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It has really been a long, long day, even by Imogen’s standards. The events of the day were weighing down on her, it was all so heavy.
The first combat with Lord Estheross felt like it occured ages ago, she could hardly believe it was just this morning. The fear laced with anger and guilt about Laudna’s injury still kept echoing in Imogen’s mind throughout the day, even if somewhat subdued by the all too familiar headache.
The migraine that filled her mind the entire day had only gotten worse from the exhaustion caused by all the day’s events. They kept replaying in her head. The anxiety from the chase after Danas, and the helplessness from being engulfed in darkness during their encounter in the Weary Way tavern, the only location indicator being Laudna’s voice calling her name in the dark. And even after all that, after getting beaten and bruised again, the dwarf got away and they were still too late to save Danas, which definitely stung. She may not have been a very good person, but nobody deserved that kind of fate.
Of course, the fact that all Imogen ate today was some overly alcoholic stew with questionable meat did not exactly help matters, so she was really thankful for the carrot cake that Estheross made, even if it was a tad dry. He seemed to have a kind side, that old orc, even if some resentment about the earlier combat with him still lingered in her.
And at least they also managed to secure a breakthrough with him, including some payment, a continuous job offer and a promise for a contract tomorrow. It was all bringing her and Laudna one step closer to getting into the Conservatory, and, with some luck, to the answers they were beseeching. She tried to find solace in that. And in being back at her partner's side, of course.
After stepping out of the estate and reaching the Spire By Fire with the membmers of their newly founded (and yet to be named) group, they had all agreed it was time to call it a night, as it had already been pretty late and they were all tired and banged up. They decided to meet up near the Windowed Wall in the next morning.
Laudna and Imogen bid good night to the rest of the group, who were mostly staying in the same tavern again, Bell’s treat of course, and were heading back to Zhudanna’s house. The old lady was probably fast asleep by now, so they’d have to be quiet, but they didn’t want her to wake up to an empty house and worry. She was so kind to them, after all, and they had already gotten quite used to their shared room there. Imogen was also looking forward to having some time alone with Laudna and away from other people for tonight, at least. Though she had to admit that she was really starting to like the rest of the group as well. Even that Bertrand fellow was growing on her a bit. He might have been an obvious charlatan, but there was also a kindness in him. She could sense that he had good intentions at heart.
As soon as they started walking back to the Windowed Wall, the sorcerer immediately reached out to hold Laudna’s hand. It’s not that she really had an issue with public displays of affection, but she had still felt more comfortable doing it when it was just the two of them, especially as they still weren’t that acquainted with the rest of the group yet. There were also very few moments for that during the day, with the two combat encounters and the way they kept getting separated into different teams. It had actually been rather nice to interact with the others, and also useful for both of them to contribute their parts and show their abilities, but she had still missed these quiet moments between the two of them.
Laudna’s long and spindly fingers had immediately returned the gesture and interlaced with Imogen’s gloved ones. The lilac haired sorcerer was instantly filled with a wave of warmth at the contact, even though the fingers themselves were as cold as usual.
It had never ceased to amaze her, the way her partner was so cool to the touch by nature, to the point that one of Laudna's favorite jokes was declaring 'I cast chill touch' right before initiating physical contact (which Imogen found rather adorable), and yet every time they touched, all the sorcerer could feel was an overwhelming embrace of warmth and affection. It was like holding the sun in your hand. Well, a rather eclipsed sun.
The stark difference between the scary-scary, black ichory exterior, and the loving and caring softness Laudna had always displayed was so endearing. Well, every part of her was, including her easily excitable personality, her love of mending things, the amazing interior design skills and, of course, her rather extraordinary, dreadful yet charming combative abilities. The telepath also couldn’t help but admire the fact that after everything she went through, Laudna still remained so kind and loving. Imogen’s favorite part, however, was how all of these blended together and made Laudna who she was, the woman she fell in love with.
The streets were a bit less crowded as they walked, mostly drunkards roaming about, as it had been a rather late hour in the evening. The relative quietness helped ease Imogen’s headache somewhat. She tried to keep her mind focused on the woman next to her, but eventually a few idle thoughts from the strangers in the street still managed to slip inside.
Fuck, just one more drink wouldn’t hurt, right?
What was the address again? All of these damn streets look the same…
It had always been like that - once one foreign thought was able to break through the dam of her mind, more were bound to follow, until they turned into a flood that threatened to overwhelm her entirely. The telepath feared that one day she’d drown in them and there would be nothing of her left.
God I wish my shift was over already. I want to sleep so badly.
If only I had enough gold to afford sleeping in an actual bed...
When I find the lowlife that stole my money I’m going to beat the shit out of them-
She shook her head, attempting to make the idle chatter stop.
Suddenly, a familiar voice echoed in Imogen’s mind. She immediately recognized it as Laudna’s, yet it sounded so distant, even though the warlock was right next to her. It took her mind a few moments to actually register the words that were spoken, pulling herself away from the mixture of thoughts, both her own and not, and trying to focus.
She was eventually able to recognize the sentence as “Are you alright, darling?”. It felt like the question had been repeated a few times before she was able to fully comprehend it, as she tried to hold on to Laudna’s voice like an anchor in the ocean of thoughts.
A few agonizing moments later, Imogen could feel herself finally resurfacing. Her lips curved up to a small smile, barely reaching her weary eyes, as she quietly replied, “Pretty drained from the entire day, if I’m being honest. My head is still aching, and it’s hard to keep the thoughts at bay, but nothing some sleep won’t fix, I reckon”.
The smile was meant to lighten up the admission, but she could see Laudna’s face had still been laced with worry without needing to sense it in her thoughts. Somehow Laudna had always been able to read her so well, and always knew when Imogen was hurting. Almost as if she was the mind reader.
Laudna then stopped in her tracks for a moment, pressing a kiss on the telepath’s forehead. “I’m sorry, honey”, she whispered, “Can I help somehow?”
Imogen let her smile widen a bit, nearing her eyes. She was so appreciative of how affectionate and caring her partner had always been, so thankful that their paths crossed. Wasn’t sure if she even deserved it.
She whispered, “You already are", and wrapped her arms around the taller woman, pulling her into a hug. Laudna returned the embrace, starting to rub soothing patterns on Imogen's back as she rested her head into the crook of Laudna’s neck. Trying to only focus her mind on Laudna’s and quieten the background noise from the rest of the street. All she felt from her warlock were the same strong emotions of kindness and love.
They stayed like that for a long moment, basking in each other’s presence, until Laudna softly murmured, “Let’s go home, darling, there’ll be plenty of time for more of that later. I’ll make you some tea”.
Imogen nodded, even if a bit reluctantly, and they stepped away from the embrace and continued walking through the emptying streets, hand in hand. The house wasn’t that far away, after all.
What about you, dear? Imogen had questioned, this time forming a telepathic link and sending the thought into Laudna’s mind, hoping the connection would help her hold off the intrusive thoughts. She was also still ever so worried about the injuries her partner suffered earlier that day. The image kept repeating in her mind, along with the thought that she could, and should, have done more.
Laudna’s thoughts were streaming back to her, with the usual cheerful tone intact, Me? Well, this day has definitely been quite an adventure. Didn’t really appreciate getting punched against a wall, but overall the shenanigans with the new people weren't too shabby. They’re quite an interesting lot, are they not?
Imogen had always tried not to probe beyond the surface thoughts of her partner, not without permission of course. In this instance though, she did not have to dig in deeper to recognize that Laudna was trying to lighten up the mood with her usual upbeat attitude, to brush off any nervousness or stress for the sake of not making Imogen worry.
Imogen appreciated the notion, but she could also read her partner just as well, and saw past that, to the weariness and anxiousness that was hidden beneath. She felt like Laudna was too selfless sometimes, and didn’t think about herself enough. Imogen wanted to emphasize how much she also cared and worried about her throughout the day.
So she thought back to her, Yeah, they sure are. and then added in a more concerned tone, Speaking of that encounter, you know, I was really worried about you. I should have thought about it and pushed you away from there beforehand, I shouldn’t have let you get hurt…
Laudna’s thoughts had gently stopped her, trying to soothe, as always, Like I said back then, it’s alright. Nothing I can’t handle. And the witch bolt you sent at that orc guy was really badass, a pretty good payback if I may say so myself.
Well, I couldn’t let him hurt my girl and get away with it so easily, could I? Imogen thought to her, using a more light hearted tone that might prove the point better, and relishing in the use of the nickname. Still quite in disbelief that she could call her that.
Laudna chuckled, stopping her pacing for a moment to give Imogen a quick kiss on the lips that was enthusiastically reciprocated. A hint of pink was almost visible on the warlock’s pale cheeks as they continued their walk. Yes, that approach definitely worked better with Laudna.
Her next thoughts came rushing into Imogen’s mind, this time the concerned tone more notable, I gotta admit though, as fun as it was hanging out with Dorian and the others, I did miss you quite a bit. You got me a little worried when you left out of my Message range and chased Danas with that Bell guy. Of course I had no doubt you would do amazingly, but still, you know...
A tinge of regret had filled Imogen’s thoughts as she responded, I’m sorry for that, Laudna. We probably shouldn’t have left there by ourselves. It was really quite stressful and I wasn’t thinking clearly with all the chatter. I just didn’t want Mr. Bell to go alone after Danas. I didn’t mean to worry you.
A moment after that, she had added, And I missed you too, squeezing their joined hands.
Laudna had squeezed back, and then replied, Oh there's no need to apologize, honey, especially as it did help us to learn where Danas went. But thank you for saying it though, I appreciate the sentiment. And to be quite honest, all of our plan executions today were not very good. We gotta work on that, huh?
Imogen laughed, You’re definitely right about that, before a more serious tone took over. Especially as it all just lead into another fight and even more bruising, with that creepy dwarf getting away. And Danas, poor Danas...
Laudna replied somberly, Oh, yeah. Poor thing, before switching to a more resolute attitude, But hey, we're almost home now, and we’re gonna sign the contract tomorrow. And then we will find that dwarf and get some justice for her and some answers for us. Let’s just rest a bit first, shall we?
We shall, darlin’. Thank you, as always. Imogen had brought up their joined hands to her lips and kissed Laudna's fingers gently, for emphasis, as they were reaching the Windowed Wall.
I hope Zhudanna wasn't too worried, it is getting rather late. Imogen noted while they were getting closer to the old lady’s house.
Laudna’s thoughts reassured her, Me too. But she is used to us coming home late on occasion, it’s alright. We'll catch up with her in the morning.
When they finally reached the modest place they’ve been calling home this past month, the warlock took out a key from her satchel and unlocked the door, quietly as possible as to not wake up Zhudanna. She had held the door open, bowing slightly and whispering, “After you, my lady” with a proud smile spread on her face.
Imogen had matched it with one of her own. “Why thank you, always the gentlewoman”.
She entered the small living room, and saw that it was lit by a fairly new candle left on the kitchen table. Imogen felt her heart tug at that small gesture. It was rather sweet of Zhudanna to leave the candle on for when they come home.
Laudna had locked the door behind them, adding a sweet “For you, always” as she turned back to Imogen. One of her hands reached to caress the sorcerer’s cheek, ever so softly, as she closed the distance between them with a gentle kiss on her lips, and then on her forehead. “You can rest for now, I’ll go and put the kettle on”.
Thank you, honey. Imogen sent the thought to her warlock, lacing it with as much affection as she could, while Laudna headed to the kitchen to make the promised tea.
Meanwhile, Imogen approached the sofa, and was about to sit down when she noticed a small note on the coffee table, scribbled in Zhudanna’s handwriting: ‘Good night dears. There are cookies in the fridge, and your socks are ready’. Next to the note was a pair of yellow fuzzy socks.
Imogen smiled softly at that. The old lady was nothing but kind to both of them, even though she didn’t have to, even though so many people weren’t. She hoped that the help they offered around the house, like taking care of those Shadow Creepers and assisting with the groceries, was enough to repay that generosity.
So there are cookies in the fridge from Zhudanna. And she finished my socks. She immediately announced to her girlfriend, excitement laced in her thoughts. She knew how much Laudna loves cookies.
Oh, that’s so wonderful! Bless her heart. I wonder which type of cookies? Imogen could practically feel the giddiness in Laudna’s mind at that. In an instant, she heard the fridge door opening, and another excited thought appeared in her mind, Chocolate Chips! My favorite!
Imogen’s smile widened for a moment, as her girlfriend’s glee was rather infectious. She settled on the sofa, fingers messaging her own scalp in an effort to relieve the remaining headache. Finally being indoors had definitely helped, as well as Laudna’s presence and the telepathic focus on her calming thoughts, but the dull pain was still ever present.
A couple of minutes later, Imogen lifted up her gaze just in time to see the warlock cheerfully returning to the sofa, carrying a tray with two tea mugs and a plate full of cookies.
She put the tray on the table and sat next to Imogen, who immediately leaned her head on Laudna’s shoulder. Laudna had put her arm around hers and planted a kiss on the sorcerer's temple, fingers gently starting to trail across Imogen’s arm, softly caressing the purple veins. With her other hand, she started sipping tea from the mug and then munching on some of the cookies.
Imogen took her own mug and started drinking from it too, her glasses fogging up a bit at the heat. She instantly recognized the familiar taste - it was her favorite tea, Chamomile with lemon and honey. The saccharin flavour emphasized the aura of calmness and sweetness that emanated from Laudna’s mind as well.
She turned to Laudna, pressing a sweet kiss to her lips, as she thought back to her, Thank you, honey, this is lovely. I was just thinking, maybe we could ask Zhudanna to knit something yellow for you as well? Maybe a scarf? Or a beanie?
So we’d be matching? That’s a wonderful idea. And have you tried the cookies? They’re delicious! Laudna was visibly beaming at the idea. Imogen could sense the softness pouring from her thoughts. It was sweeter to her than the honey in the tea.
We’ll talk to her tomorrow then. And I’m happy you like them, darlin’. The telepath smiled and tried the cookies herself. They were rather tasty. She then settled back to her position, continuing to drink from the tea and absentmindedly playing with the strands of her girlfriend’s long black hair.
They stayed like that for a while, continuing to discuss their day, enjoying the cookies and sharing their mostly positive impressions from the other group members. The conversation was mostly kept in their minds or in hushed voices, to avoid waking up Zhudanna.
Eventually, as they did have to get up early the next day and reconvene with the rest of the group, both of them finished the tea, and after washing the dishes (instead of fighting them, thankfully), were headed to their bedroom.
They changed into their nightgowns, Imogen putting on her new soft and fuzzy socks and setting her glasses on the nightstand, next to where Laudna had put Pâté. She made sure to cover him up with her yellow bandana, tucking him in for the night.
As they both laid on their shared bed, Laudna immediately wrapped her arms around her partner’s smaller frame, holding her close, as Imogen returned the embrace.
“What do you think will happen tomorrow?” the lilac haired sorcerer had whispered into the dark room, unable to keep her anxieties in. If today was anything to go by, tomorrow would also be really long.
“I’m not sure, darling, feels like anything could happen with this group," Laudna had whispered back, "But what I am sure of, is that no matter what happens, we can figure it out, together”. The warlock's hand found Imogen’s in the darkness and she interlocked their fingers again, moving them to her own chest. “You are my heart, after all”.
Imogen practically melted upon hearing these words, tears starting to well up in her eyes, ones she knew Laudna would be able to detect with her night vision. But she also could not resist the opportunity to tease her partner playfully and lighten up the atmosphere a little, as she murmured, “And you’re so corny, my dear. Besides, I can feel more than your heart here…”
She immediately heard Laudna’s laughter, and she could have sworn it was her favorite sound in the whole world. “Imogen, not in front of Pâté!” her warlock joked, feigning a shocked reaction.
“Well, hasn’t the poor rat seen everything already?” Imogen smirked. They could both barely contain their laughter now.
“Good point, but I think we’re both too tired for that tonight”, Laudna eventually murmured, pressing a kiss to the sorcerer’s lips. Imogen had to agree, as she kissed her back and nodded. She really was exhausted from the day, and could sense that Laudna was as well, but she was unable to resist making that joke. Hearing Laudna’s laughter has always been a good remedy to her headaches. And they needed some goofiness after the tiring day they've had.
Her warlock then added, “Good night, my darling. Sweet dreams”.
“As sweet as you?” Imogen countered softly.
“Now who’s corny?”
Muffled laughter filled the dark room, as they both cuddled into each other and settled in for the night.
The last thing Imogen did before finally attempting to fall asleep, was to send an I love you thought to Laudna, immediately receiving back a sweet I love you too, my heart from her in return. This routine had started last year, ever since they finally mustered the courage to admit their growing feelings for each other and to act on them, and it quickly turned into a habit they both appreciated dearly.
It was a good way to end the day, and reassuring to know that no matter how many invading thoughts the telepath had in her head throughout it, this loving one from Laudna would be the last to visit her mind before she would drift to sleep.
And sleep did eventually grace Imogen, quicker than most nights, as she found herself surrounded by the familiar green fields of Gelvaan. The sense of nostalgia, of home, washed over her, her lilac hair drifting a bit in the chill breeze.
She was overlooking the open plateau, filled with the galloping and neighing of horses, when she felt the nudge of her beloved mare, Flora, quietly asking for a snack. Imogen reached out to her satchel to oblige, never being able to refuse those gentle eyes, adding an affectionate scratch to Flora’s chin. The sun was shining on her face, and the sorcerer just felt so happy at that moment, so at peace.
And then the scenery started to change, first gradually and then all at once. The slight wind started to grow more strong and violent. Red colors engulfed the horizon, dark clouds filling the once bright skies with thunder and lightning. She instantly recognized this scene, and could barely stop the tears from forming in her eyes, the familiar pain throbbing in her chest. It was happening now. It was happening again.
Flora had run off to the distance, Imogen’s cowboy hat long lost to the winds, while Imogen herself was frozen in place, just like she was back then, as the storm was heading her way.
A few agonizing moments passed, when the all too familiar scream pierced through her mind, “Run, Imogen, Run”. The sudden voice broke her stupor, and then she was finally able to move. She started rushing with her whole might back into her house, fighting the feeling of helplessness that threatened to sink her. Tears clouded her glasses, making it so difficult to see anything but the bloody red hues.
It had happened already, so many times before. And she always arrived just a moment too late. Maybe this time? Maybe she could make it. She had to try.
Imogen clinged to that hope as she rushed into the house, desperately wishing to change the narrative this time. But alas, that was not how the story goes.
The last image she saw, before she was shaken awake, a worried voice attempting to soothe her, to offer words of comfort and affection, was the figure of an old man, whom she recognized to her horror as Bertrand Bell. He was heading towards the heart of the tempest, a proud stride in his steps, and she couldn't do anything to stop that cruel force of nature from claiming another victim. Again.
And even though he was bloody and hurting, a smile still adorned his face, as he used his last breath to whisper a name.
“Lieve'tel”.