#tiny nb

‘Why am I doing this?’ Vex had asked themselves as they turned the corner of the twisting corridors within the walls. After a much needed rest, they knew they should leave as soon as possible. Vex just had to chalk this up as an experience where they got lucky and didn't get captured by the wizard.

Yet Vex passed the hall that would lead them outside, instead going down the more narrow stone pathway that was littered with cobwebs. They couldn't help but wonder if other borrowers had lived here before, were they caught by Gale as well and he let them go? From what they were told, big folk aren't known to do that. So why did Gale?

Their answers were waiting on the other side of the loose piece of stone that separated Vex's world from Gale's. They slipped out and their boots touched the spotless mahogany shelf. In most cases dust would coat the piece of furniture, making sneaking around a bigger risk should a big person decide to go on a cleaning spree and find tiny footprints on the neglected surface. But the wizard took time to keep his books dust free. Thank the gods for that.

Vex stepped out of the shadows of the bookshelf to take in the vast room before them. Rows of books were neatly lined up along the white oak shelves that wrapped around the entire room. The fireplace sat idle on the other side waiting for the summer to end; instead, a salty sea breeze from an open window to quell the heat. Vex had traveled through Gale's living room before but seeing it during the day for the first time revealed the beauty of the place.

A hearty chuckle snapped them out of their awe, Vex's eyes drifted below to see Gale and Shadowheart sharing a glass of wine at the table below them.

“It seems teaching is a good fit for you.” Shadowheart remarked before pouring more wine in her glass.

“Yes, the students are certainly a delight.” He mused.

“Even those trouble making ones you griped about the last time I visited?”

“You mean Jilyra, Ozzer, and Richace? They are fine students, taxing though they may be. Ozzer has potential to become the top of the class… if he decides to stop skipping class.”

“Perhaps he heard some of your days as a school boy and is following in your footsteps.” Shadowheart teased as she lifted up her wine glass, yet she froze when she saw Vex. She offered a soft smile.

Seeing those forest green eyes glance over Vex's way made them skitter back into the corner where the shadows concealed them but they knew it was too late, Shadowheart and Gale would likely come back and reclaim the prize of a borrower.

“They're back?” Gale asked in a hushed voice, to which Shadowheart gave a short nod.

Run! They told themselves. Run before it's too late! Yet no matter how much their instincts protested, they couldn't find the strength to move their legs. Why did they even bother to do this? Their curiosity had sealed their fate cause surely Gale wouldn't let them escape again!

“I'm surprised you decided to join us, Vex.” Gale mentioned with a soft tone.

Vex snapped out of their dreaded thoughts for a moment to take in the two giants. Shadowheart's arms were firmly rooted in the table, though she stole glances their way. Yet Gale didn't even turn his head when he addressed Vex, favoring the wine glass in his hand as if it were more interesting than a four inch person standing on the bookshelf. It was completely different from his curious nature from the days before. Either way, neither of them seemed like they wanted to leave their seats.

“Call me curious.” Vex said as they muscled down the lingering fear. “I've never heard of big people who tend to the injuries of… someone like me.”

The little quaver in their voice finally got Gale's attention; he shifted himself to look at Vex. Soft brown eyes reached out to offer sympathy. “You think we would keep you wounded and locked up in a cage?”

“That's what the stories implied.”

“And what reason would I have with doing such a thing?”

“Well, I could be a pet, an experiment… food.” The borrower suppressed their initial nausea to give Gale a smile. “Although you don't seem the type to do that.”

“You should only worry about being a snack if you're secretly a magical pair of boots.” Shadowheart gave a playful look towards Gale.

“Wait, what?”

“Oh come now Shadowheart, you're oversimplifying my infliction.” Gale scoffed out, he put his hand over the center of his chest. “The Netherese orb was only demanding the strands of weave imbued within the artifacts.”

His explanation failed to make anymore sense, yet their quips made them seem less like giant monsters to avoid and more like people.

“But enough inside jokes. Perhaps you would like to join us?” With a wave of his hand, a small portal summoned before the borrower. Energy pulsed like waves in the form of a deep purple color. It was similar to the portal Gale had used to pull them out of the rubble. Vex could never forget the terror they had the moment they saw the magical opening form in front of them, but now that portal was offered as an extension for friendship.

It took everything in Vex to push their hand through the portal, the pulsing energy made the hairs on their arm raise up. Looking towards them, Vex saw a connecting portal form at the center of the table with their hand sticking out. Vex quickly pulled their hand back and clutched it to their chest as if it was in danger of being severed by the magical portal.

Yet nothing happened.

Their own paranoia was trying to prevent them from getting to know their host. Vex shook their head; nothing happened the first time they were pulled into a portal, so why assume this time would be different?

Taking in a deep breath, Vex pushed themselves through the portal and tumbled onto the table, hearing a suppressed chuckle coming Shadowheart's way. Slowly, Vex lifted their head to see a soft smile on Gale's lips.

“Glad you could join us.” He said before gesturing to the assorted meats and cheese on a plate in the center. “Please, help yourself, I'll fetch you a thimble of wine.”

Vex gave a tight smile as they shuffled towards the assorted foods and grabbed a piece off the nearest cheese, but while they began to nibble on their food, Vex noticed Gale motioning his hands like a conductor at an orchestra. Ghostly blue hands flew around the room, grabbing an extra wine bottle and a thimble before pouring a small drop with such precision that Vex couldn't help but be transfixed by it. The hand with the thimble descended to the borrower who graciously took it. Gale flicked his wrist and the hands disappeared.

“How's your leg?” Shadowheart asked. “No lingering pains?”

Vex shook their head. “No problems so far, thank you again for healing me.”

“It was my pleasure.”

Vex offered a faint smile before sipping on the wine, the hints of cherries and grapes flooded their tastebuds. In all their years Vex had never had wine this good, only the Farsea Marshwine their uncle had them try when they were of age. The bitter taste resurfaced on their tongue at memory. Vex quickly took another taste to wash away the taste. They couldn't help but let out a satisfying hum, only to become rather embarrassed when they noticed Gale glancing down at them. “Um… it's been a while since I drank something this sweet.”

“Please, don't be shy.” Gale smiled. “I have plenty for you to enjoy.”

“I appreciate that.”

“So Vex, I can't help but wonder, why did you choose to settle in the home of a wizard?” Shadowheart asked with hesitation. “I would think your kind would be more apprehensive about boarding with one.”

“I didn't know you were a wizard until after I settled in.” Vex scoffed as they finished off their wine. “But it's not like I'm exactly safe within the walls of any big folk, now is it?”

Gale just nodded. “Fair point. Either way, I am honored you decided to stick around in my abode.”

“I'm honored to be your guest.” The words spilled out of their mouth before they even realized what they said. Why the hells would they even say such a thing? The wine must be getting to them because no borrower in their right mind would be okay with a giant knowing their whereabouts. Vex should be more cautious in case this is still a trap.

But seeing Gale's smile brighten on his face melted their worries a bit.

“Mr. Dekarios!” An older woman's voice called out from down the hall. “I'm back!”

“In the study room, Tara!” Gale responded

Strange, Vex didn't recall seeing anyone else living with Gale. In fact, they were positive he lived alone. Every nerve in Vex's body told them to hide at first, but perhaps they would set aside their anxieties for Gale and greet a new company. It wasn't like Gale associated with anyone awful.

But when a small furry creature flew into the room and landed on an empty chair, Vex froze.

A cat with black and orange splashed across her fur and a cream colored chin that stretched down her belly sat before them. But the most concerning part was seeing bird-like wings on her back. Since when do cats fly?! Vex would scream if their throat hadn't closed off.

“Welcome back, Tara!” Gale beamed. “You came at just the right time. Should I grab some fish for you?”

“That's quite alright, I snacked on a pigeon on the way back.” She scanned the table with those beady yellow eyes before they locked onto Vex, making her ears perk up. “Oh and what do we have here?”

Vex felt ice in their veins. These creatures were ruthless borrower killers, the tales their uncle told about them in his youth struck fear in Vex.

A small scream pricked up Gale's ears, he had just been working on a more advanced spell of magic missile when it grew beyond his control and blasted a hole in his wall. Gale wasn't one to worry about the damage done to his tower; he had the money to repair a small hole in the wall and if the damage was done in the name of Gale's study, he wasn't going to complain too much for his mishaps. 

But the borrower who had just moved in sent a wave of guilt over the wizard as he stared at the damage he had just done. 

He had first noticed the borrower one late night In the kitchen. They had ducked behind the towering wine bottles before Gale made it to the counter. He knew enough about borrowers to know they prefer to stay hidden from big people, so he pretended to have never seen them as he went about these last few weeks. If they wanted to talk to Gale, he would patiently wait for them to come to him. 

Unfortunately, the plan would have to change if Gale hypothesis was correct. 

As he peered into the hole in the wall, he could see a moving figure underneath the debris, desperately trying to pull themselves free. However, they quickly froze when they realized Gale was lingering near the wall. He pretended to just glance at the damage around the wall but mentally, Gale was taking notes of the tiny person’s position. It was a miracle they weren't crushed, safely tucked away into a pocket of rubble that only didn't collapse on them due to a wooden beam that held the stones up. Gale feared digging them out from above would endanger them even more. Not to mention if he did manage to free them, they would surely try to hobble away to somewhere where Gale couldn't reach them. If they were hurt, they would definitely need aid. 

If Gale was going to help that, he would have to be quick and smart about this. 

Placing his hand on the wall, Gale murmured a spell to manipulate the arcane energy to slip his hand into the stone structure. A purple light illuminated the inside of the wall, causing a gasp from the borrower. Gale's hand slipped through the portal like butter, it took a little bit of feeling around, but when his fingers brushed against their arm, he quickly curled his hand around their small frame. The borrower screamed and tried to claw out of his grip, but Gale only tightened his grip. He understood their panic but this was the only way to keep them from getting hurt while he dug them out.

Meanwhile, his other hand was elbow deep in the hole, pushing rubble out of the way, tiny jagged rocks scraped at his hand but Gale only pressed on until the small one was loose enough for him to safely pull them out. 

They flailed about in his loose fist, crying out in desperate pleas to be released. Gale couldn't even begin to fathom what they were thinking, so he rushed over to his desk and hastily pushed the papers off the surface, then carefully deposited them in the center of the desk. 

This was the first time Gale could study their appearance more thoroughly. They seemed feminine in appearance but seemed to take on a more androgynous style, with shorter blonde hair that may have had a few lavender streaks around their bangs. Gale gave a faint smile as he wondered if the little one had siphoned some dye from his cabinets to color their hair like that. Perhaps that question should be asked later, when they weren't staring at them with such fear. There were more pressing matters anyways, like the wound on their leg that was caked in dust and blood. 

He slowly raised his hands. “Apologies, I didn't intend to frighten you, but I knew you needed a… hand in that moment.” Gale chuckled at his own joke but it didn't seem to land well with the petrified borrower. 

“Anyways, my name is Gale Dekarios and I am terribly sorry about the inconvenience. I did not expect my experiment to get out of hand like it did. Perhaps I could rectify my mistake by aiding that wound you acquired on your leg?”

That seemed to have jolted the borrower out of their trance, however, they scrambled backwards until their back hit the wall. “No way! I am not letting you grab me again!” 

Despite this not being the reaction he wanted, Gale remained calm, keeping his hands where the borrower could see them. “I know this is not the most ideal situation one your size would find themselves in but we must dress that wound.” 

Their eyes darted back and forth from Gale to their leg. The wound was a rather nasty gash but not serious… so long as they could get it cleaned up properly. It took a moment before the borrower finally stared back at the wizard with pleading eyes. “Do you promise not to touch anywhere but my leg?” 

Gale nodded. “I will do everything in my power to make contact as minimal and delicate as I can.” 

He took a seat at his chair and inched his hand closer to the borrower's leg, yet he waited for their permission before continuing any further. There was a moment of hesitation from the borrower, still contemplating whether this was even a good idea but they relented and moved their leg outwards for Gale to examine. 

Gale wasted no time conjuring a couple mage hands to fetch supplies to treat the wound, while he gently nudged the bloodstained trousers up to their knee. There was a nasty gash running down their calf but fortunately it didn't look life threatening. The disembodied hands flew back, setting down bandages and elixirs that would certainly aid the small person. 

Dabbing a handkerchief into the elixir, Gale shot an apologetic look their way. “This may sting a bit.” He warned before pressing the cloth to the wound, the borrower winced no matter how gentle Gale was being. After bandaging them up, he gave the tiny person some space. They immediately skittered backwards until they backed into the wall, their blue eyes widened as they stared up at Gale. He couldn't help but feel sorry for them,

“I'd say my craftsmanship wasn't all that bad given how delicate my subject was.” He flashed a grin, hoping this joke would land; sadly, it didn't. “Anyways, my name is Gale, and you?” 

“Vexis… or Vex, which um… ever you prefer.” 

“Pleasure to meet you, Vex.” 

Their eyes lingered on Gale, then to his hands that rested on the desk, it was obvious they were still afraid of being grabbed. “So… what happens to me now?” 

“Well, I'd say you should head home to rest but I'm not so sure you can make it back given your status right now.” Before Vex was given a chance to panic, Gale smiled softly. “Nevertheless, once that leg is healed, you can retreat into the walls and go back to scurrying about pretending this encounter never happened.”

“You knew about me?!” 

“Well yes,” Gale shrugged. “You slipped into a wizard's tower, my small friend. It's not easy to keep hidden when I am most attuned to my surroundings in my own home.” 

Vex’s face went ghost white as shaky hands grasped at their hair. Perhaps it wasn't the greatest idea to mention that Gale knew of their presence if he wanted them to calm down. 

“Please, you mustn't worry yourself about that. I have no quarrel with a borrower Living within my tower. If anything, I rather enjoyed the company.” 

Vex raised a brow. “But I never even talked to you?” 

“True, but knowing that someone was around was enough of a delight for me.” His cheery tone filled the room. “But now that we have properly met, I think giving you a properly cooked meal is in order!” 

“I mean… it's not necessary.” They said sheepishly.

“Nonsense, this is the least I could do after unknowingly causing your injury.” His mind was already racing with ideas for a cuisine that would win over the borrower. “How about I cook some quipper fish and use my homemade hundur sauce? I promise you, you'll love it!”

“If you're that dedicated to going through the trouble.” Vex let out a sigh. “I just… don't want to be picked up anymore today.”

It wasn't long before Astarion and Tav were dug out from the ground and quickly brought back to camp. Tav's injuries were more severe so they took up the majority of Shadowheart's time. Not that Astarion needed as much healing as them, downing a potion while he waited for Tav to wake up would do just fine for him. Astarion pressed the bottle to his lips, grimacing as bitter taste, if only these potions could come in a more delectable and bloody flavor.

His eyes wandered about before settling on Wyll's tent. Since returning, Freya had settled on the table chatting with Wyll for some time. Normally, Astarion would have no problem inserting himself into a conversation; especially with someone as dashing as Wyll, but seeing that shaken look on Freya stopped him. He wasn't sure why he was letting a borrower stop him from socializing, but perhaps it was best to let her talk with someone more trustworthy than a vampire.

But then, after some time, Wyll had left Freya to herself, and Astarion grew tired of sitting in silence; it was time for a chat.

The tiny blonde was fiddling with that peashooter, seemingly lost in her own little world, but Astarion noticed a quick glance as he approached, only to avert her eyes the closer he got. Even when he was towering before her, Freya still kept her focus on her weapon and Astarion had no idea what to say.

“Are you just going to stand there all day?” Freya sighed, breaking the awkward silence.

“Perhaps,your tinkering is quite a show.” He said casually.

“Is that so?” Freya clicked her tongue. “Then I suggest you crouch down to get a better view.”

“Oh, I prefer the angle up here.”

“Well, you're blocking the sun from me, and It's affecting my work. So please, have a seat.” Sarcasm practically dripped from her voice towards the end.

Astarion scoffed but did drop to a knee. “Look at you, bossing around a vampire. A crueler one would have bit you in half for having the audacity to make such a command.”

Freya sighed and set down her peashooter to look up at him. Those storm gray eyes were puffy and bloodshot likely from crying, yet despite how clearly exhausted she was from today's events, there was a sharp gaze in those eyes. “How's Tav?”

“They'll be fine.” Astarion cleared his throat. “Just a few days of rest and they'll be ready to go, as Shadowheart put it.”

“I'm glad.” Relief washed away Freya's stern look, leaving behind a softer smile. It was actually nice to look at, to see her guard lowered for once giving a lovely smile that brightened the features of her face. Perhaps if she wasn't so short in stature, Astarion would have indulged in her as well.

“So, is that all?”

Astarion snapped out of his thoughts, his eyes never strayed from her but now she had his full attention. “Well actually…” He cleared his throat. “I was always under the impression that borrowers were like spineless rodents, ready to run off the moment they faced danger… but you didn't.”

“That almost sounds like a compliment.” She retorted.

“Look, I'm not really good at this.” Astarion sighed, he could feel his mouth drying up. Why was she having this effect on him? “I'm trying to thank you… for giving your herbs to buy us some time.”

Freya remained quiet for a moment as she let his words sink in. Astarion could tell she was suspicious, she had every right to be wary of his gratitude or even reject it for all the shit he put her through; it wasn't until the corners of her lips perked up that he knew what her intentions were now. “Don't mention It.”

“So what do you plan to do now that this little adventure is over?”

“I’m… not exactly sure.” She glanced away, the smile fading away. “I can't exactly return to Skaars Hollow, perhaps I could go searching for a new colony to live at?”

Astarion furrowed his brow, that was logically the best solution for her. She'd likely die on her own and a borrower has no place being around normal people, yet Astarion couldn't help but be intrigued by her. There was a new side of Freya that he wanted to get to know, and he couldn't do that if she packed up and left right away.

“You know, it would probably take you years to find a new colony on your own, given your… stature.” He chuckled. “If you'd prefer, I'm sure the others wouldn't mind if you tagged along.”

Freya raised an eyebrow. “Are you offering me a place to stay?”

“I'm not offering anything, I'm just telling you that your chances of covering more ground are better if you join us.” The vampire scoffed. “Besides, we both know Tav would want you to come along with us.”

“I'm sure they'd have a heart attack if they didn't know I was safe.” Freya chuckled, then shot a playful look at Astarion. “I'll accept, until I find a better place, of course. I prefer my company without fangs.”

Astarion laughed and leaned over the table, his slender frame looming over her. “And I prefer my company to be of a higher standard.”

Freya had to crane her neck to keep her glare on him, it was rather amusing seeing her attempt to keep an intimidating stance against the vampire. “How charming.”

“Oh, I try to be.” Astarion flashed a grin at their banter, it was just as fun as when he was seducing Tav. His mind wandered back to them, surely they must be waking up soon. “Say, how about we go check on Tav.” He lowered his slender hand in front of the borrower. “I know you want to.”

Instead of hopping on, Freya just stared at his hand, her jaw went slack and her eyebrows knitted together as if she was trying to decipher his intentions. Astarion rolled his eyes. “Don't tell me you still don't trust me to carry you around.”

Freya let in a sharp inhale. “Borrowers don't normally live after willingly climbing into the hand of a vampire, you know.”

“I'm well aware, but don't worry, darling. I've already had a bite to eat earlier.” He lowered his voice into a hushed whisper. “So I don't need a snack, just yet.”

He watched her fidget as he spoke. Her cheeks flushed into a lovely shade of pink and he had to suppress a smile as she scrunched her nose to hide just how flustered she became. “I'll make sure you choke on me!” She said with a scoff.

“I'm sure you will.” He purred. “But we really should check on Tav. So either climb on or don't. It's your choice.”

“Okay okay, just… give me a second!” The borrower let out a sigh, her limbs shook as she continued to inch towards his hand. Finally, she climbed up onto his hand and shuffled towards the center of his palm. Her heart pounded against her ribcage, and for the first time in a while, Astarion felt a pang of… guilt. He was no stranger to striking fear into people, but watching Freya tense as he raised his hand higher made him think: was being held by a vampire really that terrifying to her? No matter, if she is to travel with them, she will have to learn to deal with him.

~~~

Tav had been in and out for a while. They'd become accustomed to the fever dreams that plagued their recovery, but the strangest one had to be seeing Freya and Astarion laughing together along with Shadowheart by their bedroll.

“I still saved you twice, in case you forgot.” The vampire grinned. “That hardly makes us even.”

“The first time shouldn't count.” Freya scoffed. “You didn't even know I was there!”

Tav blinked a couple times to adjust their eyes to this new sight. “I must be dead if you two are getting along.”

The three all snapped their heads over and Freya scurried over to Tav's face, her eyes lit up as she stopped just a few inches short of them. “You're alright!”

“Yeah, I'm alright.” Tav felt their heart flutter as Freya's smile only grew wider, they would have thought she’d have left after that fight. Did she just stay to make sure they were alright? “What happened while I was out?”

“The three of you fell into a pit, I'm surprised you're all alive.” Shadowheart explained.

“If it wasn't for that herb Freya collected, we would have choked on poison.”

Tav immediately shot up, their side seared with immediate pain, leaving them to cry out.

“Easy darling,” Astarion said as he helped them sit up. “We can't have you hurting yourself more than you already have.”

Their eyes fell on Freya, her shoulders immediately grew tense as she stared up at Tav. “You… used that plant you needed.”

“Of course I did.” She scoffed. “We were going to die if we didn't.”

Despite her hardened demeanor, Tav could see her holding back those tears. All they wanted to do was scoop her up and hold her close, but Tav instead laid their hand out as an offering to her. When she gave a soft nod, Tav wrapped their fingers around her and pulled her close to their chest for a hug. “I'm… sorry it came to that, I know you needed that for your colony.”

“What's done is done.” She let out a shaky sigh, then reached out to pull Tav's thumb close to her, it was so small, yet Tav could feel the warm embrace of her hug. “I'm just glad you're okay.”

“Same to you.”

Shadowheart sent a coy smile over to Astarion. “Well it looks like we're chopped liver.”

“And here I thought Freya and I were starting to see eye to eye.”

Breaking the embrace, Freya snapped over to Astarion given a glare that wasn't quite as malicious as it used to be. “Sorry, but you wouldn't understand, it's a short race thing.”

Astarion let out a giggle. “Then perhaps I'm better off not knowing.”

Tav couldn't hide an eye roll. “This short person saved you.”

“Speaking of that…” Astarion smiled and leaned closer to Tav, the smell of rosemary lingered off of him. For a moment, it looked as though he was about to kiss the halfling, but his smile was wiped away and a glare bore into Tav. “What in the sweet hells were you thinking?! You nearly got yourself killed playing the hero!

“Excuse me, but I had to!” Tav scoffed. “She was going after the two of you!”

“That doesn't mean you go and get yourself killed for us!” Freya chimed in.

Astarion chuckled. “See even dear Freya knew how bloody stupid that was.”

“Not you too!” Tav groaned and fell back on the bedroll. “You're supposed to be on my side.”

“I'm on your side until you do something as reckless as that!” The borrower crossed her arms, shooting a glare that would have rivaled the glare of Tav's own mother.

“This isn't even the first time they've done stuff like this.” Astarion exclaimed. “They tried to stand up to a mother owlbear after it slaughtered two people!”

“Seriously, Tav? An owlbear!”

Tav feared they were never going to hear the end of it but thankfully, Shadowheart cleared her throat. “As entertaining as this is, perhaps you two should leave so Tav can actually rest.”

“Oh fine,” Freya huffed out, before shooting a playful grin at Tav. “But just so you know, this isn't over.”

They smiled back. “I'd be a fool to expect otherwise.”

Freya nodded before looking over to Astarion, who quickly scooped her up as gently as he could; it was unbelievable to witness this. Tav kept their eyes on Freya to see if there was any form of discomfort. Astarion seemed to catch on and smiled as he rose to his full height.

“Oh don't worry, dear Tav. I'm not going to eat her.” His smile grew more mischievous. “I'd much prefer to taste you, instead.”

A blush immediately scorched Tav's cheeks. “Okay, thank you, goodbye!”

He quickly exited the tent but that smile never left his face. He knew he left Tav with some thoughts and he was absolutely pleased with that.

“Those two certainly got close.” Shadowheart said once they were alone.

“I still can't believe it.”

“It's for the best, since Freya looks to be staying with us.” She smiled, rummaging through her pack. “They'd be quite the odd couple though.”

Tav raised an eyebrow. “Do you honestly believe they'd ever go that far?”

“Who knows, weirder things have happened within our group.” Shadowheart pulled out a potion to hand it Tav. “But perhaps you're right, maybe they're just better off as friends.”

“Who knows…” Tav chuckled a bit but their mind lingered on that thought, a borrower and a vampire as a couple? It was such an unlikely idea, yet Tav couldn't help but feel disappointed at reality. They enjoyed being around the both of them, but sadly, Tav knew if their bonds grew stronger, they'd have to choose.

~~~~~~

Night had fallen and Freya finally got some time alone. She wandered to the edge of camp to look up at the stars, reflecting on what happened and what is to come now that her life is going down a different path than she ever would have thought.

“Freya?” A hushed voice called out through the bushes, she didn't have time to process whose voice that was before Kes sheepishly emerged from the leaves. His eyes darted around to make sure no larger beings were nearby.

“Gods, Kes!” Freya practically tackled them with a hug. “How did you manage to get all the way out here?”

“That devil man and Gith were in town today, along with a bearded man.” Kes mentioned. “That put the colony in a panic; they thought you sent them to hunt us down.”

Freya rolled her eyes, she couldn't fault everyone’s fear; yet her heart sank knowing that her people truly thought her as a traitor. “Do you think that?”

Kes couldn't meet her eyes, yet he still spoke as sincerely as he could. “You know I don't, Freya, that's why I had to find you; to understand why they're still at Skaars Hollow.”

“They stopped the source of the plague and wanted to get paid.” Freya said flatly. “Look, I may have left out some details in my trial, but I was telling the truth about their intentions.”

Silence hung in the air, making Freya wonder if Kes doubted her too. Their eyes glanced back at her, holding her in their gaze before they finally spoke. “Did you have something to do with that?”

A smile formed on her lips. “Of course I did, I'm the best.”

Kes let out a chuckle. “Wouldn't expect anything less.”

“You know I tried to bring back some Aixosfeaf for you guys… but stuff happened down there, and I couldn't bring it back.” Just admitting failure made Freya’s throat tighten at the last words. “Maybe you could tell Mirable to scavenge stuff from the healer's in a few days, when the townsfolk gathered more supplies?”

“Sounds like a plan.” Kes nodded. “Speaking of plans, what are you going to do?”

“I'm going to travel with Tav's group… until I find a new home.” Freya couldn't look Kes in the eyes. Somehow, telling him about her plan was more nerve wracking than dealing with vampires or fighting hags combined.

“Gods, you're serious…”

“Well, what else am I supposed to do?” Freya snapped, tears were threatening to pour out her eyes. “I can't just live in the woods fighting for scraps!”

Kes grew quiet. “I don't know… maybe I was hoping you'd… still hang around for me.”

Freya's anger died down as she stared at her older cousin. This was someone she looked up to as if they were an older sibling, and she would be leaving them behind. “You and I both know Mirable would try and have me executed if she caught me sneaking around the colony.”

Kes pursed his lips and shrugged. “She's probably less dangerous than a Gith… or vampire.”

“Oh, don't sell Mirable short like that.” Freya laughed, despite Kes’ discomfort. “She could probably keep half the camp in line if she tried too.”

“You know what I mean...”

Freya stared at Kes, worry lines were etched into his face. The fact that he ventured out of the colony to find her took an amount of guts Freya didn't know he had. “They're not as bad once you get to know them.”

Kes shook his head, the very idea of a larger being being good was just something he couldn't accept, yet his eyes lingered on his baby cousin, studying her words as if he was trying to make sense of this new situation.

“Freya?”

Tav's voice cut through the air, making both borrowers jump. Freya had been gone for a while, which might have caused concern amongst her new companions. She spun to see Tav trudging towards her. “What are you doing out of bed?”

“Apologies, but I had to know you were okay before I turned in for the night.” There was a smile on their face as they looked past the borrower to see Kes. Tav planted their feet to the ground and lowered into a crouch. “Hello, who's this?”

Despite the gentle tone, Kes’ face morphed into pure terror! He refused to utter a word, he just stared up at Tav like he was staring up at the apocalypse approaching him. If it weren't for Freya, he would have likely ran far away.

Tav wouldn't dream to hurt Kes, but Freya couldn't let his fear seize him. “Please, give us a moment.” She told Tav as she shoved her cousin into the bushes before anyone had time to react.

Once the leaves obscured the two borrowers, Freya looked at her cousin who was now on the verge of having a panic attack. She knelt down, squeezing their shoulder. “Hey, you're okay.”

“They saw me!” He gasped.

“Yes, but they're not going to come after us.” She tried to reassure them.

“Right, I'll just… wait by the fire when you're done.” Tav called out as their footsteps faded away, letting the silence creep back into the night.

“See?” Freya chimed in. “Nothing is going to happen to you.”

Bewilderment flickered in the older borrower's eyes. “I… don't know how you'll get used to being around… larger beings all the time.” He said, pushing himself to his feet.

“It'll definitely take some time getting used to.” Freya laughed but a knot started to form in her stomach. How long would it be before she could look someone in the eyes without craning her neck? Even with the help of the group, there was no guarantee she would find a group of borrowers so easily, or that they would accept someone who so willingly ventured with larger beings. Even if they did, they wouldn't fill the void of never seeing Kes again.

“You know, we don't have to say goodbye.” The utter shock on Kes’ face was palpable, but Freya didn't let that deter her plea. “You could come with me, you wouldn't have to worry about anyone giving you shit for your identity, Tav would always make sure you're comfortable while here.”

“I'd never be comfortable around a bunch of giant beings.”

“Then let's just make it temporary.” Freya cried out. “Let's find a new colony together… one where you could feel more accepted!”

“Freya…” Kes looked away. “You know he tries.”

“Barely.” She grumbled.

A shaky sigh slipped from his lips. “He's not perfect, but he’s still family.”

The urge to scream out was strong, was Freya not family too? Did her feelings not matter just because she was not from a direct bloodline as him? It would be so much easier to lash out at Kestrel, accuse him for not giving a damn about her, part with him on bad terms. Yet, when she looked into his eyes, she could see the tears that he held back too. Neither of them wanted to part ways like this but there was no going back.

“I understand.” Freya whispered in an attempt to believe her own words. “Just promise me you won't take shit from anyone even when I'm not there.”

Kes formed a thin smile. “I won't, you stay safe out there.”

The reunion was about to come to an end, but Freya couldn't let her cousin leave without giving them one last thing. She reached into her pack to present the peashooter to them. “I want you to take this.”

Kes gingerly took the prototype in their hands, running their fingers along the elastic. “You found something to complete the design?”

“That was one of the perks of getting caught.” Freya chuckled. “It may be a rough design but it got me out of some trouble.”

“Are you sure you should part with it?” Kes asked, trying to pawn the peashooter to her. “You'll need it out there!”

“Please, I can make a new shitty weapon along the way.” She folded her arms into her chest. “You, however, know how to improve it. You should have it, Kes.”

Despite the hesitation, Kes accepted the gift, stowing it away in their pack. “Alright, should we ever be so lucky to cross paths again, you'll see it with a whole slew of upgrades!”

“I better.”

Before the two decided to part ways, they embraced in one last hug. Teardrops fell onto Freya's head, she couldn't hold back her tears either, wiping them away on the ash scented shirt Kes wore. Gods, she never realized how much she was going to miss that smell until now.

“You're still a borrower.” Kes said, pulling away. “Don't ever forget that.”

“I won't.”

“Good.” They gave her a smile taking a few steps back. “I should go… before anyone realizes I'm gone.”

As painful as it was, Freya nodded. “Take care, love you.”

“I love you too, cuz.” Kes peered out of the bushes to make sure no one was lurking nearby, once the coast was clear, they slipped away, disappearing from Freya's life for good.

She croaked out a sob, they could have had an eternity to say goodbye and that still wouldn't be enough to cushion the pain that cut its way into her heart.

It wasn't bloody fair, but what's done is done, Freya made her choice and now she would live with it. Wiping the tear streaks from her cheeks, she left the cover of the bush to head back to camp. Tav was true to their word and waited by the fire.

“Hey, I didn't mean to startle your friend.” They crouched down as Freya shuffled towards them. “Are they alright?”

“Kes will be fine.” Freya replied. “He just wanted to… say goodbye.”

“Are you alright?”

“I will be.” She spoke in a hushed tone, the tears still threatened to pour out.

“I'm sorry this happened Freya.” Tav said. “If there's anything I can do, please don't hesitate to ask.”

Freya gazed up at Tav, their green eyes met hers, no words needed to be spoken for her to know that Tav meant every word they said. “I think right now, I just need a friend with me.”

“Would you like a hug as well?”

“I wouldn't be opposed to it.”

Deep underground, unbeknownst to the people of Skaars Hollow, was a colony of borrowers. Tunnels were painstakingly carved by the tiny people to keep such a large group hidden from the larger beings. Uncle Eskel said it was better that way, but after sitting in the empty room with only four dirt walls to keep her trapped, Freya started to wonder if this way was truly keeping her people safe or if this was merely a way to keep them sheltered.

The door creaked open and a figure not much taller than Freya slipped in. “I can't stay here long but you need to tell me everything.”

“Kes!” Freya jumped up from the bedroll and practically tackled her cousin into a hug. His arms wrapped around her and she was fully embraced in the familiar scent of smoke and ash that clung to him. “I was worried sick about you.” He said, trying to sound stern but the crack in his voice gave himself away.

“I know, I'm sorry.” Freya pulled away from Kes to meet his gray eyes. Soot smeared his round cheeks; when Freya slipped out of the border, he was still in the forge. Gods, he must have been searching for her since last night! “I thought I could get more supplies beyond the border.”

“I figured that much,” Kes sighed, taking Freya by the hand and sitting down on the bedroll with her. “But I need to know if you were spotted by that group that caused havoc in Huskin's Tavern.”

Freya tucked her knees to her chest, despite being close to Kes, she still struggled to meet his worrisome gaze. Unlike her, Kes was a more cautious and secluded borrower who didn't care to leave the safety of the walls. To him, there was uncertainty when one ventured out to larger being territory, and he refused to be put in a position where he might get caught. So he opted to be the colony's blacksmith, while Freya looked for supplies for him. They made a pretty good team, but that still didn't make telling Kes what happened any easier. “I got caught last night by that group.”

“By the gods, are you alright?!” Kes grabbed onto her shoulders and began studying her for any signs of injuries. “One of the scouts said you were covered in blood! Which one hurt you?!”

“I'm fine, really!” Freya shoved her cousin away, but flashed a smile. “It takes more than a few travelers to knock me down.”

“I'm glad this experience hasn't shaken your confidence, but this is serious.” He sighed. “What happened out there?”

“They didn't want me to head back home alone, and agreed to escort me back.” Freya avoided eye contact as she uttered those words, yet the horror that radiated off of him was palpable. “They were already planning on coming to town for some business.”

“What kind of business?”

“They were going after the goblins that terrorize the outskirts of the town and their leader wants to investigate the plague.” Freya took a shaky breath, fearing Kes’ reaction. “I think they're going to help us.”

Kes stared at her like she was suddenly growing horns and a tail. “Help us or help the real townsfolk?”

“All of us, Kes!” She exclaimed. “They seem like… good people.”

“Large ones don't help borrowers.” He clenched his jaw. “And if they do, it's never for the right reasons.”

Freya was no stranger when Kes acted this way, she knew what he had been through and thirteen years later, he still was traumatized by the raid of their colony. Normally, Freya would leave him alone to mourn his losses, but in a few hours, Freya would have to stand before the elders and face a trial that may not stand in her favor. Her only hope was to persuade Kes into seeing her point of view. She placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. “I don't know how else to explain it, but they're different.” Freya sighed softly, thinking about how Tav treated her, and wondered of their fate. Did they survive or were they already dead? Freya had to push those thoughts out of her head, Tav had to be fine. If they haven't fallen to the illithid parasite, then surely they wouldn't fall to Huskin! “Their leader speaks with such passion and kindness.”

Kes hastily shushed her. “You know better than to talk like that!”

“I'm just thinking about our colony!” Freya retorted. “We've been hurt by the plague too, and they have a lead on how to end it, maybe if we asked-!”

“You're going to get exiled or executed If you keep talking like this!” Kes hissed out, a fierce glare met locked onto her before fading away. He sighed. “Look, maybe there are nice large ones out there, but you need to play this smart. Tell them you were scared, be vague, do that and your punishment might not be so severe. Please, I can't lose you, Freya.”

“Okay.” Freya nodded, there was no getting through to him. Pride and fear kept a lot of borrowers in line, it was usually a life saver but Freya feared that would soon be their downfall if the plague continued to spread.

~~~~

Freya tugged at the sleeves of her green blouse, the questions had been relentless since the trial began, it didn't help when the entire colony had gathered around to listen to her brush with danger. She told them the story about getting caught by Astarion, meeting Tav and the rest of the group, and having to stay until morning; she of course, left out certain details that might make the colony panic more, but the main story was the truth.

“And they just let you go?” Asked uncle Eskel.

“Yes.”

“Why?” Uncle Eskel's stone gray eyes bore into Freya. He was definitely the spitting Image of Kes, but where her cousin showed more kindness and sympathy when he looked at Freya, uncle Eskel only showed a stern disapproval. The two quarreled for a long time, as to why, that remained a mystery. Whatever the reason, Freya knew she wouldn't get any pardons for simply being the elder's niece.

“They… didn't see a use in keeping me.” Freya sighed. “The group had better things to do than keep a borrower around.”

Murmurs spread around the room speculating how a borrower would simply be let go. Then one elder named Whitcomb broke through the crowd. “Preposterous, a larger being wouldn't let a borrower go!” He shook a bony fist in the air. “We are too valuable on the black market.”

“Ta- The halfling showed empathy when they met me.” Quizzical looks painted the faces of the five elders, none of them could wrap their heads around a larger one being nice to a borrower. “Their priority was to figure out what was causing the plague in Skaars Hollow, they had no time to… sell me off.”

“Why are they curious about the plague?” The elder named Petrona asked. She was a woman in her forties, the youngest elder of the five. The only reason she was appointed was because her mother- the previous elder, had gotten sick from the very plague and was likely to die.

“They want to cure the town of this ailment.” Freya glanced over to Kes, his jaw clenched tightly as he stared at her with wide eyes. She wished she could read his mind right now, was he mentally screaming at her for speaking too much or just filled with general anxiety?

“So Freya got lucky and was spared by kind travelers?” The elder known as Veron said, running his fingers through his graying beard. Things seemed to be going Freya's way, the hammering in her chest was slowly easing up.

But Mirable cleared her throat and stood up. “I'd like to remind the council that Freya lingered in the tavern after she was free.” Freya cursed under her breath, of course Mirable would rat her out!

“Is this true, Freya?” Uncle Eskel's voice cut through like a blade, ready to pierce her heart if she even utters the wrong words.

“I did,” She let out a heavy sigh. “I wanted to know more about the plague to see if I could learn anything that might help us.”

For a moment, the crowd seemed to approve of Freya's logic. That maybe the young borrower was only risking herself for the sake of her people, surely she shouldn't be punished so severely for thinking about the fate of her people, right? But Mirable only glared at Freya with dagger-like eyes. “Oh? If that's the case then explain why you attacked the one who tried to kill the Gith?”

Gasps dispersed around the room, Kes looked as though he might rip out his own dark hair. If the ground decided to open up below Freya's feet, she would gladly let herself be swallowed up to avoid this trial.

“Answer the question, Freya.” Uncle Eskel snapped.

“She was aiding in learning more about this plague.” It took everything in Freya to keep her voice from trembling. “I wanted to do my part in aiding them to that.”

“Borrowers are forbidden to aid larger beings no matter the reason!” Her uncle shouted. “You know this, yet you defied the very law that has kept our people safe!”

“Standing back and watching them die could only hurt our people!” Freya retorted.

“Father…” Kes cleared his throat, his hands shook more than Freya did. “Perhaps, Freya's intentions should be… considered over her nativity?”

“Silence Kan… Kestrel!” Uncle Eskel shot a piercing glare at his child. “All of Freya's actions will be judged!”

Nails dug into Freya's clenched fists, even ten years after Kes began his transition, Uncle Eskel's efforts to use his child's true name was lacking. Years of arguing with him wore him down enough to use the correct name to keep the house civil, yet they all knew uncle wasn't keen on the change. Anger boiling, Freya was ready to lash out at her uncle, but her eyes glanced over to her older cousin, who shook his head at her. She didn't need to read minds to know Kes was telling her not to start this now, and as much as she hated it, she knew he was right, the correction can wait until after she is given a penalty.

Petrona glanced over at uncle Eskel. “I hate to say it, but Kes has a point. If the travelers mean to seek aid for this plague then surely Freya should meet a less severe punishment?”

Loza, the other female elder scoffed. “Even if the large ones aid this town, we will not obtain such gratification.”

“That's not true!” Freya blurted out, all eyes fell on her now. Her throat threatened to close in an attempt to seal her true words from leaving her lips, but the searing glares from the elders kept her from freezing up. She had to speak up, to vouch for Tav and their companions. “I mean… their leader seemed keen on helping everyone affected by the plague. Perhaps, aid could even… reach us.”

The collective gasp wasn't at all surprising but it was disheartening, the quiet murmurs became full blown clamors, people spoke of theories of what the group did to Freya to make her say such a blasphemous thing.

“Are you suggesting that we reveal ourselves to those travelers just because a few of our own are ill?” Whitcomb bellowed out.

“Absolutely not!” Her breathing became more ragged, her mind racking for ideas that could win the colony over. “But maybe… I could… ask for the assistance myself.”

“No!” Kes shouted out, terror flickered in his eyes. His fear was reasonable, but Freya only gave him an apologetic look before continuing. “I heard they're going to investigate the cave south of here. If I go there, I could get the answers and hopefully, a cure for this plague. I would be the only borrower they interact with during the whole journey.”

“Have you gone mad, girl?! You're asking to befriend the very beings that have oppressed our people!” Fury was painted on uncle Eskels's face; there was no doubt he wanted to do nothing more than to scream at the top of his lungs for even hearing such a suggesting, but he maintained a professional decorum. “Have you forgotten the last time a borrower befriended a large one?” He asked in an eerily calm tone.

“Of course I haven't.” Freya's jaw clenched, how dare her uncle question her loyalty, she was not like the boy from thirteen years ago. The boy who befriended the larger being only to be betrayed and hunted down along with the rest of her colony for a quick profit. The very raid that took the lives of her parents, and the lives of Kes’ mother and younger brother. She wasn't stupid, she knew what larger beings were capable of, but if the fate of her colony rests in the hands of Tav, then she must do everything she can to make sure her people survive, even if such methods were… unconventional.

“I worry about Freya's alliance.” Mirable's cold voice silenced the crowd. “There was another questionable character amongst the travelers. The pale elf had a bounty on him, Huskin and his grunts wanted him, and the way he fought... He used more than blades to slaughter his enemies, he also tore into the neck of one of the cooks. I've only heard of vampires doing such a thing.” The scout studied Freya for a moment, she saw the guilt written on her. “I'm right, aren't I?”

She couldn't face anyone, not Mirable, not the elders, not even Kestrel. There was no good way to explain why Tav kept a vampire around, Freya couldn't even fully understand why. Her silence was all the confirmation the crowd needed.

“By the gods!” Uncle Eskel shouted. “You would have us put our trust in a group who lets a vampire roam free?!”

“One that walks in the sun too!” Veron added.

“Did he charm you?” Petrona gasped.

“Of course not!” Freya scrunched her nose. “The halfling is the one who leads the charge and he listens to them.”

“A vampire will always listen to their instincts.” Whitcomb warned. “And a colony of borrowers will satisfy their hunger for a bit.”

The panic in the crowd grew like a pot of water boiling over. Youngsters mentioned second hand stories about vampires, while the elderly feared they must uproot their lives and leave Skaars Hollow, and mothers cried out for the safety of their children. It was chaos that couldn't be contained.

“You have put our colony in danger with your recklessness!” Uncle Eskel shouted.

“Everything I have ever done was for the colony!” She snapped back.

“It was for your own selfish desire to seek out adventure, like your father!” Her uncle screamed out, his voice silenced the crowd, they watched in bated breath realizing this was no longer just a trial of a borrower who broke the rules, but a family affair being put on display. When Freya didn't retort back, uncle Eskel cleared his throat of all the rage he had pented up. “I have given you a pass due to it being the very thing that saved you from the raid, but now I see my leniency has put us at risk.”

Freya tensed up. “What are you saying?”

Uncle Eskel took a deep breath. “As of tonight, you are no longer welcome as a member of our colony. You will be escorted beyond the border where you will continue your exile alone.”

Yo-you can't do this!” Freya shrieked, her eyes locked onto her older cousin's, who shared the same look of fear as her. Neither of them should be surprised yet they were gutted by the verdict no less!

“Are we sure we should let her go freely,” Loza scowled. “Where she could always return with… unwanted guests.”

“I will not sentence the daughter of my sister to be executed.” While still stern, a glimpse of pity shone in his eyes. It was easier to pretend her uncle hated her, but deep down, Freya knew he had a soft spot for her just for looking like her mother.

“There must be another way, father!” Kes pleaded, tears pricked his eyes. “What if we forbade her from leaving the walls.”

“No!” Uncle Eskel bellowed. “She will continue to sneak out and cause trouble!” His cold glare fell onto his niece. “If you won't abide by the rules that kept your ancestors alive, then you can live on your own where your actions will only get yourself killed!”

“All I did was try to help!” There was no holding back tears anymore, she looked back to Kes, meeting his eyes one last time before Mirable pushed Freya along to send her out in the wilderness.

“Shadowheart can mend your leg.” Gale had told Vex when he received a letter. That was three moons ago, the dread clutched onto Vex's gut with each passing moment she didn't show up, she did not sound like someone who would heal a borrower's leg. The thought of attempting to shamble away crossed Vex’s mind more than once, their only obstacle would be trying to climb down Gale's desk while injured. Perhaps now would be the best time to since Gale was more preoccupied with making sure his tower was tidy rather than them for once. They'll admit, compared to most big people, Gale was the most respectful of their boundaries, only touching up their wounds when necessary or  carrying them to the washroom. But Vex still felt sick everytime his fingers came into contact with them. 

Footfalls broke Vex of their thoughts, the familiar pace of Gale's easygoing steps stuck out first, the other steps were lighter, as if the shadows themselves were walking behind him, that must be the cleric Gale had talked about. Vex's heart pounded away in their chest, there wasn't much time to form a better plan, so Vex scrambled behind a stack of books set on the table, pressing their shaky hands to their mouth as if that would steady their breathing.

“They're in here.” Gale spoke in a soft tone. 

The footsteps stopped short of the desk and an eerie silence fell over them. For a moment, Vex wondered if their half-baked plan to hide behind the books actually stumped the two and they would leave.

“Vex?” Gale cleared his throat. “Would you mind… stepping out from the tower of books obscuring you, please?” 

As frightened as Vex was, they knew they couldn't hide behind these books forever, lest they wanted to be forcefully removed. Vex took a breath, attempting to steel their nerves before hobbling out. They couldn't bring themselves to meet her eyes, craning their neck to make eye contact made this whole thing more daunting! Vex was really at the mercy of two giants! Gods, they wished they knew this was a wizard's tower before making a home here! Maybe if Vex kept moving, they wouldn't have gotten injured and caught.

Perhaps the old childhood stories of big people being able to smell fear was true, because the woman knelt down to be more eye level with Vex, forcing them to have to look her in the eyes. The first thing Vex noticed was the long silver hair pulled back into a ponytail. Her green eyes held a curious yet kind-hearted look when meeting theirs. Strange, for someone named Shadowheart, she sure looked a lot nicer than Vex pictured.

“My friend here says you require some healing.” 

Vex glanced down at their leg, Gale had done a nice job cleaning and mending the wound but pain surged up any time they tried to put weight on it. If they wanted to get out of here faster, they had to trust this woman to heal them. 

With a sigh, Vex propped their leg out, thick bandages covered the wound. Shadowheart reached towards Vex, gently holding their leg between her thumb and index finger. They had to suppress a shutter. No matter how nice they seemed, they were still big folk who could hurt borrowers. Any reasonable borrower would call Vex mad for this, yet they knew they didn't have much choice. 

“Te curo.” Blue light illuminated the cleric's fingers and seeped into Vex's leg, the throbbing pain beginning to wash away. Shadowheart pulled her hand back once she finished the spell, letting Vex rip off the bandages. The ugly gash that once incapacitated them had fully disappeared, only a faint scar was left behind. Vex ran their fingers across their leg, trying to find any hint of pain before they put some weight on it. Not even a slight discomfort!

“I assume my services were satisfactory.” Shadowheart said with a smug look on her face. 

“Thank you.” Vex squeaked out. 

“Glad to see you're better.” Gale chimed in. “I'm sure you can't wait to get back on your feet.” 

That was the understatement of the century.

“How did you two meet anyways?” 

A boyish grin appeared on Gale's face. “Quite a humorous turn of events if I say so…” 

As Gale rambled on, Vex kept testing out their leg. They could move on their own again and more importantly they could get the hells away from these big people! Their eyes darted around the room, taking note of how engrossed the two were in conversation. It would be risky, but Vex could probably make it to the edge of the desk without them noticing. 

They'd just have to be smart about moving.

They started off by taking small steps away from the stack of books. Seeing if either of them noticed. Shadowheart was more focused on the wizard, while Gale gave nothing more than a passing glance, he was more busy recounting every second of their first meeting to figure out Vex's plan. For all they knew, Vex was just stretching their legs, which is exactly what they wanted them to think! As they got closer to the edge, Vex slipped their hand in their pack to retrieve the grappling hook, they were surprised when Gale didn't interrogate them about the contents held within, but gods was Vex ever thankful for that, freedom was just a drop away! 

“But I believe I have spoken enough for the both of us, perhaps Vex would like to add something… Vex?” 

Color drained from Vex's face as they descended down the desk, the wind that rushed past their ears felt louder than when they normally climbed down. Looking up, Vex saw the two frowning faces of the giants staring back at them, distracting the borrower from sticking the landing. They stumbled back once their feet hit the ground, falling onto their rump with a harsh thud. 

Gale immediately crouched down to get a better look at the borrower, his hand reaching towards them. “Wait, Vex!” 

With a shriek, Vex scrambled back until their back hit the wall. To their surprise, Gale pulled his hand back, locking eyes with the fearful borrower. In a brief moment, Vex thought they saw a pained look in his large brown eyes. However that moment didn't last long as adrenaline forced them to jump up to their feet and dashed towards the bookshelf, leaving their grappling hook still hanging on the desk. They thought he would try to stop them, but they made it safely behind the bookshelf where a secret entrance lay unbeknownst to the wizard. Once behind the safety of the stone walls, Vex let out a heavy sigh, finally they were back in the world they knew. 

“Well I guess I did a real good job at healing them.” Shadowheart's voice echoed behind walls.

Gale chuckled. “I supposed you did.”

“Though I'm surprised you didn't try to stop them.” 

“I think they spent enough time around me.” Gale spoke softly. “Let them have their space, they can come by if they wish, perhaps we can catch up over some wine?” 

“Only if you break out the good wine.” Shadowheart giggled. 

“I could never sully your company by offering cheap wine!” The two shared another laugh before walking off. 

Alone in their thoughts, Vex had all the time in the world to just process everything. They could have been grabbed again, yet… Gale pulled away before he so much as brushed against them. Of course he did, he was always so nice, but that didn't mean Vex had to be around him anymore than they had to. So why did they feel bad for leaving so suddenly?