Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Dawning a wooden mask resembling a bird, Sparrow walks through the Marketplace and browsing through the many merchandise there. Hands tucked underneath their dark red cloak, hoping the bandages won't unravel while they're down here. They were careful not to reveal themselves so much to the people around them. Learning from Eridia's rules, knowledge is gold. That applies in the Marketplace as well, it seems.

"Oof!" Too caught up in their own mind, they bump into someone else. "Sorry, I wasn't paying attention to my surroundings."

"It's alright." They say back. A gloved hand raised to their mask, probably adjusting it. "You weren't hurt, were you?"

"No, I'm quite alright." Sparrow nods. "It's a bit crowded here. It was getting overwhelming that I couldn't focus on my path."

"Yeah, the marketplace around this time gets a lot more traffic. You buying or selling?" They ask.

"I'm just looking." Sparrow answers. Their head tilted down discreetly.

"Looking? No buying or something?"

"Just looking." They readjust their cloak. Bandaged hands peak out for a few seconds, catching the stranger's attention.

"... I see." They hum. "Ah, I forgot to introduce myself. Sorry, that was rude of me. I'm Vesper."

"Oh, um, I'm, uh, Pigeon."

"New comer, I'm guessing?"

"It's too obvious, isn't it?" Sparrow sighs. So much for being low-key.

"It's alright. I was like you when I first got here." Vesper reassures. "Let's talk somewhere else. Too many ears listening."

"Huh?" Sparrow looks around. They don't seem to see anyone listening in on them.

"All walls have ears." Vesper states before gesturing them to follow. "Come. I know a place for us to get a drink and chat. And don't worry, I'm not going to mug you. New company is always a treat."

"That's reassuring."

"Better than most."

Vesper leads the way down the marketplace, following the glow of dimly lit lanterns before reaching their destination—the familiar sight of the Leaping Bear. Vesper looks over at Sparrow and nods.

"This is where I live. It's cozy enough to have your guard down." Vesper states.

"Must be rare down here." Sparrow comments as they take in the old wooden structure. It looks surprisingly sturdy for a building made out of nothing but wood and stone.

"Rarer than you think. Come inside, Bruna's making potato and leek soup." Vesper gestures them to follow. Sparrow's stomach rumbles at the mention of food.

They went inside, following Vesper close behind. The comforting smell of soup immediately makes their stomach growl. Sparrow takes a seat next to Vesper near the hearth. Patrons of the inn slowly flood in for food and drinks. Vesper makes their orders to Bruna as Sparrow looks around the cozy lounge.

"Aren't you worried their might be some fight to break out?" Sparrow asks as they look at Vesper. Vesper just shrugs in response.

"I'm not too worried about it. Rufus over there can handle the fight if it ever starts." Vesper points over the large man with a bear mask and a blood soaked bat. Sparrow shivers at the sight.

"Comforting." They say.

"So, Pigeon. What exactly are you looking for down here?" Vesper asks. "Everyone has a reason coming down the mountain."

Sparrow pauses, hesitating to say their reason to them. They shake their head, shrinking into themselves a little as they answer.

"Nothing, really. Just... Looking around." They answer, rather reluctant to say.

"I see. So those bandages are nothing?" Vesper points out. Sparrow froze at the mention of their bandages. "You're looking for a cure, I can see that clearly. That makes two of us."

"You're cursed too?" Sparrow raise their head to look at them. Vesper nods.

"Not physically. More... Soul fractured." Vesper explains. "And the only known cure is down here."

"I'm sorry to hear that."

"Don't be. It's not even your fault for my sickness. If anything, the four people I know are both helping me and making me age faster from stress." Vesper laughs lightly. Sparrow holds back a chuckle.

"Friends of yours?" Sparrow asks as their bowls of potato and leek soup with a side of bread arrives.

"Friend is a strong word. More like... acquaintances? Companions?" Vesper shrugs. They unlatch the bottom half of their mask to eat their soup and bread.

"I get it." Sparrow nods before taking a spoon full of soup. "I too have acquaintances that make me age faster being around them."

"Oh? Do tell." Vesper nods. They do like a bit of gossip.

"Well there's an enigma of a man who I could barely get a grip on what he's thinking half the time." Sparrow starts as Vesper nods along, listening intently. "Then there's this even more enigma of a man that makes my trust issues go haywire! And a fox who would eat me in a heartbeat."

"Sexually? Or literally?" Vesper asks.

"Both." Vesper chokes on their soup.

"Should've expected that." Vesper coughs. "Continue."

"Then we have a demon who's both a gentleman and a bastard! And last is a rogue hunter who works alongside the first enigma." Sparrow lets out a breath. "That's my roster. What about you?"

"Surprisingly not too different." Vesper states. Sparrow raise an eyebrow underneath their mask. "The first is holy man who's not as holy as he seems to be, the next is the most exhausted thief who needs a vacation, then the most theatrical merchant you'll ever meet with looks to kill—metaphorically and literally will kill you with poisons, and last is the embodiment of a golden retriever and sunshine."

"Damn." Sparrow blinks. "Some roster we both have, huh?"

"You can say that again. Did they try to kill you, too?" Vesper chuckles.

"Yep. Nearly died even coming to the city I met them." Sparrow hums. "I think I did die but was saved by the enigma. The first one."

"I'll be damned. And that didn't cure you?"

"It's a curse I was born with and don't have much information about, unfortunately." Sparrow sighs, dipping their bread in their soup. "Those five guys I met are my key to finding the cure because they know the in's and out's of the city."

"So how did you end up here? If you don't mind me asking about it." Vesper asks. They never thought they would stumble upon someone with a similar situation as they were. It feels comforting to them, somehow.

"I needed a fucking break." They sigh. "Sometimes you just need to step far away from them to breath. I think I got a couple of greys because of 'em."

"Haha, that's understandable." Vesper chuckles softly. "How long are you gonna stay in the Marketplace? A day? A week?"

"Dunno. I have enough coin to last for about a month. A couple more weeks if I'm smart." Sparrow shrugs. "I was gonna find a place to stay but I think The Leaping Bear is the best option for it."

"It definitely is." Vesper nods. "First night is free is you're just staying for one day. And if you wanna stay longer the rent is cheap enough to not empty your pockets dry within the next week."

"Great! Where do I sign in?" Sparrow got up from their seat.

"Why not finish your food first?" Vesper chuckles, gently pulling them back down. "Bruna's not going anywhere so you have plenty of time. You can relax, my friend."

Chapter Text

Cladded in white and gold, Kuras moves swiftly through the crowd like he's gliding. The golden mask covers his eyes resembles pairs of wings. He hums thoughtfully as he browse through the goods of some stales. People around him whisper amongst themselves as they all look at him with both curiosity and fear. Kuras ignores the whispers as he moves to stale to stale, carrying himself in with an air of mystery. Followers of the Lunar Church in particular got interested in him. They immediately went to the church to tell Cirrus about him.

"What? An Angel? In the marketplace?" Cirrus is skeptical of what he is hearing from his followers. "Are you certain of it?"

"Yes, he looks as heavenly as we say he is!" One followers nods.

"He looks like a messenger of the Solar God!" Another one adds.

"He wears white and gold, his skin is kissed by the sun, and he presents himself in such a light and airy way!" Another follows. This just fuels Cirrus' curiosity over this mysterious 'angel'.

"I will believe it myself if he ever shows up in the church. For now, do continue with your duties." Cirrus dismisses them. One by one they left the church, leaving Cirrus alone with his thought. "A man who's an angel? A messenger of the Solar God? Under the mountains? Preposterous!" He scoffs. Then again, Gods work in mysterious ways, especially the Lunar and Solar Gods.

Cirrus prepares the last sermon of the day. He prepares the necessary items to use—the grimoire, basin and jug of lavender infused water, and some incense sticks and a burner. He straightens himself as patrons of the church slowly floods in. He smiles, nodding and greeting them all as they take their places. Then the aura of the church shifted. Stepping inside was the rumored 'walking angel'. The patrons all turn to look as he takes a place with the crowd. The gentle murmurs and whispers of the people died almost immediately. 

"Hm? Are you here to join us, My Star"?" Cirrus spoke out amongst the still silence.

"Yes, I am. Sorry for the sudden intrusion. I was just curious about this church and of it's religion surrounding it." Kuras spoke gently. A soft smile on his lips; it made Cirrus' skin prickle with goosebumps. He didn't like it but he must continue.

"No need to apologize. The church f the Lunar God is open to all who comes to learn." Cirrus reassures. "So please, stay as long as you'd like."

"Thank you." Kuras smiles brightly.

The sermon goes smoothly. No bumps, no distractions. Well, other than Kuras who's aura does not match the setting whatsoever. Still, Cirrus pushed on to finish. He was relieved when it was finally over. Kuras lingers behind as Cirrus talks to the followers for a bit before they all leave, one by one. After they were both alone, Kuras finally steps up to Cirrus.

"Hello again." Kuras greets.

"Yes. Hello." Cirrus nods, hands clasp together as he confronts him. "Forgive me for asking this but you are aware that you have been the talk of the marketplace, correct?"

"Yes, I am well aware of the rumors. I head no mind to them, of course." Kuras nods.

 "And you are aware of them calling you an Angel?"

"I am."

"And the messenger of the Solar God?"

"I am. Is that one of the Gods worshipped here?" Kuras asks curiously.

"One of many. The Solar God is more prominent on the surface. And as you can see the Lunar God is worshipped under the mountain." Cirrus gestures to the Lunar God stone carvings on the church's wall behind the altar. Moon motifs repeat all around a vague depiction of the Lunar god and the followers praying at the base. "It is quite rare to find a follower of a different God under here. Nonetheless, the doors of this church is welcome to all who seeks sanctuary."

"A very noble thing for the church to do. Back where I come from, the closest thing to this rejects such a thought." Kuras vaguely explains. It only peaks Cirrus' curiosity about this mysterious man. The way he's dressed, the mask over his eyes, the wisps of hair that resembles fire—it all scream otherworldly to Cirrus. 

"May I ask, what is your name, My Star?" Cirrus asks. "I was too caught up in asking you about the rumors that I forgotten my manners. My name is Cirrus, the Priest of this church."

"My name is... Azrael. Yes, Azrael." Kuras hums. "And why do you keep calling everyone 'your star'? Is it common for priests of the Lunar Church to call everyone that?"

"Indeed. It is a part of the religion." Cirrus nods. "Your name... Azrael... It's one of the Archangels, correct? The one who separates the soul from the body when they are close to death?"

"Indeed he is. You see, I am a doctor." Kuras explains. "The Archangel Azrael is a prominent figure to me during my studies. It feels right to me to have his name as a different side to me under here."

Cirrus couldn't help but feel a chill run down his spine. Something inside him something is not right with the man that stands before him. A holy man, looking like the embodiment of heaven's light, feels dark. Darker than dark. He is hiding something but Cirrus doesn't know what it is. The smile on Kuras' face holds many secrets. Secrets Cirrus both wants to know and would rather avoid in his lifetime.

"... Who exactly are you?" Cirrus mutters. Sweat drips down the side of his cheek. Kuras merely chuckles.

"Just a doctor seeking new cures, is all." Kuras answers. "But look at the time. I've wasted yours for far too long. I bid you a good evening, Cirrus." Kuras bows, a hand on his chest. Cirrus takes in a shaky breath and nods.

"... Yes. You as well, Azrael."

Kuras waves goodbye to Cirrus as he turns and steps out. Once Kuras left, his aura left as well with him. Cirrus gasps, leaning against the alter. His hand raised to his face as he takes deep breaths. Whatever that man was, he is dangerous. Cirrus takes a mental note to keep away from him if he ever returns. He feels like he would burn if he stays too close.

Chapter Text

Warm food, light music, and laughter—a good mixture for a successful party! The patrons chatter, clinking glasses of whine and champagne as they talk gossip or business. Leander and Vere peaks inside before coming in. Vere lets out a huff, tail swishing behind him and ears twitching from the loud laughter near by. Leander chuckles beside him, looking at the revelry all around them.

"I can't believe I'm stuck with you of all people." Vere huffs. "It just had to be you."

"And why exactly did you follow me if you didn't want to join me, Vere?" Leander teases.

"I smelled good food. Actually good food." Vere's lips turn to a small teasing smile. "Unlike whatever slop you serve back at the Wet Wick."

"The wet what now?"

A finally dressed man comes forward through the crowd. His porcelain white mask comes into view. The gold accessories glint under the candlelight.

"The Wet Wick. It's a place back where we come from." Leander explains.

"From where you're from?" The man hums. He takes a closer look at the two then nods. "I see. Not from here, are you?"

"Well there wasn't really a 'No Trespassing' sign if this was a private event." Vere shrugs. "And the food here smells delicious. I couldn't help but come. Unfortunately, this one joined me." Leander just laughs, ignoring the backhanded comment.

"Haha, my parties are always open to those who seek a good time! Why, if it was a private event then we wouldn't have met at all." The man laughs heartily. "I'm Oleander, the host of this here part."

"Oleander, you say?" Vere smirks as he turns to Leander. "Seems like someone already has your brand."

"Hey!" Leander grumbles.

"May I know your names? Seems rude to not introduce yourselves to the host." Oleander asks.

"I'm Crimson. This one's Hound." Vere introduce themselves to him.

"Crimson and Hound..." Oleander mutters, having a feel of the names on his tongue before nodding. He spreads out his arms, a welcoming gesture. "Welcome to the Marketplace! What may have you come down to the mountains? Everyone has some sort of reason to go down to what is essentially the black market of all things magical and non-magical."

"It's nothing personal, really." Vere shrugs.

"We are companions to a friend of ours who needs a cure." Leander explains.

"An illness?" Oleander cross his arms. "Hmm... This discussion should be moved to somewhere more fitting. Something as serious as illness is inappropriate for a party—too depressing and sours the mood. Come, to my parlor."

Oleander excuses himself from the party. He leads the two up the stairs and into his parlor. It's big enough to fit the three of them. Oleander pops open a bottle of vintage wine. Pouring them each wine, Oleander starts questioning. He gestures to the seats in front of him.

"Now then, please do take a seat. Get yourselves comfortable." Oleander takes his seat as they follow shortly after. Vere takes a whiff of the wine's aroma.

"Vintage with a full body." Vere hums, taking a sip of the wine.

"Nothing but the best for my guests. Back to business." Oleander clasps his hands together as he leans forward. "About your friend's illness. Is it Fractum Anima? Or something else entirely?"

"Fractum Anima? No, it's not whatever that is. It's something physically on them that it's affecting the people they touch." Leander explains.

"Should we really talk about personal matters to a complete stranger?" Vere huffs. "As much as I'm enjoying the food and wine, this feels rather suspicious to me."

"I mean no harm as long as there's no harm that comes to me." Oleander reassures. "And besides, I too have a friend who needs a cure. I know what it's like to care for someone who's close to you. As a merchant, my services are expansive enough to lend a hand to whatever you need to find."

"On what terms?" Vere questions. His tail flicks lightly next to him. "Surely your services don't come for free."

"Indeed it is not." Oleander hums. "But if you're worried about money then you don't have to. I get payment in all different types—rare goods, special artifacts, exotics..."

"Does sex count as well?" Leander asks. Oleander let's out a deep laugh.

"I like the way you think, Hound."

"Oh great, there's two of them." Vere groans before taking a big sip of the wine. "I might rather not be sober while dealing with this."

Chapter Text

Mhin settles down as they take a break under their ebony crow mask. They've been walking all day that they forgot to eat something. The smell of apple fritters caught their attention. The sweetness of the pastry made their stomach growl.

"... Why not?" Mhin mutters as they line up behind a tall man with bright orange hair and freckles dusting over his shoulders and arms. "It's better than nothing, anyway." Mhin place their order for one apple fritter and waits close by.

"Long day?" The tall man says, leaning against a wall next to them.

"Tell me about." Mhin groans.

"Heh, you and me both." 

They wait in silence before picking up their orders. Freshly made and hot, they settled down on a couple of crates. A band of stray cats pop up from around the alleyway, meowing and purring for attention and some food. Mhin chuckles lightly, stretching out a hand towards the cats for them to sniff at and rub against.

"I didn't know there were cats down here, too." Mhin mumbles.

"They're raters." The tall man states. "They came down here to handle the pests in storages, sellers, and pantries. They did a great deal of help in the long run, too. Not a lot gotten sick from food poisoning anymore."

"They did a great job if that's the case." Mhin nods.

"Not from around here, huh?" The tall man asks.

"Just here for a companion of mine." Mhin answers vaguely.

"From the looks of it, someone you care about." The tall man states. "Well, good luck with whatever you're looking for."

"Mm, thanks." Mhin nods.

They both eat their fritters in silence. They weren't much for small talk, even if they're both tired and on a short break. They left shortly after, giving each other a curt nod before splitting up. Mhin just shrugs off the encounter. There weren't any malicious intentions or petty theft they sensed with him. All their belongs are still on their person, too. However, it didn't take long for them to meet up again.

A small fight broke out in front of the church. Mhin got caught in the commotion. The same tall man grabbed them by the arm as he broke free from the crowd. They hit the ground running! Mhin is just barely keeping up as they were dragged along. A sharp turn around and alleyway and they finally stop. Heavy breaths fill the silence before Mhin spoke first.

"What the fuck!?" They point towards the tall man. "You just kidnapped me!"

"Would you rather be stuck in that fistfighting crowd?" The tall man questions. "I saved you."

"You abducted me." Mhin grumbles. "Why did they even start fighting in the first place!?"

"Hey, shh, keep your voice down." The tall man states, peaking air the corner. "We're still not in the clear just yet."

"There is no 'we' in this situation!"

"Unfortunately, there is one now. You were seen with me, right? You're not a part of that. So, yeah, we."

"Who the hell are you?" Mhin reach into their cloak for their dagger.

"Lunar God, please don't be another one of them." The tall man drags a hand over his masked face. "... Just call me Keir. You?"

"... Avian."

"Good to meet you, now stay quiet." Keir says. Mhin's lips turn up to a scowl, their hands open in confusion.

They don't really know what to do in this situation. And they certainly don't want to cause another scene if they try to stab the guy either—he's twice their size and well built. Not to mention the large dagger strapped to his hip. No, they have to stay cautious about this. There's no point in spilling blood. Mhin stayed quiet long enough to give Keir the good to go signal to them.

"Seems like things are finally slowed down." Keir says, turning back to Keir. "You're the second person to ever keep up with me like that."

"Second?" Mhin questions.

"I have a friend who was in the same position as you were a couple of months back."

"Do you always kidnap your friends?"

"Relax, they became my biggest headache as compensation."

"That's even more concerning!"

"It's the life of a theif." Keir shrugs. "You win some, you lose some. In the end, we helped each other in the end in some way."

"... Must be someone really important to you." Mhin chuckles lightly.

"They were," Keir nods. "And they still are. I'm still helping them until now. They seem better but I don't know how much time left."

"You too?"

"What do you mean?"

"... My friend is also ill. I don't know what it is but it's slowly consuming them. I wish I could help them in anyway." Mhin explains.

"... I have too much to handle as of late but if there's anything I could do to help ease your search, I'll try to hit you up."

"You would do that for me?" Mhin's confused. "On what price?"

"An apple fritter. And maybe a few favors." Keir says. "Meeting spot is the crates with the cats. Could you do that?"

"That I can do." Mhin nods. "How will we see or contact each other?"

"There a board near by that's full of help wanted requests. I'll post up the time with a mark for you to see."

"Got it." Mhin nods.

They exchange a handshake to seal the deal before slipping away. Mhin has a feeling the few favors are not going to be as simple as they seem to be.