Despite his reputation, Horikare Shadowborne, called the Warrior of Light and the Warrior of Darkness, wasn’t a brave Miqo’te. He did what he had to because the utter fear in his heart when he faced down the monsters and gods, giant machines and whole armies, was better than the shame of not facing them and allowing innocent people to die, or worse, be tempered into mindless slaves.

He grew angry and frustrated, sometimes, when people asked him to put himself in harm’s way. Or assumed that he would go out and blithely face death for them. Still, it never occurred to him not to help. It wouldn’t be right.

That didn’t mean he was brave. At least, until today.

Rika glanced over his shoulder. To one side stood Mari, a Lalafell healer as skilled as she was adorable, her presence calm and focussed, supporting the group with her good sense as well as her spells. Before him, Kattey with her massive sword over one shoulder, as tall as her slender Au Ra frame, eyes bright with anticipation. Fearless and funny, keeping their spirits high.

And beside him… He reached out and twined clawed fingers with his husband, Davien. The tall, graceful Miqo’te gave him a warm smile, squeezing his hand gently. Dark haired, blue eyed, strong and determined, as handsome as he was deadly with the twin blades at his hips.

This time, Rika didn’t have to face the unknown on his own. For the first time his stomach fluttered with anticipation, not fear. Taking a deep breath, he gripped his rapier with his free hand and nodded, head high as they stepped together through the doorway to face the unknown.

For those that they had lost. For those that they could still save.

(Dedicated to everyone in my Free Company. Thank you for reading. I would like the barding if I am chosen.)