Lux sighed, knowing that Garen was right, it was not often that she thought fondly of the still extant social distaste for mages. But it did make her life far easier when she ceased being chased at every ball by a crowd of overly perfumed nobles that were each sure that they would be the one to convince her into a political marriage. “Yes, you are likely right, Brother. I apologise for my harsh words towards you.” Garen smiled at her, and Lux felt her heart soothe a little further.
“Besides,” The man spoke, “I have seen the way Free looks at you. I am certain that you have nothing to fear from this offer. I mean no insult when I say that she does not seem the ambitious sort when it comes to learning. Especially if she wouldn’t be able to use it to the benefit of yourself and Terbisia.”
Lux smiled at her brother's words, wishing that she could believe them. Were it any other group making that offer she was certain that they would prove true. After all, Free had very easily turned down the few invitations for commissions from other townships. But Garen didn’t know of Free’s past. Didn’t know who exactly it was that would be making that offer. Lux was worried that if it was Free’s sister making the offer, that the woman might say yes. That the chance to go back to her family would sway Free. Not to mention the complexity of her relationship with Ekko.
Lux felt her heartbeat pick up slightly, and felt the beginning of cold sweat pricking at her brow. With a deliberate and measured breath she acknowledged the ridiculousness of her concern. She was acting as if Free could not have left at any time had she wished to. That it had not been the woman’s own decision to leave those people behind. But as the carriage arrived at their location Lux knew that despite the attempted rationalising, she was afraid.
The area that the inventors had been set up in was little more than a glorified storage warehouse with a stretch of gravelly ground behind it; it didn’t take long for Lux to spot Free’s bright blue hair from where the woman was laid on the roof of said warehouse. It was clear that Free had been up there for some time, her arms slung behind her head and her face turned towards the sun. Fortunately Lux spotted a ladder built into the side of the warehouse’s wall so was able to climb up to the roof easily enough.
The woman noticed Lux a moment later, purple eyes snapping to her at the sound of her footsteps. Free’s face lifted into a smile and she quickly stood up and moved quickly over to Lux. “Hey Blondie, how’s it going?” As soon as they were within arms reach Free reached out and threaded her fingers into Lux’s a light squeeze accompanying the gesture which Lux gladly returned. “Not much, a few things worth mentioning later, but tell me about you first?” Lux responded, leaning slightly further into Free’s space, glad to be back with her partner. Seeking a moment of normality before the conversations to come.
Free shrugged a little, “Honestly nothing to report, kinda disappointing really.” She jerked her head back to the few inventors scattered about, “These guys are all working their little butts off but honestly none of them are really at my level.” Lux nodded, largely unsurprised, she had seen Free’s inventions with her own eyes. The woman was very much a force of genius, although she could tell from the way she said it that Free was more disappointed than pleased.
“Honestly Blondie, unless you have something worth doing here we can just head back. Maybe get something to eat? Is Shoulderpads gonna be with us all evening?” At this Lux shook her head, she knew that Garen was already making his way back to Vanguard’s Post and was unlikely to be returning unless asked. He had asked that Lux and Free visit him on their way out of the city, but had said that there were things that required his attention.
“He had duties to attend to, he wants us to visit on our way home when we go though.” At this Free nodded and pulled Lux into her arms. “You alright Blondie? You seem a little rattled.” Lux sighed, burying her nose into Free’s hair. They stood for a moment, on the warehouse roof, Lux just breathing in Free’s familiar scent, trying to control her mind as it raced through possibility after possibility.
“The reason we were asked here is to meet some politicians.” Lux finally managed to say, “It would be better if we talked back in our rooms. More privacy.” At that Free’s eyes jerked up to Lux’s and Lux held her gaze, trying to convey the weight of her thoughts in a way that wouldn’t cause Free too much fear. “Alright Blondie. But let's get some food on the way, yeah, we can have a picnic or something.” Lux smiled and nodded, following Free as the shorter girl began her descent down the ladder.
Despite Free’s attempts while they went around a local market the tone remained heavy. Lux felt as though there was an iron weight sunk somewhere in her guts, constantly trying to drag her to the ground. Even their usual comfortable silence felt heavy and awkward during the carriage ride back.
Fortunately they encountered no-one upon their return, except a member of the administration who graciously showed them to their room, which was in the visiting family wing of the palace far from the rooms any of the other visitors had been assigned. The silence persisted for a few moments after the door shut, Free had gone in first so Lux shut the door and bolted it shut before turning back to face the room, and Free. Lux almost went to speak before her vision was filled with a familiar purple blur and her back hit the door she had just closed.
Free leant forward and Lux had a moment to register the intensity in her eyes before a pair of soft lips were pressing into hers, a pair of hands finding her hips with just enough pressure to keep her back pressed to the solid oak door. Free’s thumbs, calloused from a lifetime of using tools, scraped over the tied waist of Lux’s trousers. Lux moaned into Free’s mouth as the other girl pulled away, that same intensity remaining in her intoxicating eyes. Lux tried to speak again, this time Free didn’t interrupt.
“I… we should eat first, then talk.” Free seemed to consider this for a second, her eyes narrowing slightly. “This has got you really bothered huh, Blondie?” Free, leant a little more of her weight into Lux. The contact grounding in a way that Lux hadn’t realised she so desperately needed. A sigh left her before she could really register it, and she wrapped her arms around Free and pulled the other woman as close as she could. A move that Free was happy to mirror. The two stood for a moment, Lux mentally thinking about how lucky she was that the ever-fidgeting Free was willing to stand so still just to reassure her.
Eventually Lux drew away slightly, but before she could get further she found herself once again ensnared in violet lanterns of concern as Free gazed at her. “Seriously, Blondie. You’re starting to freak me out.” It was said in a joking tone, but Lux could hear the slight tremor in it that belied the truth in Free’s words. She pulled her lover back in again and took a deep breath in. “I’m sorry love, I’m just nervous. The truth is, the political visitors the king brought us to meet are from Piltover.”
She felt Free’s lithe body tense entirely in her arms and rushed to finish her sentence before the girl could assume any worse than it was. “It’s your Sister, Caitlyn, and Ekko. They don’t know you're here of course, but they’re expecting to meet my partner, Free the Inventor tomorrow.” Lux heard Free’s breathing get more severe and felt her partner’s arms tighten even further around her. To the point that Lux wondered that if she hadn’t been wearing her cuirass she may have been rendered unable to breathe.
She moved her hand to the back of Free’s head and began gently petting her hair, murmuring soothingly as the girl processed. Lux knew that despite how fast Free’s mind worked the woman liked time to consider things, she had said that it helped her deal with the voices and visions she was still afflicted with. They had been getting steadily better the entire time Lux had known her partner, but both women knew that they would likely never truly go away. And Free still had days that were bad enough that it was all Lux could do to hold the woman and try to make her voice the loudest as she professed her love and admiration again and again, trying to block out the guilt that still dogged Free’s brilliant mind.
Fortunately it seemed that Free was being granted a reprieve at the moment, as while it felt like the silence stretched longer and longer, Free did not seem to become distressed. Instead relaxing into Lux’s hold and seeming to revel in the physical affection that her partner bestowed upon her. However, Lux’s mind was not free of anxiety, she knew that their window to leave was closing if they wanted to make it to the next town before nightfall.
"What would you like to do, Love?" Lux asked, preparing herself for the worst. "You don't already have a plan, Blondie?" Free asked, a hint of a smile playing across her face. Lux felt herself relax further, seeing Free in good spirits was doing wonders for her concerns.
"I do," Lux exhaled slightly, preparing herself to do right by her partner even though her entire brain screamed in disagreement. Howling the risks of losing Free and the dangers to Terbisia besides. "But it is up to you. It's your past and your family, I will support you in any decision you make. I won't deny you the freedom to choose." Free looked up at Lux, and for a moment Lux felt like she was catching those amethyst eyes for the very first time again. Her breath caught in her chest as the twin lanterns blazed at her full of love and appreciation.
Free pulled herself towards Lux and Lux met her, their lips meeting. "Thank you, Blondie." Free said when they broke apart. "But you're right, we should eat. I can't think on an empty stomach." Lux smiled at the inventor, following her to the small table upon which they placed the spoils of their visit to the market.
The meal was subdued, Free clearly deep in thought and Lux loathed to distract her. But the silence was not the awkward silence of their carriage ride, and Lux could almost trick herself into believing that her brain wasn't still spewing dreadful scenarios into her mind. But the fear had receded a little, and with it a new thought was taking hold.
A thought that she had buried before but had been resurrected by her conversation with Garen. A thought involving a ceremony, and a white dress, perhaps two white dresses depending on what Free would like. Lux knew her partner preferred pants to skirts or dresses but that that was largely due to practicality than aesthetic she thought. Images and options flashed through her head, some inspired by the fantasies she had had in her youth.
A grand ceremony in the Great Protectors Chapel in the Great City seemed somewhat unlikely, Lux thought. But that wouldn't even be what she wanted anymore. A small simple ceremony, in the town square of Terbisia. Surrounded by the people she cared for, maybe they could get the children that Free so cared for to be involved in the ceremony. It was a pleasant fantasy, Lux thought. A pang of pain spiking through her heart as she acknowledged that that's all it was, Fantasy.
She forcefully reminded herself of what she had said to Garen. Of what she knew to be true. Free was simply saving Lux's feelings by not explicitly saying that it wasn't something she wanted, that Lux could have her for as Free wanted her to. But that forever was simply not something the inventor was willing to give.
Lux was saved from falling deeper down the rabbit hole by Free speaking. "I... I think I'd like to see them. Vi at least. But I guess it's probably kind of a package deal." Lux took a moment before she nodded. "I would imagine so, you want to see her. To let her know you're alive?" She asked, hoping that Free wouldn't take it as criticism.
Fortunately, the blue haired woman simply smiled at her, before responding. "Yeah, to be honest I've been thinking about it for a while. At least of letting Vi know. You've been good for me, Blondie. I don't think that her life will fall apart as soon as I come back into it anymore." Lux felt her heart soften at Free’s words. Even as her mind began hissing the terrible consequences into her ears. "You can't give me credit for that, Love. You did that, you were already that person when you arrived. Terbisia just gave you the chance to see it."
Free shook her head and stood, putting her arms out to indicate for Lux to do the same, and the two once again pulled each other close. "When I crashed in that forest I didn't care what happened to me, I just needed to be away from anyone I cared about. So that however they ended up it wouldn't be me hurting them. I just wanted to break the cycle, and I didn’t want to give anyone the satisfaction of finding me dead.” Lux’s heart always broke when Free spoke about that time of her life, she gave the slighter woman a squeeze of support but otherwise let her continue. Sensing that whatever her lover had to say next would be important.
Free returned the gesture, turning her head slightly to brush her lips against Lux’s cheek before she continued speaking. “It was you who told me that I was good. You who gave me the chance to really help people, help those kids. You gave me the chance to actually be good, Lux. Rather than just want to be. To prove to myself that it wasn’t that I never could have been good, that it wasn’t something that was wrong with me.” Free’s voice grew a little choked as she spoke, “That’s what you’ve given me blondie. You and the kids, and everyone in Terbisia. Thank You. for making me realise that I could see my sister again.”
For a moment Lux was frozen, it always amazed her how a few words from Free were always enough to banish her doubts. But this time something remained, not doubt, but something deeper. A knowledge that Lux wasn’t content yet. That for all her bluster and her desire to do right by Free. Lux desperately wanted the woman in her arms to be her wife. To be recognised by her culture and her family as such even if they wouldn’t care let alone approve.
For a mad second Lux considered falling to one knee right then and there, she had her signet ring on a thong around her neck as proof of her office which would function perfectly for the ceremonial exchange. Then reality asserted itself with a severe knock on their room door. Lux’s head ceased to spin even as she took a second crossing the room. She knew that she could be prone to selfishness. Her mother had harped on and on about it when they had last spoken, when Lux had ceased to be a Crownguard by anything but blood. But this time she knew that she couldn’t do that to Free, not when the woman was dealing with so much as it was. It truly would be selfish.
The door opened to a member of the administration. A younger man clearly early in his tenure as a servant based on his lack of facial hair and nervous disposition. “Ah, I am sorry to intrude ma’am but his majesty King Jarvan requested your presence, and that of Mrs. Free in his private study. I am to accompany you on the way there.” The boy was clearly expecting at best begrudging acceptance, or perhaps reprisal.
He seemed confused therefore when Lux merely nodded with a slight sigh, and a “Give us a moment to get ready.” Lux didn’t bother to ask what would be happening. Invites to the King’s private study only happened when Jarvan wished to have a personal catch up with Lux, and seemingly he wished to be the first to meet Free. Lux supposed she could not begrudge him, with the amount that she had talked about the woman in the few times she and Jarvan had spoken recently.
Fortunately, neither woman had changed out of their riding clothes despite the comparatively late hour. It took only a few moments for the two to ensure that they did not look overly ruffled before they rejoined the administrator in the corridor. Lux noted the castle’s evening preparations being made as they were led through the winding halls. Torches lit inside their specialised sconces and windows fully barred and shuttered to keep out any untowards who may wish to sneak in under cover of darkness. The administrator kept a measured pace, designed to make any guests feel assured that they were not being rushed, but it was not a long distance between the familial suites and the king's private study.
The door was closed, gilded white wood as with almost all the doors in the Royal Palace. The administrator knocked sharply twice, before opening the door and bowing as a voice called from within, “Enter.” Lux walked in first, Free trailing slightly behind her and the two were treated to the sight of His Majesty King Jarvan IV sat at an ornate but practical desk looking at both of them. The door was shut behind them, the administrator waiting a distance outside where he could hear if he was called but would otherwise be unable to make out what was said behind the closed door. Jarvan indicated to the two empty chairs in front of his desk. “Please, both of you sit. I am glad to see you both, and that you made it safely.”
Lux smiled at her old friend. She was always glad to see Jarvan, even though they would never be as close as they had been in their youth. It was always pleasing to see the man well. Nevertheless, she couldn’t dispel the lingering tension in her shoulders. The conversation the man had interrupted lingering heavily around her mind like a shroud. "Hello, Your Majesty." She said, taking her seat and hearing Free do the same beside her. The man smiled at her but Lux could tell that he had sensed the unease in the air.
“I hope I didn’t interrupt anything too important. And I’m afraid that you will likely not enjoy the full content of this conversation, and I am sorry for that and hope you will understand that it is not within my power to change such things. But first I would sincerely like it if we could begin by catching up, Lux. And by you introducing me to this woman by your side of whom I have heard so much and yet so little.” Jarvan made sure to catch Lux’s eyes as he said this, and Lux recognised it for as close to an olive branch as the King could be seen giving to one of his subjects.
She knew that the man had severely regretted that their paths had forced them to grow apart, and sometimes Lux could even consider saying the same. So she nodded, “Of course, Jarvan. This is Free, she is my partner of many years.” She turned to catch Free’s eyes, and hoped that the woman could see the love that Lux let suffuse her face as she said. “Both I, and Terbisia, would be far far worse off without her. In more ways than I can possibly name. And I would follow her to the ends of the world if she asked.” Free rolled her eyes but her smile belied how much Lux’s support for her decision, unexplicit in front of their audience though it was, meant to her.
If Jarvan clocked the meanings behind the words, the comfort that Lux was trying to offer to her partner without acknowledging that it was needed, he didn’t show it. Instead he stood and reached a hand across the table to Free. Free shook it confidently, only a slight hint of nerves visible to Lux. It seemed that Jarvan’s warning about the contents of the conversation had not had the calming effect he had likely been hoping it would.
Nevertheless, after the brief introduction the King sat again and Lux and Free finally took the proffered seats and the conversation began in earnest. To the monarch’s credit he did seem genuinely curious and pleased as Free and Lux gave him a heavily abridged version of the story of their first meeting. Getting some laughs from the man as Lux explained that she had made a job posting that she knew that no-one but Free would be able to complete just to try and get the at the time evasive inventor to talk to her.
Subsequently the man made some enquiries about the kinds of things that Free had built for Terbisia setting the blue-haired woman on a rambling tangent about winding childrens toys and agricultural tools. Jarvan smiled as Free spoke and when she seemed to hit a natural pause he interrupted with a smile. “I am glad to see that your ability was not overstated, and I thank you for what you have done for Terbisia and, as a result, all of Demacia. And I further thank you for agreeing to come here and demonstrate your skills.”
“But I am afraid that this is the part where the somewhat unfortunate news comes in.” Lux braced herself at the King’s words, he did truly look regretful but in her experience with the monarch he regularly did things he found regretful. Especially when giving into pressure from other voices in the Demacian court, and Lux had a slowly growing suspicion that this was about to be one of those times.
Her suspicions only grew when instead of immediately continuing Jarvan sighed heavily, “I do hope you both will understand somewhat, and that it is a minor inconvenience at most. But I do still apologise. I am afraid that the two of you will not be able to room together tonight. Specifically, Free, you will not be permitted to sleep in the family wing. You will need to bunk with the other engineers.”
Lux opened her mouth to argue, “That is ridiculous your majesty you cannot expect me to accept this! You’re asking my partner to share a room?”. Lux would have continued into the tirade she felt building in her chest, this the final irritation the knot of fear and stress in her chest was willing to accept.
However, she was forestalled when the King raised a hand and continued. “The engineers' rooms are single bed, I am not asking you to share a room with strangers. But you will need to sleep in that building. And begin your day as all the other prospective engineers will, working on whatever you wish to display. It was pointed out to me that it would be unfair for this to not be the case and unfortunately there is no compelling reason why that would not be the case.”
Lux felt her eye twitch, it seemed the entirety of The Great City was determined to throw her and Free’s lack of legal status into her face at every turn, and she was beginning to find it very irksome. She felt a familiar heat begin to rise behind her eyes and began to stand only to find a firm hand on her thigh. She glanced down to see that Free had placed her hand, palm up, on Lux’s leg. A glance to her partner showed a depth of understanding in Free’s eyes, but also a reserved acceptance. Lux took it for what she needed it to be, a reminder that it was not worth losing her cool over a single night without her partner. That treating it as anything more would only invite suspicion where it currently seemed that there was none.
Lux placed her palm flush against Free’s and watched in joy as the other woman’s skinny, calloused fingers wound around hers and squeezed. Seemingly acknowledging that Lux was unable to continue being the spokesperson for the couple, Free's voice confidently filled the small study.
“We get it, Your Majesty, not thrilled. But we understand. However I was hoping you might be able to explain what exactly it is that I’d be expected to do tomorrow. And indeed how long it would be likely to take. We both left Terbisia in something of a rush, and while it can function without its Governor for a few days.” Free’s voice filled with glib humour and Lux held back a slight giggle as she continued. “Everyone will just fall apart without their chief inventor.”
Jarvan smiled slightly, clearly glad that Free was able to abate Lux’s palpable rage. “Yes, I have been informed that Garen was less than forthcoming to you about proceedings, and for my part in that I apologise, I was so eager to have him fetch you both in time that I failed to adequately prepare him. I am sorry.” While he was saying this, Jarvan's eyes wandered to catch Lux’s. And Lux felt that the man was asking forgiveness for more than simply not briefing Garen well enough. She sighed slightly and nodded, acknowledging internally that Jarvan’s request had been both reasonable and, perhaps, inevitable. It was Lux’s own feelings that had caused the storm of anger that was now subsiding into a bubbling guilt.
Lux forced herself to gently exhale, trying to keep it subtle enough not to alarm Free. But judging by the slight squeeze of her hand she failed to fully hide her stress. Fortunately it seemed that Jarvan didn’t notice as he continued speaking, his hands picking up a stylus from his desk and beginning to lightly fidget with it. “As for what will be asked of you and understand that you would not be privy to some of this information without Lux vouching for you.” The man’s eyes hardened for a moment, reminding both women that he was a feared warrior alongside his occupation of the throne.
“We have visitors from Piltover, they are seeking to establish a cultural trade. Their engineering expertise, for our historically effective tactics against the Noxian threat. In service of that they have come to find the most skilled engineers amongst us and take them to Piltover for education. To bait the hook, as it were, we have said that we will show off Demacia’s finest engineers for them to choose from. I believe their intent is to ask only the greatest of these engineers to return to Piltover as part of this trade. Believing that it would be a waste of their considerable expertises in the area if they were to try and teach the common Demacian their tricks.”
Lux felt the point of contact between her’s and Free’s palms begin to sweat, she thought it was probably hers but she couldn’t tell was Free growing nervous as Jarven talked more and more about an impending ambush of Piltovan politician’s by a long-dead villain. Or was it her own palms sweating, as she realised now that she hadn’t given Free the details of Piltover’s offer, and the fear was once again taking hold. And there was a slight glimmer in Jarvan’s eyes, as if he had just put something together. “And forgive me if this seems to be an overstep, but I believe this would be a chance for you to go home.” Lux felt Free startle beside her, and was certain that her own eyes were betraying an equally deep surprise.
“Haha, I apologise,” Jarvan laughed, “It was not my intention to alarm you. I had my suspicions when Lux told me about your skill in artificing, and I am afraid that hair of your colouration does not regularly appear outside of the rivers of the Pilt.” Lux felt her heart settle slightly as Jarvan made no other statements of recognition, but the disapparation of that fear caused another to begin resonating from its origin point in Jarvan’s words.
Home.
Zaun was Free’s home. And this was perhaps her only chance to go back. A path that she had admitted to Lux that she thought was closed off to her completely. As the thought blossomed in Lux’s mind she felt like ice was being sluiced down her spine, a chill that covered her whole body but seemed to make sweat prick all over at the same time.
Lux didn’t hear the rest of the conversation, it was drowned out by the thoughts and fears spilling through her brain. It felt like she had been caught too close to an explosion, a dull but pitchy ringing that seemed to rattle through her skull. She barely even registered when Free and Jarvan finished speaking, nor when Free pulled her close as Jarvan left the room ostensibly to find an administrator who would be able to take Free to the engineers bunkhouse.
Lux thought that if she hadn't been so numb she might have begun sobbing, might have thrown herself at Free's feet and begged her to run away with her, to run back to Terbisia that very second and to not even consider leaving her ever again. But she couldn't, even had she wanted to. The voice of her mother shrieked in the back of her mind, somehow louder and yet the same as the ringing in her ears, “Selfish! Selfish!” It screamed to a rhythm Lux found nauseating.
Through the wall of imaginary noise Lux could barely hear Free’s murmurings as her partner pulled her close. “I’ll miss you, blondie.” The bluenette said and Lux felt the choking feeling in her throat grow stronger. Had she been less exhausted, her nerves scraped less raw by the constant anxiety of the day Lux might have noticed the way Free tried to linger for as long as possible even when Jarvan returned near fifteen full minutes later. Would have seen the way her pink eyes filled with worry and fear to mimic Lux’s own blue ones as she left. But Lux noticed nothing, was barely even conscious of herself making a polite excuse to Jarvan and fleeing back to her room. She didn’t come back to herself until she was face down on a bed that suddenly seemed far too large and far too cold.
Her throat ached, her cheeks and pillows were damp with a mix of sweat and tears, and night had drawn fully through the still unclosed blinds. Groggily Lux stood from the bed, her mind still racing from her impromptu lapse before she fell into some easy meditative breathing in an attempt to calm it. An attempt that was worsened when she found herself passively scanning the room looking for Free. She would have started crying again, Lux was certain of it, but her throat was so painful that her body simply refused to release the sob that was building in her chest. Instead it stayed locked behind her ribs, tightening like a spring that just couldn’t release.
It was a pain that Lux had not felt in a long time, not since her quiet and cold governor’s mansion had become home to a whirlwind of noise and love. But she remembered its consequences perfectly, the ache and chill that chased away all hope of sleep, leaving her tossing and turning until dreaded dawn lanced its way through the thin blinds of her borrowed room.
It was with exhaustion dogging her every move that Lux readied herself in front of the vanity that morning. Her makeup, used to hide her deep black eye bags and the few thin facial scars she had picked up through her life, had never felt more like armour. Each brushstroke an application of another layer in preparation of the blow she knew was coming. The room felt silent as a crypt, absent of Free’s usual exuberant energy. Lux knew that it was her own mind that was reading into the silence so deeply. The churning of her guts and tightness in her chest still hadn’t left. A constant reminder of what she would be losing.
The knock of summons on Lux’s door was as unwelcome as it was expected, she had been prepared for about forty minutes when it sounded, and had resorted to trying some deeper meditations in the hope of centering herself. It had been fruitless of course, her mind too full of images of Free. Nevertheless, Lux dredged the last of her willpower to stuff her memories down deep below the iron layers of political training that she hadn’t needed to call on in years. The mask fit poorly now, she felt. Disuse making it feel odd to cram her emotions down so deep to where she could no longer feel them.
Lux followed the administrator through the palace, this time towards a different hosting wing. When she arrived the room was about half full, notably the King was seated at the head of the table in conversation with a few of the other diplomats that Lux had met the day before. When Jarvan saw that Lux had arrived he waved her over, making a gestured excuse to his conversational partners and meeting her halfway with a look of concern on his face.
“Are you alright Lux? I hope you slept well, I checked on the engineers this morning and Free is doing well. I realised you may both be nervous about her meeting people from her homeland in what I’m sure is the first time in some time. So I have made arrangements for you to be there with her for the demonstrations, and for each demonstration to happen behind closed doors.” Jarvan smiled at Lux. Which Lux returned easily, the wash of relief she felt at his words buried easily under her mask.
“Thank You, Your Majesty. I am sure that that will be greatly appreciated.” Lux made the effort to let her smile reach her eyes as she locked them briefly with Jarvan. It wouldn’t do to have the king concerned about her. The less attention he paid to the inevitable reunion the better. The two nobles returned to the table and Lux threw herself into conversation with the other diplomats. Allowing her brain to numb itself to her concerns as she fell fully behind her mask, making the rounds to the people she hadn’t managed to speak to the day before. Soon enough the Piltovan contingent arrived and Jarvan stood once again to speak.
“Hello, honoured guests. I once again thank you all for coming and hope that you did not find our hospitality lacking. Now is the time for business I believe. While our own engineers prepare their projects I invite you all to eat and talk amongst yourselves and with our honoured Piltovan visitors. Or even with myself should you wish to, though I warn you that I wish to speak with our guests just as much as the rest of you, so I beg you not to take too much of my attention.” Here Jarvan laughed, prompting a polite chuckle and even the odd true laugh from the assembled nobles. “And when we are done here,” Jarvan continued when the laughter had settled, “We shall head down to the parade grounds and surrounding rooms to see what our aspiring engineers have created.”
With that, small plates of food and drink began circulating from silvered plates held by perfectly adorned members of the administration, and proceedings began in earnest. Lux had been too absorbed in her worry during the last event to really appreciate it. But Caitlyn was a truly impressive political force, holding court effortlessly. Lux had taken a pleasantly passive role, sitting within hearing range of the Piltovan contingent so she could listen and add her own statements if necessary. But not close enough to draw attention to herself. Close enough to hear Caitlyn, with the aid of Vi and Ekko. Give a masterclass in political artifice.
She heard as Caitlyn turned snide questions about Piltover’s acceptance of magic and subsequent devastation at the hands of Noxus into tales of heroic struggle and success. Minor personal questions into moments of connection with Demacian nobles and their way of life. Even managing to slip in all the benefits of Piltovan technologies that stood to make the lives of Demacians easier should the union between their nations succeed.
Lux almost managed to feel something close to peaceful, managing to catch Caitlyn’s eyes briefly enough to offer her friend a smile. Until a topic that she had been desperately hoping would not emerge, did. “So Mrs. Kiramman,” One of the diplomats began having stolen a seat from another when he stood to attend a matter across the room. “We understand that this is your wife? I simply must know the details of your proposal, I’m something of a romantic you see.” The man smiled wryly, and Lux had to commend his dedication to his cover of trying to learn more about the current most important politicians in Demacia.
She also noticed that for a moment Vi looked confused, glancing at Caitlyn in curiosity. The blue-haired woman clearly noticed her partner's askance as she opened her response. “Yes, I suppose that is the closest equivalent. Although the customs in Piltover are a little different than those here. And different again are the customs from Zaun, where Vi here is from. But yes, we are partnered by those customs.” Caitlyn looked like she was intending to breeze past the differences, having allayed Vi’s confusion, until the same man from earlier interrupted.
“Please, elucidate us on these different customs Mrs. Kiramman! Your story shan’t have the same impact without us knowing.” Lux now realised that the man was clearly playing for time, perhaps he had somehow received word from his nominated engineer that they needed more time for their project than they had hoped.
However, she couldn’t bring herself to call him out, as she found herself curious as to what Caitlyn would say. A small voice in the back of her head questioned if it was really the Piltovan customs that Lux wanted to hear about, but she silenced it with a slight close of her teeth around her tongue. The slight spike of pain brought her back to the room as Caitlyn humoured the man’s request.
“As you know, Piltover places more weight on the material, and the legal protections around it, than you do here in Demacia. Especially in higher society circles. To that end most Piltovan celebrations are more a celebration of a combination of assets. Large dinners and such things more than anything else. So a Piltovan proposal is more in the terms of writing someone into your assets. Or asking them to move into your house. The act of offering to share what is yours by law is meant as a show of devotion. To show that you trust that they will not waste what you have worked hard to earn.”
Caitlyn’s face grew into a large but wry smile as she looked at Vi. “Zaunites have a similar but different custom, one that perhaps needs explaining for you to have the full effect of the story. Would you like to explain how my attempted proposal went, darling?” Vi rolled her eyes slightly, but the smile on her face made it clear that while this memory was being used as a source of amusement it was something that was very close to the redhead’s heart.
“Back in old Zaun, when a lot of these traditions were starting, when the divide between the bridges was harsh. You got used to things disappearing. Between the sumpbeasts and the barons things didn’t last long. That, along with all the rest of the things that go bump in the night, makes a suspicious lot. You say you want something in Zaun, you’ll never get it. So when it comes to the important stuff, you hold it close as you can, but you never speak it. Bad luck to.” Vi’s eyes seemed to be staring straight through her audience, and Lux could guess from Free’s stories the kind of ghosts that might be haunting the woman.
A slight pause fell as Vi breathed in deeply, shifting slightly in her seat, before she continued. “There also wasn’t the same kind of money in Zaun, or the same kind of law, so eventually the tradition developed that it was more about trust than anything else. So rather than offering the other person your stuff you just… gave it to them. Showing that you’re willing to risk everything you have for them, literally. You trust ‘em not to take everything that’s yours and leave you with nothing, you trust them to look out for you even when you’ve got nothing left to give. And the other person responds by giving you their stuff. No speeches, no verbal stuff. Just an exchange.”
Here Vi looked around, clocking the slight confusion on the face of some of the politicians and continued, “That’s the origin of it anyway. In my parents days when it was all miners that’s what they did. Now though, with the tech and stuff it’s more symbolic. You gift something to the person, something that if they rejected you’d be hurt. Most who can make something, something that the gifter would never use, but that will have use or meaning to the recipient. But it just has to be something irreplaceable, a treasured item. And if the person accepts they gift you something back. Something equally meaningful. But again, no speeches, no offers, it’s bad luck to acknowledge it when it’s happening. I know some more traditional folk who never acknowledge it at all.”
Here Caitlyn interjected, and the two began to tell their story in earnest. One in which Vi performed the exchange as established by Zaunite custom and Caitlyn, without realising. Failed to respond appropriately. “Ironically,” The dark haired woman said, “I was too concerned with wanting to perfect my proposal to Vi to respond to hers.” But Lux heard none of it. Too busy dealing with the shard of her mask that felt as though they were spinning wildly through her mind as a memory suddenly hammered through her emotional walls like a Silverwing Charge. A memory of a night some two and a half years ago, just after Lux had returned from a rideout to scare off a local silverwing migration with some of the more trained mages.
_______
Lux swore that she was the wettest a person could possibly be without being underwater. The rain had been coming down sideways in lashing torrents for the last week as she and the rest of the small squad of five rode gingerly towards home. They had made the decision to try and push through the gathering storm to get home after realising that they were in danger of running out of supplies. Their mission had already taken over a week longer than they had planned for due to the migration being delayed.
Fortunately the actual distraction had gone off perfectly, with no injuries to add to the already strenuous return journey. Lux resolved to thank Free a million more times for her construction of a portable heater for the group to take with them, certain that they would have frozen to death in the cave they had been forced to huddle in on the first night the storm hit without it. They had huddled in the cave for two nights before making the decision that the rain was showing no sign of abating, and that it would be far more dangerous to attempt the journey after hunger set in.
The thought of Free had Lux bending further down in her saddle and attempting to urge her mount to greater speed even through the frigid wind. Despite the heat of the magic pouring through her she could feel herself shivering, the waterproofing of her cloak and outer clothes long since soaked through. Nevertheless there was no stopping them now, none of them were willing to take another break with the walls of Terbisia in sight, especially not when it would mean trying to pitch a tent in the howling gale. They could only hope to make it before they lost what little light was managing to pierce the thick clouds.
The remaining hours of the ride was one of the longest of Lux’s life. Even daydreaming of a warm bath in a pleasant, blue-inked embrace was barely enough to keep her spirit from flagging. But nevertheless the party managed to make it home before the flagging light forced them to give up and submit to another night in miserable, leaking tents. It was with stilted but hurried goodbyes that Lux dismissed the others, promising a debriefing in a few days when they had all had a chance to rest and recuperate. After all, she was sure that all the other soldiers were just as eager for a warm soak and the presence of their loved ones as she was.
Especially since those loved ones were likely to be deeply worried since they had been gone for a whole week longer than expected, in one of the worst storms Lux had seen in years. Lux opened the doors to the manor and sagged slightly in relief as the warmth hit her, she quickly shucked off her sodden outer clothes and tossed them into a sodden pile by the front door. She began to head towards the bathroom, calling out for Free as she went. There was no response, and Lux felt a moment of worry creep into her mind. She stopped walking and called out again, then listened to see if she heard anything.
Silence reigned through the governor's mansion and Lux quickly turned to head towards the bedroom, sighing as she allowed her light to fill her, quickly warming her up. It was sadly far less relieving than having a bath would have been but it would have to do for the moment. It was just before dusk, but the ongoing storm meant that darkness had already fallen as Lux searched through the manor for her partner. The hearths were all lit, well stocked with fuel to keep the house light and warm. But it was most certainly empty. Lux sighed, knowing that Free was likely in her workshop, and readied herself to go back out into the storm.
Fortunately the workshop was a short distance from the manor. Meaning that, no longer concerned about resource conservation, Lux could simply fill herself with light to keep out the chill, and hurry the few minutes walk to Free’s workshop.
Upon entering Lux found the few chemlights that Free had been able to fix from her downed airship still burning brightly and the door unlocked as it often was when Free was in occupation. The inventor had once told Lux that being visited by people asking her to build things while she was working was something that Free hadn’t really had a chance to experience before coming to Terbisia. At least beyond the man who had raised her, and Lux knew well enough that Free had mixed feelings about Silco.
However, she did not hear the whir of tools nor the drone of Free’s voice as she talked herself through whatever problem she was facing. All she heard was hurried, frantic breathing, and the occasional whimper. Hurrying through the first room of the workshop, where Free usually insisted visitors stay to avoid any danger, Lux entered the workshop proper. She saw Free immediately, still sat at her desk but with her arms crossed and her face buried in them, clearly asleep.
Usually Lux delighted in watching Free sleep, the girl was usually awake before first so she rarely got the opportunity. However another almost pained grunt of “Bl..die..” from the sleeping woman brushed aside all thoughts of spectatorship from Lux’s mind and she quickly crossed the distance to Free’s side, sidestepping the inventions in various stages of completion. As she got closer Lux could see that the woman hadn’t even put her work to the side before falling asleep. Seeming more as though she had passed out halfway through working on something, if the way that her right hand was still clutched around a screwdriver was anything to go by.
Reaching a hand out Lux shook Free’s shoulders slightly, causing the blue haired woman to shift, letting Lux get a look at her face. Grease, oil and dirt streaked Free’s face, and deep black bags sat beneath her eyes. Her lips were chapped and it looked almost as though there was a scab on her lower lip. Lux felt her heart break as she took in the state of her partner, mentally cursing the few days they had delayed. Free had clearly worried herself terribly while Lux was away.
Shaking the woman more firmly Lux called her name. Trying to gently but firmly rouse the girl while keeping physical contact. Eventually Free seemed to come back round, blinking up at Lux in confusion for a moment before the reality of the situation made itself apparent in her brain. “Blondie!” Free shouted, voice rough, throwing herself from her chair and into Lux’s arms. Lux’s exhaustion almost caught up to her, but she managed to catch Free for a second before her feet hit the ground again. “Hello, love.” Lux said, rejoicing in the feeling of having Free in her arms again. “Are you alright? You were gone so long! With the storm I..” Free trailed off, and Lux felt the arms around her squeeze even tighter as Free simply buried her face into the crook of Lux’s neck.
“I’m sorry my love.” Lux said, “The migration was delayed, and we got caught in the storm and tried to wait it out before we decided to make a run back here. It was thanks to your heater that we even had the option to do that, as well as being able to prepare the rations we brought with us. I’m sorry I’m late, you must have been worried.” Lux felt Free shift slightly in her arms and brought her hands up to begin running them softly over Free’s back. “They told me you were gone. That something had gone wrong and you’d died.” Free murmured, and Lux felt her heart break. It wasn’t as often that Free had bad emergences of the ghosts in her mind but when they did happen they tended to be severe.
“I’m here, Love.” She reassured her partner. And began gently guiding Free towards the door. “Shall we head back to the house? I was rather hoping for a bath, and I think you could do with one as well. Maybe you could tell me what you’ve been working on?” Lux felt Free nod, and the woman began talking about the details of the toys she had made for the latest group of children to arrive in Terbisia while the two walked slowly back to their home, pausing only for Free to grab a satchel from one of the cupboards on her way out of the warehouse.
It was an evening of the following week that Free approached Lux. Neither of the women had left the house that day. Instead spending time with each other, speaking or reading in peaceful silence. Lux heard Free enter the library having excused herself a few minutes earlier to get a drink. Lux heard Free cough slightly and looked up from her book to see her partner standing in front of her, almost seeming to shift nervously with her arms behind her back. Lux was about to ask what was wrong when Free stepped forward and presented her with something.
It was visibly a scabbard, but as Lux took it into her hands she realised it was unlike any scabbard she had seen before. The main body of it was covered in cloth, a strange almost see through cloth that Lux didn’t recognise but was undeniably high quality under her fingers. It was sturdy but far lighter than she would have expected it to be. It seemed to be about the right size for the sword that Lux still carried at her hip whenever she felt the need. The one that had been a gift from Garen, that had saved her life numerous times.
When Lux reached forwards and took the offered item, Free began to speak. “So I know it isn’t much, but I know you don’t much like to have things you don’t use. And we kinda already share everything since I didn’t have much when I arrived.” Lux looked up from the object in her hand to Free, who was kicking her foot onto the floor and avoiding eye contact with Lux. “The filigree is the silver from the airship's engine case. I got the guards to tell me where scabbards break most often and used the filigree to reinforce it. The core is the lightest metals from the rigging so that it isn’t any heavier than a wooden scabbard but is way stronger. The fabric is the last of the balloon, so it’s completely waterproof and should be able to survive a lot without scratching or breaking.”
Free seemingly had a moment of indecision, before she continued to speak, her voice picking up in tempo as her nerves gave way to passion. “It’s made completely out of the last of the bits I saved from the airship. I wanted to celebrate the thing that brought me to you.” With that Free finally made eye contact with Lux. “I love you, Blondie.” Lux sucked in a breath, it was far from the first time that Free had said those words to her, but something about this time seemed to drive the air from her lungs in the same moment that it flooded her heart with love.
For a moment Lux sat in awe, astounded by the beauty of what Free had made her. And a little confused, she didn’t understand why she was being presented with such a beautiful gift. Nevertheless, she stood and retrieved her sword from their bedroom and slid it snugly home into the new sheath. It fit perfectly, and as Free had said, was even slightly lighter than it had been in its previous scabbard. Lux looked at Free, before she stepped forward and pulled the other into a hug. “Thank you, Free, it's perfect.” The statement was followed by a long kiss, before Lux placed the scabbard gently down.
Looking back on it Lux wasn’t sure what possessed her to do it. Simply that it felt right to match such an outpouring with one of her own. Lux pulled away from Free, who looked slightly confused before Lux strode confidently to the lockbox in the corner of the study. And pulled from it a ragged and dog-eared book, one of the only things that had made it all the way from her childhood in High Silvermere to Terbisia.
Turning Lux stepped forward and pressed the book into Free’s hands. “This is one of the only things I have left from my childhood, and certainly the only thing that is nothing but good and light. It’s a storybook, about a boy who becomes a knight, and a girl who was born a princess. My mother always wanted me to be the princess, and I always wanted to be the knight. And you’re the only person I’ve ever met who makes me feel like both. I love you too, Free.”
The grin Lux received was blinding,
_______
Lux felt tears prick at her eyes, her hand falling to her waist to brush the very scabbard from that memory. Fortunately, she realised that Cailtlyn was a good enough storyteller that many of the other nobles were suffering from a similar affliction, or at least pretending. She dabbed at her eyes and noticed Vi smiling at her. She offered the woman a blinding grin, Vi may never know what she had just given Lux but that would not allow her to escape the gratitude she was owed. Lux didn’t know how to feel, somehow it felt like all her fears had both disappeared but also magnified a thousand-fold. It turned out that, rather than fearing being married to her, and avoiding it so as to not cause Lux any undue pain, Free was of the belief that she and Lux were already wed. Or at least as much as one could become so in her homeland.
“A remarkable tale, Mrs Kiramman,” The diplomat from earlier remarked, “We are all richer for having heard it. But if I am not mistaken the engineers should be ready now?” Lux gave the man credit, he had delayed for exactly as long as he wished to, while ensuring that none of the others aiming for further delays would receive them. However, he would receive aid from an unlikely source. After all, Lux felt a burning need to see her own engineer as soon as possible. “I believe the honourable Governor is correct,” She spoke up, catching Caitlyn’s eyes to make sure that the other wasn’t wishing for an extension of proceedings herself, and receiving a slight nod.
“Your Majesty,” Lux called, pitching her voice upwards to ensure that it would be heard over the dim conversation occurring in the remainder of the room. Jarvan looked to her from his position between two Demacian nobles who had clearly ignored his instruction to allow him to speak with the Piltovan contingent and were making the most of their time at the king’s ear. “I believe we have all had our fill of your delightful brunch. Perhaps we should go and see what the engineers of Demacia have to offer.”
Jarvan cast a brief glance across the room, visibly checking to ensure that none of the three visiting politicians had any disagreements before he nodded. “Very Well,” he announced, “Thank you, Lady Luxanna, for your profession. Let us be about it indeed.” And the entire party, headed by the king and his guard, began the short walk from the ballroom to the parade grounds. Conversation continuing as they went.
Attached to the parade ground was a series of barracks, and it was in front of one of these that the king stopped. “I am certain that many of you were curious about how we would manage to ensure that each of your respective engineers had their time in the sun.” The king began, his voice lifting to a level of grandeur as he made clear the events of the remainder of the day.
“And the answer is this, each of your engineers has been granted a room in this barracks in which to prepare their inventions, the administrators will take you each to your respective engineer. At which point you will simply have to wait for our esteemed guests to visit you. Guided by none other than our head administrator of course.” At this Jarvan gestured to the well filigreed man beside him, who Lux had recognised earlier but doubted that many of the others had. It was not often that the chief administrator was called from behind his desk after all.
There was some huffing and puffing as those who had been hoping to steal the show immediately realised that their flashy inventions wouldn’t be able to draw attention directly away from the competition. But nevertheless eventually the various Demacian politicians, including Lux, were led into the barracks and towards their respective rooms. A few of the more opportunistic among them attempted to speak with Lux while they were guided through.
After all, losing the crownguard name had done little to damage her political capital after her successful governing of the country's first magehold. Unfortunately for them Lux could not have cared had they offered her the might of the protector herself. Her mind focused solely on the person who would be waiting within her designated room, and all the things she wanted to say.
Fortunately there was an air of urgency in the air that allowed Lux’s own nerves to blend in seamlessly and hurried the administrators along until eventually the group stopped in front of a door and the young man who had collected Lux and Free from their room yesterday evening called out, “Lady Luxanna, this is your room.” Lux thanked him with as much decorum as she could before hurriedly pushing open the door and stepping inside.
Usually Lux prided herself on her awareness, on always taking in the entails of an unfamiliar scenario before she acted. But in this case her eyes were drawn inexorably and irrevocably to Free. The woman was fiddling with something at a desk in the centre of the room, but as the door closed her eyes lifted and when they locked onto Lux’s she was struck with several realisations. Chief among which was the knowledge that she had not been alone in her sleeplessness last night, second only to the bolt of lightning re-realisation that Free had the most beautiful eyes Lux had ever seen.
In an instant Lux found herself racing across the room, crossing the flagstones at a run and nearly diving across the desk to wrap her arms around Free. If the slighter woman was shocked by Lux’s exuberance she didn’t show it, instead matching her partner's energy easily. Their lips met and Lux knew that while nothing had changed for Free there was an electricity that Lux hadn’t ever felt before. Almost as if every fibre of her being was egging her on. Driving her to say everything that had been building in her heart and her lungs and her guts ever since Vi had inadvertently revealed what Lux could only wish she had already known.
“It’s good to see you too, Blondie.” Free remarked when their lips separated, voice amused. But Lux could tell by the set of her jaw and the bags under her eyes that Free was taking as much solace in their reunion as Lux was. Lux opened her mouth to respond, to say something witty but heartfelt and put her selfish feelings aside once more. At least until Free had reunited with her sister. But what came out of her mouth was not that, it felt less like a sentence and more like an exhalation after holding her breath to its limits. Like it punched straight from her diaphragm out of her mouth.
“Marry Me.”
Free’s eyes widened slightly, seemingly confused. And Lux’s realisation was complete. After all There hadn’t been a wedding in Terbisia in Free’s time there. Those who arrived were either too young, too old, already married, or disillusioned with the Demacian Way enough that it would never occur to them to do. It wasn’t just that Free possibly considered them partnered in Zaunite Tradition, she didn’t know that there was a different tradition in Demacia.
Lux swallowed heavily, the words that had been spinning in her mind suddenly coming together into something heavy, something real. The words began to flow, quickly. “Someone asked about Vi and Caitlyn’s engagement, they explained that in Piltover and Zaun there is a different custom. One of gift giving, one of non-acknowledgement. But in Demacia it is different. When you want someone to be with you forever, to never leave your side. You give them a symbol of your family, you tell them everything they mean to you. And you invite them into your family in the hope that they will do the same.”
“Traditionally, it is done with a ring.” Lux fumbled slightly as she pulled her governess’ signet ring from its leather strap around her neck. “The asker kneels before the person they are asking.” Lux knelt, her eyes locked on Free’s face, watching as shock gave way to something else. But Lux was too far gone for worry now. She had to finish what she had started. “And there is a speech.”
“Free, when my mother threw me out of the Crownguard family, I worried that I would never know love like it again. And then I met you, and realised that I was right. Because I realized that the love I felt for you, and that you showed me, was far greater than that love. I told you, when you gave me this scabbard and I gave you that book, that you made me feel like a knight and princess both. And that is true, but only because you make me feel like myself. The me I want to be, and that person is both a knight and a princess.”
Lux chanced a look into Free’s eyes and saw tears gathering on her waterline, and a huge smile on her face. So she pressed forward, “I know that you want to see your sister again, and I know that they will likely ask you to go back with them. And I would never dream of asking you to say when you didn’t want to. I would never dream of asking you to be anything other than true to yourself and happy. And if that involves going back home with them then that is what you must do. I would never want you to be anything but free, Free. But I would dearly like for you to stay by my side.”
Lux felt her throat constrict slightly, and she swallowed harshly, her knee beginning to ache from its position on the cold stone floor. “I know that there is a tradition of not speaking of things in Zaun, that it is viewed to be bad luck. But I dearly hope I am not wrong, and that this scabbard is what I dearly hope it is. And that by some divine provenance I managed to respond accidentally exactly how I would have responded had I known. But if I am wrong, and you would want to leave me and go back to them then I shall let you go. Just say the word.”
Lux’s breath was coming quickly, her heart beating so loud she could barely hear anything else. Until Free spoke, and it was all Lux could hear. “You talk about me being the only person who lets you be you. But it’s the same for me Blondie, you’re the only person that understands that I want to be free, to be able to do what I want when I want to do it.” Lux felt her heart fall, for just a moment, before Free continued.
“And you’re the only person to let me walk away. To always make sure that I want to be who I am when I’m with you. Which is why I will never walk away from you. Not for Janna herself, nor my sister, nor the king and every army from here to Noxus. You let me choose Blondie, which means I will always choose you. That scabbard is exactly what you want it to be. And I definitely want to be yours, and if for Demacia that means speeches, and fancy meals or whatever. Then that’s what we will do. You say that I can go home with them. But Zaun isn’t my home anymore. And my name isn’t any name that they will know. My name is Free, and my home is in Terbisia. By your side. Forever.”
Lux swallowed again, “And then, after the speech, the asker says. Free, Will You Marry Me?”
Free smiled down at Lux, “Yes, Lux. I will.”
Lux reached up, and slid the ring onto Free’s finger. And the inventor pulled her easily to her feet, to meet her in a long and slow kiss. Meanwhile Lux felt like her heart would burst from the joy she felt, visions of white dresses and a party for all the people of Terbisia dancing in her mind. Free smiled at her, the same mischief that Lux so loved flashing in her eyes. “Vi’s gonna go crazy when the first thing I ask is if she wants to come to my wedding.” Lux couldn't help but laugh, pulling Free in for another kiss.