Chapter 10
Diana slowly let her eyes survey the scene before her. There was a silence hanging on the air– the sort that hung on the air after true devastation. But was this the quiet of aftermath or the calm before the storm? The splinters of shattered palm trees crunched beneath her feet as she cautiously stepped though the newly cleared path.
In the distance an angered shout suddenly boomed forth, then a sharp, stinging ring pierced Diana's mind. It was so strong she dropped to her knees, clutching at her head without any relief. When the noise ceased, she gingerly rose from the ground, cringing at the pain from the wood that had dug into her skin. She grit her teeth and carried on.
She could hear the repeated sound of something hitting the water. When she approached the cliff, she found the sound was only soft because of how far Syndra was hurling the huge, solid boulders.
The Dark Sovereign didn't turn or even regard the approaching woman's presence; instead she ceased her magics, letting several stones she was levitating fall to the earth with deafening force.
Diana stayed silent, rubbing at her arms and waiting for the girl to say anything. When it became perfectly apparent that Syndra wasn't going to say anything– or even look at her– she decided she needed to speak first.
"I'm sorry," she said, taking a step closer to the woman who still hadn't reacted to her. "It hurt how much you disapproved of her."
"You're a fool." She turned for a moment to point a glare at Diana. The girl took a deep breath and let her shoulders relax. "It may be overstepping my boundaries– I am only your babysitter– but it is foolish to put yourself, and your daughter, in danger."
"I came to apologize, but I will not tolerate you continuing to talk about Leona like that. Listen, and listen closely, it was just the one time. I had killed many of the people we had grown up with. The elders who taught and trained us. Our friends, their families. Do you even understand how much it means that she can even forgive me?"
Syndra just kept staring at the ground.
"I shouldn't have slapped you, but why are you suddenly so angry?"
The younger girl took a deep breath, her expression becoming softer but still refusing to meet her gaze. "The truth is, I knew that you were in love with her. It has always been as clear as day. Your girls asked me to help and I did. They pushed the two of you together. Don't give me that look, you were the one who suddenly got all adult out on the beach. I pulled them away before they saw anything."
"If you think tripping me into her had any real effect, you're the fool. I was moments from kissing her anyway."
"That much was obvious. It shouldn't anger me this much. But your safety is very important to me. The truth– the truth is– if I'm being honest, I care about you."
Diana finally dared to smile. She stepped closer to the girl, laying a hand on her shoulder and feeling how rigid she was. "Thank you. If I am to be honest, I care about you too. You are not just my babysitter. I was under the impression we may have been becoming as close as sisters. At least that is what I thought."
"You think of me as a sister?"
The Scorn of the Moon only gave her a quick nod. "I do. That's why it's important what you think of her." Diana rubbed a hand over her mouth. "I knew that if we were ever found out that no one would approve. I know it isn't because she's a woman, but still, to have my friend–,"
"My apologies. This was supposed to be a special day for you and I ruined it. If you say it's fine, than I'm sure it's fine. Why don't you tell me about her? It may put my mind at ease."
"I wouldn't know where to start."
The Dark Sovereign shrugged. "The beginning usually works."
"Shut up," Diana said with a laugh as she gave the other girl a jostle.
It wasn't just another quiet day on Mount Targon. It was in fact quiet, but far from ordinary. The libraries, the training grounds, even the chapels were all but abandoned. Diana hadn't seen another soul as she wandered the temple, unsure of whether she should start her duties since it seemed like everyone had ceased to exist.
It wasn't until she approached the entry hall that she could hear the murmur caused by what must have been most of the Solari. Just outside the jostling crowd she spotted her only friend seated a bench and seeming to ignore the people on the other side of her book. But that was why she was aptly nicknamed the Floating Book– because this was all her presence amounted to.
"Helena, what is going on here?"
"A girl interrupted her own execution by calling down the power of the sun. They've brought her in and are appointing her the Chosen of the Sun."
Diana nodded. If there was on thing she could count on Helena for it was knowing everything, from the position of the stars to every blossoming romance or torrid affair on the mountain. No one had reservations about talking in front of a Floating Book. Diana was the only one who really spoke to her and regretted how much they had drifted apart once she met Leona, but having her around took up all of her time. It wasn't until Leona left for the League that they were able to reconnect.
"You don't seem in much of a hurry to meet her."
"It seems silly. She's going to be as permanent a fixture here as the rest of us. No need for impatience." She replied without glancing away from her book.
"You're right," Diana said, sitting beside her. "I'd rather not wade though that."
"Your haphephobia won't go away until you get used to human contact."
"What?"
"Nothing."
Diana shrugged and just sat calmly, observing the crowd. She didn't like most of the people in the temple, but the feeling was for the most part mutual. Diana couldn't help but think that there had to be something fundamentally wrong with her. She had thought it was her looks, since her pale skin and silver hair were so different from than the olive complexions and dark curls all around her.
Later in life she would come to realize that it was her stargazing and shyness, but at the time it was easier to blame her looks, which only made her more shy and feel more self-conscious. Especially when the most beautiful girl she had ever– would ever– set eyes on stepped from the crowd.
Her lightly waved red hair looked luminous in the morning light. She had heard that the people at the base of the mountain trained as soldiers from a young age; that explained her more full body and the muscular arms and legs that peeked out from beneath the tunic and skirt; clothing that was very rare in the temple. Diana's eyes settled on the beautiful, cheery smile that radiated a power and charisma she was unaccustomed to. Even with her shy disposition and even though she was still a fair distance away, Diana couldn't help but put on what must have been an unfortunately goofy grin.
The girl's eyes locked with her own and with a wider smile she began her slow approach. It wasn't until the girl was right in front of her that she realized that Elder Sol Invictus and Acolyte Selene were flanking her.
"I see you have found your way here. I would have awoken you, but the elders insisted I help her settle in. This is Leona, Chosen of the Sun and the new Radiant Dawn."
Diana broke her eyes away, glancing at the ground and kicking a little dust. She couldn't manage anything but an excited hum and a nod. It was because she was looking down that she saw the cane as it whacked her in the shin. She hissed and hopped on one foot.
"None of that humming, it is endearing to me but she is the Chosen of the Sun," the old woman said under her breath.
"Sorry. My name is Diana, it is an honor to meet you," she said, finally looking into the girl's eyes again. Suddenly it felt like her hair must be out of place, so she tucked a few strands behind her ear. She found she couldn't look away from the beautiful eyes and realized that at some point she had stood; she wasn't exactly sure when that happened.
"It's nice to meet you," the girl said, her smile widening. "And your friend?"
"That's Helena. Tch," she said as the cane struck her again. "That is Helena. She must be reading something interesting, there is no getting to her now."
"Right," Leona responded, finally glancing away to talk to the others.
Still in shock, Diana backed off and collapsed down onto the bench beside Helena. "She's so beautiful."
Helena spared a glance from the book for a single instant. "She's above average."
"What! She's– she's so pretty."
"Oh am I?"
Diana would have hit the ceiling if there was one. "Uh, hi."
Leona chuckled at her and smiled brightly again; a smile she'd get so used to in the coming years. "Right. Hi. So how about it?"
"How about what?"
"I asked if you could be the one to give me the tour and show me to my rooms."
"Wha– why me?"
"My knee is acting up," Selene cut in, "Go on, Diana." The older woman turned, "that goes for the rest of you too! Do you think it will impress the Radiant Dawn if you slack off today!?"
Though she wasn't an elder, few held as much respect as her and soon the crowd had dispersed. Once again something major slipped by Diana's notice and it wasn't until the hall was abandoned, Helena included, that she realized anything had happened.
Eventually Leona broke the eye contact, glancing around then creasing her brow. "Where did everyone go?"
Diana hummed. "Chores. So, a tour right?"
Leona smiled at her and nodded. She followed behind as Diana lead her though, pointing out the chapels, the gardens, and several libraries.
"I'm going to get so lost here." Leona cut in as they continued their tour.
"Just ask anyone, I'm sure everyone would be happy to help you, Radiant Dawn."
"Please, just Leona."
Diana couldn't explain the elation she felt at the gesture. A small smirk managed to tug at her lips despite the declining hum. "I would get in trouble if anyone heard me."
"Just when it's the two of us. All day everyone has been so formal and it feels weird. I won't tell, I promise. Please? I would really like it."
Diana again felt the need to tuck an out of place hair behind her ear. "Maybe it would be alright, Leona."
"That's more like it."
The silver-haired girl nodded quickly. "While we are being informal, may I ask you a question?"
"Go ahead."
"Why me?"
"Guess I'm not used to spending time with adults, outside of training of course. I wanted someone my own age. Your friend wasn't exactly raring to go. One of the two boys I met was like a weasel and the other smelled like he had spent a hard day in the field, which is gross because it's morning."
Diana snorted under her breath. "That would be Marcus."
"If you say so, didn't bother to remember his name. I guess I just wanted to get to know you better. I've never seen anyone like you before. Are you freiljordian?"
"No– well, I might be. I was left on the temple's doorstep. This is the west chapel."
"Looks nice. So tell me about yourself. They told me about the divisions, you're a paper Solari, right?"
"I have not chosen, but I was leaning that way. How did you know?"
"Well, you're probably too shy to be cloth and too skinny to be iron."
Diana stopped, tugging at her robes despite the fact it would make her look even worse.
"Oh– not that it's bad. You're very good looking– I mean– your figure is really pretty. That's not better."
"It's okay. Thanks for saying that."
"It's true."
Diana hummed and nodded, continuing their walk. "This is the summit, the Reliquary of the Zenith. You are the only person allowed in, unless you give permission. Uh, well, it may be dusty, no one has been in it awhile. I guess that we part ways here. It has been a pleasure talking with you."
"Um, you can come in–,"
"Don't say that lightly. Most consider it a great honor–,"
"It's been nice and I would like to spend more time with you. Help unpacking my things would be cool. Or we could just keep talking."
"I suppose Selene couldn't fault me on skipping chores if you insisted I stayed."
Leona smiled, reaching a hand and taking one of Diana's. "Stay."
Diana nearly tugged her hand away on instinct. But aside from the flock of butterflies trying to escape her stomach the usual insects on her skin were absent. The hand was rough, but warm and exciting. "I guess I have no choice, Leona."
"The prettiest girl you have ever seen. Should I be insulted?"
Diana laughed. "I was just a kid. I've realized that it was love at first sight." She glanced over at Syndra. "I am not going to claim to you that my childhood was difficult. But suddenly having her there, being friendly and charming and so sweet, I couldn't help but fall head over heels for her."
"She loved you too, didn't she? Just like that."
"I don't know. I would like to hope so. Come on, my girl is probably about to pass out on Leona. I want to go see her."
Syndra nodded, but didn't follow her. Diana spared her a glance back, then continued back towards where the others were gathered. Behind her, she could again hear the sound of boulders hitting the water again.
"Tell her that if she hurts you, she's going to meet the sun face to face."
Diana chortled but didn't turn around.
Leona stared up at the sun, which had suddenly returned as quickly as it had vanished. She had paddled in just in case the weather turned sour, but the timing wasn't bad seeing as her girls were ready to go down for a nap. Selene was already resting her head in the crook of Leona's neck. Eos was holding her hand and still standing, but her head was nodding off and she occasionally wiped at her tired eyes.
On the edge of the beach, she spotted Diana heading towards her. Leona gave her a bright smile then waved. The silver-haired girl tucked her hair back in a demure fashion, a sight Leona hadn't seen in a very long time.
"Nap time?" Diana asked as she approached.
"Yes please," Eos answered, her head dropping still.
"When this tyke agrees to a nap, you know it's serious. They've had a long day."
"What a coincidence, me too."
"Lunching with your friends must have really taken it out of you."
"You have no idea." Diana reached out and took Selene. She gave the girl a soft kiss and a little nuzzle.
"Oi! Leona!"
The Radiant Dawn spotted a few of her friends seated around a table. Leona gave Diana her daughter's hand. "I'll meet you at the cabin. Maybe the girls will already be asleep."
"Count on it," Diana said with a saucy smile.
Leona turned and headed over to her friends, ignoring the happy jaunt that had suddenly in her stride. She took an empty seat beside Caitlyn. "What's up?"
Fiora glanced at Lux and Shyvana before glancing back to Leona. "Listen, that is what we wanted to talk to you about."
Leona's eyes darted back towards Diana for a moment then returned.
"You and Eos have been spending a lot of time with her. Are you sure that it's safe?"
"Safe?" she responded, all but growling.
"Yes, we all know that you two are always at each others throats. I know she has a kid too and they get along, but sometimes you have to put your foot down."
"Listen. It's fine. Diana is– it's perfectly safe. I've known her for years. Actually, we–,"
In her defensiveness, she had almost let something secret slip. But a soft tap on her leg interrupted her. The Sheriff's eyes were closed, and she hadn't turned towards Leona. But she could see it. Caitlyn was slightly, slowly shaking her head. Telling her not to say any more.
"We were best friends. I know she made mistakes, but she is a wonderful mother."
"Maybe to her own girl. But should you leave yours with her? Who knows what she'll do," Shyvana cut in.
"I trust her and I'm not going to stay here while you all badmouth her."
Without hesitation, she stood and stormed away. She headed straight for her room; she was in a foul mood and she needed Diana to calm her. But she found herself stopped by a hand on her arm, causing her to growl.
"Relax, it's just me."
Leona loosened herself out and nodded at Caitlyn. "What is it?"
The Sheriff looked at a loss for words for a moment, but then closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "We don't all feel that way. You're probably right about Diana being a nice woman and I know for sure that she is a good mother." Caitlyn looked at the ground then back at Leona. "But you can't tell them that you're dating."
Leona stared blankly at her. "You know?"
"Please, I am the greatest detective in Valoran." She smiled for a moment, then went serious again. "They know about Vi. Have you noticed how much they talk about it?"
"I have thought that it was strange. Didn't they try to set you up with someone too–,"
"A man, yes, they have. They won't even acknowledge it, if you even are still their friend. But I'm happy for you."
"Thanks. She is very sweet."
"I know. Remember? Greatest detective."
"We could never tell anyone at Mount Targon. It feels good to have someone know. Maybe I'll move to Piltover some day."
Caitlyn nodded. "We would be happy to have the four of you."
Leona's smile brightened a little more.