A Bright Light and Deep Darkness

by SperoDeoVolente

An epic taking place in Runeterra, where Lux discovers who she is, and her place in the world. NC-17. NonCon. Sex. Bad Humor. Dark and gritty. Action/Adventure. Riv/Yas, Vi/Cait, Lux/Darius, Teemo/Trist, Ashe/Tryn, etc! Now in chronicle order. Latest chapter is at the end of the TLJ arc, not the very last chapter.

1. Chapter 1

Notes: HEY! I'm back! I decided to say fuck it to the people giving me grief, and come back! With some edits even! AND MORE CONTENT ACROSS THE BOARD!

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Idly Luxanna "Lux" Crownguard swings her feet over a ledge high above the streets below. Her only companion is a sinister looking gargoyle. Her mission is complete, all she is doing now is wasting time until the guard watch rotates. Getting in and out of Noxus is becoming boringly easy. By now she has all the guard watch routes memorized, all the traffic patterns of the locals, and navigates the city without aide. When she first agreed to be a spellthief for Demacia, she thought it would be exciting! That she could use her skills for good, and bring light and justice to her people! At first it had been very exciting, but gradually her adventurous job lost its appeal. Part of the problem is that it isn't challenging, but there is a deeper reason to her distaste of the job.

Every child of Demacia is raised on the stories of the evil Noxians, their cruelty, wickedness, and torturous ways. When she first agreed to this job, she believed those stories wholeheartedly. Now though, now she knows better. Yes, the people are ruthless, but they are still human. People fall in love, raise families, and have friends. Brothers look out for each other. Not everyone is cruel, there are still small acts of kindness. Mostly these acts were carefully hidden among mean jokes, or hard jabs but are still there. People believe in following their laws, and keeping the peace. It also doesn't help that the government of Noxus is steadily becoming more corrupt, widening the gap between those who have, and those who have not.

It is, in fact, heartbreaking to watch the poorest members of Noxus struggle to make ends meet. Lux can never tell anyone, but she feels bad for the Noxians. If they could be just be taught to be a little more just, they could be a lot more like Demacians. However, such thoughts are dangerous. If anyone she knows found out that she had sympathies for her enemies, it will be her death. Even her favorite sibling, Garen, would turn his back on her. It is thoughts of family that lead her to this spot every night she is here. A pair of siblings, two brothers, live in the alley below her feet. They are her favorite Noxians to spy on. Yes, they had no important roles here, but they are the most human to her eyes. The oldest fights hard to provide food, shelter, and safety for his younger brother. The two of them play together, fight together, and get into trouble together. In a lot of ways, they reminds her of her earliest family memories. It is amazing at how much alike we are...I wish I could help them, but I can't.

Lux is under very strict orders. Never, ever talk to a Noxian. Doing so could jeopardize her mission. Failure to Demacia isn't an option. These are bloody days, and compassion for the enemy is stupidly dangerous. Never give the enemy an advantage. This makes her a little sad inside, because just once she would like to talk to those boys. Maybe she could help them steal some pies for supper. Maybe make some new friends. Although she has lots of friends in Demacia, they don't feel like real friends. She is just a poster child, merely put on a pedestal for propaganda. Her own family had given her over to the government because of her raw power. Instead of raising her with love and care, they abandoned her to Demacia for the sake of the king, for the sake of their honor. Lux had not wanted that fate, she had fought her parents, fought against their decision to give her up. Is their cruelty towards their own blood any worse than the cruelty of the people who live here?

Sure, she is a beloved hero in Demacia, and Ionia, but that is it: an ideal. Everyone loves her for her heroic deeds, not her personality. House Crownguard is a large house; it is one the largest in Demacia. Although Lux is the only daughter, she has several siblings. That is why when she found about her power of light, and illusion, she used it for attention. No one noticed her, but at least she got some praise if she appears and disappears in plain sight.

At first the thoughts of doing daring missions for praise, glory, and fame seemed like a hefty draught she couldn't resist. However, her fame just makes her more lonely. How can she express her fears and doubts? She has to be perfect, because that is what her city-state demands of her. I should get going soon. I had hoped to watch those brothers some, but they aren't here...CRASH! Loud crashes, curses, and scuffles could be heard from a couple alleys away. Curious, Lux decides to go investigate. I hope my boys are okay...! By the time she reaches the commotion, the fight is over. The oldest is bleeding from head wounds, and while the younger is unscathed.

"I'll be right back!" The youngest calls out before dashing past the invisible Lux. No! He has to be okay! If he dies here who will take care of his brother?

Cautiously she approaches the wounded boy. Whoever attacked him is gone. However, that doesn't concern her. The young boy, No...young man. He's older than I thought, is bleeding. Propped up against a dirty building, his eyes are closed, his breathing laboring. It almost seems like he accepts his fate to die here, dying to protect his only family. Before realizing what she is doing Lux becomes visible, and kneels besides the young man. Briefly she disguises her blonde hair black to help keep herself from being noticed. No, I refuse to let him die here! What kind of person would I be if I just let him die like this? Sure, he's the enemy, but he isn't in the military...Lux knows that no one will be coming this way for a while, and it'll take time for the younger sibling to fetch help. If any help would be found. Dirty, grimy, and bloody the young man is ruggedly worst of the two wounds is a long jagged line against one of his eyes, and a less several wound near his hairline. The one eye that isn't wounded opens up and glances at her, confused.

"W-why are you helping me?" The young man gasps, uncertain.

"Because Noxus needs you to be strong. Don't die here like a weakling! Be strong." Lux knows that her best gruff voice doesn't sound very intimidating, but it is the best she has.

This is a bad idea...but I won't be a monster and leave him to die. I'm sure I'll regret this later, but here and now I won't hesitate. I emotionally lost my brother Garen, but I won't let these brothers be separated. Just earlier today she stole some healing spells from Noxus infirmary. Not the most pleasant of spells, but they will do what she wants. Once she wipes all of the blood from his head, Lux presses her hands against the wound near the hairline. A sickly green glow radiates from her hands, sealing the wound. It leaves no scar, but she knows that it will affect his hair color. Next she trails a finger across the open line on his face. Again, a glow follows her finger. Lux knows that it isn't pleasant, the heat from the spell burns her hands, and she can feel his flesh sizzle slightly. Like a true Noxian, he makes no sounds indicating he is in pain. Just as she finishes healing the dagger wound, she hears footsteps coming down the alley. Time to go! Before she can get up and run, one surprising strong hand grabs her wrist.

"I will be strong." No words of thanks, or praise, just a simple promise. Eyes hard as steel meet her blue eyes. Just as quick as he grabs her wrist, he releases it.

"Darius! I couldn't find any help but don't worry I'll...wait. Who are you? How much did that healing cost?!" Darius's younger brother runs up before them, before pausing for breath. He seems to be in shock at the sight before him.

"The healing isn't free. It is an investment in the future of the Noxus military. Besides, maybe I need practice with that healing spell. Maybe your brother being a test subject is in my favor, not yours." Lux manages to state in a neutral tone of voice with a straight face. Oh shit! Oh shit! I'm going to get into so much trouble! Too late to back out now, I might as well help them as much as I can...Both boys give her understanding nods. Free help they don't understand, but being used for questionable spells they do.

"My name is Ana. You're obviously Darius," Lux replies while pointing a finger at Darius. "And what is your name?" She gives them both a wide, friendly grin. She can't help herself! Being friendly and nice is how she is.

"You are talking to the wonder that is Draven! You must be a very powerful mage to know such a spell. By helping my brother, you have given yourself the honor of helping me. You should thank me." Draven says this cheekily, but keeps a concerned eye on his brother. Darius is mute, keeping a speculative look on her.

"Thank you Draven. I am truly honored. Eww, the two of you are a complete mess! I'm going to practice some spells just so I can get you clean. Hold still." Slowly Lux reaches into her bag and pulls out a water bottle.

With a quick tap on the lid she puts on refill spell on the cap. That way, it will refill the water bottle as much as she needs. She's going to need a lot of clean water to get these two presentable. Well, this is a good excuse to practice some of my spells! Draven and Darius are silent. Darius watches her with wary eyes, but seems to be slowly relaxing around her presence. Draven, on the other hand, seems to have taken a liken to her.

"I put a refill spell on this. It'll refill with clean water as much as I need it to. Let me get a something to wipe off all that dirt. You two might be pretty handsome under all that grim." Again, Lux reaches into her satchel pulling out a simple blue and cream handkerchief.

"I am always handsome! Being dirty only gives me extra charm. I am pleased to know that you understand my greatness. As such, I will clean myself for your eyes." Draven wags his eyebrows at her in his best attempt to be charming.

"You don't need to look at me that way. I'm just an ordinary mage who knows a lot of useful spells. I know so many I don't get a chance to practice them all. The two of you make very good test subjects. You should be proud of yourselves." Pleased with her spell work, she hands the handkerchief to Darius.

After a few seconds, she remembers a duplication spell. Similar to the refill spell, only for solid items. Again, her hands glow briefly before another handkerchief is created. Once Lux finishes making a duplicate she hands one to Draven. Draven's eyes are large with surprise. Concentrating hard, Lux duplicates the water bottle and the refill spell. Once she finishes with the second water bottle, she hands the spares to Darius.

"There. I live far from here, and I'm late heading home. Best of luck!" Again she stands and starts to walk away. And again, a strong hand grabs her wrist.

"Wait! What about your magical water bottles? You're just going to give them to us?" Draven eye's are even larger with amazement. His grip is not as strong as his older brothers, but still powerful.

"I am not giving them to you. I left in such a rush that I forgot to bring them with me. I will mutter darkly under my breath at the ungrateful street rats who sold them. In three days the spell will expire. I will be very annoyed, and need to practice the spell again," Lux says curtly. Despite her stern tone, she smiles at them.

"Will we ever see you again? You'll come back to visit right? Please?" Draven is giving her a look akin to hero worship. He gives her a wide hopeful grin. She notices that he is missing one of his front teeth.

"Of course we will Draven. Ana is a powerful mage who knows a lot of spells. She will remember her water bottles, and fetch them within three days." Darius gives her a strange look. Lux can't quite decide what the emotions are in his eyes, but they are strong, and focusing solely on her.

"Where will we see you in three days Ana?!" Another wide, hopeful smile meets her eyes.

"I will wait outside of this alley way at sundown on the third day," Lux says slowly. "I give you my word that I will be there." Stupid! Stupid! What am I doing? This is high treason in Demacia! If anyone at home found out, they'll execute me. But those two boys...I can't disappointment little Draven. I will show up, collect my water bottles, and never return.

With a wave of her fingers, Lux walks away from Darius and Draven. Once she is out of sight a large sigh escapes her lips. After making sure no one can see her Lux releases the illusion spell on her hair. A faint flicker of light is all left of her as she goes invisible again. Quickly she dashes down the alley, going out of her way to get far away as fast as possible. Stupid! Stupid! Stupid! All Noxian's have to join the military, he will kill innocent people. He'll kill innocent Demacians! I just aided the enemy in a way I should never have done. That's it, I'm refusing all future missions into Noxus! I'm not fit for this job. Lux doesn't look back, but she mentally whispers goodbye. Quick as she can, she leaves Noxus far behind.

For the first time her in life, Luxanna Crownguard lies on her mission report. I know I can't keep a straight face while lying to Garen! Good thing I can change my appearance. No one questions her about the mission. No one suspects the acts of treason she committed. For now, she is safe in her lies. Now though, now comes the hard part.

"Captain Crownguard, I request to be removed from all future missions into Noxus. I have collected the information we need the most. There are other jobs I'm better suited for, Sir. Please allow me to better serve Demacia." With that said, Lux knees down on her right leg to the floor in the sign of complete respect.

Her head rests on her head on her right knee, eyes on the floor, and her right hand is held in a tight fist against her chest. This is the signal of complete obedience, and a sign of respect. As a member of House Crownguard, she doesn't need to do this very often. She doesn't need to now, but she needs all the extra support she can to get out of future missions to Noxus. Please, please, please accept my request...please!

"Very well young Crownguard. You have shown true dedication and service to Demacia, this humble request shall be granted. What service do you wish to do now?" Garen Crownguard gives her a stern look as he asks her about her desired missions.

"I wish to steal spells and hextech used in Zaun. If we can unravel their uses before they reach Noxus, it will be a huge advantage in battle." Again, Lux receives a stern look from her brother.

Ever since he joined the military, he became a stranger to her. What was once a fun, loving brother is now a cold and rigid paragon of Demacia. Luckily, her brother has no skill in seeing through illusions. Ever since she graduated from the Academy, she's never had to use the spell on anyone she knows.

"Very well. I will send notice to the appropriate places so you may collect your gear. I expect your best results from these missions as you have before. Dismissed." Her brother drops his stern gaze from her, and goes back to his reports.

"Thank you Captain Crownguard." Without needing to lie, or keep up an illusion Lux gives her older brother a happy smile. A smile that he does not see, nor return.

Why is it that two Noxians have a better, loving family relationship then I do with mine? Where did Demacia go wrong? Are we really that superior? No matter! I have a promise to keep. With a bounce and skip to her step, Lux heads towards the supply station. Although her Garen is a terrible brother, he is an efficient Captain. By the time she reaches the Quarter Master, all the gear she needs is ready to go. Upon collecting all of her supplies, Lux heads out on her new mission. I just have one little detour...

A cold, hard rain pelts Noxus and the surrounding area causing minor flooding in the moats. Dribbles of water trickle down through the lower levels of the city penetrating the granite floors. Thick black clouds that look like boiling oil cover the sky, making it impossible to determine if it is night or day. Two brothers stand out in the rain. Both of them look cold, but neither refuses to leave their post at the entrance of the alley.

"She's coming, right?" Pleads the younger of the two.

"Of course she is. Ana gave her word. We just need to be patient. You should get out of the rain though, you're getting cold." The older of the two briefly ruffles his younger brother's hair, shaking lose cold water.

"Me? Cold? Ha! I, Draven, can tolerate all kinds of weather and be fine! You should get out of the rain. I'll be fine, you won't be." Draven states this like a fact. Neither brother moves.

"She is coming, right? We didn't miss her in the rain?" Draven gives his older brother another pleading look.

"Ugh! Shut up! Of course she will! If she doesn't, I'll have some choice words to say..." Darius growls.

"Oh! Say what? I'd love to hear these choice words...I owe you some for doubting my word!" Ana chirps this cheerfully from behind them. Lux actually dyed her hair black instead of using magic this time. Several layers of warm clothing cover her, hiding most her features except a wisps of black hair, and her blue eyes. A couple spells woven into her cloak help keep it dry at all times, despite being in constant rain.

Even though her clothing keeps her warm, the actual concern of the two brothers warms her further. Actually, Lux had reached the entrance way a couple minutes ago, but out of habit she stayed hidden. The two brothers familiar banter reminded her sharply of how different her brothers speak to her. I wish Garen would...but no matter! I will now collect my water bottles and leave.

"Ana! Ana! You're actually here! I was...ahem. Of course you're here. I never doubted that. I never have any doubts." States young Draven. This time he missing more than one tooth in his excited smile. Not caring that he is soaking wet, he hugs her tightly.

"Draven, let her go. You'll get her cold and wet. Sorry about that...sometimes Draven doesn't think things through." Darius says calmly as he pries his younger brother off Lux. All Draven does in response to this is stick out his tongue.

"Don't worry about it. I have enough spells on my clothing that I won't get wet. Well, I would if someone shoves me into a puddle..." Lux says reflectively before shrugging.

"No worries! You're with me. No one shoves the friends of Draven into puddles." With a proud huff Draven crosses his arms across his chest.

"No one will shove you into a puddle. They'll have to get through me first." Darius mutters darkly. Again, he gives her a stare full of intense emotions.

"And me too! You're safe with us. But enough with the talking, more with the walking. I have a surprise for you. Darius helped a little bit, but it was mostly me. C'mon, follow me!" With that, Draven grabs Lux's hand, and starts to lead her through the streets.

"A surprise? Should I be afraid?" Lux teases. Neither boy answers her, but lead her through the empty streets. Darius sticks firmly by her right side glaring at anyone who bothers to look in their direction. In all her time in Demacia, no one has shown her such care. Yet here, in the evil city of Noxus, she is getting tender attention. Both brothers are protecting her, and giving her a gift. Gifts are common in Demacia, but rarely are they given with such emotion to strangers.

"Tada! Here we are! I'm treating you to Sinful Succulence. Since you're such a devoted fan of mine, you deserve such an honor." Draven says this will striking a dramatic pose.

"No, we're treating her. I did most of the work. Ignore Draven, he's being overly dramatic again." With that said, Darius steps away from her side and holds open the door for them.

The bakery isn't crowded, but Morgana gives the two brothers a dark look. Scathingly she looks them up and down taking note of dirty, soaking and worn clothing. Apparently used to this treatment the two brothers march up the counter and place their orders. Despite glaring at them with disgust, Morgana accepts their coin before graciously accepting Lux's order.

"I refuse to have you dripping all over my bakery, you can wait outside while I fill your order. The unfortunate Lady next to you is welcome to stay inside." Morgana snarls at them eyes hard and menacing.

"Oh! Don't worry about them, they'll be dry enough to stay," Lux says calmly. Although her tone of voice is still cheerful and light, her eyes are a dangerous shade of blue. Before either of her companions could say anything, Lux snaps her fingers twice. With a faint poof! both brothers are suddenly dry. After a few delayed seconds, the muddy puddle they left while walking in also disappears.

"See! Nice and dry. We'll wait here for our orders." Again with a cheerful tone of voice, and bright smile Lux waves at the seething Morgana before turning around.

"Lets away from the door, the draft is cold. Let's sit...," Lux looks around the bakery before spotting a nice corner near the kitchen entrance.

"...there. It is away from the door, and it'll be the warmest spot here." With that said, Lux strides over to the far corner and plops down on a well worn seat. Behind her both brothers follow mute, eyes impossibly wide. Draven sits to her left, while Darius takes the sit across from her.

"If I weren't the most brave person ever, you'd the be bravest person in Noxus. You stood up to Morgana! Not even Darius can do that. I can, but I chose not to." Draven says this a quick rush. Before Lux suspected Draven to have some hero worship for her, now she knows for certain.

"That was very...impressive. Why did you do it?" Darius's voice is low. Once again Lux is the sole target of those dark eyes. It sends a shiver down her spine.

"Oh! I needed practice working on a couple spells. The one getting you dry is a rapid evaporation spell that requires fine tuning. That way I can master it so it wouldn't damage clothing, while the spell removing the puddles is a simple relocation spell to outside of the shop and..." Lux continues to ramble on about the finer details of the spell's mechanics.

Lux knows that she can't tell the real reason why she stood up for them. They wouldn't accept her help, nor would they want it. Yet, she wants to defend them. It isn't about being kind to a couple of orphans anymore, it is about being just. They were being unjustly treated, and as a Demacian, it is her duty to uphold justice. More importantly, it is about defending her friends. That, and the look Darius gives her makes her shiver. Not shiver in fear, but shiver with an emotion she's never felt before. No one has ever given Lux that kind of look before. It is nice to receive such a look from a handsome young man. What am I doing? I was just supposed to collect my water bottles and leave! I have got to be really careful...how in Demacia did I become friends with Noxians? If anyone finds out...well, I just can't let anyone find out.

Wordless, Morgana strides over to their table before placing down their orders. Both mages eyeball each other, judging their opponent. Draven promptly starts to pig out on his order of some sort of yellow jello like substance. Darius, however, does not start to eat. He simply watches the silent exchange between Morgana and Lux. His body is tense, waiting for the battle to break out. Neither mage breaks eye contact before Morgana bows gracefully before turning around to head back to the kitchen. Once Morgana is out of eyesight, Lux relaxes before starting to eat some sort of apple confection. Again, she feels an intense stare on her. Darius has another unreadable look on his face, but the same hot emotion is still in his eyes.

"What? I like apples...," Lux says in a hurry. A tomato blush crosses her face. Both of them know what had just happened. And neither of them wants to admit it in front of Draven.

"Ana, you are a strong mage." Is all Darius says before starting to eat his dessert.

Luckily for the two of them, Draven finishes his treat quickly and starts to brag breaking the awkward silence. For several hours after they finish eating, the three of them laugh at Draven's outrageous stories. Customers come and go, but the three of them are completely ignorant of the time. Morgana states very loudly that it is closing time, and everyone needs to leave her shop.

"Ah! I'm late. I thought I'd be on my to Zaun by now...do either of you know of a good hotel nearby I can stay in for the night?" Lux asks worried. I was certain I would collect my water bottles and be out of Noxus in less than hour, not spend several hours here. What am I going to do? Do I even have enough coin to afford a safe place to stay? Silently the two brothers exchange looks before looking at her serious.

"You're staying with us." They say together voices firm and unyielding. With one fluid movement they stand up at the same time. Darius stands walks towards the exit first, keeping it open for the other two. With a smooth, practiced move Lux sweeps her hood over head and walks out into the rain. She hadn't noticed while talking with her new friends, but it has grown very, very late. There are only a few lights shining through shuttered windows. A cold, hungry wind is driving the freezing rain at a hard angle, obscuring their vision. Draven walks behind her, while Darius stands guard in front of her. The two of them are tense, ready for trouble.

They are right to be ready for trouble. Lux has only been through this section of Noxus a few times, and each time it was extremely risky. Now, at night, it was almost suicidal to be alone. As much as Lux wants to protest that she can take care of herself, she knows this to be partial wrong. Yes, she can protect herself from harm, but at this time of night it would be very hard to get away safely without killing someone. Dark magic runs deep through this part of the city, and it would take a lot of magic to get away without killing the other mage.

Murder is not tolerated in Noxus. That and if she is with Darius and Draven she can protect them from harm. With quiet guardians she is escorted back towards the alley they live in. Usually she leaves her vigil over them just before they head to bed, so Lux has no idea where they sleep. A part of her is wary at the way her night is turning out. Out of all the residents in Noxus, she trusts those two brothers the most. Why is she here?

Spending the night in the slums of Noxus without any backup is insane. How did this happen again? I'll collect my water bottles, say goodbye, and leave Noxus forever in the morning. It was nice though, to have a fun evening without the worries of being the perfect Demacian Hero for everyone else to admire.

Near the end of the alley there is a hole in one of the buildings. It isn't very large, but it easily allows someone of their smaller stature to squeeze in without too much difficulty. Curious, Lux turns around and examines their little living space. Nestled within the building is an abandoned storage room. It is more or less dry, however, there isn't much else to boast about it. There is a couple empty crates serving as furniture, a broken bookcase littered with little personal knickknacks, and a 'bed'. The bed is a small set of material that could be considered blankets on a raised set of metal storage units.

"It isn't much, but it is more or less dry. You can have the blankets, so you'll be warm enough. Draven can rest next to me on the floor so you'll have the entire bed to yourself." Darius's voice is gruff with an emotion Lux has never heard before. It is different from his usual tone, more low and husky.

"What are you talking about, brother?! We can all share the bed. Ana is really tiny, we'll all fit. Besides, didn't you want to get to know her better?" Draven says with a smug tone.

"Draven...shut up!" Growls Darius eyes almost burning with suppressed embarrassment. Unable to look her in the eyes, Darius ignores her and Draven, and starts set up their bed for her to sleep on.

"Haha, that is really sweet of you. I will have the bed to myself, but let me make sure that your little cubby hole is more comfortable for all of us." Slowly Lux centers her in the little room. With a mage's eye, she takes notice of every hole, crack, and leak. Darius and Draven move to the edges of the room, waiting and watching her every move.

Luxanna closes her eyes tight and views the room from her inner eye, the part of her that sees things on a magical level. Pressing her hands together, folding together all of her fingers but the indexes, Lux reaches outwards with her magic. With a brush of magic only she can see, Lux seals every hole, crack, and leak in the room. It takes time, but afterwards the entire room will be airtight, watertight, and much warmer. With an additional after thought as she starts to retreat from her magic, she brushes up the paint job on the room, so it is now clean looking instead of cracked and peeling. Once free from her spell, Lux looks around at her handy work. What had once been a dirty, abandoned little storage space is now a clean, livable room.

"Much better! Now, let me do something about these blankets of yours...," Lux says content with her already amazing handy work. Quickly searching through her mental inventory of spells, she remembers a transformation spell that would work nicely for pitiful blankets. Coupling that spell with the duplication spell...Yes, yes that will work nicely here. With a firm grip on the blankets, Lux flicks them upwards and outwards. As they move the blankets become thicker, softer, and changes to a pleasant blue color with a cream colored border. Once that transformation is complete, she duplicates that spell on the blankets two more times making one for each brother. With a loud yawn, Lux turns and smiles at them. Both brothers are staring at her, transfixed with awe. Their eyes are wide and mouths open in shock.

"Heehee! No need to look that impressed. I'm just an ordinary mage with a lots of spells to practice. You'll catch bugs with your mouths open like that." With a genuine smile of amusement on her face, Lux dances over to her new friends. With one finger she closes their jaws by lifting up their chin. Darius and Draven both continue to stare at her with amazement. Darius is giving her another intense stare, and as she looks deep into his eyes, she flushes hot. What...am...I...thinking?! I've helped them out enough. I've done my duties as a just Demacian and in the morning I will leave and never return.

"All of those spells made me sleepy. I'm going to bed now. I'll head out to Zaun early tomorrow. Thank you for the place to sleep, and letting me practice magic. G'night!" With that said and done, Lux sets down her satchel at the end of the bed. Again, with practiced ease, she rolls up her cloak into a pillow. Wrapping herself up in nice, warm blue blankets she quickly drifts off to a deep sleep. Before she finally falls asleep she hears a whispered conversation between her two new friends.

"I'm going to marry her someday! I'll be married to the strongest mage in all of Noxus."

"Draven, shut up!" Growls a familiar voice with a tone that causes butterflies in her stomach.

Sometime early the next day, Lux suddenly wakes up, alert and tense. At first, she freezes at the sights, and smells of an unfamiliar room. Just as quick as she wakes up, the memories of last night return. Okay! Time to do my job. I'll say my goodbyes, and never return. I do have spells to steal after all. I've never been to Zaun before, I might want to steal a map when I get there. A faint snoring noise fills her ears. Draven is propped against his older brother, sound asleep. Darius, however, is wide awake. Again, eyes filled with an unfamiliar emotion gaze into her. Unable to continue meeting his gaze, she starts to unroll her cloak. Once she is ready to leave, she reaches deep into her satchel and pulls out some trail rations. Due to the nature of her job, the trail rations are standard Zaun rations. Nothing about it could be traced back to Demacia. With a quick flick of her wrist she tosses a couple at Darius.

" I guess this is goodbye...thank you for the wonderful evening, and the safe place to sleep. I really need to head out to Zaun now. I'm already behind schedule. I've put a warming spell on the blankets that should last a week. The spells I used to patch this place up, and creating the blankets will last forever though." With a small smile, Lux starts to head out the entrance. Again Darius grabs her wrist firmly.

"You should come back in a week. To renew the warming spells on the blankets, and retrieve your water bottles. Draven would like it if you came back." Darius whispers sounding almost desperate.

Lux isn't certain if he is being quiet for his sleeping brother, or if he actually wants her to return himself, but is too embarrassed to ask. This time she returns his gaze. Still, his dark eyes are full with a wild emotion she has never seen before. His intensity shakes her to her very soul. I really shouldn't return...I've already messed up already. But harm will one more visit do? I just have to renew the warming spells, say goodbye for real this time, and never return. A part deep inside of her, a part of her that she has never listened to before, tells her to return. A hot emotion, burning from deep within whispers for her to return to Darius.

"I will come back here in exactly one week, to renew the warming spells. I live far from here, and it will be difficult to visit...but I will return. I give you my word that I will come back here in exactly one week. Goodbye Darius!" Once more, a warm, genuine, and grateful smile graces her face. This time, Lux does look back. Still, those dark eyes stare into her soul. With a friendly wink, Lux flips up her cloak and vanishes into the morning fog.

Over night the rain had stopped. In its place is a cold, thick fog. Easily Lux slips invisible and wanders through the city with a bounce in her step. For the first time in a long time, Lux is truly happy with her work. In Demacia, she practices her spells all the time. However, there is no true thank you for her at home. Just a fake smile, and brush off for her efforts. That is part of her job. She is a powerful mage who effortlessly works magic for the good of Demacia, and she does it without pay. I don't mind helping my people, but would it hurt them to be grateful? Just once I'd like them to see me, Lux, not just as The Lady of Luminosity, the 'perfect' hero of the city. For the first time, people are truly grateful for her work. Even though they had almost nothing to give in thanks, they managed to get enough funds to treat her to dessert. Beyond the delightful dinner, they gave her their staunch protection.

A warm, happy glow fills her. Barely noticing, Lux leaves Noxus behind and is well down the road to Zaun. Getting in and out of the Noxus has been so easy, that is almost like entering and leaving Demacia. Unlike Noxus or Demacia, getting in and out of Zaun is different. Although no one stops to search her, everyone looks at her like she is a dinner. Either someone wants her to buy something, try something, or follow them for services...and each of them with a negative ending for her.

It takes time learning the city, finding the safest and fastest in and outs. Normally she would be faster at learning new terrain, but her thoughts keep on drifting back towards her new friends. Darius's intense gaze haunts her sleep, while Draven's excitable dramatics give her giggles during the day. Near the end of the week, Lux has only managed to steal seven spells, most of them about using light magic in onyx. The spells are interesting, but of little use to Demacia. I can't go home without more information! I'll just send word to Garen that I need time for extended mission. I need to collect more information about new explosive spells, but it is heavily guarded and I'm having difficulties getting in. I need more time to get this job done, and have time to say my final goodbyes to Darius and Draven.

It doesn't take much to send an encrypted message spell to her brother from the heart of Zaun. Two agonizing hours later, Lux receives confirmation from Garen to spend as much time in Zaun as she needs. What isn't said, is if she fails this mission it will end very, very bad for her. If I can't stay useful in the military, mother will want to marry me off. I don't want to get married just to produce more soldiers for Demacia! I want to live my life my way, not to be a breeding mare. Firmly shaking her head to clear away the negative thoughts, Lux packs up her bags.

If she leaves now, she should have enough time to visit her friends. Zaunite coin is acceptable currency in Noxus, even if it is worth far less. It hadn't taken much to make, and sell off a common spell books for gold. With the right materials, creating a basic spellbook is cheap and easy. Although it has nothing dangerous within, a lot of the basic spells are useful guides for apprentices. Despite the need for spellbooks, she is left one copy. Uncertain of what to do with it, she debates her options. It is too much weight to haul all the way to Noxus and back. A sensation of being watched ripples down her spine. Someone is staring at her.

Looking around for the source, Lux spots a small mage with wild wispy blond hair. At least, Lux thinks the girl is a mage? Whoever she is, she isn't trained. An idea sparks to mind! A shrug rolls off her shoulders, as Lux holds out the book in the girls direction. All she gets is a huge, shocked look.

"Take it. I don't have time to sell it. I don't want to haul with me. I'd rather not throw it away. Keep it if you wish!" Lux says with a cheery tone, before gently tossing the book in the girls general direction. With a gleeful gasp, the girl catches the book, then vanishes into the shadows. Pleased with her good deed, Lux continues on her way.

Before she leaves, Lux purchases some vials of alchemical fluids. She doesn't need them herself, but they'll make for a good reason to get into Noxus if the military stops her for questioning.

Lux runs as fast as she can for Noxus. Already the sun is starting to set, and if she doesn't hurry she'll be late. Getting into Noxus will be slightly more difficult this time. Unlike entering the city during busy times when it is easy to slip in unnoticed, now she needs entrance while it is slow and the guards are bored. Bored guards are dangerous guards in Noxus, and the detection spells will be more alert. Most of the time the locals are left unmolested, but visitors are not so lucky.

As she creeps up the entrance, a deep dread fills her. There are an unusually large number of guards on duty. It looks like there has been some sort of dispute, and the entrance is contested. Standing guard near the rear of the hive of activity is a young soldier with white hair. She appears to be Lux's age. Unlike Lux, she does not appear to use any magic but instead yields a sword nearly as large as she is. Oh! I know who that is! That's Riven. The Noxus poster child version of me. Maybe I can use her to get in. Posturing herself upright like a proper Noxian, Lux strides up with respect towards Riven.

"Commander Riven! It is an honor to meet you. How may I assist you with this...trouble?" Luckily, Lux can lie easily to people who aren't family. Lux keeps her cowl on cloak down, keeping nothing about herself hidden. Black dyed hair dances slightly in the faint breeze, while she keeps her blue eyes at sharp attention. One of the tricks of hiding in plain sight is being able to blend in. If she acts like she has a secret, or wants to sneak it, it'll give off the wrong kind of vibe.

"Who are you citizen? And what is your business?" Riven's voice is curt, but polite.

"Commander Riven, I am Ana. I do not know my family name, but that does matter. I do not need to be nobility to better serve Noxus. I am returning from Zaun with supplies! I plan on selling them to Dr. Mundo for his latest experiments." With a proud salute followed by a smile, Lux opens up a pocket in her satchel showing off a jumble of vials filled with glowing fluids.

"Excellent. In fact, there is something you can do for Noxus. I need you to deliver this message to Singed. You may find better prices for your goods with him. Singed is always looking for new supplies for his concoctions. Good day Ana." A brief nod of her head, and Riven hands Lux a scroll, and access into the city.

I am going to be late! But I need to deliver this message, sell off these goods, say goodbyes, and go back to Zaun. One of the first places Lux learned access to is Singed lab. Not the most pleasant of places, but Riven is right. She'll get better prices there. A shudder rips across her. Lux knows what Singed will do with these fluids, but by this point she doesn't have a choice. Although Singed officially lives in Zaun, he has a full time lab in Noxus. His good friend, Warwick, is often in the labs as well. Warwick is a fierce force of nature that terrifies her. As quick as she can, Lux gets to Singed lab. Depending on your business depends on who will answer the door. If she uses the correct password Singed will open the door, instead of someone else, like say, Warwick. Okay, the secret knock is...one soft, three hard, two soft, followed by five quick raps. Once she done, the door slowly creaks open. To her complete dismay, Warwick greets her at the door.

"Little girl, what business do you have? Singed is very busy right now. Sell your goods to me, then be on your way." Warwick states this with a bored tone. Despite the sound of his voice, Warwick is alert and watching her carefully.

"I have personal business with Singed, Warwick. Commander Riven has given me a message to give to him personally. That, and I have Zaunite supplies to sell to him. I know that I can get more coin from Singed, then Dr. Mundo." Somehow, she manages to say this with her usual cheerful tone. A forced smile fills her face as she stares back at the terror that is Warwick. Please, please, please don't figure out I'm not Noxian!

"You're a brave little girl, aren't you? Follow me, I'll take you to Singed." Warwick holds open the door for her.

"No thank you, Warwick. I would rather meet with Singed in person at his workshop. I know the way there. You don't need to waste you valuable time showing me around." Again, she manages to keep her tone cheerful, but her blue calculating eyes stare deep back into Warwick's equally calculating gaze. Her smile turns just as smug as his. I know your game! You're not fooling me into falling your deathtrap.

"Haha! Not only are you brave, you're smart! I like that. You'll grow strong one day little girl. I'll tell Singed to meet you in his workshop. I'll put in a good word for you." Warwick disappears back inside. Silently counting to fifty before moving, Lux walks around to a different door. Just as she reaches the door, she sees Singed move into the room from a window. Again she gives the secret knock. This time she is rewarded with the proper person greeting her at the door.

"I hear you have a message for me? Lucky girl avoiding Warwick like that. I think he might behind on his marks. Show me what you have and leave quickly before Warwick changes his mind. He gets bored easily these days and will make a quick gold for fun." Silently Lux hands over the message. Once the message has been passed over, she pulls out her supplies. Quick, knowledgeable hands examine each vial.

"Again you're in luck. I need all of these. One of them I ran out two days ago. I was going to have to send an assistant to Zaun for this. I can pay you the standard prices, plus a bonus for not falling into one of Warwick's trap. Noxus needs more smart soldiers like you." Gently placing the vials aside like they were made of holy materials, Singed reaches into a desk drawer. Without looking, he pulls out a small bag that jingles with the sound of coin. After another second he reaches in again and pulls out a separate bag that also jingles with coin.

"Here is your payment, plus the bonus. Now be on your way child. I have important work to do." Singed states before dismissing her.

Somehow Lux manages to get away from the lab without flat out running. Once she is out of sight of the cursed place, she pauses to take a deep breath. Before she can relax she is embraced by a strong set of arms.

"Ahhh! Let me go you..." Lux screams in surprise. This is bad, bad, bad!

"It's okay, it's me. You're safe. I won't let him take you." A blessedly familiar person is holding her close. Somehow Darius has found her, and is holding her close. A sigh relief escapes her. Before Lux realizes what she is doing, she embraces Darius back. All of her fear at narrowly avoiding a messy death crashes against her. Tears leak down her eyes as she buries her head against his chest. He says nothing as he holds her shaking body close.

"How'd you find me?" Lux sniffles softly, after a few moments just enjoying the safety of Darius's strong arms.

"We were getting worried when you were late. It was Draven's idea to check by entrance closest to Zaun. We wanted to greet you, but you were intercepted by Commander Riven before we could say something. I sent Draven home while I followed you. I'm glad I caught you before Warwick did. Let's go." Just as quick as he embraced her, Darius releases her.

Lux gives Darius a big smile, before letting go herself. Suddenly it dawns on her what had just happened. A crimson blush crosses her face, trails down her neck, and all the way down to her feet. Carefully she places her bag of coin into her satchel before finally leaving behind that place of horror. Darius stays close to her right, refusing to let anyone near her. What am I doing? I'm not some helpless maiden! I can handle myself. Still...I'm glad Darius found me. I'll treat him to dinner, refresh the spells, say my goodbyes, and leave Noxus for good!

"Um, thank you for meeting me. I sold some Zaunite supplies to Singed. I'll treat you to dinner before I collect my things and go back to Zaun."

Unable to look Darius in the eyes, Lux idly looks all around her except at Darius.

"Isn't it the guy's job to treat the girl out to dinner?" Darius teases lightly. Nothing malicious is in his voice, just pleasant banter.

"No, it is the hero's job to treat the damsel out to dinner. I'm the hero, and that makes you the damsel." Lux jibes back.

"Hmph! Me? The damsel? Where did you get that foolish notion!" Darius growls back. Again there isn't anything menacing in his tone of voice, just friendly annoyance.

"I'm the hero! I just completed a fierce mission, looked death in the eyes, and returned triumphant with gold. Upon my glorious return, I was embraced by the handsome damsel." She teases back. The longer they walk side by side, the calmer she gets.

"Ugh! What is Noxus coming to! You sound like Draven. He's a bad influence on you." Darius says with a chortle.

"I've heard that Zoe's is a good, affordable place to eat. I've always wanted to try the apple cider there...," Lux says hesitantly.

"That sounds like a tasty idea. Follow me, I want to take a safer route." Unable to look her in the eyes, Darius takes hold of her hand before leading her down a different road.

Both of them are silent as they walk through meandering roads. Gradually the blush from holding Darius's hand fades, and is replaced by warm fuzzy emotions. His hand is rough and callused, but he is holding her hand gently. She'd never had a man who wasn't family hold her hand before. Her brothers had always scared off any suitors. Lux has never been through part of Noxus before, so she a sharp eye on her surroundings. This is a good route to remember for future missions. Wait...I already turned down all future missions here. Ugh! What am I thinking? Again, a part of her that Lux has never listened to before whispers that she wants to return for Darius. No! No! No! Not going there heart! No forbidden romances for me.

Sooner than she would have liked, Darius releases her hand outside of Zoe's. Pleasant aromas waft out from the windows and doors. Light from various sources illuminate the building. Darius steps forward and opens the door for her. Unlike Sinful Succulence, the owner doesn't look down at them. The two of them take a seat at a small table in the corner. Menu's already wait on the table. In silence the two of order a simple meal, and drinks. The food in Noxus is very different than the food Lux is used to eating in Demacia, but she is relatively certain that what she orders is safe to eat. The real reason she wants to eat at Zoe's is not for the food, but because of their apple cider. How many times has she overheard people praising the apple cider here? Careful to order the non alcoholic cider, she smiles at Darius once their orders are placed.

"Hm, you came all this way for the apple cider...afterwards I'm taking you to a great stall for apple pie. My treat." Although Darius doesn't ask for her permission, Lux can hear the question in his voice.

"Thank you! Apple pie is my favorite." Lux says happily. It doesn't take long for their food to arrive. Sure enough, the apple cider is divine. The two of eat in silence, but it is a pleasant silence. Once they are done eating, they head outside. Without verbal agreement, the two of save some food for Draven. Unlike before their dinner did not last for several hours. The sun has just finished setting and the already the welcoming glow from twilight surrounds them. Once more Darius takes hold of her hand. This time, Lux doesn't blush all the way down to her toes, just to her waist.

Once more she is lead down streets she doesn't recognize, but gradually she reaches a section of the city she does. Lux is bombarded by the familiar hollers of a busy marketplace. People mill around, talking to neighbors and friends. Fierce bargaining over food and goods could be heard in every corner. Despite this being Noxus, the sight looks exactly like one in Demacia. We really aren't that much different. If only...no matter! The wishes of one Demacian noble won't be enough to change centuries of bitter hatred. Without hesitation Darius leads her to a central stall. It's colors are red, yellow and black, and appears to be fairly popular. Once the other customers are clear Darius steps forward.

"Two slices of warm spice apple pie." Darius commands. The stall owner gives him a strange look before taking his coin. Once he finishes counting his payment, the baker turns towards the back of the stall before returning with the apple pie. Similar to previous experiences, the baker gives Lux her piece first ignoring Darius as long as possible. Once both of them have their treat they start to head back towards where Darius sleeps. Not even waiting for the pie to cool, Lux takes a small nibble.

"Thank you! And this is really really good!" Lux says. It is, indeed, the best apple pie she has ever eaten. How in the world is it possible that the best apple pie I've ever eaten is found in Noxus? I don't want to still be eating this when I see Draven, better eat it fast. Without pause, she starts to take another bit of the hot apple pie.

"Slow down! Don't burn yourself," Darius says gruffly as he gently takes hold of her hand before Lux can go back to eating her treat as fast as possible. Lux blushes hot as his hand again takes hold of hers.

"A-ah. Okay. I'll be careful." Lux stammers before lowering her hand. Why am I taking orders from a Noxian?!

"Good. You're staying with Draven and I tonight. It isn't safe for you to stay out alone at night." Again, Darius doesn't ask permission. Yet, again, his voice has a soft hesitance tone. The last tinges of twilight fade away, leaving behind darkness.

"Enjoy my company that much, Darius that you won't let me leave?" Lux teases. Amazingly enough, her blush only goes to her neck this time.

"Of course he does! How was your date?" Draven says with a smug tone. Unbeknownst to her and Darius, Draven has snuck up behind them.

"I-I-I-I..." Is all Lux can manage.

"DRAVEN! SHUT UP!" Darius' growl is long and menacing. Draven ignores his brothers warning growl. With a smooth move, Draven shifts over to Lux.

"I can tell by your cute blush that you two had a good time. C'mon follow me fair hero! I will escort you, and your handsome damsel, to my humble castle." Blithely ignoring Darius' murderous glares, Draven takes hold of Lux's free hand before leading her down familiar streets.

"Draven..." Darius' voice has gone silky soft with a dark dangerous tone to it.

"Relax Darius! I've got this. Since you're behind on my exploits fair Ana, let me tell you about them..." Upon which Draven starts bragging about the adventures he has gotten into since she was last here. Before long Lux is laughing at Draven's stories as he leads her back to his home.

Once the three of them reach the entrance to their living space, Draven steps in first. Again, ignoring the look on his brothers face, Draven gestures Lux to follow. Nothing looks different from the last time she was here, but Draven surprises her with a small bouquet of blue flowers once she steps inside.

"Oh!" Is all Lux says in pleasant surprise. Graciously she accepts the small bouquet before moving off to the side so Darius can get in. Darius eyes the flowers with extreme prejudice.

"Draven! Here! Food! Eat outside! Now!" Darius booms out voice dark.

"Tut tut brother. Surely you're not going to deny my amazing person such fair company?" With reflexes faster than Lux expects, Draven yanks the small bag of food from his brother's hand. A smug smirk on his face, Draven gestures to Lux to have a seat on the bed before sitting down himself next to her.

"You are the second bravest person in all of Noxus. You looked death in the eye and returned triumphant with gold. It isn't every day a hero gets to enjoy my person! Your choice in damsels could be improved on though." Draven purrs, obviously enjoying his brother's extreme discomfort.

"Draven shut up! Go eat elsewhere! Scat!" Darius mutters. His eyes are dark, with a growing dangerous glint to them.

"No, no! He's okay! Draven can stay. Don't make your brother eat outside by himself," Lux admonishes.

"And Draven, it isn't beneath you to tease your brother like this? After all, your great person doesn't need to belittle others to shine. Why, by insulting your brother you makes him seem unworthy of you! How could you allow anyone to assume that anyone related to you isn't worthy." Lux says cheerfully. Draven's mouth opens and closes once, before deciding that eating in silence is his best option.

"Heh." Darius smirks.

The three of them enjoy each other's company in silence as Draven pigs out on his dinner. Each time Lux looks over at Darius, she is the sole focus of his gaze. The intense emotions in his eyes makes her heart beat faster. Something about those eyes drew her attention, drew her attention to his very presence. Yet, every time her eyes meet his, she blushes hot and looks away.

"Ana, what is your last name?" Draven asks curiously once he finishes his supper.

"Oh? My last name? It isn't important." Lux says dismissively. Oh shit! Now they're going to ask personal questions. I have to be very careful what I say. Both brothers stare at her in surprise. Neither of them understands, or wants to accept her answer.

"Is the knowledge of your name more important than us?" Darius inquires softly sounding disappointed.

"It isn't like that. My family is...well known where I live. Each time people learn my name, they stop seeing me. Instead, they see my family's reputation. I, Ana, cease to exist and my family's name replaces me. I'm my own person, not a reputation, here. I'll lose that, if I tell you." That last part Lux says bitter.

"Oh. Is Ana your real name?" Draven asks even more curious.

"It is a shortened version of my name...It is a just a nickname I like." Lux replies hesitant, not wanting to flat out lie.

"Draven, shut up! Ana doesn't want to answer these questions. Don't bother her over it. Everyone has their secrets, leave hers alone. " Darius sounds upset, but Lux can't determine who he is upset with.

"Do either of you know how to play Chess? I love to play that game, I'll teach you if you're interested..." Lux asks quickly trying to change the subject. Both brothers look at her with renewed interest.

"I've heard of it, but I don't how to play." Darius says reflectively glad to have a change in conversation himself.

"It is beneath my person to know such a little game! If I don't know how to play it, then it isn't worth playing. But! For you, I will allow myself to be taught." Draven states with pride as he makes another extravagant pose. Lux giggles a bit at his dramatics.

"Okay, let me create a board for us, and pieces..." Lux states happily. With a flick of her wrist a glowing platform appears between the three of them. Another flick of her wrist creates glowing pieces. Draven learns the game quickly, but just as quickly becomes bored of it. Darius, however, shows a lot of interest in the game. The two of them talk about chess well into the night. Draven drifts off to sleep, bored of their chatter. An hour later, Lux yawns loudly.

"Sleep. I have work in the morning, but Draven can keep you company if you decide to stay. Draven will be sad if you leave so soon." Darius says softly as if afraid to startle her away.

"We'll see...," Lux yawns. "G'night Darius. G'night Draven." With one last smile at Darius, Lux curls up under the blankets and falls asleep. Sometime early the next morning she hears someone exiting the small living space. Mmm, guess Darius is off to his job. I wonder what he does? A little bit later than that Lux awakens to the sound of a sleepy Draven.

Lux spends the following weekend with her new friends. She learns that Darius does a wide variety of odd jobs to make ends meet. A lot of them involve heavy labor, but he doesn't seem to have any problems with this. More than once Lux has had to stop herself from staring at Darius's muscular frame. Despite being just a little bit older than she, he has a very handsome fit body. Years of hard living have toned his body, removing any excess body fat. He bears a few scars, but personally Lux thinks they look very dashing. A pattern soon arises with her visits to Noxus. Every week Lux spends hard at work in Zaun, stealing every piece of information possible. However, Lux spends her weekends in Noxus. With each passing day Lux learns something new about the city, its inhabitants, and its history. Slowly, Lux starts to completely shed her ingrained hatred of the place, and give it her basic respect. It will never be Demacia, but it isn't the hell hole Demacia claims it to be.

Yet, she knows that her carefree days in Noxus are coming to an end. Lux is running out of excuses for an extended stay in Zaun. Soon Demacia will want her back in service at home. Her days will be spent being a poster child for her home. All of her free time will be gone, and she will be put on display for the betterment of her people. In fact, her mother will probably be wanting to get her married off soon. The mere thought of dating someone ties her stomach into knots. During the course of her mission, Darius has started to court her. At first it was a sweet thought, by over time she started to return his feelings. He may be a man of few words, but he is very action orientated. Every time she returns from Zaun he has a some little gift for her.

Between his jobs, and taking care of Draven, he'll take her on long walks through the city. Although he doesn't have the money for dating, Darius has intimate knowledge of Noxus, and has shown her numerous little tucked away gardens, ponds, and quiet areas. The few times they sit down to chat, he never asks her any personal questions that make her uncomfortable. Lux respects that. They both know she has secrets, and he never pressures her over them. They have never gotten very intimate because they lack privacy, but the few kisses he has given her make her knees weak. Just the slightest thought of his dark eyes causes her to blush with pleasure. What am I going to do? I can't tell my family that I've fallen in love with a Noxian! And, and...I can't tell Darius that he has fallen in love with a Demacian noble. Darius loves Noxus, he'll never forgive me for betraying his country. I need to leave here for good...And how can I forgive myself for deceiving like this?

With her thoughts preoccupied Lux doesn't notice the loud commotion until she nears her home away from home. Draven is getting into a fight with someone. Not just someone, but a Noxian noble. From what Lux can tell, the person tormenting Draven is none other than Cassiopeia Du Couteau. Cassiopeia is stunning beautiful, but her beauty is only matched by her cruelty. Spoiled, vain, and dangerous, the young Du Couteau is a terror to anyone who displeases her. It doesn't take much for Draven to displease someone, but the treatment he is receiving makes Lux's blood boil hot. That girl needs to be taught a lesson! I needed an excuse to leave for good anyways...

"Hands off him witch!" Lux snarls. Reaching out her right arm, Lux grabs Cassiopeia's dress by the collar and yanks her off Draven. With a grunt of effort, she throws the offending noble into a nearby sewage drain.

"How! Dare! You! Do you know who I am?!" Cassiopeia shrieks with rage. Slime drips down from her head to her toes. The entire outfit is ruined, and Cassiopeia is going to need a serious bath to get out the stench.

"You are the sad excuse known as Cassiopeia Du Couteau. I know who you are, and I don't care. Don't touch my friends." Lux's voice is cheerful and light. Her blue eyes are a calculating shade of blue without an ounce of regret.

"I'll kill you! I will! I will! I will!" Cassiopeia shrieks voice getting higher with each word.

"Try it. You won't succeed bitch." Lux stands very still, body tense and ready for action. Not looking away from Cassiopeia, Lux gets ready for trouble. Sure enough, trouble comes her way. But not from Cassiopeia, but from a nearby shadow.

"Don't touch her commoner. Cassiopeia I told you not to come here," snarls a red haired woman. The aura of danger, blood and death oozes off her in thick waves.

"Excuse my sister, she is out of place. But, threatening a Du Couteau is dangerous. If I ever see you again, I'll kill you." With a flick of her hand the red hair beauty flicks some hair over her shoulder before walking past. As Cassiopeia stalks past, she spits on Lux's feet. Lux just stands still letting them brush past her. Not long after the two sisters are out of sight a familiar pair of arms embrace her from behind.

"What are you thinking?!" Darius growls. His body is stiff with emotion.

"I was teaching that little bitch Cassiopeia a lesson." Lux releases a sigh of tension and relaxes into Darius's arms. This is it. This is the start of my goodbye. After a quick a breather to calm down, Lux gets out of his arms and starts to walk towards his home.

"You're not a Noxian! She can have your death ordered and no one can stop her." Darius breath is harsh. These events really upset him.

"I know I'm not a Noxian. That is part of the reason why I can get away with it. My official business in Zaun is complete. I've been called home, and I will not be able to return here ever again. Darius, I'm sorry...but this is goodbye." Unable to look into his eyes, Lux squeezes his hands. She has so little time left to enjoy his company, so she might as well relish these brief moments with him while she can.

"No. You are not allowed to leave for good. Make more business in Zaun. You will come back." Darius's voice brooks no argument, he refuses to let her go from life his so soon.

"Darius, I can't come back. I have completed my missions. Now my mother will want to see me wed." Lux's voice is soft with regret. I don't want to go back to Demacia. I want to stay with Darius, but what choices do I have?

"No! Do you want that? Do you want to give up your freedom like this? You can't leave like this. I won't let you throw your life away. You. Will. Not. Leave. Me!" Darius's voice is harsh with fear and desperation. By now they have reached the entrance way to the alley he lives in.

"Darius it isn't that simple..." She whispers with sorrow.

"Yes it is. Marry me. If we're married you're safe from Katarina and your mother." Darius states. With a firm grip he pulls her against his chest. He wraps one arm around her waist while the other hand fishes around in one of his pockets. From deep within a pocket he pulls out a silver ring set with a small blue topaz. Darius holds up the ring in front of her.

"H-how?! That is Ionian silver...this must have cost a fortune! You can't marry me...I have so many secrets...don't be ridiculous Darius. This won't work. We won't work out. Just let me go." Lux tries to push away from him, but finds out that she is held fast against him. I want to marry him...but once he finds out the truth he won't want me. How long has he been saving up for this ring?! I have to end this.

"I know you have secrets. But I don't care. Marry me." This time his voice has the faintest tinge of doubt, fear, and desperation in it.

"I know you come from an important family. I have nothing now, but I promise you I will become the strongest soldier in Noxus. You are the strongest mage in all of Noxus, and I will be the strongest soldier for you. I will buy you the tastiest apples, fine clothing, and everything you want. I don't care that you aren't Noxian. Don't even tell me your name if it stops you from marrying me." Again his voice is full of emotion, an emotion that causes Lux to shiver with hope. I want this...I want him! If he doesn't want to know, then it should work out, right?

"Yes. Yes, I'll marry you." Lux whispers softly. Darius groans with relief before he kisses her. A soft gasp of pleasure escapes her. His tongue slides into her mouth teasing her tongue, before he breaks off the kiss with a happy look on his face.

"Good! Now, let's get married. The sooner the better. I already have the paperwork...all we need is a witness and an official." Darius states smugly.

"You really planned this out, didn't you?" Lux says with a happy sigh at the turn of events. How long has he been planning on this? He's never told me that he loves me, but actions speak louder than words.

"You will have the honor of Draven being a witness! Took you long enough to propose Darius." Draven shouts with glee from beside them. He has a smug a look on his face as Lux blushes crimson.

"Draven make yourself useful and get us a city official." Darius says calmly obviously too happy to be annoyed at his brothers spying.

"Already ahead of you bro. I already booked you the last appointment with a city clerk." Draven says.

"W-what do I do about a signature? How does this work in Noxus?" Lux says breathless. How are things moving this fast?!

"We pay the clerk a fee, we mark the paperwork with our blood and with a witness, and then we're married." Darius says calmly.

Although his voice is even, his eyes are filled with such an intense emotion that Lux is stunned by the force of it. Things happened quickly after that. Lux barely registers the events, all she could feel was her hammering heart. Before her is a future free of her mother. A future free of her family reputation. A future with Darius. Her mind finally gave her into her heart's desire to be with Darius. My future is my own...my home is now with my husband, because I can never be accepted in Demacia. I never really fit in there, but I do here. As she steps out of the clerk's office, Lux rubs her wedding band. Although by Crownguard standards the ring is common enough, it must have cost Darius a fortune. How long has he wanted to marry me...? Before she can think any further thoughts her husband sweeps her up in his arms.

"Are you going to carry me all the way home?" Lux asks shyly. Home...I have a new home now.

"Yes." Is his only reply.

Lux buries her head against his chest, ashamed to look around her. After all, here she is being carried through the city of Noxus by her new husband. I have so much to tell him...I hope he likes blondes! I'm tired of dying my hair black. Her heart hammers fast in her chest. Once he is finished carrying her to his No, our...living space, she'll have her wedding night. I-I-I have no idea what to do...

Thankfully Draven is nowhere to be found. Quicker than Lux thought possible she finds herself set down gently outside of the entrance to her new home. Her face a dark shade of crimson Lux shyly ducks into the little living space. Nothing looks different, yet is feels completely different.

Out of habit, Lux sets down her satchel next to the end of the bed. A warm breath caresses her cheek before Darius kisses her neck. Brushing her hair to one side, he starts to kiss and nibble down her neck. One of his hands slides down her pants slowly brushing against the side of her panties.

"D-Darius! A-a-h-h...I've never...I don't...a-a-a-h! I-I-I..." Lux stammers. Never before has she ever felt such pleasure. A burning heat pulses from her between her legs. Parts of her ache with a need she didn't know possible.

"Trust me." Darius whispers against her skin as his fingers gently touch her.

With a flick of his tongue he licks the nook between her neck and shoulder. One strong arm holds her tight against him, while his other hand rubs her stomach. With a smooth slide forward and faint twist of his body Darius gently presses her down against the bed. Faster then she thought possible Darius strips off his shirt. Following his lead, Lux pulls off her cloak her shirt not far behind. The faintest chill brushes against her sweat slicked skin. Her husband hooks one hand around the waistband of her pants while the other hand lifts her hips off the ground. Soon her pants and undies slide off her waist and onto the ground. Darius' pants and underwear are not fair behind hers. Scooting down a bit Darius twists his tongue against one of her nipples. Gently he alternates between kissing, sucking, and nibbling on her breasts.

Lux twain's her hands into his dark hair. Her body is tingling with desire. A desperate burning need is spreading from her crotch up and down her entire body. One of Darius' hands starts circling her breast before wandering south. Lux thought her body had reached a pinnacle of pleasure but the moment his fingers started to stroke her snatch she gasped with desire.

"A-a-a-ah! D-d-d-don't stop that...p-please more...Darius...!" Lux pleads. Her hands slide off his head and grip his shoulders hard. Her body arches upwards with passion.

"You're beautiful...but things are only going to get better." Darius whispers hotly with need.

One finger slowly enters her while his thumb makes slow circles around her clit. Never before has Lux ever had anything within her before. The sensation of being filled is wonderful! Between the work of his mouth over her nipples, his thumb against her clit, and his finger slowly started to move in and out of her wet treasure Lux feels her body start to tingle. As the pleasure plunges through her, Lux arches her body against his. Her body tenses with pleasure as her first orgasm shakes her from head to toe.

"Darius!" She screams clutching her body tightly against his.

"We're not done yet my wonderful Ana...now it is my turn..." His husky voice tickles against her.

Lux instinctively spreads her legs wide apart. Darius moves his hand away from her honey pot and grips her hips. If she thought that being filled by a finger was amazing, feeling his large cock inside of her is entirely different! A whimper escapes her lips as she feels her virginity break. Her hands grasp against his back tightens at the sudden pain. As the pain from being deeply penetrated subsides, her body starts to squirm with anticipation. A part of her wants more, wants him to move!

"Trust me..." Darius mummers into her ear. Slowly he nibbles on her earlobe giving her time to adjust.

"D-Darius...please...more..." Lux begs voice husky with desire.

His hold on her hips firm, Darius starts to pump in and out of her slowly. With each time he presses his bawls against her ass Lux moans out his name. Quickly picking up the pace Darius feels his own pleasure starting to peak. Lux's body tenses as a second orgasm ripples through her.

"Darius! Darius! Darius!" Lux screams out his name as she comes.

"Ana..." Darius moans as slams his cock deep into her emptying his load into her.

"Wow..." Lux gasps. Parts of her ache, but those feelings dim compared to the warm glow coming from her heart. Darius slips out of her, before rolling onto his side. His fingers slowly stroke her hair a content smile on his face. With a wide yawn Lux snuggles up close to Darius. One of his arms snake around her waist holding her close.

"Tomorrow I will enlist early. We will have our own home soon." Darius whispers in her ear.

"Tomorrow I need to finish my last business with Zaun. I'll be gone for about a week. But, I promise you, my love, that I will return." Lux mummers. I don't want to leave him. But, I need to finish my mission before I can disappear. It shouldn't take long to deliver the information before I can return.

"If you must." Darius mutters unhappily. Briefly he pauses, thinking.

"Are you going to tell your family about us...?" He inquires.

"No. If they were to find out...I don't know what they would do, but it wouldn't be good for either of us. I gave my word that I would deliver the information I got." Lux replies. Scooting closer to her new husband, Lux kisses his chest before drifting off to sleep. Soon she drifts off into a content slumber. Long after she starts to snore, Darius kisses her forehead briefly.

"Goodnight my beloved Ana. I love you."

~Darius PoV~

Blow upon blow hits him. Darius doesn't care much about the blows, it is the knife wounds to the face that are bothering him. Someone just tried to beat up Draven for being in the way. Draven tries to get out of the way, but the man gives him a swift kick to the side dropping him. After taking a couple knife wounds to the head, the man leaves them alone. As blood pours down his face, Darius collapses against the alleyway wall. Nothing is broken, however, the blade has something on it. Something is slowly killing him. Shit! Draven...

"I'll be right back!" Draven tells him frantically. All Darius can do is grunt at him, the pain intense. He knows that there is no help to be found. Even if Draven can find one to heal him, they don't have the coin to afford it. This is it...this is how I die. I manage to save Draven one last time, I hope he can live without me. As his vision wavers in and an out a vision of blue heaven appears before him. Someone with the most amazing blue eyes is healing him. H-huh?

"W-why are you helping me?" Darius gasps out confused. He doesn't believe in heaven, but the woman before him is heavenly. Who is she? Why is she...? As one of her fingers traces along his wounds, he can feel the heat of the spell burning away the poison. Even though the healing burns, the relief from not dying is immense. As the pain eases away he hears her angelic voice speaking to him.

"Because Noxus needs you to be strong. Don't die here like a weakling! Be strong." Darius notices that the healing is done and the vision before him is leaving. N-no...don't go...not yet! Without meaning to, Darius reaches out quickly and grabs her wrist. Whoever healed him has skin that feels perfectly smooth and soft. Blue eyes stare into his eyes with a faint tint of surprise to them.

"I will be strong." He promises, releasing her wrist. W-what right do I have to capture an angel? All I can do is be strong for her. At that moment his brother does the most marvelous thing. He interrupts the angel from leaving him. Instead of her disappearing in the night like a fading dream, she freezes in place. Thank you Draven! Instead of brushing them off, or ignoring them the angel gives them a response they understand. Although she claims to be using them are lab rats, he knows better.

Darius can tell that Draven believes her, but he knows better. Upon hearing her name, he thinks carefully trying to think of a way to keep her from leaving. As he watches her interact with his little brother, he is amazed. Most people brush Draven off, ignore him, or tease him for his dramatic nature. Not this angel Ana, she is kind to his Draven. A kindness that no one has shown either of them before. Yet, nothing about her seems weak. With an amazing display of magic, she prepares objects to help them get clean. Again with an act of kindness with a reasonable excuse for being kind she starts to leave. No! Don't go! Luckily Draven comes to the rescue with the innocent request to have her come back. As she hesitates, he quickly comes up with an excuse for her to return as well. To his relief, she agrees to return. Once she is out of eyesight, Darius stands up and starts to walk towards their home.

"C'mon Draven we got work to do." Darius tells Draven. Draven looks up at him slightly confused.

"What work? You're done for the day aren't you?" His brother asks confused.

"You want her to keep on coming back right? Well I have a plan, and here is how it'll go..." Darius explains to an eager Draven. I hope this works...

For the next three days the two of them desperately save as much gold as they can. Darius takes on all sorts of additional hard labor jobs, while Draven sells glasses of fresh water for a couple gold pieces a cup. By the end of the third day, they've managed to save up enough gold to treat Ana out to someplace nice. They both agree on taking her to Sinful Succulence. Darius knows Ana isn't from Noxus, and one of the most famous places to eat here is at Morgana's. Show her all the nice places to visit, so she'll want to come back. Several hours before the agreed meeting time it starts to rain. A cold, hard rain that doesn't let up and blocks out the fading sunlight. Without knowing the approximate time, it is hard to judge if she is late or not. Draven isn't helping by fidgeting.

"Darius, she is coming right?" Draven pleads.

"Yes, she's coming." He replies sternly. I hope so.

"I want to get to know her better. She's really nice." Draven says simply, still watching the traffic on the street intently.

"I'd like to get to know her better too." Darius replies almost absent mindedly, eyes scanning for a pair of beautiful blue eyes.

"You like like her don't you!" Draven says gleefully punching him in the ribs.

"Draven shut up!" He grows. The last thing he needs is Draven trying to play matchmaker. It'll be hard enough convincing her to come back without Draven's interference. More time passes by without any sign of her. As Draven continues to ask if Ana is coming or not, he ruffles his brothers hair shaking out the rain. Neither of them refuse to leave their posts. Darius knows that Draven won't budge until he does, and he isn't leaving. Still, he puts in an effort to get Draven someplace dry.

"Me? Cold? Ha! I, Draven, can tolerate all kinds of weather and be fine! You should get out of the rain. I'll be fine, you won't be." Draven states this like a fact. Neither brother moves.

"She is coming, right? We didn't miss her in the rain?" Draven gives his older brother another pleading look.

"Ugh! Shut up! Of course she will! If she doesn't, I'll have some choice words to say..." Darius growls. Before he can finish the voice he desperately wants to hear hails from behind him. Yes! She came back! As Draven suddenly launches himself onto her, Darius mentally sighs. Good job Draven, soaking her through. She gives him reassures about Draven not getting her wet, but her thoughtful comment about being shoved into a puddle causes his blood to boil slightly. I will not let anyone shove you into a puddle! According to the plan, Draven leads the way towards the Sinful Succulence.

Ana in her sweet innocence just follows them. Where in Runeterra is she from? Why is she allowing us to lead her places? No matter! She's an angel of some sort, and I'm going to make sure she stays safe. Something about her just draws him in like a moth to a flame. At first he thought it was because of her beauty, but no. There is something more to her, something he craves with a need he doesn't fully understand.

Oh, he understands part of the need that his crotch tells him firmly, but he is attracted to more than her looks. As they walk through the mostly empty streets, Darius sticks close to her right side. Anyone who threatens her will have to go through him. By sticking on this side of her, it leaves his right arm free to attack if need be. Draven meanwhile just babbles on excitedly. Only listening with half an ear, Darius keeps alert. At least, stops listening with half an ear until Draven tries steal away his part in the treat.

Nothing is out of the ordinary as the two of place their orders. Draven orders some sort of jello, and Darius orders a simple piece of pie. Morgana gives them a scathing look as they place their orders. No surprise there, really. To his relief, Morgana treats Ana with a proper respect. It is also a relief that Morgana won't force Ana to wait outside with them. Before the two of them can leave and wait outside Ana does something extraordinary.

She stands up for them, solves the 'problem' Morgana has, and finds a place to sit in short order. He isn't sure which is more amazing, the magic she uses to get them presentable, or the manner in which she does so. She may be kind, but I don't think it makes her weak. Standing up to well known mage isn't something done lightly, and she does it without a second thought. I hope she can back up her words. I'll be prepared for a fight just in case. Even Draven is impressed with Ana's defending them, and of course he manages to say something about it in a dramatic manner.

"That was very...impressive. Why did you do it?" Darius's voice is low. All of his attention focuses on her, and only her. As she blushes and rambles on about spell mechanics he accepts her hurried response to drop it. She knows she did something a Noxian wouldn't normally and he knows that, and they both accept this fact. Before long Morgana approaches their table, orders in hand. His body goes tense as Ana and Morgana size each other up. To his relief Morgana backs down. There isn't just bravado behind her words, Ana has the power to back them up.

"Ana, you are a strong mage." Is all Darius says before starting to eat his dessert. Darius means this as a full complement. No matter where Ana comes from, she is no weakling. Innocent perhaps, but not weak. Soon the three of them are having a good time together, laughing at Draven's dramatics. As Morgana tells them to leave, Ana pauses in surprise. When she asks him and Draven for a safe place to stay he stares at his brother. Draven agrees with him, there is no safe place for her. Even if she has the coin to stay someplace safer, she'll never make it there alive. She's too innocent!

"You're staying with us." Darius says at the same time as Draven. With one fluid movement he stands up at the same time as his brother. Darius stands walks towards the exit first, keeping it open for the other two. Again, she follows them innocently. How can someone so strong be so naive? Soon enough they reach their humble home.

"It isn't much, but it is more or less dry. You can have the blankets, so you'll be warm enough. Draven can rest next to me on the floor so you'll have the entire bed to yourself." Darius's voice is husky with emotion and desire. Here he is right next to an angel, and he needs to keep her safe. It doesn't hurt that he gets to learn more about her while keeping her from harm.

"What are you talking about, brother?! We can all share the bed. Ana is really tiny, we'll all fit. Besides, didn't you want to get to know her better?" Draven says with a smug tone much to his dismay.

"Draven...shut up!" Growls Darius.

Unable to look her in the eyes, Darius ignores her and Draven, and starts set up their bed for her to sleep on. Draven! That idiot! He'll ruin everything! Strange enough, despite her very different upbringing she doesn't insult the little hole they call home. To his amazement, she steps into the center of the room and works magic. He may not know much about magic, but the things Ana is doing to their home can't be easy or effortless. She really is an angel...where else would she get the magic and temperament to do this for us? I've always thought that love at first sight was a fairy tale, but now that I've met an angel I know better. As she gently closes his month with finger, a jolt of desire shots through him. Parts of him that he hopes she doesn't notice grow hard. Now all I need to do is convince her to come back! I will woo her into being my wife, I have no need for anyone else. As he watches her drift off to sleep Draven opens his big mouth again.

"I'm going to marry her someday! I'll be married to the strongest mage in all of Noxus." Draven boasts.

"Draven, shut up!" Darius growls. I'm going to marry her. Not because she is the most powerful mage in all of Noxus, but because she is the only woman of her kind in all of Runeterra.

During the entire night Darius listens to Ana's soft breathing. Every passing moment he spends trying to think of ways to have her come back. She seems to have a weak spot for Draven, hopefully he can use that to his advantage. If it doesn't involve hurting her feelings, he'll use it to bring her back to him.

To his relief, she agrees to come back again in one week without too much effort on his part. Every time he looks at her, he can't hide his desire for her. It is more than just being attracted to her looks, it is an attraction to her soul. Once she leaves in the morning, he sets aside a place just for savings for her. He's going to pick out a ring and save up for it.

Upon discovering why Ana is late the next week nearly gives him a heart attack. Why would in Runeterra would she go to Singed's place? Briefly he grumbles under his breath about Riven and her stupid orders. As he follows discreetly behind her parts of him freeze in terror at who answers the door. Every orphan in Noxus knows to avoid Warwick. She won't know to be careful of him! He's a wolf and she's the sheep! To his relief and pride, she manages to avoid falling into one of Warwick's traps. As she rushes to get away from Warwick, he grabs hold of her in his arms, calming her down. Once she is calm, he smiles at her. Oh, he loves the attention she gives him! And parts of him enjoy the hug more than other parts. Please don't her notice, please don't have her notice...he mentally says to himself as he tries to hide his erection by taking her hand and leading away from danger. The two of them tease each other lightly. Every time she gazes into his eyes, he notices her deep blush. Success!

After what he considers to be a successful date, Draven goes and ruins it for him. I've already risked my life too many times from him to murder him now! Despite his best efforts to get Draven to scram and give him precious alone time with Ana his brother refuses to take a hint. Once he sees the little bouquet of flowers in her hands, and the smug look on Draven's face, he seriously wonders if cutting out his brothers tongue would make his Ana never forgive him. To make matters worse, once he tries to get Draven to leave on his own, Ana convinces him to have Draven stay. As the evening wears on, and questions get asked, he pays close attention to the answers she doesn't give.

For a bit now he's suspected that Ana is from Demacia, but her answers tonight confirm this. Who would have thought Demacia is good for anything? His best guess is that she is a spy with too big a heart. Oh, she's sneaky enough to gather information undetected. However, she is too damned nice and innocent for her own good. All the more reason why he should marry her! He can be her partner and keep at bay the wolves who will prey on her innocence. And if he can't keep them at bay, he'll hold them still so she blast them with her magic. Either way works. As long as he can keep her safe. As she teaches him how to play to chess, he becomes ensnared by her enthusiasm for the game. This is more than a game to her, it is a way of thinking. She is very, very good at this game. However, he'll need master it and be her equal. Even if it takes him some time to reach her level. She loves this game, and I will learn to love it for her. A part of him just sighs at his antics. The things people do when in they're in love. She's worth it though.

Soon enough his days fall into a nice pattern. Darius works as many as hours as he can to save up enough money to support him, his brother, and save up for marriage. As much as he wishes he can buy Ana the biggest, most expensive ring, he hopes she'll be happy with what he picks out. Ana comes over and stays with them on the weekends between her 'work' in Zaun. Every weekend he takes her out on dates all over the city. Darius knows he can't afford to treat her like a princess, so he tries to show her the little things in Noxus that will appeal to her. Once or twice he manages to steal a kiss while they walk through small tucked away gardens. The feel of her lips against his, and the way her knees go weak, and so much more about her heightens his desire. Once he manages to buy the ring he set his eyes on, he starts to go about doing research for their wedding night. Oh! He won't actually practice with anyone, but he can certainly watch and learn. As midsummer approaches Darius discovers something alarming.

Ana is becoming very preoccupied with thoughts beyond her mission. By now he recognizes the distant, thoughtful look she gets in her eyes when presented with a difficult problem or puzzle. And now he knows that her family in Demacia is a problem. I have to propose to her soon! I can't let her get away like this. I know she isn't happy in Demacia, and I know I can make her happy here, with me.

It isn't until she gets into fight with the Du Couteau sisters does he start to actively panic. A deep fear of their future fills him as they talk. He can't protect her from Katarina! He can't protect her from anything if she won't let him. Darius listens to her reasons for not marrying him, but he refuses to accept them. With each objection she has, he counters her. I won't let you go back to Demacia just to be married off like a prize mare! You won't be happy that way, and I want you to be happy. I want you to be happy with me. It doesn't surprise him that she is reluctant to marry him because of her birthplace. He assures her that he doesn't care. After they've been married for a while, he'll let her know he knows she's Demacian. That he knows and doesn't care.

Once she finally agrees to marry him, his entire world becomes perfect for a brief moment. Draven for once proves himself to be extremely useful and equally annoying. As he carries her to his, no their room, his heart races. Soon it'll be their wedding night. Parts of him can barely wait, eager to finally have all of her to himself. Another part of him is very sad that Ana deserves the best, and all he can offer her is inexperienced romantic love making a small abandoned cubby hole. Once the afterglow of their wedding night fades, Darius holds her close as she drifts off to sleep in his arms. Never before has he felt such pleasure. Even the mere memory of her screaming his name in pleasure causes parts of him harden again. No! Not now! Now she's sore and sleepy, not ready for me to go again. There is more time that later. Once he feels that she is completely asleep, safe in his arms does he whisper the words he wishes he could say while she is awake.

"Goodnight my beloved Ana. I love you" He whispers as he kisses her forehead. Someday I'll have the perfect chance to tell you that I love you when you're awake. Until then, you'll just need to wait until I'm ready. I wish romantic words aren't such a pain! We have time though. We have our entire future together.

/

Tada! A revised chapter one! Plus much, much more!